South India Highlights
Where ancient culture meets scenic serenity
Get ready to explore ancient temples, float through tropical backwaters, and immerse yourself in the rich culture of Southern India. Feast your eyes on colorful spices at local markets and treat yourself to delicious dosas and sweet chutneys. This once-in-a-lifetime 12-night tour takes you on a journey through Tamil Nadu, from Madurai and Puducherry to Tanjore, Kerala, and Kochi. With accommodations, transportation, and guided tours included, all you have to do is sit back, relax, and soak up the stunning scenery of India.
What's Included
- Round-trip economy class airfare into Chennai (MAA), out of Kochi (COK)
- All airport and inter-city transfers
- 2 nights in Chennai at the Grand by GRT Hotels, or similar
- City tour of Chennai
- Visit to the Dakshinachitra Museum
- One-way, economic class flight from Chennai (MAA) to Madurai (IXM)
- 1 night in Madurai at the Regency by GRT Hotels, or similar
- Evening temple visit
- Sightseeing tour of Madurai including Sri Meenakshi Temple & Thirumalai Nayaka Palace
- 2 nights in Karaikudi at Chettinadu Mansion, or similar
- Visit to the Chettinad mansions
- Traditional Chettunad lunch at a local family’s home
- Visit to Trichy & the Rock Fort (en-route to Tanjore)
- 1 night in Tanjore at Sangam Hotel, or similar
- Visit to Brihadeshwara Temple & Palace
- 2 nights in Puducherry at Hotel Atithi, or similar
- Sightseeing tour of Auroville, Sri Aurobindo Ashram, Pondicherry Museum & Sacred Heart Church
- Evening village walk
- 1 night in Mahabalipuram at Mamalla Heritage, or similar
- Sightseeing tour of Mahabalipuram with visits to Shore Temple, Arunja's Penance & Five Rathas
- One-way, economy class flight from Chennai (MAA) to Kochi (COK)
- 1 night in Kochi at the Casino Hotel by CGH Earth, or similar
- Kathakali performance at a local theater
- 1 night in Alleppey on an air-conditioned Houseboat
- Lunch and dinner included while staying on the Houseboat
- Tour of Kerala’s backwaters
- Sightseeing tour of Fort Kochi, St. Francis Church, Old Jewish Synagogue & Mattancherry Palace
- 1 night in Kochi at Casino Hotel CGH Earth, or similar
- Breakfast daily
Helpful links for travel to India:
Great Ways to Explore
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Stand in awe of sacred Dravidian-style Hindu Temples, like Meenakshi Amman in Madurai.
- Savor the flavors of Southern India, as you indulge in traditional dishes like sambar and rasam - both made with lentils, Indian spices, vegetables, and tantalizing sauces.
-
Take in the unique experience of staying overnight on an Indian houseboat in the Kerala backwaters!
-
Enjoy luxurious stays in eight different areas of Southern India.
-
Watch a traditional Kathakali dance performance at a local theater.
What do your dreams of India look like? Are you walking through bustling cities lined with textile shops and street vendors? Do you hear traditional Indian music while colorful dancers perform in front of you? Do you smell spicy curry as you walk past family-run restaurants? Perhaps you're stepping into an ancient temple and you feel your head bobbling around as you look around in awe. Whether your dreams of India involve architecture, nature, culture, or all of the above, this 12-night adventure through Tamil Nadu is a dream come true.
Explore the coastal cities of Chennai, Mahabalipuram, Puducherry, and Kochi, then head inland for stays in Madurai, Karaikudi, and Tanjore. One of your days will be spent exploring the lush greenery of the tranquil Kerala Backwaters, and you will stay overnight on a traditional houseboat! With an English-speaking guide accompanying you at all times, this Indian adventure will be stress-free, enriching, and flat-out fun.
Your journey will begin on the Bay of Bengal in Chennai, where you will enjoy included city tours and museum visits. Hop a quick flight to Madurai, where you'll experience the colorful Meenakshi Temple! Next, you will be driven to Karaikudi, where you will visit the stunning Chettinadu mansion and enjoy lunch at a local home.
Switch gears and head to Tanjore, with visits to Trichy and Rock Fort along the way! Take photos in front of the breathtaking Brihadeshwara Temple and immerse yourself in its ancient history. Venture to Puducherry and enjoy a thrilling sightseeing tour of Auroville, Sri Aurobindo, and more. You'll also take an evening walk through the local village! Stare out the window as you take a scenic drive to Mahabalipuram, home of Shore Temple and other fascinating structures.
Finally, you'll reach Kochi, where you will watch a dazzling Kathakali dance performance at a local theater. You'll also visit Fort Kochi, St. Francis Church, and much more. From Kochi, you will embark on an overnight boat tour through the Kerala Backwaters!
Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.
- Round-trip economy class airfare into Chennai (MAA), out of Kochi (COK)
- All airport and inter-city transfers
- 2 nights in Chennai at the Grand by GRT Hotels, or similar
- City tour of Chennai
- Visit to the Dakshinachitra Museum
- One-way, economic class flight from Chennai (MAA) to Madurai (IXM)
- 1 night in Madurai at the Regency by GRT Hotels, or similar
- Evening temple visit
- Sightseeing tour of Madurai including Sri Meenakshi Temple & Thirumalai Nayaka Palace
- 2 nights in Karaikudi at Chettinadu Mansion, or similar
- Visit to the Chettinad mansions
- Traditional Chettunad lunch at a local family’s home
- Visit to Trichy & the Rock Fort (en-route to Tanjore)
- 1 night in Tanjore at Sangam Hotel, or similar
- Visit to Brihadeshwara Temple & Palace
- 2 nights in Puducherry at Hotel Atithi, or similar
- Sightseeing tour of Auroville, Sri Aurobindo Ashram, Pondicherry Museum & Sacred Heart Church
- Evening village walk
- 1 night in Mahabalipuram at Mamalla Heritage, or similar
- Sightseeing tour of Mahabalipuram with visits to Shore Temple, Arunja's Penance & Five Rathas
- One-way, economy class flight from Chennai (MAA) to Kochi (COK)
- 1 night in Kochi at the Casino Hotel by CGH Earth, or similar
- Kathakali performance at a local theater
- 1 night in Alleppey on an air-conditioned Houseboat
- Lunch and dinner included while staying on the Houseboat
- Tour of Kerala’s backwaters
- Sightseeing tour of Fort Kochi, St. Francis Church, Old Jewish Synagogue & Mattancherry Palace
- 1 night in Kochi at Casino Hotel CGH Earth, or similar
- Breakfast daily
Helpful links for travel to India:
-
Stand in awe of sacred Dravidian-style Hindu Temples, like Meenakshi Amman in Madurai.
- Savor the flavors of Southern India, as you indulge in traditional dishes like sambar and rasam - both made with lentils, Indian spices, vegetables, and tantalizing sauces.
-
Take in the unique experience of staying overnight on an Indian houseboat in the Kerala backwaters!
-
Enjoy luxurious stays in eight different areas of Southern India.
-
Watch a traditional Kathakali dance performance at a local theater.
What do your dreams of India look like? Are you walking through bustling cities lined with textile shops and street vendors? Do you hear traditional Indian music while colorful dancers perform in front of you? Do you smell spicy curry as you walk past family-run restaurants? Perhaps you're stepping into an ancient temple and you feel your head bobbling around as you look around in awe. Whether your dreams of India involve architecture, nature, culture, or all of the above, this 12-night adventure through Tamil Nadu is a dream come true.
Explore the coastal cities of Chennai, Mahabalipuram, Puducherry, and Kochi, then head inland for stays in Madurai, Karaikudi, and Tanjore. One of your days will be spent exploring the lush greenery of the tranquil Kerala Backwaters, and you will stay overnight on a traditional houseboat! With an English-speaking guide accompanying you at all times, this Indian adventure will be stress-free, enriching, and flat-out fun.
Your journey will begin on the Bay of Bengal in Chennai, where you will enjoy included city tours and museum visits. Hop a quick flight to Madurai, where you'll experience the colorful Meenakshi Temple! Next, you will be driven to Karaikudi, where you will visit the stunning Chettinadu mansion and enjoy lunch at a local home.
Switch gears and head to Tanjore, with visits to Trichy and Rock Fort along the way! Take photos in front of the breathtaking Brihadeshwara Temple and immerse yourself in its ancient history. Venture to Puducherry and enjoy a thrilling sightseeing tour of Auroville, Sri Aurobindo, and more. You'll also take an evening walk through the local village! Stare out the window as you take a scenic drive to Mahabalipuram, home of Shore Temple and other fascinating structures.
Finally, you'll reach Kochi, where you will watch a dazzling Kathakali dance performance at a local theater. You'll also visit Fort Kochi, St. Francis Church, and much more. From Kochi, you will embark on an overnight boat tour through the Kerala Backwaters!
Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.
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Day 1. Welcome to Chennai!
Touch down in vibrant Chennai! Upon arrival, gather your luggage and meet your friendly transfer, who will welcome you with a "Mauli ritual." After a comfortable ride, check into your first accommodation and settle in. Rest up, you've got an exciting journey ahead of you!
Transfer to Chennai hotel
Check-in - Grand Chennai by GRT Hotels
Located in the bustling shopping area of Pondy Bazaar, this colorful and contemporary hotel features comfortable rooms and exquisite facilities. Check in with the friendly 24-hour reception team and admire the hotel's funky style that's bright and modern with traditional Indian elements. Head up to your spacious room where you'll find free Wi-Fi, TV, crisp air conditioning, and a minibar. Rooms also boast luxurious bath amenities and plush bedding - some even have city views!
Once you settle in, relax in the tranquil spa or work out in the fitness center. Go for a swim in the sparkling indoor pool! When you work up an appetite, treat yourself to a delicious meal at any of the on-site dining options. With a great location in the heart of Chennai, you'll be right near Teynampet Metro Station, Globus Shopping Mall, and more.
Day 2. Chennai
Rise and shine! After an energizing breakfast, start off strong with a guided city tour of Chennai. Visit colorful temples, explore Dakshinachitra Museum, and get a real feel for this bustling, sacred area.
After the tour, you'll be returned to your hotel where you'll spend the night at leisure. Treat yourself to some spicy (or savory) Indian cuisine!
City Tour of Chennai w/ Visit to Dakshinachitra Museum
Embark on a journey through Chennai! First, visit Kapaleeswarar Temple. Honoring Shiva and dating back to the 13th century AD, it is the biggest temple in Chennai. Then proceed to Mylapore, which was inhabited in the 16th century by the Portuguese. Visit the Saint Thomas Church, named for the Christian disciple (“Doubting Thomas”) who lived and taught here in the first century.
Later you will drive past the Marina Beach, the second longest in the world, stretching for several miles. Your next stop would be the Fort St. George, which is presently being used by the Tamil Nadu Government. Within the compound is a museum holding many remembrances of the East India Company and the British period. From the British center you will be driven to Egmore – which is the heart of city to visit the State Museum –which is spreading to an area of 16.25 acres of land. Six independent buildings in this Museum campus have 46 galleries.
In the afternoon, proceed for an excursion to Dakshinchitra – a living museum. Dakshinachitra is an exciting cross-cultural living museum that showcases art, architecture, lifestyles, crafts and performing arts of South India. This museum has a collection of 18 authentic historical houses with contextual exhibitions in each house. All the houses bought and reconstructed at Dakshinachitra had been given for demolition by their owners. The authentic homes in a regional vernacular style were purchased, taken down, transported, and reconstructed by artisans (Stapathis) of the regions from where the houses came.
Day 3. Chennai - Madurai
Say "goodbye" to Chennai and "hello" to Madurai! After this morning's breakfast, you'll be transferred to the airport for your quick flight to Madurai, the "city of nectar."
Check into your hotel, then immerse yourself in the city's ancient history and rich culture! You might want to check out a colorful local market as you explore. In the evening, you'll enjoy an included visit to the Meenakshi Amman Temple for its closing ceremony. This is a ceremony that takes place every evening when the temple bronze of Lord Shiva is carried to the bedchamber of Parvati. The procession is accompanied by religious prayer and temple music.
Transfer to Chennai airport (MAA)
Fly to Madurai! (IXM)
Transfer to Madurai hotel
Check-in - Regency Madurai by GRT Hotels
Located approximately 2 miles from the famous Madhurai Meenakshi Temple, this stunning hotel blends traditional Indian style with modern luxury. Open the door to your spacious room and find free Wi-Fi, plush bedding, air conditioning, a TV, and luxurious bath amenities. Many rooms even offer a minibar and breathtaking mountain views! With free parking, concierge service, and 24-hour reception, the Regency Madurai by GRT always puts guests' comfort first.
Once you're all settled in, check out the hotel's facilities. Keep up your workout routine in the fitness center, take a dip in the sparkling swimming pool, or indulge in a delicious meal at the on-site Aharam Restaurant and unwind with a drink at the bar. Too cozy to leave your room? Order room service and dine in comfort.
Day 4. Madurai - Karaikudi
Recharge with a bountiful breakfast, then grab your camera and get ready for a day of cultural fun. Enjoy a visit to the magnificent Sri Meenakshi Temple, which is the abode of Goddess Meenakshi Amman. This vast sacred complex is comprised of 12 gopurams, the tallest of which towers at a whopping 170 feet over Madurai! From there, you'll visit the breathtaking Thirumalai Nayaka Palace. Built in 1636, this palace will transport you right back in time.
Moving on, you'll drive to Karaikudi, your home for the next two nights. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenery! Upon arrival, check into your next accommodation and relax.
Transfer to Karaikudi
Check-in - Chettinadu Mansion
Welcome to Chettinadu Mansion! In operation since 1902, Chettinadu Mansion is one of India's Heritage Villages. The meticulously maintained Mansion sprawls over 80,000 square feet and offers only 12 rooms at a time. Go back in time and experience life in a bygone era with a stay at this fabulous hotel.
Sightseeing tour of Madurai Including Sri Meenakshi Temple & Thirumalai Nayaka Palace
Explore Madurai and discover why it's known as "the Temple City." Although it served as the former capital of the Pandya Kingdom, it was during the reign of the Nayaks (10th - 18th century) that the city's most iconic structure was built: the magnificent Meenakshi Temple. Legend has it that if you place a literary work in the tank of this temple, it will determine if it is worthy or not: if it sinks it is worthless. If floats; worthy!
Visit the magnificent Sri Meenakshi Temple, which is the abode of the triple-breasted, fish-eyed Goddess Meenakshi Amman ("fish-eyed" is an adjective for perfect eyes in classical Tamil poetry) and considered by many to be the height of South Indian temple architecture. It’s not so much a temple as a 15-acre complex enclosed by 12 Gopurams, the highest of which towers 170 feet over Madurai, and all of which are carved with a staggering array of gods, goddesses, demons, and heroes.
Also visit the elegant Thirumalai Nayaka Palace. Built in 1636 in the Indo Mughal style, its 15 domes and arches are adorned with stucco work. Its Celestial Pavilion, an octagonal structure, is curiously constructed in brick and mortar without supporting rafters.
Day 5. Karaikudi
Enjoy an energizing breakfast, then embark on a day of beauty as you explore the mansions of the Chettinad region. Discover stunning homes in small villages and gawk at amazing architecture. During your visit, you'll indulge in a delicious lunch at a local home with the residing family!
After an exciting day, the evening is yours to spend as you please.
Visit to Chettinadu Mansion w/ Traditional Lunch at a Local Home
Enjoy a day exploring the beautiful mansions of the Chettinad region! Discover the stunning Chettinad residences that dot the region and were built over the last 200 years. These houses initially started as simple single-storied buildings, but steadily grew in size and ornamentation to huge intricate structures that will astonish even the most seasoned travelers. It is very interesting to walk through and admire the architectural heritage close up. All villages have their own temples which are worth seeing, but The Chettinad region and Karaikudi are special treasure troves of antiques and well-crafted hand-made products ranging from jewelry to furniture. During the day, you will also visit a local home to taste the delicious Chettinad cuisine with a local family.
Day 6. Karaikudi - Tanjore
Fuel up with breakfast and hit the road! Today, you'll wave goodbye to Karaikudi and head for Tanjore, visiting Trichy along the way.
Mentioned by Ptolemy in the 2nd century BC, Tiruchirapalli, or Trichy as it is commonly referred to, was built mainly by the Nayaka kings who saw the advantage of its strategic position at the head of the delta of the Cauvery river. Its name is traced to a story about a demon Trisiras who terrorized man and gods until he was overpowered by Shiva at Tiruchi.
In Trichy, visit the Rock Fort, which stands on a rock that stands 276 feet tall! As you climb up the 437 rock-cut temples to the Vinayaka Temple, you'll pass the original 11th-century defense line and the remains of a 1000-pillared hall. Further up is a hundred pillar hall and at the end of the last flight is the Tayumanasvami Temple dedicated to Shiva, which has a golden vimana, which houses the main deity.
The capital of the Great Chola Empire, Tanjore (also called as Thanjavur) also served as the capital for the Nayaka Empire and Maratha rulers. The Chola kings who were great patrons of the arts built most of the 93 temples, of which the Brihadisvara Temple is the showpiece. While they lavished their wealth on the temples, they also encouraged the belief in the divine right of kings and the practice of donating a part of one’s wealth to the temple for spiritual gain.
Upon arrival in Tanjore, you'll check into your hotel and immerse yourself in the fascinating history of the city.
Transfer to Tanjore
Visit to Trichy & the Rock Fort on the way!
Check-in - Sangam Hotel
With over thirty years of experience, Sangam Hotel is the perfect choice for your stay in Trichy. Enjoy a central location and convenient amenities at your fingertips. Start or end your days with a dip in the hotel pool, or pick up a souvenir at the on-location boutique.
After a long day of exploring, unwind at one of the three on-site dining options, including an Egyptian-themed bar, 24-hour Coffee Shop, and restaurant offering a variety of cuisines.
Day 7. Tanjore - Puducherry
After a scrumptious breakfast, enjoy a morning visit to the Brihadeshwara Temple, built in the 10th century by Raja Chola. Considered to be artistically the most perfect of Dravida temples, this one is absolutely spectacular.
Following an enriching morning in Tanjore, you'll be on your way to Puducherry. This unique city, a former French colony, presents an unusual combination of European culture and Indian traditions. While Puducherry became a part of India in 1954, traces of French history remain in its churches, cuisine, and grid-pattern streets.
Check into your Puducherry hotel and spend your evening exploring the area!
Transfer to Puducherry
Visit to Brihadeeshwara Temple & Palace along the way!
Check-in - Hotel Atithi
Drift away to peaceful serenity at the beautiful Hotel Atithi. This relaxing retreat boasts a perfect blend of traditional Indian charm and modern luxury. After checking in with the friendly reception team, head up to your spacious room. Open the door to wooden furniture, air conditioning, rich colors, and classic decor. Take a nap on your large comfy bed, watch some TV, and use the hotel's free WiFi to say "hello" to family and friends. Slide into your slippers, cozy up in your bathrobe, and sip on complimentary bottled water provided for you.
Unpack your swimsuit and head to the sparkling rooftop pool! Jump in and take a dip, or soak up the sun and gaze out at breathtaking views. Work all your stresses away in the on-site fitness center, then pamper yourself in the tranquil spa. Freshen up in your room, then indulge in delicious cuisine at the elegant on-site Le Boulevard Restaurant. Or, head outside and enjoy the sunset while you dine at the Terrace Grill Barbecue Restaurant! Unwind with a cocktail at the trendy lounge bar, then return to your room for a good night's rest.
Visit to Brihadeshwara Temple & Palace
Brihadeshwara Temple is the seventh-largest Hindu temple in the world! Enjoy a visit to this towering spectacle of amazing architecture and fascinating stone carvings. Built in the 10th century by Raja Chola, the Brihadeshwara Temple is considered one of the most beautiful in India.
Beside the temple, you will visit the Palace, most of which consists of ruins housing the Tamil University Museum and Art Gallery.
Day 8. Puducherry
Start off with a pleasant breakfast, then enjoy a tour of Puducherry, including visits to Auroville, Sri Aurobindo Ashram, Sacred Heart Church, and much more. You'll also take a peaceful evening walk along the sea, where you'll feast your eyes on legendary French architecture.
This evening, treat yourself to a delicious meal at a nearby restaurant!
Sightseeing tour to Auroville, Sri Aurobindo Ashram, Pondicherry Museum & Sacred Heart Church
Visit Auroville, developed around the ashram of the Indian yogi, Sri Aurobindo. This project was developed as a “Universal township where the men and women of all countries are able to live in peace and progressive harmony, above all creeds, politics, and nationalities” and was guided by the Mother - a French lady who carried on the work of Sri Aurobindo after his death.
Also spend some time at Sri Aurobindo Ashram. The ashram was founded by the philosopher-saint Sri Aurobindo in 1926 to put into practice his ideals of a peaceful community. Its spiritual tenets represent a synthesis of yoga and modern science. It is also his final resting place. Also visit the Pondicherry museum, which has sculptures, archaeological finds, and memorabilia of the French colonists. Last but not least, visit the Sacred Heart Church with its Gothic architecture and stained glass windows.
Day 9. Puducherry - Mahabalipuram
This morning, after breakfast, you will be driven to Mahabalipuram. Upon arrival, check into your hotel, settle in, then get ready to explore!
In the afternoon, you will embark on a guided tour of Mahabalipuram. First, visit the Shore Temple, a stunning symbol of Pallava architecture. Admire Arunga's Penance, a fascinating relief carving on the face of a huge rock that depicts animals and deities! You'll also visit the Five Rathas, another incredible rock carving.
In the evening, return to your hotel and relax! Treat yourself to a hearty meal after a long day of adventuring.
Transfer to Mahabalipuram
Check-in - Mamallaa Heritage
Located just half a mile from the Mahabalipuram Temples, Hotel Mamallaa Heritage boasts modern decor and simple luxuries. Stroll through the lush green garden, or take a dip in the sparkling outdoor pool! When you get hungry, treat yourself to mouthwatering Indian cuisine at the on-site restaurant. Cozy up in your spacious room, which features free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, a TV, and much more.
Sightseeing tour of Mahabalipuram
Explore the highlights of Mahabalipuram during your sightseeing tour today! You'll see the city's most iconic structure, including the Arjuna's Penance, also known as the Descent of the Ganga. This open-air rock relief is the world's largest bas-relief, measuring at 764 feet by 288 feet. The legend depicted on these two monolithic rocks tells the story of the river Ganges to earth from the heavens. It is a beautiful composition of hundreds of celestial beings, human and animals all hurrying to a natural rock cleft that divides the giant stone.
You'll also have the chance to see the city's most famous landmark, the Shore Temple, which has stood by the sea for 12 centuries. Its twin spires are pure poetry in granite. Other highlights of this tour include the mandapams, caves scooped from a hillside of solid rock and ornamented with pillars, sculpted with panels and rathams (monolithic rock-cut shrines) that have inspired generations of South Indian temple-builders.
Day 10. Mahabalipuram - Kochi
Fuel up with a delicious breakfast! This morning, you will be transferred to Chennai airport for your flight to Kochi! Upon arrival in Kochi, you'll be transferred to your next accommodation.
Founded in 1341, this beautiful city, popularly known as Cochin, is spread across islands in a stunning location between the Arabian Sea and the Backwaters. In the evening, you will visit a local theater to experience a traditional Kathakali dance performance. "Kathakali" literally translates to "story dance" and is a spectacular portrayal of character, emotion, and energy.
Transfer to Chennai airport (MAA)
Fly to Kochi (COK)
Transfer to Kochi hotel
Check-in - Casino Hotel
Immerse yourself in the beauty of Cochin at the luxurious Casino Hotel. As you step into the lobby, admire its elegant style, which blends cosmopolitan modernism with cultural tradition. Head up to your room and open the door to ample space, WiFi, air-conditioning, a refrigerator, and much more. Take a nap on your large bed, order some room service, make a cup of tea, and watch some TV. When you're rejuvenated and refreshed, unpack your swimsuit and make your way to the large outdoor pool!
Jump in and make a splash, or lounge in the warm sun with a cold drink in-hand. Work off those Jalebis and Dosas at the fully-equipped fitness center, open 24/7! Pamper yourself with a traditional treatment at the on-site spa, then browse around the unique souvenir shop. When you work up an appetite, dine at Tharavadu or Fort Cochin Seafood Specialty, the hotel's renowned restaurants. After dinner, unwind in the cozy lounge bar and sip on a tasty cocktail.
Kathkali Dance Show
Experience a form of classical Indian dance with your included Kathkali show! This story-based form of art features elaborate costumes, makeup, and masked dancers. Traditional themes of the shows focus around local mythology, legends, and spiritual ideas from Hindu stories.
While traditionally the performers of these shows have been all male, modern compositions feature female performers as well.
Day 11. Kochi - Alleppey
After breakfast, enjoy a scenic ride to Alleppey, where you will board a traditional houseboat for your included overnight stay! As you luxuriously float around in peace, admire the beauty of the Kerala backwaters, a series of canals which thread their way through from land to sea.
Throughout the day, your guide will bring you to rice fields, tiny villages, and places of natural beauty. Disembark the boat to wander around villages and converse with locals! During your time on and off the boat, enjoy time relaxing and learning about the beautiful country that surrounds you. Enjoy included lunch and dinner!
Transfer to Alleppey
Check-in - Houseboat in Kerala Backwaters
Drift away to an oasis of peace and relaxation. Hop aboard a traditional Keralan houseboat and gain a once-in-a-lifetime experience! Feel pampered by your attentive crew and staff, admire cultural decor, and feel like a native as you call the Kerala backwaters "home." The unique opportunity to stay in a houseboat grants you the chance to see Southern India's breathtakingly beautiful lagoons, lakes, and canals up-close. Fall asleep and wake up to the sounds of nature, immersed in picture-perfect natural scenery, while resting comfortably on a large cozy bed. So, sit back, relax, and enjoy the views! The crew will take care of the rest.
Tour of Kerala Backwaters
The breathtaking Kerala backwaters are a chain of lagoons and lakes that lie parallel to the Arabian Sea in southern India. The network consists of five large lakes linked by countless canals and rivers. Enjoy an up-close tour of this serene scenery on a luxurious houseboat. Visit lush rice fields, quaint rural villages, and local produce markets. Along the way, you may also pass boats transporting children to school and farmers transporting their produce to the markets! This behind-the-scenes tour of the backwaters will give you a clear look into daily life in southern India.
Day 12. Alleppey - Kochi
Enjoy a peaceful breakfast on the houseboat, then disembark and readjust to the mainland! This morning, you'll drive back to Kochi, where you'll explore Fort Kochi and its bustling harbor area.
Spend a relaxing evening back at your hotel or leisurely explore on your own. Treat yourself to a delicious meal to celebrate the final night of your journey!
Transfer to Kochi
Check-in - Casino Hotel
Immerse yourself in the beauty of Cochin at the luxurious Casino Hotel. As you step into the lobby, admire its elegant style, which blends cosmopolitan modernism with cultural tradition. Head up to your room and open the door to ample space, WiFi, air-conditioning, a refrigerator, and much more. Take a nap on your large bed, order some room service, make a cup of tea, and watch some TV. When you're rejuvenated and refreshed, unpack your swimsuit and make your way to the large outdoor pool!
Jump in and make a splash, or lounge in the warm sun with a cold drink in-hand. Work off those Jalebis and Dosas at the fully-equipped fitness center, open 24/7! Pamper yourself with a traditional treatment at the on-site spa, then browse around the unique souvenir shop. When you work up an appetite, dine at Tharavadu or Fort Cochin Seafood Specialty, the hotel's renowned restaurants. After dinner, unwind in the cozy lounge bar and sip on a tasty cocktail.
Visit Fort Kochi, St. Francis Church, Old Jewish Synagogue & Mattancherry Palace
visit Fort Kochi with a walk through the bustling harbor area and quaint backstreets to discover its rich and multifaceted past. Kochi is full of echoes of Kerala's past colonizers, including Hindu and Mughal dynasties, Portuguese and Dutch conquerors, and the British Empire - which came seeking control of the lucrative pepper trade. The city hosts the oldest church in India, 500-year-old Portuguese houses, old tiled houses built in the Chinese pagoda style, and a Jewish community whose roots go back to the Diaspora. St. Francis Church, originally named after Santo Antonio, was dedicated to him as the Patron Saint of Portugal. Once a wooden building, it was replaced by the present stone building. Vasco De Gamma died on site in 1524 and was originally buried in the cemetery. His grave is still marked with a plaque and a brass rail, though his remains are back home in Portugal. Then, visit the four-century old Jewish synagogue. Built in 1568 AD, it was destroyed by the Portuguese and rebuilt by the Dutch a century later. You will then explore the "Jew Town", a culturally rich area filled with fascinating antique shops and wares. Looming protectively over the synagogue is the Mattancherry palace, former home to the Verma kings and today a fine museum.
Day 13. Depart India
Gather all of your luggage and meet your transfer, who will drive you to the airport for your return flight home. Spend the trip replaying wonderful memories and dreaming about your next adventure.