Vihaanga Journeys was founded with a clear vision—to present India in its most authentic, comfortable, and meaningful way for global travelers.
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the spiritual and cultural heart of South India. This thoughtfully curated itinerary combines the region's most revered Hindu temples, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, colonial heritage, scenic landscapes and Kerala's tranquil backwaters. From the sacred hills of Tirupati and the magnificent Dravidian temples of Tamil Nadu to the spice plantations of Thekkady and the enchanting houseboats of Alleppey, this tour offers the perfect blend of spirituality, history, culture and relaxation.
Duration: 14 Nights / 15 Days
Routing: Chennai – Tirupati – Vellore – Kanchipuram – Mahabalipuram – Pondicherry – Chidambaram – Kumbakonam – Thanjavur – Trichy – Rameswaram – Madurai – Thekkady – Kumarakom – Alleppey – Cochin
October to March offers ideal weather conditions for engaging in temple walks across Tamil Nadu and enjoying the backwaters and hill stations of Kerala.
Top Feature Highlights
Stand in awe of some of India's most architecturally and spiritually significant shrines. From the hilltop Venkateswara Temple in Tirupati to the intricately carved corridors of Rameswaram and the towering gopurams of Madurai.
Transition from the vibrant temple towns into nature's embrace. Wander through the fragrant spice gardens of Thekkady and drift peacefully on a traditional houseboat along Alleppey's palm-fringed backwaters.
Day 01 | Arrive Chennai
Upon arrival at Chennai International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by our representative and transferred to your hotel. Subject to your arrival time, visit Kapaleeshwarar Temple, Parthasarathy Temple and Marina Beach. Overnight Stay: Hotel – Chennai
Day 02 | Chennai – Tirupati (Approx. 150 km | 3.5–4 Hours)
After breakfast, drive to Tirupati, one of India's most revered pilgrimage destinations. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel. In the evening, visit the sacred Padmavathi Ammavari Temple at Tiruchanur or relax before the following morning's darshan. Overnight Stay: Hotel – Tirupati
Day 03 | Tirupati – Vellore (Approx. 125 km | 3 Hours)
Early this morning, proceed to Tirumala for darshan at the world-famous Sri Venkateswara Temple. After completing the temple visit, drive to Vellore and visit the magnificent Sripuram Golden Temple, renowned for its stunning gold-plated architecture. Overnight Stay: Hotel – Vellore
Day 04 | Vellore – Kanchipuram – Mahabalipuram (Approx. 150 km | 4 Hours)
Drive to Kanchipuram, one of India's seven sacred cities, famous for its magnificent Shiva and Vishnu temples. Continue to Mahabalipuram, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and explore its beautiful coastal surroundings. Overnight Stay: Hotel – Mahabalipuram
Day 05 | Mahabalipuram – Pondicherry (Approx. 100 km | 2 Hours)
Visit the UNESCO-listed Shore Temple, Five Rathas and Arjuna's Penance before driving along the scenic East Coast Road to Pondicherry. Explore the French Quarter, Sri Aurobindo Ashram and seaside promenade. Overnight Stay: Hotel – Pondicherry
Day 06 | Pondicherry – Chidambaram – Kumbakonam (Approx. 170 km | 4.5 Hours)
After breakfast, drive to Chidambaram to visit the renowned Nataraja Temple. Continue to Kumbakonam, one of South India's most important temple towns. Overnight Stay: Hotel – Kumbakonam
Day 07 | Kumbakonam – Thanjavur – Trichy (Approx. 110 km | 3 Hours)
Visit the Adi Kumbeswarar Temple and the UNESCO-listed Airavatesvara Temple before continuing to Thanjavur to explore the magnificent Brihadeeswarar Temple. Later, drive to Trichy. Overnight Stay: Hotel – Trichy
Day 08 | Trichy – Rameswaram (Approx. 270 km | 5.5 Hours)
This morning, visit the famous Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple at Srirangam before driving across the iconic Pamban Bridge to the sacred island of Rameswaram. Visit Agni Theertham and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of this important pilgrimage destination. Overnight Stay: Hotel – Rameswaram
Day 09 | Rameswaram – Madurai (Approx. 170 km | 3.5 Hours)
Begin the day with darshan at the revered Ramanathaswamy Temple, famous for its impressive corridors and sacred wells. Afterwards, drive to Madurai and witness the spectacular evening ceremony at the Meenakshi Amman Temple. Overnight Stay: Hotel – Madurai
Day 10 | Madurai Sightseeing
Enjoy a full day exploring Madurai, one of India's oldest living cities. Visit the magnificent Meenakshi Amman Temple, Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace, Gandhi Memorial Museum and the bustling local markets. Overnight Stay: Hotel – Madurai
Day 11 | Madurai – Thekkady (Approx. 140 km | 3.5 Hours)
Drive through the scenic Western Ghats into Kerala to Thekkady. Visit a fragrant spice plantation and enjoy a scenic boat cruise on Periyar Lake, where you may spot elephants, deer and a variety of birdlife. Overnight Stay: Hotel – Thekkady
Day 12 | Thekkady – Kumarakom (Approx. 125 km | 3.5 Hours)
Continue to the peaceful backwaters of Kumarakom. Check in to your lakeside resort overlooking Vembanad Lake and spend the afternoon relaxing amidst Kerala's tranquil natural beauty. Overnight Stay: Hotel – Kumarakom
Day 13 | Kumarakom – Alleppey (Approx. 35 km | 1 Hour)
Drive to Alleppey and board a 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 14 | Alleppey – Cochin (Approx. 60 km | 1.5 Hours)
After breakfast, disembark from your houseboat and drive to Cochin. Explore the historic Fort Kochi area, including 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 15 | Cochin Departure
After breakfast, transfer to Cochin International Airport for your onward flight, carrying home unforgettable memories of South India's sacred temples, magnificent architecture, rich cultural heritage and Kerala's serene backwaters. End of Services
