From Cochin to Chennai Classic 7 Day South India Tour

What's Included

Meeting and pickup

Itinerary

Day 1
Cochin Arrival – Alleppey Backwaters – Cochin Sightseeing
7 stops
1
Kochi (Cochin)
Your driver will pick you up from Cochin Airport, Railway Station, hotel, or any preferred location. Begin your scenic drive to Alleppey, known for its beautiful Kerala backwaters.
2 hours • Admission ticket free
2
Alleppey Backwaters
Enjoy a relaxing 3-hour Shikara cruise through the tranquil backwaters, passing through lush greenery, canals, villages, and traditional Kerala homes. A delicious traditional Kerala lunch will be served onboard.
3 hours • Admission ticket included
3
Chinese Fishing Nets
Visit the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets, traditional shore-operated fishing structures and one of Fort Kochi’s most recognizable sights.
20 minutes • Admission ticket included
4
Paradesi Synagogue
Explore the historic Jew Town, known for its antique shops and colonial atmosphere. Continue to Mattancherry Palace, famous for its Kerala-style architecture and historic murals.
20 minutes • Admission ticket included
5
Church of Saint Francis
Visit St. Francis Church, one of India’s oldest European-built churches, with strong links to the colonial history of Fort Kochi.
20 minutes • Admission ticket included
6
Fort Kochi
Stroll through the charming streets of Fort Kochi, enjoying its colonial buildings, heritage atmosphere, and cultural character.
20 minutes • Admission ticket free
7
Kerala Kathakali Center
In the evening, witness a traditional Kathakali dance performance, renowned for its elaborate costumes, expressive facial movements, and storytelling. Drop-off: After the sightseeing and cultural experience, return to your preferred location in Cochin.
1 hour • Admission ticket included
Day 2
Cochin – Munnar
4 stops
8
Munnar
After breakfast, check out from your hotel and begin your scenic drive to Munnar, a beautiful hill station nestled in the Western Ghats. Enjoy the picturesque journey through winding mountain roads, lush forests, waterfalls, and expansive tea plantations.
3 hours • Admission ticket free
9
Munnar tea Green trekking adventure
Upon arrival in Munnar, visit the Tea Museum to learn about the region’s tea-growing history and traditional tea-processing methods. Explore the exhibits showcasing old machinery, photographs, and the evolution of tea production in Munnar.
1 hour • Admission ticket included
10
Mattupetty Dam
Continue to Mattupetty Dam, surrounded by green hills and beautiful valleys. Enjoy the peaceful views of the reservoir and the surrounding tea plantations. The area is also a popular spot for photography and nature walks.
30 minutes • Admission ticket included
11
Echo Point
Proceed to Echo Point, a scenic location surrounded by misty hills and lush greenery. The area is known for its natural echo phenomenon and offers beautiful views of the lake and surrounding landscape. Evening – Hotel Check-in After sightseeing, continue to your hotel in Munnar for check-in and relaxation. Enjoy the peaceful mountain atmosphere and overnight stay in Munnar.
1 hour • Admission ticket included
Day 3
Munnar – Madurai
4 stops
12
Madurai
After breakfast, check out from your hotel and begin your journey from Munnar to Madurai. Enjoy the scenic drive as the landscape changes from the misty tea-covered hills of Munnar to the plains of Tamil Nadu.
3 hours • Admission ticket free
13
Thirumalai Nayakar Mahal
On arrival in Madurai, visit the magnificent Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace, built in the 17th century. Admire its impressive arches, massive pillars, ornate stucco work, and blend of Dravidian and Islamic architectural styles. Learn about the history of the Nayak dynasty that ruled Madurai.
30 minutes • Admission ticket included
14
Madurai
Explore the vibrant local market and experience the lively atmosphere of the city. Walk through colorful streets filled with flower stalls, traditional handicrafts, textiles, spices, and local products. It is a great opportunity to experience everyday life in Madurai.
30 minutes • Admission ticket free
15
Madurai Meenakshi Amman Temple
Later, visit the iconic Meenakshi Amman Temple, the spiritual and architectural highlight of Madurai. Explore its magnificent gopurams covered with thousands of colorful sculptures, intricately carved halls, and sacred courtyards. Experience the devotional atmosphere and learn about the temple's religious and cultural significance. Evening – Hotel Check-in After sightseeing, check in to your hotel and relax. The evening can be spent at leisure or exploring the surroundings of the temple area. Overnight Stay: Madurai
1 hour • Admission ticket included
Day 4
Madurai – Chettinad – Thanjavur
6 stops
16
Chettinad
After breakfast, check out from your hotel and drive towards the Chettinad region, renowned for its distinctive architecture, rich culinary traditions, and heritage villages. Enjoy the changing scenery as you travel through the Tamil Nadu countryside.
3 hours • Admission ticket included
17
Kanadukathan
Visit Kanadukathan, one of the best-known villages in the Chettinad region. Walk through its charming streets lined with magnificent Chettinad mansions, built by prosperous merchant families. The mansions are known for their large courtyards, elaborate woodwork, ornate pillars, colorful tiles, and a fascinating combination of Indian and European architectural influences. Your guide will explain the history and lifestyle of the Chettiar community that shaped the region.
2 hours • Admission ticket free
18
Continue to Athangudi, famous for its beautifully patterned handmade tiles. Visit a traditional tile-making workshop to see how the tiles are produced using cement, sand, pigments, and carefully prepared molds. Observe the craftsmen creating colorful geometric and floral designs using traditional techniques. These distinctive tiles are an important part of Chettinad's architectural heritage.
30 minutes • Admission ticket free
19
Thanjavur
Enjoy an authentic Chettinad lunch at a local restaurant or traditional setting. Chettinad cuisine is known for its aromatic spices, rich flavors, and traditional cooking methods. Lunch is not included in the tour price. Afternoon – Continue to Thanjavur After exploring Chettinad, continue your journey to Thanjavur, an important center of South Indian art, culture, and Chola history.
2 hours • Admission ticket free
20
Brihadeeswara Temple
Visit the magnificent Brihadeeswarar Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the greatest achievements of Chola architecture. Built by Rajaraja Chola I, the temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Admire its towering vimana, massive stone structures, detailed sculptures, and beautifully carved architectural elements. Your guide will explain the temple's history, Chola-era engineering, and its importance in South Indian culture.
1 hour • Admission ticket included
21
Thanjavur Royal Palace and Art Gallery
Continue to the historic Thanjavur Royal Palace, associated with the Nayak and Maratha rulers of the region. Explore its courtyards, halls, historic structures, and collections that showcase Thanjavur's royal and artistic heritage. Evening – Hotel Check-in After completing the day's sightseeing, check in to your hotel in Thanjavur and relax for the evening. Overnight Stay: Thanjavur
30 minutes • Admission ticket included
Day 5
Thanjavur – Gangaikonda Cholapuram – Darasuram – Pondicherry
3 stops
22
After breakfast, check out from your hotel in Thanjavur and begin your journey towards Pondicherry. The route takes you through the historic heartland of the Chola dynasty, with visits to two magnificent UNESCO-listed temple sites. Gangaikonda Cholapuram Temple Your first stop is the Brihadisvara Temple at Gangaikonda Cholapuram, built by Rajendra Chola I, son of Rajaraja Chola I. The temple was the centerpiece of the Chola emperor's new capital. Admire its impressive Dravidian architecture, elegant stone carvings, sculpted deities, and beautifully decorated walls. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is particularly notable for its graceful proportions and detailed sculptures. Explore the temple complex with your guide and learn about the Chola dynasty's military achievements, architecture, and cultural legacy.
1 hour • Admission ticket included
23
Airavatesvara Temple
Continue to Darasuram to visit the magnificent Airavatesvara Temple, another UNESCO World Heritage monument and an important example of later Chola architecture. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple is renowned for its intricate stone carvings depicting deities, musicians, dancers, animals, and scenes from Hindu mythology. Pay special attention to the beautifully carved stone chariot-like structure and musical steps, which demonstrate the remarkable craftsmanship of Chola-era sculptors. Your guide will explain the temple's architectural features, religious significance, and connection to the Chola dynasty.
1 hour • Admission ticket included
24
Pondicherry
ondicherry After exploring Darasuram, continue your drive towards Pondicherry. Enjoy the changing scenery as you travel through Tamil Nadu's countryside before reaching the former French colonial town. Pondicherry – Hotel Check-in On arrival in Pondicherry, check in to your hotel and take some time to relax after the journey. Evening at Leisure Spend the evening at your own pace. You may explore the charming streets around the French Quarter, enjoy a walk along the seafront, visit local cafés, or simply relax at the hotel. Overnight Stay: Pondicherry
4 hours • Admission ticket free
Day 6
Pondicherry – Auroville – Mahabalipuram
11 stops
25
Sri Aurobindo Ashram
After breakfast, check out from your hotel and begin your exploration of Pondicherry, a charming coastal town known for its French colonial heritage, spiritual traditions, and beautiful seaside promenade. Sri Aurobindo Ashram Begin with a visit to the Sri Aurobindo Ashram, one of Pondicherry's most important spiritual centers. Learn about the teachings and philosophy of Sri Aurobindo and the Mother. The peaceful ashram atmosphere offers a quiet contrast to the lively streets of the city.
1 hour • Admission ticket included
26
Arulmigu Manakula Vinayagar Temple
Continue to the Manakula Vinayagar Temple, a historic Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha. Admire the colorful sculptures, traditional architecture, and devotional atmosphere. The temple is especially known for its beautifully decorated entrance and religious significance among local devotees.
1 hour • Admission ticket included
27
White Town
Explore White Town, Pondicherry's historic French Quarter. Walk along streets lined with colonial-era buildings, colorful façades, boutiques, cafés, and heritage houses. The area reflects the town's distinctive French influence.
1 hour • Admission ticket included
28
Rock Beach
Take a relaxing walk along Rock Beach, also known as the Promenade. Enjoy views of the Bay of Bengal and the lively atmosphere along the seafront while taking photographs.
30 minutes • Admission ticket included
29
The Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus
Visit the Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, a striking Gothic-style church known for its beautiful stained-glass windows, arches, and impressive interior. It is one of Pondicherry's notable Christian landmarks.
30 minutes • Admission ticket included
30
Auroville
Continue to Auroville, an international township founded with the vision of creating a place of unity and peaceful living. Visit the Matrimandir Viewpoint for a view of the distinctive golden spherical Matrimandir surrounded by landscaped gardens.
1 hour • Admission ticket free
31
Mahabalipuram
After lunch, continue along the scenic East Coast Road towards Mahabalipuram, a historic coastal town famous for its Pallava-era rock-cut monuments and temple
2 hours • Admission ticket free
32
Shore Temple
Visit the iconic Shore Temple, one of Mahabalipuram's most recognizable monuments and part of the UNESCO-listed Group of Monuments at Mahabalipuram. Built during the Pallava period, the temple stands beside the Bay of Bengal and is dedicated primarily to Lord Shiva. Admire its stone architecture, sculpted details, and spectacular seaside setting.
30 minutes • Admission ticket included
33
Arjuna's Penance
Continue to Arjuna's Penance, one of the largest open-air rock reliefs in the world. The massive carved panels depict figures from Hindu mythology, celestial beings, animals, and scenes connected with the descent of the Ganges. Your guide will explain the stories and symbolism represented in the carvings.
30 minutes • Admission ticket included
34
Krishna's Butter Ball
Visit Krishna's Butter Ball, a huge naturally balanced granite boulder resting dramatically on a sloping rock surface. It is one of Mahabalipuram's most unusual and popular landmarks and makes an excellent spot for photographs.
20 minutes • Admission ticket included
35
End the day's sightseeing with some leisure time at Mahabalipuram Beach. Enjoy the coastal atmosphere, take a relaxing walk along the shore, or simply unwind after exploring the historic monuments. Evening – Hotel Check-in After the day's sightseeing, check in to your hotel in Mahabalipuram and relax. Overnight Stay: Mahabalipuram
10 minutes • Admission ticket free
Day 7
Mahabalipuram – Kanchipuram – Chennai departure
11 stops
36
Kanchipuram
After breakfast, check out from your hotel in Mahabalipuram and drive to Kanchipuram, one of Tamil Nadu's historic temple cities and an important center of South Indian religious traditions and silk weaving.
2 hours • Admission ticket free
37
Ekambareswarar Temple
Begin your Kanchipuram sightseeing with Ekambareswarar Temple, one of the city's most important Shiva temples and one of the Pancha Bhoota Sthalas, representing the element of Earth. Explore its impressive gopurams, vast courtyards, beautifully carved pillars, and sacred shrines while learning about its history and religious significance.
30 minutes • Admission ticket included
38
Kailasanatha Temple
Continue to the Kailasanathar Temple, one of the oldest surviving temples in Kanchipuram and an outstanding example of early Pallava architecture. Admire its sandstone carvings, small surrounding shrines, sculpted panels, and distinctive Dravidian design. The temple provides an excellent insight into the architectural development of the Pallava period.
30 minutes • Admission ticket included
39
Vaikunda Perumal Temple
Visit Vaikunta Perumal Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The temple is renowned for its Pallava-era architecture and detailed stone carvings. Explore the historic corridors and sculptures while your guide explains the temple's connection with the Pallava dynasty and Vaishnavite tradition
30 minutes • Admission ticket included
40
Kanchipuram Lakshaya Silk Sarees
Next, experience a traditional Kanchipuram silk-weaving demonstration. See how skilled artisans prepare silk threads and weave intricate designs using traditional handlooms. Learn about the craftsmanship behind the famous Kanchipuram silk sarees, including their distinctive patterns, borders, and traditional motifs.
30 minutes • Admission ticket included
41
Chennai (Madras)
After exploring Kanchipuram, continue your journey to Chennai, the capital of Tamil Nadu and a vibrant city combining ancient temples, colonial heritage, museums, markets, and a long coastline.
2 hours • Admission ticket free
42
Kapaleeshwarar Temple
Visit the historic Kapaleeshwarar Temple in Mylapore, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Admire its colorful Dravidian-style gopuram, detailed sculptures, temple tank, and lively devotional atmosphere. The surrounding Mylapore area also offers a glimpse into Chennai's traditional cultural life.
30 minutes • Admission ticket included
43
Pattinapakkam Fish Market
Continue to Pattinampakkam, a lively coastal neighborhood where you can experience the atmosphere of a traditional local fish market. See fishermen bringing in their daily catch and observe the bustling activity of one of Chennai's coastal communities.
30 minutes • Admission ticket included
44
San Thome Church
Visit Santhome Church, a significant Christian landmark in Chennai. The present basilica is built in the Gothic Revival style and is traditionally associated with the tomb of St. Thomas the Apostle. Admire the architecture and learn about the area's long Christian heritage.
30 minutes • Admission ticket included
45
Government Museum
Continue to the Government Museum in Egmore, one of India's major museums, with collections covering archaeology, art, bronze sculptures, numismatics, and South Indian history. The museum is particularly noted for its collection of historic Chola bronze sculptures.
30 minutes • Admission ticket included
46
Marina Beach
End your Chennai sightseeing at Marina Beach, one of the city's most famous landmarks. Enjoy a walk along the promenade, take in views of the Bay of Bengal, and experience the lively local atmosphere along Chennai's coastline. Tour Ends – Chennai After completing the sightseeing, you will be dropped at your preferred location in Chennai, including Chennai Airport, Railway Station, hotel, or any other preferred location. Tour Ends with memorable experiences across the temples, heritage sites, crafts, culture, and coastline of Tamil Nadu.
30 minutes • Admission ticket included

Additional info

• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
• Not recommended for pregnant travelers
• Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels

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