Dravidian Masterpieces
Stand in awe of the towering gopurams and intricately carved stone pillars of Tamil Nadu's greatest temples, from the Brihadeeswarar Temple in Thanjavur to Madurai's iconic Meenakshi Amman Temple.
VIHAANGA
Vihaanga Journeys was founded with a clear vision—to present India in its most authentic, comfortable, and meaningful way for global travelers.
Information
- Address: 27 D 3rd Floor, MIG Flat, Sheikh Sarai, Phase I, Malviya Nagar, Delhi 110017
- Call Us: +91 88105 36701
- Email: hello@vihaangajourneys.com
- hello@vihaangajourneys.com
- New Delhi, 110001
Overview
Experience the timeless charm of South India on this carefully curated journey through the culturally rich states of Tamil Nadu and Kerala. Discover magnificent Dravidian temples, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, colonial towns, vibrant local traditions, mist-covered hill stations, fragrant spice plantations, and Kerala's legendary backwaters.
From the architectural wonders of Mahabalipuram and Thanjavur to the spiritual grandeur of Madurai, the rolling tea gardens of Munnar, the wildlife of Periyar, and the tranquil backwaters of Kumarakom and Alleppey, this itinerary offers the perfect blend of culture, spirituality, nature, heritage and relaxation—an unforgettable introduction to the soul of South India.
Duration: 14 Nights / 15 Days
Routing: Chennai – Mahabalipuram – Pondicherry – Chidambaram – Kumbakonam – Thanjavur – Trichy – Chettinad – Madurai – Munnar – Thekkady – Kumarakom – Alleppey – Cochin
October to March offers ideal weather conditions for exploring the magnificent temples of Tamil Nadu and enjoying the backwaters and hill stations of Kerala.
Top Feature Highlights
- Explore Chennai's vibrant culture and Marina Beach.
- Discover the UNESCO World Heritage monuments of Mahabalipuram.
- Experience the French colonial charm of Pondicherry.
- Visit the sacred Nataraja Temple at Chidambaram.
- Explore the historic temple town of Kumbakonam.
- Visit the UNESCO-listed Airavatesvara Temple.
- Marvel at the magnificent Brihadeeswarar Temple in Thanjavur.
- Visit the spectacular Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple at Srirangam.
- Discover the heritage mansions and cuisine of Chettinad.
- Experience the iconic Meenakshi Amman Temple in Madurai.
- Explore the lush tea plantations of Munnar.
- Enjoy a scenic boat cruise on Periyar Lake.
- Visit a traditional spice plantation in Thekkady.
- Relax amidst the tranquil backwaters of Kumarakom.
- Cruise aboard a traditional Deluxe Houseboat through Alleppey's enchanting backwaters.
- Explore the colonial heritage of Fort Kochi.
- Witness a captivating Kathakali dance performance.
Backwaters & Plantations
Transition from the spiritual heartland to nature's embrace. Wander through the rolling, emerald tea estates of Munnar and drift peacefully on a traditional houseboat along Alleppey's palm-fringed backwaters.
Brief Day-wise Itinerary
Day 01 | Arrive Chennai
Upon arrival at Chennai International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by our representative and transferred to your hotel. Depending on your arrival time, visit Kapaleeshwarar Temple, San Thome Basilica and Marina Beach. Overnight Stay: Hotel – Chennai
Day 02 | Chennai – Mahabalipuram (Approx. 60 km | 1.5 Hours)
Drive along the scenic East Coast Road to Mahabalipuram. Explore the UNESCO World Heritage monuments, including the Shore Temple, Five Rathas and Arjuna's Penance. Spend the evening relaxing by the Bay of Bengal. Overnight Stay: Hotel – Mahabalipuram
Day 03 | Mahabalipuram – Pondicherry (Approx. 100 km | 2 Hours)
Continue to the charming French colonial town of Pondicherry. Explore the French Quarter, Sri Aurobindo Ashram, Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the picturesque seaside promenade. Overnight Stay: Hotel – Pondicherry
Day 04 | Pondicherry – Chidambaram – Kumbakonam (Approx. 170 km | 4 Hours)
Drive to Chidambaram to visit the renowned Nataraja Temple before continuing to Kumbakonam, one of South India's most sacred temple towns. Overnight Stay: Hotel – Kumbakonam
Day 05 | Kumbakonam – Thanjavur – Trichy (Approx. 110 km | 3 Hours)
Visit the UNESCO-listed Airavatesvara Temple and the historic Adi Kumbeswarar Temple before continuing to Thanjavur to admire the magnificent Brihadeeswarar Temple. Later, drive to Trichy. Overnight Stay: Hotel – Trichy
Day 06 | Trichy – Chettinad – Madurai (Approx. 200 km | 4.5 Hours)
Visit the impressive Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple at Srirangam before driving through the heritage region of Chettinad, famous for its elegant mansions, artisan traditions and distinctive cuisine. Continue to Madurai. Overnight Stay: Hotel – Madurai
Day 07 | Madurai Sightseeing
Explore the magnificent Meenakshi Amman Temple, Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace, Gandhi Memorial Museum and the vibrant local markets. In the evening, witness the traditional temple ceremony. Overnight Stay: Hotel – Madurai
Day 08 | Madurai – Munnar (Approx. 160 km | 4.5 Hours)
Drive through the scenic Western Ghats into Kerala to the picturesque hill station of Munnar. En route, admire waterfalls, tea plantations and breathtaking mountain landscapes. Overnight Stay: Hotel – Munnar
Day 09 | Munnar Sightseeing
Discover the natural beauty of Munnar with visits to Eravikulam National Park, the Tea Museum, Mattupetty Dam, Echo Point and the surrounding tea estates. Overnight Stay: Hotel – Munnar
Day 10 | Munnar – Thekkady (Approx. 95 km | 3 Hours)
Drive to Thekkady, renowned for its spice plantations and wildlife. Visit a spice plantation and enjoy a scenic boat cruise on Periyar Lake. In the evening, you may attend an optional Kathakali dance or Kalaripayattu martial arts performance. Overnight Stay: Hotel – Thekkady
Day 11 | Thekkady – Kumarakom (Approx. 125 km | 3.5 Hours)
Continue to the tranquil backwaters of Kumarakom. Check into your lakeside resort overlooking Vembanad Lake and spend the remainder of the day at leisure, enjoying the peaceful surroundings or an optional Ayurvedic wellness treatment. Overnight Stay: Hotel – Kumarakom
Day 12 | Kumarakom – Alleppey (Approx. 35 km | 1 Hour)
Drive to Alleppey and board your traditional Deluxe Houseboat. Cruise through Kerala's enchanting backwaters, passing coconut groves, paddy fields and charming villages while enjoying authentic Kerala cuisine onboard. Overnight Stay: Deluxe Houseboat – Alleppey
Day 13 | Alleppey – Cochin (Approx. 60 km | 1.5 Hours)
After breakfast, disembark from your houseboat and drive to Cochin. Explore Fort Kochi, the Chinese Fishing Nets, St. Francis Church, Santa Cruz Basilica, Mattancherry Palace and Jew Town. In the evening, enjoy an optional Kathakali dance performance. Overnight Stay: Hotel – Cochin
Day 14 | Cochin Sightseeing
Enjoy a full day exploring Cochin's rich cultural heritage. Visit the Dutch Cemetery, local spice markets, Marine Drive and bustling bazaars, or simply relax at your leisure while soaking in the city's unique blend of Indian and European influences. Overnight Stay: Hotel – Cochin
Day 15 | Cochin Departure
After breakfast, transfer to Cochin International Airport for your onward flight, taking home unforgettable memories of South India's magnificent temples, rich cultural heritage, misty hills, wildlife and tranquil backwaters. End of Services
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