South India - Temples and Waterways
South India - Temples and Waterways
South India - Temples and Waterways
16 Days
Visiting: United Kingdom, Chennai, Mahabalipuram, Auroville, Puducherry, Thanjavur, Tiruchirappalli, Madurai, Periyar, Kumarakom, Kochi
Tour Overview
Experience the spiritual roots of Southern India, from the colonial-era powerhouses of Chennai and Puducherry to the ancient Chola Empire capital of Tanjore, and the spectacular Hindu temple complexes of Madurai. Discover spice farms in the countryside and wildlife in Thekkady, before winding down with a leisurely houseboat tour on the Indian backwaters in Kumarakom. It’s a journey that will leave you with a deep appreciation for Southern India’s rich history and cultural heritage.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1
Location: United Kingdom
Titan’s VIP door-to-door travel service collects you from home for your flight to Chennai.
Day 2
Location: Chennai
This morning we arrive in Chennai, where a cosmopolitan atmosphere adds layers to an old soul in the form of stunning temple architecture. Chennai’s military and economic history dates back to the 1st century, and it’s been a coastal centre of trade since the British East India Company established a fort in 1639. After you've had time to relax and refresh, your day is free to explore this historic city.
Day 3
Location: Mahabalipuram
We’ll start with a city tour, taking us to some of the most iconic landmarks. On our first stop at the Government Museum, we’ll wander the renowned Bronze Gallery’s collection of ancient bronze sculptures. We’ll continue stepping through time, passing the High Court building, historic Fort St George (the first British fortress in India) and the stunning soft sand and clear blue waters of Marina Beach.
Next, we'll visit the soaring Santhome Cathedral Basilica, said to be the final resting place of St Thomas the Apostle, before stopping at the iconic Kapaleeshwarar Temple. Though non-Hindus are only allowed up to the outer courtyard, the intricate carvings and vibrant colours of the temple's architecture will leave you spellbound. We’ll then head to Mamallapuram.
Day 4
Location: Mahabalipuram
Mamallapuram is a world-renowned area showcasing some of the most beautiful and awe-inspiring temples in the world, surrounded by salty air and coastal beauty. Today we’ll set out on a sightseeing tour of this remarkable UNESCO World Heritage Site, experiencing an era of great artistic and architectural wonder.
The rest of the day is free to explore this historic location at your leisure. Or you can take an optional excursion to DakshinaChitra Heritage Museum, a living history museum exhibiting the culture and lifestyle of the southern states of India.
Day 5
Location: Auroville
We’ll set off on a scenic drive to Puducherry, one of the most charming and picturesque cities in Southern India. En route we’ll make a stop in Auroville, a community recognised as the first and only internationally endorsed ongoing experiment in human unity and transformation of consciousness. At the Visitor Centre, we’ll gain a fascinating insight into the community's philosophy and way of life then continue to breathtaking Matrimandir, the spiritual and physical centre of Auroville. This magnificent temple, with its unique golden dome and tranquil surroundings, is a place of peace and silent contemplation.
Day 6
Location: Puducherry
Today we explore the captivating city of Puducherry. A delightful blend of colonial architecture interspersed with old Hindu temples, it's easy to visualise both sides the city's historical coin: a city where Frenchmen and Tamilians lived side by side for almost 300 years. Our first stop will be the Heritage French Quarter, where we’ll take a leisurely walk down the quiet streets lined with bougainvillea-draped townhouses. We will also visit the spiritual community Sri Aurobindo Ashram, which has grown over the last century from a small group of 12 disciples into a large and diverse community of about 2,000 members seeking a decent, healthy and spiritual life.
To add to the fun and excitement of the morning, we’ll take a rickshaw ride through the streets of Puducherry, giving you a chance to experience the city's vibrant energy and charm. The afternoon is then yours to enjoy at leisure, or you can take an optional excursion to visit local fishermens’ villages, interact with families, see their daily life and learn about the traditional ways of fishing and how they’ve changed over time.
Day 7
Location: Thanjavur
This morning we’ll set out to explore the mesmerising town of Thanjavur, with a stop in Chidambaram at the Thillai Nataraja Temple. Once we arrive in Thanjavur and check-in at the hotel, we’ll explore the dizzying historical legacy of the Chola empire with a visit to Brihadisvara Temple. The late afternoon is the best time to visit this crowning glory as the sun bathes the rocks and sublime sculptures in a hot palette of reds and oranges.
Day 8
Location: Tiruchirappalli
We'll hit the road and make our way to Madurai, with a stop in Trichy along the way. Driving through Trichy, we'll catch a glimpse of the stunning rock fort, perched high on a massive outcrop, before making our way to Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple, so large it feels like a self-enclosed city. As we walk through the temple grounds, we'll see ornate gopurams (monumental entrance towers), intricately carved pillars, and stunning frescoes depicting scenes from Hindu mythology.
Upon arrival at our hotel in Madurai, one of the oldest cities in India, we’ll spend the evening at leisure.
Day 9
Location: Madurai
We’ll rise early to start our day with a sensory overload at the vibrant flower market in Madurai. The early morning hours are the best time to experience the wonderful colours and fragrances that fill the air. As you wander, you’ll be amazed by the sheer variety of flowers from delicate jasmine, which dominates the market due to its religious significance, to the bright hues of red and pink roses, the bold orange of marigolds, and the towering presence of gladioli.
Next, we’ll immerse ourselves in the soul of Madurai with a visit to the magnificent Meenakshi Amman Temple, the colourful abode of the triple-breasted warrior goddess Meenakshi. The temple towers high above its surroundings, making it an iconic landmark. We’ll then head to the crumbling Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace.
In the afternoon there’s an optional excursion to see traditional bronze-making, glass painting and veena (musical instrument) making units - the traditional crafts of the region.
Day 10
Location: Periyar
We head to Periyar, one of India's most magnificent wildlife sanctuaries. Nestled in the High Ranges, this picturesque paradise is home to a diverse range of exotic flora and fauna. After checking in at our hotel, we’ll have the chance to explore Periyar Spice and Ayurvedic Garden. Here, you'll get to see and smell different spices such as cardamom, cinnamon, pepper, tea and coffee growing in their natural environment. Periyar's altitude of 1,000m above sea level makes it an ideal location for spice growing. In fact, 95% of India's pepper is produced here.
In the evening, there’s an optional outing to enjoy a Kalaripayattu performance. Considered amongst the oldest and most scientific martial arts in the world, Kalaripayattu evolved in Kerala and aims for ultimate coordination between mind and body.
Day 11
Location: Periyar
We’ll embark on a guided nature walk through the lush jungle of Periyar National Park. Led by a trained tribal guide, this walk offers an excellent opportunity to spot elephants, wild boar, monkeys, birds, butterflies, and other wildlife. The trails wind through evergreen and deciduous forests interspersed with marshy grasslands, providing a gentle yet immersive trekking experience that will leave you feeling connected with nature.
Alternatively, if you prefer a more adventurous activity, you can opt for a half-day bamboo rafting - a dawn-to-afternoon excursion hiking through some of the richest forest tracts of the Periyar Tiger Reserve, before boarding traditional bamboo rafts. As you raft along the lake, you'll be treated to a panoramic view of forest-clad hills and the possibility of spotting animals like elephants, bison, and Sambar deer up close.
Day 12
Location: Kumarakom
We’ll take a scenic morning drive to Kumarakom, a beautiful town situated on the banks of Vembanad Lake in the backwaters of Kerala. Upon arrival, we'll check in at our luxurious backwaters resort and spend the rest of the day at leisure.
You can choose to simply relax and unwind at the resort, taking in the serenity and enjoying the many amenities on offer. Alternatively, you can opt for an optional Kumarakom village walk. This unique experience takes you through the local fish markets and allows you to interact with women immersed in their daily chores. You'll also have the chance to meet female groups involved in the cottage industry of coir mat weaving, coconut palm frond weaving, screw pine weaving, and broomstick making. If you're feeling particularly adventurous, you can even try your hand at these traditional village jobs, gaining a deeper appreciation for rural Kerala’s way of life.
Day 13
Location: Kumarakom
Today we'll embark on a cruise across the backwaters of Kerala on a traditional Kettuvalam houseboat. As we float along the intricate maze of waterways, we'll be mesmerised at every turn by the serene beauty and simple charm of the backwaters. This is the perfect opportunity to soak up the countryside of Kerala at its best, with endless paddy fields and an array of coconut trees that seem to stretch on forever. We'll enjoy a delicious lunch on board the Kettuvalam, prepared using fresh and locally sourced ingredients, before returning to our resort.
Day 14
Location: Kochi
It's time to pack our bags and head to Kochi, a vibrant and unlikely blend of medieval Portugal and an English village grafted onto the tropical Malabar Coast. Upon arrival, we'll check into our hotel where you can enjoy a restful day, perhaps lazing in arty cafés, wandering markets or simply relaxing by the pool.
In the evening, get ready for a truly spectacular experience as we witness a Kathakali dance performance. One of India's most famous and vibrant dance dramas, it’s characterised by elaborate makeup and costumes and dancers wearing ornate masks designed to express different emotions and characters. Accompanied by drummers and musicians, the performers will transport you to a world of myth and legend, immersing you in the beauty and drama of this ancient art form.
Day 15
Location: Kochi
For our final day, we’ll take a heritage walk of Fort Kochi, a charming area famous for the Chinese fishing nets that flank the harbour. This is the best way to explore the local life and culture, taking us through Fort Kochi’s eventful history. We'll also visit St Francis Church and the Santa Cruz Basilica. This afternoon we’ll visit the Dutch Palace and the Jewish Synagogue, and in the evening there's an optional sunset motorboat harbour cruise with spectacular views.
Day 16
Location: United Kingdom
Transfer to the airport for your return flight to the UK. Upon arrival, your Titan vehicle will be waiting for the journey home.
What's Included
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14 nights in hotels and 1 in flight
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International flights. Prices are based on return flights with Oman Air from London Heathrow via Muscat.
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Local Titan tour manager
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29 meals: 14 breakfasts 1 lunch 14 dinnersundefined excursions and visits
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City tours of Chennai, Puducherry (including cycle rickshaw ride)
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Visits to a local flower market; spice garden
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Visits to Mamallapuram UNESCO World Heritage Sites; Auroville Visitor Centre and Matrimandir temple; Chidambaram Temple; Brihadishwara Temple; Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple; Meenakshi Amman Temple; Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace; Kochi’s Dutch Palace and Jewish
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Guided nature walk through Periyar National Park or half-day bamboo rafting
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Cruise on a traditional Kettuvalam
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Kathakali dance show in Kochi
Check out our Q&As
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Do I have to pay a Single Supplement?
In most cases a single supplement will apply. If the price for a Single room for sole occupancy is not shown, please ask our team for details and we will be able to check the details for you.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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How long has the tour company been trading?
We've been taking our customers across the world on escorted tours for more than 40 years
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Our commitment to sustainable travel is part of our ethos. We love exploring the world and hope that, alongside our customers, we can be part of a bigger change in respecting the people and wildlife on our planet and minimising the impact we have on our environment.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
With some COVID-19 rules and restrictions still in place there are a few details that you need to know. This information is subject to change. It’s your responsibility to monitor changes and ensure you fulfil all relevant criteria for travel. Rest assured that we’re on hand to help and answer any questions you might have.
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
You’ll receive your Final holiday documents via email approximately 14 days prior to your departure.
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Low Deposit
Barrhead Travel requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 98 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of barrhead travel charges.
Up to 98 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 97 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.
At 28 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions
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