Overview
Cultural South India Tour
Experience the rich culture, spirituality, heritage and natural beauty of South India on this fascinating 7-day journey. Begin in Chennai, exploring its historic landmarks, vibrant beaches and colonial heritage, followed by Kanchipuram, the ancient temple city famous for its magnificent Dravidian temples and exquisite silk sarees. Continue to Mahabalipuram, renowned for its UNESCO-listed rock-cut monuments and stunning Shore Temple. Fly to Madurai, one of South India's most important cultural and pilgrimage centres, where the magnificent Meenakshi Temple and historic Thirumalai Nayak Palace showcase the region's architectural grandeur. Travel onward to Periyar for a scenic boat ride amidst the Western Ghats and opportunities to experience Kerala's wildlife and natural landscapes. The journey continues to Kumarakom, surrounded by peaceful backwaters and lush greenery, followed by a relaxing cruise through the famous waterways of Alleppey. Finally, explore the historic city of Cochin, with its Dutch Palace, Jewish Synagogue, St. Francis Church, Santa Cruz Basilica and iconic Chinese Fishing Nets. This tour beautifully combines ancient temples, royal heritage, traditional culture, wildlife, backwaters and coastal charm, offering an unforgettable introduction to the diverse beauty of South India.
Itinerary
* Arrive into Chennai. Welcome to Cultural South India Tour'. On arrival in Chennai, you will be met and transferred by our representative to your hotel.
* Later proceed on a city tour of Chennai.
* Visit Fort St. George, San Thome Cathedral and the museum to see the Art and Bronze Gallery. (Closed on Fridays and Public holidays). High court, Marina Beach, San Thome Cathedral and Snake Park.
* Overnight: Hotel
* Kanchipuram Kanchipuram (70 kms from Chennai (Madras)) is the ancient capital of the Pallavas famous as a city of 1000 Temples and still has 124 shrines.
* The first temple dedicated to Shiva was built in the 7th and 8th century & has paintings on the walls.
* Temples of Ekambareswara, Kailasanatha, Sri Kamakshi and Varada Raja swamy are of interest. Kanchipuram is also famous for its silks.
* Upon arrrival at Mahabalipuram check into your hotel.
* Later visit Mahabalipuram
* Mahabalipuram is (75Kms from Kanchipuram) famous for the 7th Century Temples. Here on the seashore is an interesting group of ancient rock hewn temples which are the examples of Dravidian style of Architecture.
* Overnight: Hotel
* Upon arrival at Madurai check into your hotel.
* Visit Madurai.
* Visit the great Meenakshi Temple dedicated to the consort of Lord Shiva with its towering Gopurams (rising high above the surrounding country side). Later, visit the Tirumala Nayak Palace - A gracious building in the Indo Saracenic style, famous for the Stucco work on its domes & arches. There is also an extensive museum dedicated to the life and work of Mahatma Gandhi.
* Overnight: Hotel
* Afternoon, sightseeing by boat over Lake Periyar to view the wild life.
* Overnight: Hotel
* Rest of the day free at leisure.
* Overnight: Hotel
* Later drive to Cochin and on arrival, check in to hotel.
* Rest of the day at leisure.
* Overnight: Hotel
* Visit Dutch Palace at Mattancherry is renowned for its wall murals depicting scenes from the Ramayana.
* The Jewish Synagogue at the heart of what is locally called the Jew Town. The St. Francis Church, the oldest European church in India.
* The Santa Cruz Basilica, originally built in 1557 by the Portuguese. The Chinese fishing nets are huge cantilevered fishing nets believed to have brought to Kochi by Chinese traders.
* Finally, the Willingdon Island, named after Lord Willingdon, is the headquarters of the Southern Naval Command of India.
* In time transfer to airport to board the flight for your onward journey to back home with sweet and unforgettable memories of your Cultural South India Tour.
END OF OUR SERVICES
Inclusions & Exclusions
Inclusions | Exclusions |
|---|---|
Accommodation as pe itinerary | Airfare / Train |
Daily Breakfast | Lunch & Dinner |
Sightseeing as per the itinerary. | Expenses arising due to unforeseen circumstances, delays or changes in travel schedule. |
Private AC Vehicle for Transfers & Sightseeing. | adventure Activities & Personal Expenses. |
Pickup & Drop from Delhi | Anything Not Mentioned Under Inclusions. |
Driver Allowance, Toll Tax & Parking. | Guide Charges. |
All Applicable Hotel Taxes. |
|
Policy
- Neelam Holidays Journeys shall not be responsible for any delays or alterations in the program or indirectly incurred expenses in cases such as natural hazards, accidents, breakdown of machinery, weather conditions, landslides, political closure, or any untoward incidents.
- We do not provide any insurance policy to cover the expenditure on sickness or accidents or losses incurred due to theft or other reasons.
- Numerous factors such as weather and road conditions the physical ability of participants etc. may bring alteration in the itinerary. We reserve the right to make necessary changes in the schedule in the interest of safety, comfort, and general well-being!