16 Days from $4,090 USD / person
Beaches
Heritage & Culture
Nature & Landscapes
Wine & Food
Beaches
Heritage & Culture
Nature & Landscapes
Wine & Food
International Arrival
Your chauffeur will drive you from Chennai to Mamallapuram in a private vehicle (Duration: 1 hr)
2 Nights
Included activities
Unearth several UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Tour the stunning two-towered 8th century Shore Temples, dedicated to Lord Shiva and built in the typical architectural style of the Pallava dynasty, who ruled South India for three centuries. With the temple’s oceanic backdrop, this is especially beautiful at sunrise and sunset. Explore Arjuna’s Penance, a gigantic 7th century relief carving, depicting the legend of the holy River Ganges,or the Anantasayana Panel, which shows a reclining Vishnu, and Varaha Cave. Head to the Pancha Pandava Rathas (Five Rathas or chariots). These 7th century architectural monuments were hidden under sand until 200 years ago and are intricately carved out of a single large rock. Observe the mysteriously balancing rock of Krishna’s Butterball. Unwind with a leisurely amble along the town’s sandy shores.
Hotel options
Your chauffeur will drive you from Mamallapuram to Pondicherry in a private vehicle (Duration: 2.5 hrs)
1 Night
Included activities
Revel in the fusion Indo-French culture of this quaint French town, best explored by foot. Amble leisurely through cobbled streets to discover stunning boutique shops brimming with handmade, contemporary crafts, and a proud café culture, tucked within grand colonial and Tamilian buildings. In the Tamilian side of town, you can visit the living Manakula Vinayagar Temple. Wander through the famous Aurobindo Ashram, a spiritual community that follow the teachings of Sri Aurobindo, and the resting place of The Mother, Sri Aurobindo’s spiritual collaborator. Venture to the town’s outskirts and visit Auroville, a universal community that is heavily involved in sustainable and alternative living projects. Kindly note that Auroville is closed every Sunday afternoon.
Enjoy temple tours and historical ruins! Discover some of the most beautiful temples of South India enroute Thanjavur .Visit Chidambaram Thillai Nataraja Temple, which was built by the Chola dynasty to honour the Hindu god Shiva in the form of Nataraja – the Lord of Dance. Travel to Gangaikonda Cholapuram, the city of the Chola who allegedly conquered River Gange, and was once the beautiful capital of this powerful kingdom. Explore the magnificent three storey high Gangaikonda Cholapuram Temple, which is surrounded by a massive fort-like wall and affords plenty of amazing photo opportunities. Footwear is not permitted within the temple.
Hotel options
Your chauffeur will drive you from Pondicherry to Kumbakonam in a private vehicle. Enroute you will visit Chidambaram (Duration without stops: 4.5 hrs)
1 Night
Included activities
Delight in the traditions and talents of Thanjavur, beginning with the famous UNESCO World Heritage Site of Brihadeeswarar Temple, a thousand year old temple dedicated to Hindu God Shiva and home to India’s largest lingam (a phallic symbol of fertility). Venture onwards to another temple in Shiva’s honour, the Panchanatheesvarar Temple. Kindly note that footwear is not permitted within the temples. Visit the home of an artisan within his community and watch how he handcrafts the incredible brass sculptures that the city is famous for. Learn how the intricate and foiled famous Tanjore paintings are crafted.
Hotel options
Your chauffeur will drive you from Kumbakonam to Chettinad in a private vehicle. Enroute you will visit Thanjavur (Duration without stops: 6 hrs)
2 Nights
Included activities
Discover the traditions of South India. Explore the crumbling mansions – replete with rubies – of former Chettinad traders and visit ones of these traditional homes to learn more about daily life and the customs and rituals that are such an important part of Tamil heritage. Spend time at the Kamban Mani Mandapam, where the famous poet Mahakavi Chakravarthy Kamban spent several hours writing poetry each day. Visit the library and art gallery at Kaviarsar Kannadhasan Mani Mandapam, which was built to honour another revered poet – Shri Kannadhasan. Travel onwards to the famous tile factory in Athangudi, where your guide will explain how the renowned handmade terracotta tiles of Chettinad are crafted and readied. You can also visit a unique handloom workshop, which preserve the uniquely Chettinadu check-patterned sari fabric.
Hotel options
Your chauffeur will drive you from Chettinad to Madurai in a private vehicle (Duration: 2 hrs)
1 Night
Included activities
Discover the the magic of Madurai! Begin your full day tour at the heart of the ancient yet bustling city, where the awe-inspiring thousand pillared Meenakshi Amman Temple stands tall. Continue onwards to the grand Koodal Alagar Temple – a stellar example of 17th century architecture dedicated to the Hindu god Vishnu. Located nearby is the Thirumalai Nayak Mahal that once served as the royal residence of the famous Nayaka dynasty. Madurai’s busy flower and vegetable markets provide rich insight into everyday life of Tamilians. Afterwards, direct your steps towards the Gandhi Museum, which was established after famous leader of Indian Independence, Mahatma Gandhi, was assassinated. (Full Day, Private Activity & Transfer; Fitness Level: Easy. Mobile phones and photography not allowed inside Meenakshi temple)
Hotel options
Your chauffeur will drive you from Madurai to Munnar in a private vehicle (Duration: 5 hrs)
2 Nights
Included activities
Explore the Lockhart Tea Museum situated at Devikulam, a scenic hill station and national park on the outskirts of Munnar in southern India. Drive along meandering country roads flanked by lush tea plantations and wooded hills. In a while you will reach the expansive Lockhart Estate established in the late 1800s as one of High Range's earliest tea plantations. Accompanied by an in-house expert, tour the working tea factory, following the staff in action at every stage. Learn about orthodox tea, and its entire production process from tea leaf picking to your teacup. Understand the various health benefits of tea and its many uses. Visit the tea museum to know more about the history of tea in the region. Discover a collection of vintage equipment related to tea manufacture, and browse old photographs that trace the evolution of the town itself. Visit the adjoining nursery and garden where you can observe life behind the scenes. Finally, enjoy a tea tasting session while appreciating the fantastic scenery around! (Half Day; Duration: 1 hr; Private Activity & Transfer; Fitness level: Easy, tea tasting possible during Nov -Mar)
Take a trip down memory lane as you gain insight into Munnar’s history. As you walk through its winding streets, learn about the princely states that used to rule the region, colonial influences, the planting of teas, and the advent of tourism. At Top Station, soak in panoramic vistas of the tea estate surroundings and unique flora of the forested hills. See the remains of the ropeway that was used for the transportation of tea chests. Set out for the Headwords Dam built across the Mattupetty river, which powers the first established hydroelectric project in Kerala. Visit the well-preserved, century-old church with stained glass features and gothic-style architecture as well as Lodge Heather. Finally, stopping at the World War memorial at the town entrance, learn about how the end of the war was celebrated with bonfires across the hills of Munnar. (Duration: 2 hrs ; Private Activity & Transfer; Pick-up & Drop-off at hotel in Munnar; Fitness level: Moderate).
Hotel options
Your chauffeur will drive you from Munnar to Cochin in a private vehicle (Duration: 5.5 hrs)
2 Nights
Included activities
Cochin is an engaging city to explore, from the absorbing views of Fort Kochi harbor with its huge Chinese fishing nets, to ancient mosques, Portuguese architecture, and the crumbling remnants of the British Raj. Explore Mattancherry, where you can observe murals and antiquities at the Dutch Palace and Cemetery. Indulge your senses browsing traditional spice and antique markets. Encounter the fascinating 400 year old, fully-functioning Parsi Synagogue in the Jewish quarter. Visit the original grave of Vasco da Gama in St. Francis Church, used before his remains were returned to Portugal. Discover Hill Palace, the state’s largest archaeological museum, which is located in the regal and artistic suburbs of Tripunithura. (Duration: 4 hrs; Private Activity & Transfer; Fitness level: Easy; Please note that the Dutch Palace is closed on Fridays, the Jewish Synagogue is closed on Friday afternoons and Saturdays and the Hill Palace Musuem is closed on Mondays.Dutch Palace has 14 steep stairs).
Learn the techniques of cooking a meal typical to Kerala on this immersive tour. Get picked up from your hotel and drive to the residence of a local chef. Kerala cuisine is distinguished by its use of fresh seafood and staples such as coconut and rice. Don your apron and familiarize yourself with the many steps that go into making each dish. Glean interesting tidbits about the role of food in the local culture as you work with fresh, locally sourced ingredients such as tapioca and ginger. Learn about the importance of spices such as black pepper, cloves and cinnamon in Kerala cuisine. At the end of the session, sit down at the table for a leisurely lunch featuring the flavorful creations you learned to make. Get dropped off at your hotel, with the recipes of all the dishes you learned to prepare. (Duration: half day; Time: 1030 /1530 hrs; Private activity & transfers; Meals included: lunch or dinner; Please inform us of any food allergies in advance Fitness level: easy; Best time to travel: Oct-Mar)
Hotel options
Your chauffeur will drive you from Cochin to Backwaters , Alleppey/Kumarakom in a private vehicle (Duration: 1.5 hrs)
1 Night
Included activities
Cruise Kerala’s backwaters and stay overnight in a traditional kettuvallam, a boat made from coconut rope and wooden planks. This unique and exotic barge experience provides all the comforts of a hotel, with furnished bedrooms, a modern shower and toilet room, a living area and a shaded balcony for relaxing on as you enjoy uninterrupted views of rural Kerala. There is also a kitchen where the boat’s crew will rustle you up deliciously fresh meals and snacks, served traditionally on banana leaves. The skipper (captain), might moor up and take you to visit a backwater village, where you can meet local people and observe ancestral homes and places of worship. After a relaxing day, drop anchor and rest your head to the gentle sounds of the swishing lake waters.
Hotel options
Your chauffeur will drive you from Backwaters , Alleppey/Kumarakom to Mararikulam, Alleppey in a private vehicle (Duration: 30 mins)
3 Nights
Hotel options
Drive from Mararikulam to Cochin Airport (75 km, 2 hrs)
International Departure
Prices are in USD and exclude international flights. This trip price is based on low season rates for accommodation and other applicable services, and may change depending on availability, currency fluctuations and number of people traveling together. For high season prices, please contact us with your exact travel dates and preferences.
USA
USA
Netherlands
UK
Australia
USA
International Arrival
Your chauffeur will drive you from Chennai to Mamallapuram in a private vehicle (Duration: 1 hr)
2 Nights
Included activities
Unearth several UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Tour the stunning two-towered 8th century Shore Temples, dedicated to Lord Shiva and built in the typical architectural style of the Pallava dynasty, who ruled South India for three centuries. With the temple’s oceanic backdrop, this is especially beautiful at sunrise and sunset. Explore Arjuna’s Penance, a gigantic 7th century relief carving, depicting the legend of the holy River Ganges,or the Anantasayana Panel, which shows a reclining Vishnu, and Varaha Cave. Head to the Pancha Pandava Rathas (Five Rathas or chariots). These 7th century architectural monuments were hidden under sand until 200 years ago and are intricately carved out of a single large rock. Observe the mysteriously balancing rock of Krishna’s Butterball. Unwind with a leisurely amble along the town’s sandy shores.
Hotel options
Your chauffeur will drive you from Mamallapuram to Pondicherry in a private vehicle (Duration: 2.5 hrs)
1 Night
Included activities
Revel in the fusion Indo-French culture of this quaint French town, best explored by foot. Amble leisurely through cobbled streets to discover stunning boutique shops brimming with handmade, contemporary crafts, and a proud café culture, tucked within grand colonial and Tamilian buildings. In the Tamilian side of town, you can visit the living Manakula Vinayagar Temple. Wander through the famous Aurobindo Ashram, a spiritual community that follow the teachings of Sri Aurobindo, and the resting place of The Mother, Sri Aurobindo’s spiritual collaborator. Venture to the town’s outskirts and visit Auroville, a universal community that is heavily involved in sustainable and alternative living projects. Kindly note that Auroville is closed every Sunday afternoon.
Enjoy temple tours and historical ruins! Discover some of the most beautiful temples of South India enroute Thanjavur .Visit Chidambaram Thillai Nataraja Temple, which was built by the Chola dynasty to honour the Hindu god Shiva in the form of Nataraja – the Lord of Dance. Travel to Gangaikonda Cholapuram, the city of the Chola who allegedly conquered River Gange, and was once the beautiful capital of this powerful kingdom. Explore the magnificent three storey high Gangaikonda Cholapuram Temple, which is surrounded by a massive fort-like wall and affords plenty of amazing photo opportunities. Footwear is not permitted within the temple.
Hotel options
Your chauffeur will drive you from Pondicherry to Kumbakonam in a private vehicle. Enroute you will visit Chidambaram (Duration without stops: 4.5 hrs)
1 Night
Included activities
Delight in the traditions and talents of Thanjavur, beginning with the famous UNESCO World Heritage Site of Brihadeeswarar Temple, a thousand year old temple dedicated to Hindu God Shiva and home to India’s largest lingam (a phallic symbol of fertility). Venture onwards to another temple in Shiva’s honour, the Panchanatheesvarar Temple. Kindly note that footwear is not permitted within the temples. Visit the home of an artisan within his community and watch how he handcrafts the incredible brass sculptures that the city is famous for. Learn how the intricate and foiled famous Tanjore paintings are crafted.
Hotel options
Your chauffeur will drive you from Kumbakonam to Chettinad in a private vehicle. Enroute you will visit Thanjavur (Duration without stops: 6 hrs)
2 Nights
Included activities
Discover the traditions of South India. Explore the crumbling mansions – replete with rubies – of former Chettinad traders and visit ones of these traditional homes to learn more about daily life and the customs and rituals that are such an important part of Tamil heritage. Spend time at the Kamban Mani Mandapam, where the famous poet Mahakavi Chakravarthy Kamban spent several hours writing poetry each day. Visit the library and art gallery at Kaviarsar Kannadhasan Mani Mandapam, which was built to honour another revered poet – Shri Kannadhasan. Travel onwards to the famous tile factory in Athangudi, where your guide will explain how the renowned handmade terracotta tiles of Chettinad are crafted and readied. You can also visit a unique handloom workshop, which preserve the uniquely Chettinadu check-patterned sari fabric.
Hotel options
Your chauffeur will drive you from Chettinad to Madurai in a private vehicle (Duration: 2 hrs)
1 Night
Included activities
Discover the the magic of Madurai! Begin your full day tour at the heart of the ancient yet bustling city, where the awe-inspiring thousand pillared Meenakshi Amman Temple stands tall. Continue onwards to the grand Koodal Alagar Temple – a stellar example of 17th century architecture dedicated to the Hindu god Vishnu. Located nearby is the Thirumalai Nayak Mahal that once served as the royal residence of the famous Nayaka dynasty. Madurai’s busy flower and vegetable markets provide rich insight into everyday life of Tamilians. Afterwards, direct your steps towards the Gandhi Museum, which was established after famous leader of Indian Independence, Mahatma Gandhi, was assassinated. (Full Day, Private Activity & Transfer; Fitness Level: Easy. Mobile phones and photography not allowed inside Meenakshi temple)
Hotel options
Your chauffeur will drive you from Madurai to Munnar in a private vehicle (Duration: 5 hrs)
2 Nights
Included activities
Explore the Lockhart Tea Museum situated at Devikulam, a scenic hill station and national park on the outskirts of Munnar in southern India. Drive along meandering country roads flanked by lush tea plantations and wooded hills. In a while you will reach the expansive Lockhart Estate established in the late 1800s as one of High Range's earliest tea plantations. Accompanied by an in-house expert, tour the working tea factory, following the staff in action at every stage. Learn about orthodox tea, and its entire production process from tea leaf picking to your teacup. Understand the various health benefits of tea and its many uses. Visit the tea museum to know more about the history of tea in the region. Discover a collection of vintage equipment related to tea manufacture, and browse old photographs that trace the evolution of the town itself. Visit the adjoining nursery and garden where you can observe life behind the scenes. Finally, enjoy a tea tasting session while appreciating the fantastic scenery around! (Half Day; Duration: 1 hr; Private Activity & Transfer; Fitness level: Easy, tea tasting possible during Nov -Mar)
Take a trip down memory lane as you gain insight into Munnar’s history. As you walk through its winding streets, learn about the princely states that used to rule the region, colonial influences, the planting of teas, and the advent of tourism. At Top Station, soak in panoramic vistas of the tea estate surroundings and unique flora of the forested hills. See the remains of the ropeway that was used for the transportation of tea chests. Set out for the Headwords Dam built across the Mattupetty river, which powers the first established hydroelectric project in Kerala. Visit the well-preserved, century-old church with stained glass features and gothic-style architecture as well as Lodge Heather. Finally, stopping at the World War memorial at the town entrance, learn about how the end of the war was celebrated with bonfires across the hills of Munnar. (Duration: 2 hrs ; Private Activity & Transfer; Pick-up & Drop-off at hotel in Munnar; Fitness level: Moderate).
Hotel options
Your chauffeur will drive you from Munnar to Cochin in a private vehicle (Duration: 5.5 hrs)
2 Nights
Included activities
Cochin is an engaging city to explore, from the absorbing views of Fort Kochi harbor with its huge Chinese fishing nets, to ancient mosques, Portuguese architecture, and the crumbling remnants of the British Raj. Explore Mattancherry, where you can observe murals and antiquities at the Dutch Palace and Cemetery. Indulge your senses browsing traditional spice and antique markets. Encounter the fascinating 400 year old, fully-functioning Parsi Synagogue in the Jewish quarter. Visit the original grave of Vasco da Gama in St. Francis Church, used before his remains were returned to Portugal. Discover Hill Palace, the state’s largest archaeological museum, which is located in the regal and artistic suburbs of Tripunithura. (Duration: 4 hrs; Private Activity & Transfer; Fitness level: Easy; Please note that the Dutch Palace is closed on Fridays, the Jewish Synagogue is closed on Friday afternoons and Saturdays and the Hill Palace Musuem is closed on Mondays.Dutch Palace has 14 steep stairs).
Learn the techniques of cooking a meal typical to Kerala on this immersive tour. Get picked up from your hotel and drive to the residence of a local chef. Kerala cuisine is distinguished by its use of fresh seafood and staples such as coconut and rice. Don your apron and familiarize yourself with the many steps that go into making each dish. Glean interesting tidbits about the role of food in the local culture as you work with fresh, locally sourced ingredients such as tapioca and ginger. Learn about the importance of spices such as black pepper, cloves and cinnamon in Kerala cuisine. At the end of the session, sit down at the table for a leisurely lunch featuring the flavorful creations you learned to make. Get dropped off at your hotel, with the recipes of all the dishes you learned to prepare. (Duration: half day; Time: 1030 /1530 hrs; Private activity & transfers; Meals included: lunch or dinner; Please inform us of any food allergies in advance Fitness level: easy; Best time to travel: Oct-Mar)
Hotel options
Your chauffeur will drive you from Cochin to Backwaters , Alleppey/Kumarakom in a private vehicle (Duration: 1.5 hrs)
1 Night
Included activities
Cruise Kerala’s backwaters and stay overnight in a traditional kettuvallam, a boat made from coconut rope and wooden planks. This unique and exotic barge experience provides all the comforts of a hotel, with furnished bedrooms, a modern shower and toilet room, a living area and a shaded balcony for relaxing on as you enjoy uninterrupted views of rural Kerala. There is also a kitchen where the boat’s crew will rustle you up deliciously fresh meals and snacks, served traditionally on banana leaves. The skipper (captain), might moor up and take you to visit a backwater village, where you can meet local people and observe ancestral homes and places of worship. After a relaxing day, drop anchor and rest your head to the gentle sounds of the swishing lake waters.
Hotel options
Your chauffeur will drive you from Backwaters , Alleppey/Kumarakom to Mararikulam, Alleppey in a private vehicle (Duration: 30 mins)
3 Nights
Hotel options
Drive from Mararikulam to Cochin Airport (75 km, 2 hrs)
International Departure
Journey into ‘God’s Own Country’ on this 14-day tour that is packed with exciting activities and diverse cultural experiences. Cochin, a bustling seaside city, is a melting pot of culture and cuisine. Learn about the city’s past as an important trading port and its Dutch, Portuguese and British influences. Head to the pleasant hill station…
Experience the magic of India as you explore two of its Southern states – Karnataka and Kerala. Begin your journey at Bangalore, popularly known as the Silicon Valley of India, and visit its sprawling gardens, historical monuments, and interesting museums. Travel on to Hampi, a town with a landscape that is as fascinating as its…
Discover the many treasures of Karnataka on this cultural and historical odyssey through one of India’s most fascinating southern states. Your starting point is Bangalore, India’s Silicon Valley, which sits at the intersection of the old and the new. Visit its British-era gardens, museums, and other important landmarks. Dive deep into the rich architectural heritage…
Sorry, your search found no results.