Day 1: Arrival in Chennai – Gateway to South India
Welcome to Tamil Nadu! Upon arrival in Chennai, the capital city known for its rich culture and colonial past, you'll be greeted and transferred to your hotel. After settling in, begin exploring the city: visit Marina Beach, the second-longest urban beach in the world, and stop at landmarks like Fort St. George, San Thome Cathedral, and the Kapaleeshwarar Temple. If time permits, explore local markets or enjoy authentic South Indian cuisine. Overnight stay in Chennai.

Day 2: Chennai to Pondicherry via Mamallapuram – Coastal Charm & Heritage
After breakfast, check out and drive to Pondicherry, stopping en route at Mamallapuram (Mahabalipuram). This UNESCO World Heritage site is known for its ancient rock-cut temples and sculptures like Shore Temple, Arjuna’s Penance, and Five Rathas. After exploring Mamallapuram, continue to Pondicherry, a charming coastal town with French colonial vibes. Check in to your hotel and enjoy an evening walk along the Promenade Beach. Overnight stay in Pondicherry.

Day 3: Pondicherry Sightseeing – French Elegance & Spiritual Peace
Start your day with a visit to Auroville, an experimental township dedicated to human unity and spiritual living, and see the impressive Matrimandir (viewed from outside). Explore the colonial French Quarter, Sri Aurobindo Ashram, and visit churches, museums, and local boutiques. Enjoy a relaxed afternoon at one of the cafes or on the beach. Overnight stay in Pondicherry.

Day 4: Pondicherry to Madurai – Into the Cultural Heartland
After an early breakfast, drive to Madurai, one of South India’s oldest cities with over 2,500 years of history. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and relax. In the evening, visit the Meenakshi Amman Temple, a stunning architectural marvel with its towering gopurams (gateways), and attend the evening Aarti ceremony – a mesmerizing spiritual experience. Overnight stay in Madurai.

Day 5: Madurai Sightseeing – Temples, Palaces & Traditions
After breakfast, continue exploring Madurai. Visit Thirumalai Nayakkar Mahal, a 17th-century palace known for its Indo-Saracenic architecture. Explore the Gandhi Memorial Museum to learn about India’s freedom movement. You can also stroll through bustling markets for silk, handicrafts, and traditional snacks. Overnight stay in Madurai.

Day 6: Madurai to Thekkady – Journey to the Spice Hills
After breakfast, depart for Thekkady, a beautiful town located in Kerala’s Western Ghats, famous for wildlife and spice plantations. Arrive and check in to your hotel surrounded by greenery. In the evening, enjoy a spice plantation tour, where you can see how cardamom, pepper, and other spices are cultivated. Optional: attend a Kalaripayattu martial arts show or take an Ayurvedic massage. Overnight stay in Thekkady.

Day 7: Thekkady Sightseeing – Into the Wild
After an early breakfast, enjoy a boat ride on Periyar Lake inside Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, where you may spot elephants, wild boars, bison, and a variety of birds. Spend the rest of the day exploring the nearby markets or choosing an optional bamboo rafting or nature walk experience. Overnight stay in Thekkady.

Day 8: Thekkady to Munnar – Scenic Drive to the Hills
After breakfast, check out and drive to Munnar, Kerala’s most popular hill station, known for its tea gardens and misty valleys. On the way, enjoy panoramic views, waterfalls, and spice plantations. On arrival, check in and relax amidst the cool, fresh air. You may choose to take a walk through nearby tea estates. Overnight stay in Munnar.

Day 9: Munnar Sightseeing – Tea, Trails & Tranquility
After breakfast, explore the scenic beauty of Munnar. Visit the Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, and enjoy the stunning views. Other highlights include the Tea Museum, Mattupetty Dam, Echo Point, and Kundala Lake. End the day relaxing at the hotel or visiting a local tea shop. Overnight stay in Munnar.

Day 10: Munnar to Alleppey – Backwater Escape
After breakfast, drive to Alleppey (Alappuzha), known for its enchanting backwaters and houseboat experiences. On arrival, check in to a traditional Kerala houseboat and enjoy a day cruising through palm-fringed canals, village life, and paddy fields. Freshly prepared Kerala meals are served on board. Relax and unwind in the peaceful surroundings. Overnight stay on the houseboat (or at a backwater resort as per your choice).

Day 11: Alleppey to Cochin – From Backwaters to Culture
After breakfast, disembark from your houseboat and drive to Cochin (Kochi). Check in to your hotel and relax or start exploring the city’s unique blend of Dutch, Portuguese, and Indian heritage. Evening at leisure or a visit to the local market. Overnight stay in Cochin.

Day 12: Cochin Sightseeing – Colonial Charm & Coastal Vibes
Enjoy a full day of sightseeing in Cochin. Visit Fort Kochi, known for its colonial architecture, Chinese Fishing Nets, and St. Francis Church. Explore Mattancherry Palace, Jew Town, and the Jewish Synagogue. Don’t miss the spice markets and local craft shops. You can end your day with an optional Kathakali dance performance. Overnight stay in Cochin.

Day 13: Departure from Cochin – Farewell South India
After breakfast, check out and transfer to Cochin International Airport for your onward journey. Depart with unforgettable memories of Tamil Nadu's temples and Kerala's natural beauty.