- Accommodation for 09 nights in comfortable 3-star category hotels/resorts.
- Daily breakfast throughout the tour.
- All sightseeing and transfers using a private air-conditioned vehicle with an English-speaking driver.
- One night stay in Alleppey including:
- If Houseboat: All meals (Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast) and evening tea/snacks.
- If Hotel: A full-day backwater cruise or Shikara boat ride.
- All currently applicable taxes.
The Beauty of South India
10
Days
9
Nights
Embark on a breathtaking 10-day journey through the heart of South India, where lush hills meet sacred shores. Begin in the tranquil tea plantations of Munnar before venturing into the wild heart of Thekkady's Periyar Sanctuary. Experience ultimate serenity with a cruise on the legendary backwaters of Alleppey aboard a traditional houseboat. The adventure continues to the southern tip of India at Kanyakumari, famous for its spectacular ocean sunrises. Explore the profound spiritual energy of Rameswaram's holy temples and the mythical ruins of Dhanushkodi, before concluding in the vibrant temple city of Madurai. This tour is a perfect blend of natural beauty, wildlife, culture, and spirituality, designed to leave you with unforgettable memories.
Trip Highlights
- Cruise the Alleppey Backwaters
- Wildlife Encounter in Thekkady
- Explore the Tea Highlands of Munnar
- Witness Sunrise at India's Southern Tip
- Discover Architectural Marvels in Madurai and Rameswaram
Inclusions
Exclusions
- Airfare / Train tickets.
- Lunch and Dinner (except as specified on the houseboat stay in Alleppey).
- Entrance fees to monuments, parks, and boating charges (e.g., Periyar Lake boating).
- Services of a professional guide.
- Personal expenses such as laundry, telephone calls, tips, mineral water, and beverages.
- Any cost arising from natural calamities, road blockages, etc., payable directly on the spot.
- Anything not explicitly mentioned under the 'Inclusions' section.
Day Wise Itinerary
Your journey begins with arrival in Cochin, from where you will be driven to the beautiful hill station of Munnar. En route, stop to admire the cascading beauty of Cheeyappara and Valara Waterfalls. Upon arrival, enjoy a leisurely evening with a visit to a photo point, a rose garden, and a gentle city walk, immersing yourself in the cool, refreshing air of the high ranges. Overnight stay in Munnar.
Day 2 :
Munnar's Natural Treasures
After breakfast, proceed to the renowned Eravikulam National Park, a unique wildlife sanctuary set against a stunning backdrop of tea plantations, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. In the afternoon, visit the scenic Echo Point and the impressive Mattupetty Dam, where you can opt for a boating experience on the reservoir. The day also includes an educational visit to a local tea factory to understand the journey of tea from leaf to cup. Overnight stay in Munnar.
Post breakfast, depart for Thekkady. The highlight of the day is a visit to the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. Embark on a guided boat ride on Periyar Lake, a unique opportunity to view wildlife like elephants, bison, and various birds from close quarters. You can also opt for a plantation tour to learn about the spices that Kerala is famous for, including cardamom, pepper, and cinnamon. Overnight stay in Thekkady.
After breakfast, travel to Alleppey and check into your pre-booked houseboat or hotel by noon. If staying on a houseboat, embark on a mesmerizing cruise through the legendary backwaters, observing village life, paddy fields, and coconut groves along the way. All meals and evening tea are included. If staying at a hotel, you will enjoy a full-day backwater cruise on a smaller Shikara boat or similar. Overnight stay in Alleppey.
Day 5 :
Trivandrum's Coastal Charms
Check out after breakfast and drive to Trivandrum, the capital city of Kerala. Here, you will visit the iconic Padmanabhaswamy Temple, a magnificent example of Dravidian architecture, and explore the city museum. Later, proceed to Kovalam to witness a beautiful sunset over the Arabian Sea. Overnight stay in Kovalam.
Today, you travel to Kanyakumari, India's southernmost coastal town. Famous for its unique sunrise and sunset views where the Arabian Sea, Bay of Bengal, and Indian Ocean meet, the town is also a significant pilgrimage site. Visit the Bagavathi Amman Temple and the striking Our Lady of Ransom Church. Overnight stay in Kanyakumari.
Day 7 :
Pilgrimage to Rameswaram
After breakfast, journey to the holy island town of Rameswaram. Upon arrival, visit the sacred Ramanathaswamy Temple, renowned for its long, sculpted corridors and holy water tanks. Devotees take a purifying bath in the waters of Agni Theertham on the beach. Overnight stay in Rameswaram.
Day 8 :
The Mythical Dhanushkodi
Dedicate this day to exploring the surroundings of Rameswaram. Drive to the ghost town of Dhanushkodi, an abandoned settlement at the very tip of Pamban Island, destroyed by a cyclone in 1964. The stark, beautiful landscape offers a poignant and unique experience, known as "The End of India." Overnight stay in Rameswaram.
Day 9 :
The Cultural Hub of Madurai
After breakfast, travel to the vibrant temple city of Madurai. The prime attraction is the magnificent Meenakshi Amman Temple, an awe-inspiring complex dedicated to Goddess Meenakshi and Lord Sundareswarar. Explore its towering gopurams (gateway towers) and intricately carved pillars. Overnight stay in Madurai.
Day 10 :
Departure from Madurai
After breakfast, the tour concludes. You will be dropped off at Madurai Airport or Railway Station for your journey home, carrying with you a treasure trove of sweet memories.
