Day 1: Arrive in Chennai (By International Flight)
On your arrival in Chennai by flight from Delhi, you will be warmly received at the airport by Offbeat India Tours representative, who will assist you and escort you to your hotel. After a smooth check-in, take some time to relax and unwind. In the afternoon, proceed for a half-day sightseeing tour of Chennai. Begin with a visit to Marina Beach, one of the longest urban beaches in the world, offering breathtaking views of both sunrise and sunset. Next, explore Fort St. George, the first stronghold of British power in India, established in 1640 by the British East India Company. Inside the fort, visit St. Mary’s Church, the oldest Anglican Church in the East, and the Fort Museum, which showcases relics from colonial times including armory, uniforms, crockery, coins, and paintings.
Continue to Santhome Cathedral, built in 1504 over the tomb of St. Thomas the Apostle, and then head to the National Art Gallery, established in 1857 and known for its extensive collections in various disciplines including archaeology, botany, and sculpture. Conclude your day with a visit to the beautiful Kapaleeshwarar Temple in Mylapore, a fine example of Dravidian architecture dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Overnight stay at your hotel in Chennai.

Day 2: Chennai – Kanchipuram – Mahabalipuram (150 km / Approx. 4 hours)
After breakfast, begin your journey by road to Kanchipuram, one of India’s seven sacred cities and a renowned center of learning for Tamil and Sanskrit. Once home to over a thousand temples, it is also famed for its exquisite silk sarees.
Visit the Kailasanatha Temple, an 8th-century architectural marvel built in the Pallava style, known for its intricate carvings and numerous small shrines around the main sanctum. Then explore the Ekambaranatha Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, featuring a 57-meter-high gopuram and a 3,000-year-old mango tree believed to yield four different varieties of mangoes.
Later, continue to Mahabalipuram and check in at your hotel. The rest of the day is at leisure to relax or explore the nearby beach.
Overnight stay in Mahabalipuram.

Day 3: Mahabalipuram – Pondicherry (100 km / Approx. 3 hours)
After breakfast, set out on a guided tour of Mahabalipuram, an ancient seaport known for its stunning rock-cut monuments and temples. Begin with the iconic Shore Temple, a 7th-century masterpiece designed to catch the early morning sun and reflect it onto the waters.
Explore the Five Rathas (Pancha Rathas)—monolithic rock-cut temples that display incredible craftsmanship and provide insight into early Dravidian temple architecture. Visit the Varaha Cave Temple, a beautifully sculpted mandapa featuring four panels of Pallava guardians. Don't miss Arjuna's Penance, one of the world’s largest bas-reliefs depicting scenes from Indian mythology including the descent of the River Ganga.
In the afternoon, drive to Pondicherry, the charming former French colony by the Bay of Bengal.
Overnight stay at hotel in Pondicherry.

Day 4: In Pondicherry
After a hearty breakfast, enjoy a full-day excursion exploring the cultural and spiritual landmarks of Pondicherry. Despite the fading French influence, the city still retains its Gallic charm and colonial architecture.
Visit Auroville, an international township promoting human unity, and the Sri Aurobindo Ashram, one of the most important spiritual centers in India. Continue to Promenade Beach, and explore the Pondicherry Museum, which showcases a rich collection of artifacts from the French colonial era. Also visit the Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, known for its Gothic architecture, and the revered Manakula Vinayagar Temple, dedicated to Lord Ganesha.
Overnight stay at hotel in Pondicherry.

Day 5: Pondicherry – Chidambaram – Tanjore (180 km / Approx. 4 hours)
Following breakfast, depart for Tanjore, with an en-route visit to the sacred town of Chidambaram. This spiritual destination is famed for the Nataraja Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva as the cosmic dancer. The temple complex, built by the Cholas, is spread over 40 acres and is unique for having both Shiva and Vishnu enshrined under the same roof. After your spiritual exploration, continue the drive to Tanjore (Thanjavur), fondly known as the "Rice Bowl of Tamil Nadu". On arrival, check in to the hotel and proceed for local sightseeing.
Visit the grand Brihadeeshwara Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site built by Raja Raja Chola I. Admire the temple’s massive cupola and the stunning architecture that showcases the engineering genius of the Cholas. Next, explore the Royal Palace and its Art Gallery, home to exquisite bronze and stone sculptures from the Chola period.
Overnight stay at hotel in Tanjore.

Day 6: Tanjore – Trichy – Madurai (195 km / Approx. 4 hours)
After breakfast, begin your journey to Madurai, stopping en route at Trichy (Tiruchirappalli), a city steeped in history and spirituality. Visit Srirangam, a temple town located on an island surrounded by the Kaveri River. Explore the majestic Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple, one of the largest temple complexes in India, with 22 gopurams including the 72-meter-high Rajagopuram. Then head to the Rock Fort Temple, perched atop an 83-meter-high rock, one of the world’s oldest geological formations. Continue your drive to Madurai, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. Upon arrival, check in to the hotel and relax.
Overnight stay at hotel in Madurai.

Day 7: Madurai – Munnar (160 km / Approx. 4 hours)
This morning, after breakfast, visit the magnificent Meenakshi Amman Temple, a historic and spiritual centerpiece of Madurai. Dedicated to Goddess Meenakshi (a form of Parvati) and her consort Lord Sundareswarar (Shiva), the temple is known for its stunning architecture, towering gopurams, and intricate sculptures.
Later, embark on a scenic drive to Munnar, a beautiful hill station nestled in the Western Ghats and known for its lush tea gardens, misty mountains, and cool climate. Upon arrival, check in to the hotel and relax for the rest of the evening.
Overnight stay at hotel in Munnar.

Day 8: In Munnar
After a delightful breakfast, proceed for a full-day sightseeing tour of Munnar, a picturesque hill station located at the confluence of three mountain streams – Mudrapuzha, Nallathanni, and Kundala. Begin the day with a visit to the Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr and famous for its rolling hills carpeted with the rare Neelakurinji flowers that bloom once every twelve years. Next, visit the Tea Museum, which gives insight into the history and production of tea in the region. A scenic drive will take you to Mattupetty Dam, a lovely picnic spot where you can enjoy boating and admire panoramic views of the surroundings. Also visit Echo Point, where nature truly echoes your excitement, and Kundala Lake, famous for pedal boat rides amidst breathtaking landscapes. In the evening, return to the hotel and relax amidst the tranquil hills.
Overnight stay at hotel in Munnar.

Day 9: Munnar – Thekkady (110 Kms – Approx. 3.5 Hours by Road)
This morning after breakfast, drive to Thekkady, a region known for its dense evergreen forests and spice plantations. On arrival, check in at the hotel and refresh. Later, proceed for an exciting boat cruise on Periyar Lake, which offers a unique opportunity to view the rich flora and fauna of the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. You may get lucky and spot elephants, sambar deer, wild boars, and several species of birds during the cruise. Following this, visit a spice plantation to learn about the cultivation of various spices such as cardamom, pepper, vanilla, and cinnamon. You can also explore the vibrant local spice market in the evening or opt for a traditional Kathakali dance or Kalaripayattu martial arts performance (optional).
Overnight stay at hotel in Thekkady.

Day 10: Thekkady – Kumarakom (130 Kms – Approx. 4 Hours by Road)
After breakfast, enjoy a scenic drive to Kumarakom, a serene village set in the backdrop of the Vembanad Lake, famous for its backwater lagoons and bird sanctuary. Upon arrival, check in at the resort and relax. In the afternoon, visit the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, a haven for bird lovers, especially during migratory seasons when Siberian cranes and many other exotic species flock here. Enjoy a peaceful walk through the lush sanctuary or simply unwind by the tranquil lakeside. The rest of the day is at leisure, allowing you to enjoy the calm and natural beauty that Kumarakom has to offer.
Overnight stay at hotel in Kumarakom.

Day 11: Kumarakom – Alleppey (Backwater Experience)
After breakfast, check out and proceed to Alleppey to experience the unique charm of Kerala’s backwaters. On arrival, board a traditional houseboat (Kettuvallam), your floating home for the day, and embark on a magical cruise through the tranquil backwaters. As the boat meanders through narrow canals, lush paddy fields, coconut groves, and quaint villages, enjoy freshly cooked local meals on board, prepared by the houseboat staff. This is a perfect way to experience Kerala’s rural life and natural beauty in the most serene and relaxing manner.
Overnight stay on the houseboat in Alleppey.

Day 12: Alleppey – Cochin
After a serene morning onboard your houseboat, disembark and begin your journey towards Cochin—a vibrant port city steeped in history. Once a major centre of maritime trade with the Middle East, Mediterranean Europe, and the Dutch, Cochin boasts one of the finest natural harbours along the Arabian Sea. Its cosmopolitan legacy is reflected in its diverse architectural styles and cultural influences.
Upon arrival, set out to explore the historical quarter of Fort Kochi, where the city’s colonial past comes alive. Visit the Santa Cruz Basilica, a resplendent landmark and symbol of Kochi’s Christian heritage. Nearby stands the St. Francis Church, the oldest European church in India, with a quiet charm that echoes centuries of history. Continue to the Jewish Synagogue, built in 1568, beautifully adorned with Chinese tiles and Belgian chandeliers, and home to ancient scrolls of the Old Testament. Wander through the atmospheric spice market, where the air is thick with the rich aromas of cardamom, pepper, and cloves—commodities that once drew merchants from across the globe. On the waterfront, witness the iconic Chinese fishing nets (Cheenavala), introduced by traders from the court of Kublai Khan, and still operated in a time-honoured tradition. In the evening, attend a performance of Kathakali, Kerala’s most celebrated classical dance, renowned for its expressive storytelling and elaborate makeup.
Overnight stay at hotel in Cochin.

Day 13: Cochin – Departure
At the appropriate time, you will be transferred to Cochin International Airport for your onward journey, carrying with you the vibrant memories and peaceful moments of your Kerala experience.