14Days Splendid South
Price from NZD 3666 / AUD 3300 per person on twin sharing basis + Domestic flights from NZD 586 / AUD 527 per person
Chennai – Pondicherry – Trichy – Madurai – Munnar – Alleppey – Cochin – Mumbai – Goa – Mumbai
Embark on an enchanting journey through the Splendid South tour, where the essence of cultural diversity and scenic beauty intertwines seamlessly. Beginning in the vibrant metropolis of Chennai, delve into the rich heritage of temples and artistry before venturing to the quaint French colonial charm of Pondicherry. Trichy beckons with its iconic landmarks like the Rock Fort Temple, leading the way to the cultural haven of Madurai, boasting the awe-inspiring Meenakshi Amman Temple. As the tour continues, lose yourself amidst the lush tea plantations and misty landscapes of Munnar, followed by the serene backwaters of Alleppey, where tranquil houseboat cruises offer moments of sheer relaxation. Cochin enchants with its historic port and diverse cultural tapestry before the journey leads to the bustling energy of Mumbai. The tour then ventures to the sun-kissed beaches and vibrant culture of Goa before culminating back in the pulsating heart of Mumbai, a journey etched with diverse experiences and unforgettable memories.
Day 01: Chennai
Arrive in Chennai and transfer to your Hotel.
Day 02: Chennai (B)
Take a morning visiting the flower and fruit market, drive past High Court built in Indo-Saracenic style, the Fort Museum with its collection of colonial memorabilia and Marina Beach. Visit the San Thome Cathedral, Kapaleeshwara temple and the Snake Park. Afternoon at leisure.
Day 03: Chennai – Pondicherry (B)
Today, drive to Pondicherry. Afternoon tour to the French Tamil quarter and the famous Sri Aurobindo Ashram (may have an opportunity for a meditation session at the Ashram)
Day 04: Pondicherry – Trichy (B)
Drive to Trichy and visit the famous Sriranganathaswami Temple, Rock Fort Temple with 437 rock-cut steps to Ganesh Shrine, commanding a breathtaking view of Trichy.
Day 05: Trichy – Madurai (B)
Drive to Madurai and take a tour of Madurai visiting the famous Meenakshi Temple, Tirumalai Nayak Palace, Gandhi Museum and Meenakshi Temple for the Aarti ceremony.
Day 06: Madurai – Munnar (B)
Proceed to Munnar popular for its natural beauty and tea estates. Afternoon free
Day 07: Munnar (B)
Visit a tea plantation and the Tata Tea Museum to learn about the cultivation and processing of a variety of Indian teas. Trek through cardamom forests and landscaped tea gardens.
Day 08: Munnar – Alleppey (B/L/D)
This morning, you will be transferred to the pier to board Kerala Rice Houseboat. Cruise on the backwaters and narrow canals where you will be able to see paddy fields, Kerala villages, churches, temples etc. on the sides.
Day 09: Alleppey – Cochin (B)
Disembark at Alleppey jetty and drive to Cochin. Afternoon tour visiting the Jewish Synagogue, St. Francis Church, the oldest European Church in India, Santa Cruz Basilica, the Dutch Palace and Spice market. Enjoy to famous dance drama form, the Kathakali, characterized by grotesque gesticulations, amazing costumes and extensive make-up.
Day 10: Cochin – Mumbai (B)
Transfer to airport and flight to Mumbai. On arrival, proceed for tour of Mumbai with a visit to Gateway of India, Kamala Nehru Park, Mani Bhavan, Dobhi Ghat where the city’s open air laundry. Drive past Marine Drive, Chowpatty beach, the beautiful British Heritage Bombay High Court and the famous Victoria Terminus Train Station.
Day 11: Mumbai – Goa (B)
Transfer to airport and to flight to Goa. On arrival, proceed for a tour of Goa, formerly a Portuguese colony, it is endowed with a variety of attractions including palm fringed beaches and an incredible mosaic of cultural heritage, magnificent churches, temples, forts and monuments and a unique cultural synthesis of the east and west.
Day 12: Goa (B)
Full day is free at leisure.
Day 13: Goa (B)
Full day is free at leisure.
Day 14: Goa – Mumbai (B)
Transfer to Goa Airport to connect the flight to Mumbai. On arrival, connect your onward flight or extend stay in India.
Private program - can start any day of the week and can be customised
Note: Contact us if you require more options on Hotel categories.