Each state in South India has a distinct identity; history, religion, language, cuisine, and the natural environment vary greatly from state to state. However, one thing that runs through the whole region is the warm welcome afforded by its friendly and hospitable inhabitants. This is a richly diverse, relaxed and congenial part of India to travel through and explore, and with this itinerary we attempt to capture the best of it for you.

Travelling at an easy pace, this tour allows you to fully appreciate the ancient and highly evolved cultures of South India, as well as its spectacular natural beauty and laid back way of life.  It delves into the full range of sights and experiences unique to the south, from bustling cities with their lively bazaars, to peaceful, palm-fringed beaches, and from awe-inspiring temples, to the canals, lakes and tropical islands of the serene backwaters.

Day 1 Mahabalipuram

Arrive Chennai by domestic or international flight and transfer directly to the beach side town of Mahabalipuram, an hour’s drive south.  Mahabalipuram, sometimes referred to as an ‘open air museum, is famed for its World Heritage listed 7th century bas reliefs, rock cut temples, man-made caves, and rathas (‘chariots’ carved from single boulders to resemble temples or chariots).  [Image: madpai].

Day 2 Pondicherry

This morning visit the Five Rathas, the Shore temple and Arjuna's Penance (one of the world’s largest bas-relief carvings, measuring 29m x 9m).  Afterwards drive to Pondicherry, which has a fascinating history closely tied to the French and their imperial aspirations in India. The French connection has survived  Pondicherry’s union with the Indian republic through language, food and the many visitors and residents of French origin. [Image: melanie-m].

Day 3 Pondicherry

Full day to explore Pondicherry, with a walking tour of the heritage quarter and a visit to the paper and incense making units of the Aurobindo ashram. Shopping and eating are highlights of Pondicherry, with high-quality French-influenced restaurants and shops in abundance. In the afternoon there is the option to visit Auroville, a UN sponsored ‘utopian society’. Evening free to enjoy the festival atmosphere of the promenade at sunset.

Day 4 Kumbakonam

After breakfast depart Pondicherry for the 4-hour drive to Kumbakonam. Stop en route at the tiny village of Gangaikondacholapuram, to visit its magnificent temple, built by a Chola emperor to celebrate his conquests. Your accommodation at Kumbakonam is set amidst coconut, teak and mango groves, and built in the style of a traditional home, giving glimpses of south Indian lifestyle, heritage and culture.

Day 5 Chettinad

Depart for Chettinad, with a stop en route at the incredible Brihadishwara temple in Tanjore; this World Heritage listed structure is considered the crowning glory of Chola temple architecture. The Chettinad district, once made wealthy by teak traders and financiers, is famous for its ornate 18^th century mansions embellished with marble and teak. Some of these have been restored into hotels, including the property where you will stay. [Image: Adam Jones].

Day 6 Chettinad

Spend today visiting some of the small towns in this area, viewing their more significant buildings. Pay a visit to ‘antique street’, which has several shops selling bits and pieces that have come from some of the local buildings. You may like to have a wander at dusk through the small town of Kanadukathan – some of the fading mansions are quite beautiful and sad in the late afternoon light.  [Image: legends2K].

Day 7 Madurai

Drive to Madurai, with its cityscape dominated by the towering gopurams or entrance gates to the Meenakshi temple, the city’s focal point. Enjoy exploring on foot – perhaps with a stop for a cup of chai at a local tea stall.  Madurai is small enough to just wander from your hotel without fear of getting lost, especially as many of the roads lead to the famous ‘fish-eyed goddess’ Meenakshi temple.  [Image: Os Rupias].

Day 8 Madurai

Explore Madurai today. Visit the sprawling Meenakshi temple, one of India’s most awe-inspiring temples, where weddings, worship and commerce take place side by side. There is a good chance you will see the temple elephant ‘at work’, blessing people and being garlanded. Also visit Nayak Palace, the Gandhi Museum, and the busy tailors’ market, which is great for sharpening your bargaining skills.

Day 9 Periyar

Set out this morning on the 4 hour drive up the steep ‘ghat road’ to Thekkady and the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. The park is situated high in the Western Ghat mountain range, on the border of Tamil Nadu and Kerala. In the afternoon tour a spice plantation with a guide to see how well known spices such as cardamom, cloves, pepper and nutmeg grow.

Day 10 Pala

After breakfast, begin the 3-hour drive into the foothills of the Western Ghat mountain range, which runs like a spine through south India, to the town of Pala. Your accommodation here is at a secluded, palatial and peaceful family home set deep in the coffee, tea and spice plantations of the Keralan midlands. Afternoon free to relax and enjoy this lush tropical setting.

Day 11 Pala

A full day to explore your surroundings at the property. You can take a walk through the spice garden and into the rubber plantation with your hosts, who will show you how rubber is tapped. There may be an opportunity to see elephants at work. Otherwise take it easy and enjoy an ayurvedic massage, view a cooking demonstration and enjoy the unique home style Syrian Catholic food cooked here.

Day 12 Alleppey

This  morning drive to Alleppy, where you board a kettuvallum – a rice barge converted into a houseboat, traditionally constructed without nails, using only coir (coconut) rope. Lunch will be served shortly after you board; spend the afternoon cruising through the small canals and lagoons around Alleppey - the cane deck chairs make a perfect spot for sitting back and observing life in this unique environment.  Overnight on board the air-conditioned houseboat.

Day 13 Marari

Disembark the houseboat after breakfast where your driver will meet you and drive a half hour to the lovely Marari beach area, your resort home for the next two nights. The food here is superb, with an emphasis on fresh seafood - the catch of the day; most of the fruits and vegetables come from the resort’s own organic garden.  Day free to enjoy your peaceful surroundings.

Day 14 Marari

You can spend your time here relaxing and exploring in a number of ways: take a yoga class; have an ayurvedic massage; take long walks or bicycle rides; wander through the  local village; play a game of beach volleyball or tennis; take a cookery class; or simply laze on the beach or by the resort’s swimming pool.

Day 15 Cochin

Drive one hour to Cochin. The Fort Kochi area of the city has been in the hands of the Dutch, British, Portuguese and Chinese - each having influenced the history and appearance of the area in subtle yet unmistakable ways. With virtually no traffic, it’s the perfect place to explore by foot – perhaps taking afternoon tea in one of the restored colonial buildings by the waterfront. [Image: Christopher Macsurak].

Day 16 Cochin

Explore historic Fort Kochi today, including visits to the Dutch Palace, St Francis Church and the iconic Chinese fishing nets. The quiet streets around here are filled with shops and restaurants, while a short auto-rickshaw ride away is Jewtown, which is full of antique shops and cafes. In the evening attend a Kathakali dance performance, where heavily made up and elaborately dressed artists play out the Hindu epics. [Image: fraboof].

Day 17 Cochin

Transfer to the airport for your flight to another Indian destination or return international flight home. [Image: Melanie-m].