Day 01: Arrive Chennai.
Arrive Chennai and transfer to the pre-booked hotel. The remainder of the day is free to rest and relax after our journey.
Day 02: Chennai.
Chennai is a bustling city with a relaxed and friendly character. Our tour commences in the area around the 17th century Fort St George, taking in St Mary’s Church where Clive of India was married, before a visit to the Government Museum to view the Chola Bronzes. Finally we visit San Thome Cathedral, said to house the remains of the Apostle Thomas who is reputed to have brought Christianity to India in the 1st century AD. The afternoon is at leisure, or you may wish to join an optional excursion to the shore temples at Mahabalipuram, which were commissioned by the legendary Pallava kings. Overnight in Chennai.
Day 03: Tiruchirappalli (Trichy).
Morning at leisure in Chennai, before we take our afternoon flight to Trichy. Upon arrival we check into our hotel. After freshening up, we visit the spectacular temple architecture at Srirangam. Set on an island in the Cuavery River within seven concentric walled courtyards, the Sri Ranganathasvami Temple is one of the largest complexes in India. Overnight in Trichy.
Day 04: Trichy to Thanjavur (Tanjore).
Today we drive east to the great Chola capital Tanjore. Our exploration of Chola architecture continues with the Bridhdisvara Temple (World Heritage Site) built in 1010. With a dome carved from a single piece of granite weighing over 80 tonnes, this magnificent temple is now a World Heritage Monument. In the afternoon we examine the temple of Airavatesvara at Darasuram whose decorative friezes portray mythological stories. Overnight in Trichy.
Day 05: Trichy to Madurai.
Morning drive to Madurai where we check into the hotel on arrival. The afternoon is at leisure to relax and enjoy our beautiful surroundings. Overnight in Madurai.
Day 06: Madurai.
Madurai, an ancient and traditional town, is dominated by the colourful and lively Meenakshi Temple whose thousand-pillared hall is crowded with exquisitely carved columns. We have time to explore the temple before spending the afternoon at leisure. Alternatively you may wish to take an optional excursion of the ruined Thirumalai Nayaka Palace and the interesting Gandhi Museum. Overnight in Madurai.
Day 07: Madurai to Thekkady.
Drive to Thekkady, stopping for lunch en route. Upon arrival transfer to the hotel. To conclude our day we will have the opportunity for some evening game viewing. Overnight in Thekkady.
Day 08: Thekkady.
We enjoy game viewing in the wildlife sanctuary of Periyar where elephant, sambar, bison and spotted deer may be seen during our lake cruise. Thekkady is renowned for its spices, and the aroma of cinnamon, nutmeg, pepper and a multitude of other spices scent the air as we explore a spice garden. Overnight in Thekkady.
Day 09: Thekkady to Kumarakom Houseboat.
The drive to Kumarakom takes in some of India’s finest scenery. From the sea of clouds over the Cardamom Hills we descend into the lush backwaters of Kerala, and board our houseboat where we will spend a night relaxing on board as we are punted through the tree-lined backwaters. We will also have the opportunity to sample some traditional local cuisine on board. Overnight onboard the Houseboat.
Day 10: Kochi (Cochin).
After disembarking from our houseboat, we drive to Cochin. An ancient trading port, Cochin is a curious blend of medieval Portugal, mercantile Holland, and an English country village, set on the exotic Malabar coast. We stay at an exclusive hotel.
Day 11: Kochi (Cochin).
Morning tour of the opulent Mattancherry Palace, a gift from the Portuguese to the Raja of Cochin. The palace has a collection of remarkable 16th century murals painted on wooden walls. In the old Jewish quarter we visit the ancient synagogue. Later the warehouses and shops provide us with some of the best shopping in India. We conclude our visit with the church of St Francis and the tomb of Vasco Da Gama. The afternoon is free to explore, shop, or relax at the hotel. In the evening there is an opportunity to experience the renowned Kathakali dance at a local hall. Overnight in Cochin.
Day 12: Kochi to Kovalam.
The morning is at leisure, before transferring to the railway station for our train to Kovalam, arriving later that afternoon. Transfer to the hotel for 2 nights stay. Rest of the day at leisure to enjoy the stunning beaches in Kovalam.
Day 13: Kovalam.
Full day relaxation in Kovalam.
Day 14: Kovalam to Kochi.
Transfer to the Railway station to board train for Kochi. On arrival transfer to the airport to board your flight for onward destination.
Date and price to suit individual arrangements based on 2 people sharing. Breakfast included. Private air-conditioned car and driver with English speaking guides for sightseeing.
