South India Coastal Tour

Post breakfast proceed to Pondicherry In the evening enjoy a walk on the french quarters heritage area of Pondicherry and the promenade in the evening. A romantic evening meal at a restaurant serving French, European or Chettinad cuisine could be a good experience. Overnight in Pondicherry.

During first half sightseeing options in and around Pondicherry town comprise Aurobindo Ashram, Ashram's handmade paper factory, Varadaraja Perumal Temple, Manakula Vinayagar Koil, Pondicherry Musuem, the Botanical Gardens and the Sacred Heart of Jesus Church. Afternoon visit to Auroville commune (15 kms North of Pondicherry). Matrimandir at the commune is a renowned architectural masterpiece. In the evening visit the Anglo-French Textiles showroom for a bit of shopping. Those looking at a bit of Boating can also head for Chunnambar. Overnight in Pondicherry.

Proceed to Thanjavur. Chidambaram is home to Nataraja Temple (17th century temple renowned for its architectural and religious significance) and a major pilgrim centre. Evening visit Brihadeeswarar Temple at Thanjavur, a Chola Period (9th - 13th century) Temple and a UNESCO World heritage site. Overnight in Thanjavur.

Visit Vijayanagar fort (2 kms from Brahadeeswara Temple), a 16th century fort. Inside the fort is the Tanjore Palace, Sangeetha Mahal, Saraswathi Mahal Library and Art Gallery having a collection of sculptures and paintings OR undertake excursion to Kumbakonam (41 kms) to visit Adi Kumbeswara Temple, Darasuram temple and other temples of Kumbakonam, which not only have architectural significance but also are pilgrim centres on their own. Overnight in Thanjavur.

Proceed to Madurai. Enroute Visit Trichy (Rock Fort temple, Jambukeswarar Temple, Ranganathaswamy temple). In the evening visit the Meenakshi Temple at Madurai. Overnight in Madurai.

Proceed to Thekkady. Post Lunch can go for the touristy Periyar boat cruise (on direct payment) and later Kathakali dance show. Given time Spice garden visit (Cardamom, Pepper, Cinnamon, Vanilla) can be done (Direct payment) alongwith a visit to Elephant Junction for the elephant experience (elephant ride). Overnight in Thekkady.

Guests can opt for an activity inside Periyar forest such as half day jungle walk / trek forest programme or a full day forest programme involving jungle walk / trek and Bamboo Rafting. Guest also can opt for a full day Gavi eco tourism experience programme (42 kms from Thekkady) involving Jeep Safari (Gavi trip), nature walk / hike, bamboo rafting etc. These programmes require to be reserved in advance. Overnight in Thekkady.

Proceed to Alleppey. Enjoy a lakeside resort stay OR do an excursion to Marari Beach (16 kms from Alleppey) OR Bird Watching at Pathiramanal Island is about 1.5 km boat ride from Muhamma. Overnight in Alleppey.

Proceed to houseboat jetty houseboat cruise which will sail through backwaters of Kuttanad area, a region in South Alleppey known for their undersea farming and gives Kerala the name "Venice of the East". Experience the backwater lifestyle up close and authentic Kerala Cuisine experience. Overnight in Alleppey or House Boat.

Post breakfast get trasferred to Fort Cochin, a heritage area. Walk in heritage by lanes of Fort Cochin. Visit St Francis Church, Jewish Synagogue, Chinese fishing nets. Enjoy a quiet dinner at one of the charming restaurants in Fort Cochin. Overnight in Cochin.

Visit Matancherry Palace / Museum, Santa Cruz Basillica and Museum of Art and Kerala History. Guest can also opt for an evening speed boat ride of Islands around Fort Cochin (Bolgatty and Vypeen). Evening visit to Greenix village for evening performances of traditional dance forms of Kerala. Overnight in Cochin

After breakfast depart for onward journey or return journey.