Experience the rich culture, ancient temples, serene backwaters, lush hill stations, and vibrant cities of South India in this 16-day journey. From the historic shores of Mahabalipuram to the wildlife of Periyar, the tranquil houseboats of Alleppey, the colonial charm of Ooty, and the royal heritage of Mysore – this tour blends history, spirituality, and natural beauty into one unforgettable adventure.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 01: Arrival in Chennai Arrive at Chennai International Airport, the bustling gateway to South India. Meet our representative and transfer to your hotel. Rest of the day free to relax and acclimatize. Overnight in Chennai.
Day 02: Chennai Sightseeing – Drive to Mahabalipuram via Kanchipuram (140 km / 4 hrs) After breakfast, enjoy a half-day Chennai city tour covering Marina Beach, Gandhi Memorial, Kala Kshetra, and Kapaleeswarar Temple. Later, drive to Mahabalipuram, visiting Kanchipuram – the “City of Thousand Temples” and a hub of silk weaving. Continue to Mahabalipuram and check-in at your hotel. Overnight in Mahabalipuram.
Day 03: Mahabalipuram – Heritage Wonders Full-day sightseeing in Mahabalipuram visiting the Shore Temple (dedicated to Lord Shiva & Vishnu), Arjuna’s Penance, and the Five Rathas – each carved from a single rock in unique styles. Evening free by the beach. Overnight in Mahabalipuram.
Day 04: Mahabalipuram – Tanjore (270 km / 6 hrs) Drive to Tanjore, known as the “Rice Bowl of Tamil Nadu.” Visit Brihadeeswarar Temple (UNESCO site), the Royal Palace, and Saraswathi Mahal Library housing rare manuscripts. Overnight in Tanjore.
Day 05: Tanjore – Madurai via Trichy (193 km / 4 hrs) En route to Madurai, stop at Trichy to visit the famous Rock Fort Temple and Srirangam Temple. On arrival in Madurai, check-in at your hotel. Overnight in Madurai.
Day 06: Madurai – Temple City Tour Explore the vibrant city of Madurai, visiting Meenakshi Amman Temple, Thirumalai Nayakar Palace, and Gandhi Museum. Stroll through local markets in the evening. Overnight in Madurai.
Day 07: Madurai – Thekkady (138 km / 3 hrs) Drive to Thekkady, home to Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. Enjoy a scenic boat ride on Periyar Lake to spot elephants, bison, and exotic birds. Overnight in Thekkady.
Day 08: Thekkady – Kumarakom (120 km / 3 hrs) Early morning wildlife cruise on Lake Periyar. Later, drive to Kumarakom – a backwater village famous for its bird sanctuary on Vembanad Lake. Overnight in Kumarakom.
Day 09: Kumarakom – Alleppey (32 km / 40 min) Visit Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary before boarding your traditional houseboat. Cruise through palm-lined canals and observe village life along the backwaters. Overnight on Houseboat / in Alleppey.
Day 10: Alleppey – Cochin (55 km / 1 hr) Drive to Cochin and explore Jew Town, Dutch Palace, St. Francis Church, Chinese Fishing Nets, and spice markets. In the evening, enjoy a Kathakali dance performance. Overnight in Cochin.
Day 11: Cochin – Ooty (275 km / 6 hrs) Travel to Ooty, the “Queen of Hill Stations.” Enjoy panoramic views of the Nilgiris, lush tea gardens, and colonial charm. Overnight in Ooty.
Day 12: Ooty – Hill Station Delights Visit Ooty Lake, Doddabetta Peak, and Deer Park. Stroll through tea estates and enjoy the cool mountain breeze. Overnight in Ooty.
Day 13: Ooty – Mysore (160 km / 3 hrs) Drive to Mysore. Day free for leisure or evening shopping for Mysore silk and sandalwood products. Overnight in Mysore.
Day 14: Mysore Heritage Tour Visit Srirangapatna, Tipu Sultan’s Summer Palace, Mysore Palace, and Chamundi Hill with its massive Nandi statue. Overnight in Mysore.
Day 15: Mysore – Bangalore (135 km / 3 hrs) Drive to Bangalore. Sightseeing includes Lal Bagh Botanical Garden, ISKCON Temple, Tipu Sultan’s Palace, and Vidhana Soudha. Overnight in Bangalore.
Day 16: Departure from Bangalore After breakfast, transfer to Bangalore International Airport for your onward journey.
Tour Highlights
Ancient Dravidian temples of Tamil Nadu
UNESCO sites of Mahabalipuram & Brihadeeswarar Temple
Wildlife cruise in Periyar Sanctuary
Houseboat stay in Kerala backwaters
Tea gardens of Ooty & Nilgiri Hills
Royal heritage of Mysore
Modern and historic Bangalore attractions
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Hello Travel India unlocks the Golden Triangle, transforming a simple trip into a curated collection of India’s most sought-after journeys
