South Splendor Tour of India – Luxurious Heritage Travel

Luxurious Heritage Travel > India > South Splendor Tour of India

South India Splendor Tour

Destination

Chennai – Mamallapuram – Kanchipuram – Pondicherry – Chidambram – Tanjore – Trichy – Madurai – Periyar – Back Water Cruise – Kochi – Calicut – Vythiri – Mysore – Hassan – Hampi – Banglore

Duration

15 Nights / 16 Days

Customize This Tour

This itinerary is customizable according to your need

Inclusions

Accommodation

Transfer

Meals

Sightseeing

Itinerary

Day 1

Chennai – Mamallapuram ( 55 KM , 1 Hour )

Arrive in Chennai.

Welcome at the airport and drive to the city for a south india tours.

Located in South India, Chennai has many historical places, ancient temples, cultural art centers and long sandy beaches. Chennai is commonly known as the Gateway to South India. The city is full of exuberance and vibrancy.

We shall first visit Fort St. George. With a historical background that is so important, St. George Fort is worth a visit in Chennai. Located on the shores of the Bay of Bengal, the structure is an architectural brilliance. The fort was first establishment of the British and was built in 1639. You can discover the St. Mary’s Church located within the fort’s premises. This church was the first British church in Chennai. Another fascination of the fort is museum that exhibits British and French antiques, paintings, royal arms and costumes.

Located on marina beach, Anna Samadhi and Museum is a memorial that was built to commemorate the death of former chief minister of the state C. N. Annadurai. He was cremated here. The arch shaped entrance gives way to highly polish marble tile structure and adorned octagonal mantapams.

Then drive to Mamallapuram.

Arrive and check in at hotel.

58 kilometers from the bustling city of Chennai, Mahabalipuram or Mamallapuram is home to one of the prestigious monuments. Mahabalipuram is an ancient city that derives its name from Mahabali which means great sacrifice. Built by the Pallava King in the 7th century, the city houses diverse historical monuments adapting a fusion of Dravidian and Buddhist architecture using rock cut and monolithic techniques. There are magnificent cave temples which are testimony to the excellent Pallava art.

Overnight stay at hotel.

Day 2

Mamallapuram – Kanchipuram – Mamallapuram ( 160 KM , 4 Hours )

In the morning leave for Kanchipuram.

The city of Kanchipuram is one of the sacred towns and is considered as the religious capital of South India. It is also known as the city of thousand temples although today, there remain only 126 temples. Since 10th century the city has been a center for learning and spiritual activities. It was the capital of the early Cholas and was the Pallava capital between the 6th and 8th centuries. This trivial town demonstrates architectural mastery which bears the testimony of the glorious Dravidian heritage.

Return to Mamallapuram and visit Shore Temple.

Built in honor of Lord Shiva, this sea shore wonder is a World Heritage Site. The temple was built with the blocks of granite. The culmination of architectural efforts began with cave temples and monolithic rathas. The temple evokes the aura of Mamallapuram. It is a visual delight for all the travelers. The surroundings of the temple bound architectural masterpieces.

Overnight stay.

Day 3

Mamallapuram -Pondicherry ( 155 KM , 3 Hours )

After breakfast drive to Pondicherry. Arrive and check in at hotel.

Pondicherry is one of the famous tourist spots in South India portraying a perfect blend of Indian and French Culture. Situated on Bay of Bengal, this Union territory boasts of unique and distinct cultural treasures. The architecture of Pondicherry shows a strong influence of French colonization. The town is famous for its French colonies, beaches, monuments and ashrams. Unravel the various delights stored in the territory, which leaves you with some lifetime memories.

In the afternoon, visit Sri Aurobindo Ashram

A spiritual community that grew out of the small community of disciplines who got together near Sri Aurobindo when he retired from politics and settled in this beautiful town. The ashram was founded in 1926 and is a vibrant center of life in an urban setting. The ashram features interconnected block of houses and a tree sheltered courtyard. The Samadhi of Sri Aurobindo and mother are laid to rest in the center of the courtyard.

Overnight stay at hotel.

Day 4

Pondicherry – Chindabaram – Tanjore (170 KM , 4 Hours )

In the morning leave for Chidambaram.

Also known as Thillai as the place was originally a forest of Thillai. The town is an important Pilgrimage center and a sacred place for Saivites. The town represents a rich cultural heritage of India.

Visit Nataraja Temple.

The temple that is dedicated to the art of Bharatnatyam and the only temple where Lord Shiva is not represented in usual Linga form but in dancing form. The temple is dedicated to Lord Nataraja. The main attraction is a stunning piece of sculpture that evokes a sense of continuous movement.

Continue drive to Tanjore. Arrive and check in at hotel.

Being an important holy center, Thanjore is a traditionally rich city known as a center of art, music and handicrafts. The city is synonymous to the world famous Brihadeshwara Temple. The town is also known for its world famous Tanjore paintings.

In the afternoon visit Brihadeshwara Temple.

Built in 1010 AD, Brihadeshwara Temple a UNESCO World Heritage Site is the greatest glory of Dravidian temple architecture. The glorious Chola legacy has left behind no less than 74 temples in and around Tanjore. People have continuously worshiped for over a thousand years here and the architecture of the temple symbolizes the fusion of ritual and philosophic concepts that flowered in the region.

Overnight stay at hotel.

Day 5

Tanjore – Trichy – Madurai (210 KM, 6 Hours )

Morning excursion to Trichy

Trichy is city of rock fort, Positioned on the banks of the river Kaveri, Tiruchirappalli, popularly known as Trichy, has a bygone glory of centuries. Trichy is a perfect combination of tradition and modernity built around the Rock Fort. There are several churches, colleges and missions besides fort. Trichy is also known as temple city. Visit the famous Rock Fort Temple.

Trichy’s most famous landmark is an 83m high rock. At the peak of the rock is a temple devoted to Lord Vinayaka. From here you can enjoy a panoramic view of Trichy. A series of steps leads to the Mathrubutheswarar temple devoted to Lord Shiva. The lingam in the temple is a projection of the rock itself. Sri Thayumanaswamy Temple features 100-pillar hall and a Vimana enclosed with gold. On the southern side of the rock are numerous attractively carved rock-cut cave temples dating to the Pallava period.

Also visit Srirangam Temple. Being the most important pilgrimage site of Trichy, it is surrounded by the waters of the Kaveri and its tributary on all sides. It is a 600-acre island-town enclosed within the seven walls of the gigantic Sri Ranganatha Temple. Among the 22 gopurams, one is the tallest in India. The 72m tall 13-storied Rajagopuram was built in 1987 and dominates the landscape for miles around.

Later continue drive to Madurai.

After arrival check in at hotel for overnight stay.

Day 6

Madurai

Morning go for city tour of Madurai.

Madurai is popularly known as Athens of the East. Madurai is a sacred confluence of culture and religion. It is one of the oldest inhabited cities in the world. The city has also served as the capital city of the Pandya Kings and has been visited by many travelers.

We shall visit the famous Meenakshi temple.

Meenakshi Temple is a famous temple as travelers from across the globe visit this temple. The main divinity of the temple is Goddess Meenakshi. This breathtaking monumental temple took over 600 years to build. The magnificent pyramidal structure on the roof of the temple is full of life in colors. The temple forms the heart and lifeline of the centuries old Madurai city.

The Tirumala Naik Palace was built in 1636 AD by King Tirumalai Nayak, one of the leading rulers of the Nayak dynasty who lived here. The original structure is four times larger than the present structure and was divided into two parts. The structure was famous for impressive stucco work and alluring arches.

Overnight stay at hotel.

Day 7

Madurai – Periyar ( 140 KM, 4 Hours )

In the morning leave for Periyar. Arrive and check in at Hotel.

Periyar National Park and wildlife Sanctuary are a protected area in Pathanamthithi in Kerala. The sanctuary is a famous elephant and tiger reserve. Enjoy wildlife and get a sight of wild elephants in their natural habitat in a boat cruise.

Unlike jungle safari in other National Parks in India, the most popular safari in Periyar is by boat. This is a unique experience to view the flora and fauna. Although you should not expect to view tigers but you are likely to spot a herd of elephants, sambhar deer, wild boars, etc.

After boat safari, return to hotel for overnight stay.

Day 8

Periyar – Alleppey ( 130 KM, 4 Hours )

After early breakfast at the hotel, depart for Alleppey.

A small beautiful town located in South India, Alleppey, and Venice of the East is a famous tourist destination. It is located between the Arabian Sea and Punnamada Backwaters. The serene experience of Backwaters of Allepepy transports you to a paradise. Coconut palm-fringed backwaters, lagoons, beaches and pristine stretches of lush green paddy fields, are home to the town of Alleppey. The magnetizing aura of this beautiful town inspires lures and fascinates travellers with its breathtaking beauty.

Arrive and embark the houseboat.

Enjoy a memorable houseboat ride on the enchanting backwaters of Alappuzha to explore its breathtakingly beautiful surroundings and the fascinating Kerala countryside.

The houseboat takes you through the narrow canals lined with palm trees. Sailing through the vast expanse of lush paddy fields and the unique tiny villages lined up all along on the edges of the streams, one will be mesmerized by the beauty of the mystic nature.

All meals will be served on board and overnight in house boat.

Day 9

Alleppey – Kochi (65 KM, 1 ½ Hours )

In the morning, disembark the houseboat and leave for Kochi. Arrive and check in at hotel.

Kochi is known for its natural beauty, beaches, greenery, culture and traditions. Reckoned as the Queen of the Arabian Sea, Kochi is a famous tourist destination attracting tourists from across the globe. The picturesque view, bustling streets, the meandering pathways of Jew town, sight of the Chinese fishing nets over the backwaters will surely steal your heart.

In the afternoon we shall leave for sightseeing of the city.

The Dutch Palace Museum is also profoundly known as Mattacherry Palace. It was built by the Portuguese and presented to Vira Kerala Verma, the King of Kochi in 1555 AD. The palace was built in traditional Kerala style with a courtyard in the center. The Dutch carried out some extensions and renovations in the palace 1663 AD and thereafter it was popularly called as Dutch Palace.

Jewish Synagogue is also known as Paradesi Synagogue. Situated near Dutch Palace and Museum, Paradesi Synagogue was built in 1668 AD when Kochi was under Dutch influence. The white façade of the synagogue is also marked by a clock tower and a bell which was built in 1760 by an affluent Jewish businessman. The interior of the synagogue is noted for its glass chandeliers from Belgium and blue willow patterned Chinese floor tiles. Paradesi synagogue is the oldest synagogue in commonwealth nations.

Built in timber by the Portuguese in 1503, the St. Francis Church in Fort Kochi was later overlaid by stonework. Being the oldest European Church in India, it has a great historical significance as mute witness to European colonial struggle in the Indian subcontinent. Vasco Da Gama died here during his third visit to India. His body was first buried here, but after 14 years was shifted to Lisbon. The church was built on the land gifted by the local Raja and title written on Palm leaves are still kept inside.

Chinese Fishing Nets are a famous landmark of the city. As the name suggests, these nets owe their origin to Chinese influence. The unique feature of these nets is the simple technique which is in fact engineering marvel.

In the evening enjoy one of the classical dance forms of South India, Kathakali.

Overnight stay.

Day 10

Kochi – Calicut – Vythiri (By Train – 4 Hours + 90 KM, 2 Hours )

Breakfast at the hotel and then depart for Ernakulam station to board a train to Calicut.

Arrive at Calicut railway station where you will be met by our driver and transfer to Vythiri.

Vythiri is nestled in the lush green Shola Forest of western Ghats. Untangle the nature’s best kept secrets and experience the splendor of nature with the murmur of waterfalls. One can explore the beautiful trails of nature here.

Overnight stay.

Day 11

Vythiri

In the morning visit Chembra Peak which is the main peak in Wayanad. It’s a perfect spot for adventure enthusiast and nature lovers. It is an ultimate destination for trekking. On the way to Chembra peak you will spot a heart shaped lake, one of the top most attractions of this peak. The peak offers you with mesmerizing view of nature.

Brahmagiri Hills are a scenic tourist attraction located in Wayanad district of Kerala. Thirunelli Temple, which is devoted to Lord Vishnu, is situated on the scenic Brahmagiri Hills. Constructed in ancient style, it is believed that the temple was built by Lord Brahma himself. It is a hotspot for adventure enthusiasts, orthnologist and nature lovers.

Also visit The Edakkal Caves which are pre-historic rock shelter naturally shaped by three huge rocks out of which one rests on other rocks. This was accidentally explored by F. Fawcett, then police officer in 1894. The engraving on these rocks are outstanding among many other pre-historic painting and graphics all over the world.

A lush green carpet of Tea and Coffee Plantation are there for you to stroll through. Explore the scenic views of the mystic hills.

Overnight stay.

Day 12

Vythiri – Mysore (150 Kms, 4 Hours )

In the morning leave for Mysore. Arrive and check in at hotel.

Mysore, the City of Palaces, has a quaint charm that enchants each and every tourist who visits the city. Mysore had a great significance in the past of south India. The city is famous for its heritage, scenic charm, magnificent palaces, lush green gardens, arresting buildings and revered temples.

In the afternoon we shall go for sightseeing of the city and start with Mysore Palace. It is one of the most important sites in the city. Indo Saracenic building with domes, arches and turrents is a treasure trove of carved paintings and works from across the globe. This splendid palace lays down its foundation on an old palace which was ruined in the 1897. Durbar halls and the Amba Villas of this huge palace are used for marriage ceremonies by the royal families. This palace is beautifully decorated with lights on every Sunday.

Beautiful Vrindavan Gardens, one of the best gardens in the country are located at the KR Sagar Dam. Since its inception in 1960’s, this place has served as a picture perfect backdrop for various Bollywood Masala Films.

Perched at the top of Chamundi hills, Chamundi Temple was named after Goddess Durga and was built in the 12th century. The temple has a seven storey towering marble Gopura ornamented with elaborate carvings. The deity is said to be made of gold and the temple doors of silver.

Overnight stay.

Day 13

Mysore – Hassan (120 KM, 3 Hours )

In the morning we shall depart for Hassan. Arrive and check in at hotel.

Founded in the 11th century, Hassan was an important capital city during the Hoysala dynasty. The city is famous as the temple and also called architecture capital of Karnataka.

In the afternoon visit Cheenakeshawa Temple at Belur. It was built by Hoysala ruler king, Vishnuvardhana. The temple was commissioned to mark the victory over the Chola kings of Tamil Nadu. The interiors of the temple are intricately carved. The beauty of idols and ornamental carvings seem as metal works. The ceiling of the temple is adorned with dancing figures and the exteriors of the temple offer a glimpse of various Gods in Hindu mythology. The temple is one of the best illustrations of Hoysala architecture.

Then visit Hoysaleswara Temple at Halebidu. The temple dedicated to Lord Shiva was named after the founder of Hoysala dynasty. The walls of the temple are covered with carvings of Gods of Hindu mythology.

Overnight stay at Hassan.

Day 14

Hassan – Hospet (360 KM, 7 Hours )

After breakfast, check out and drive to Hospet. After a long drive arrive at world famous Hampi ruins.

Hampi is a small village situated within the ruins of Vijaynagar in Karnataka. Illusory and bewitching, the abandoned ruins of Hampi, makes it an extremely worthwhile and popular side trip from the coast. Scattered over the landscape, the ruins of Hampi will leave you spellbound. A World Heritage Site, Hampi is a place where you can let yourself midst the ruins, or simply be enthralled by the whims of nature, marveling on how millions of years of volcanic activity and erosion could make the landscape so captivating.

Overnight stay at hotel.

Day 15

Hospet – Hampi – Hospet

After breakfast start tour of Hampi.

The 15th century Chandramouleshwara Temple is a 900 years old temple boasting of an ancient south Indian temple architecture. The temple is devoted to Lord Shiva and houses two Shiv Lingas. The walls and pillars of the temple are well adorned with sculptures. The temple has pillars that were built in black granite and dancing figures of

Ganesha. This temple is a fine example of Chalukyan temple architecture.

As the epicenter of Hampi’s attractions, Vittala Temple is the most brilliant architectural masterpiece of Hampi. The temple is named after Vittala, a form of lord Vishnu. It’s considered to be one of the largest and the most famous structure in Hampi. The highlight of the temple is its impressive pillared halls and the stone chariot. The Stone Chariot is actually a shrine that has been given the shape of a chariot and has been decorated with ornamental carvings.

Also visit Virupaksha Temple, the main center of attraction in the city. Towering 160 feet high, the temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Situated on the bank of Tungabadra, it is one of the oldest and most prominent temples of Hampi. Since its inception in the 7th century, sprawling complex houses many sub shrines, pillared halls, flag poles, lamp poles, soaring gateways and even a huge temple kitchen.In this south india tours this temple is the one of best place.

Lotus Mahal is one of the prominent architecture in Hampi. The style of architecture is departure to the typical style of architecture followed in Hampi. The structure is made of Lime mortar and brick. The archways and the balcony with the domed construction looks like a half opened lotus bud. The center dome is also carved in open lotus bud shape. The night lighting is a remarkable sight. Indeed, this is a very picturesque and one of the most photographed buildings at Hampi.

Sule Bazaar is a deserted temple street. It is located at the base of the Matanga Hill and in front of the beautiful Tiruvengalanatha Temple, also recognized as Achyuta Raya’s Temple. Lined with number of exquisitely carved pillars was one of the liveliest streets during the Vijaynagar Empire.

Constructed in 1534 AD, Achyutaraya Temple was built by a high officer in Achyuta Raya’s court. Therefore the temple was named after him. The temple is dedicated to Lord Tiruvengalanatha, a form of Lord Vishnu. The temple is one of the finest examples of the Vijaynagara style of architecture. The main shrine is situated at the center of two rectangular courtyards. The inner sides of both the courtyard walls are fringed with pillared verandah. The outer verandahs are mostly in ruins with the pillars scattered randomly along the wall base. This was one of the last grandiose temple projects executed in the capital, before the collapse of the empire.

Next we visit Queen’s Bath. For some mysterious reasons its called the Queen’s Bath but in all probability it was a royal pleasure complex for the king and his wives. The building is made with a veranda around facing a big open pond at the middle. It is believed that once fragrant flowers and perfumed water filled the open to sky bathing pool, which is now empty. The building has a crude design that prevents any intruders from walking into the place where the royal women take their bath. The Queen’s bath will make you envious that the modern day spas and tubs are nothing in comparison to the lavish baths used in the past.

Elephant Stables are among the few structures that were destroyed. This long building is rowed with domed chambers which were used to park the royal elephants. There are 11 tall chambers and some of them are interconnected. The five towers of the building represent the Islamic style of architecture. The central building is adorned beautifully and is big in comparison to any other chamber.

Return to Hospet for overnight stay.

Day 16

Hospet – Banglore (340 KM, 7 Hours)

In the morning depart for Bangalore.

Blessed with a compassionate climate and a mushrooming drinking, dining and shopping scene, Bangalore is the number one cosmopolitan city in South India. The city is wowed by world class sights as it boasts of striking Victorian era architecture and lovely parks. The city is a booming hub of IT and is regarded as the most progressive city of the country. Due to the growing IT sector in the city, the city has been reckoned as the Silicon Valley of India.

We start a city tour with a visit to Lalbagh Gardens. They were laid down by Haider Ali and further developed by his son Tipu Sultan more than 200 years ago. Spread over 240 acres, this is one of the best botanical gardens in the country boasting of more than a thousand varieties of trees and plants. This garden features Glass House, which is a fine exhibition house which replicates Crystal Palace of London and displays fruits, flowers and vegetables every year in January.

Next we visit, Cubbon Park & Museum that is one of the oldest structures in India, sprawling over 120 hectares. The fringes of Cubbon Park are painted red. It has a Gothic style State Central library and at the northwestern end one can explore the Neo Dravidian style, Vidhan Sabha.

In the evening transfer to the airport to board a flight to onward destination.