Asia Escapes · Signature Journey
South India Tour: Tamil Nadu to Kerala 8 Days
Destination
India
Duration
8 Days / 7 Nights
Best For
Dravidian Temples · Backwaters · Culture · Heritage
Style
Private Journey
Journey Route
Chennai
→
Trichy
→
Madurai
→
Kumarakom
→
Cochin
Journey Highlights in Pictures
Your Journey
Day 1 – Arrival In Chennai
Arrive in Chennai, the gateway to Southern India. Meet your representative for arrival assistance and transfer to your hotel.
Formerly known as Madras, Chennai is an important coastal city with a rich cultural history, longstanding religious traditions and a distinctive connection to the Coromandel Coast.
Depending on your arrival time, enjoy some time to settle in and prepare for the journey ahead.
Overnight: Chennai.
Day 2 – Chennai City Tour and Mahabalipuram
After breakfast, explore Chennai's cultural landmarks. Visit Kapaleeshwarar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva and known for its Dravidian architecture, followed by the historic San Thome Basilica. You may also see Marina Beach, one of the city's best-known waterfront landmarks.
Continue to Mahabalipuram, an important centre of Pallava-era art and architecture. Discover the Five Rathas, the Shore Temple and the celebrated rock carvings associated with Arjuna's Penance, along with the famous natural rock formation known as Krishna's Butter Ball.
After sightseeing, return to Chennai.
Overnight: Chennai.
Day 3 – Chennai to Trichy
After breakfast, depart for Tiruchirappalli, commonly known as Trichy. The journey takes you deeper into Tamil Nadu, a region renowned for its ancient temples and Dravidian heritage.
On arrival, visit the celebrated Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple at Srirangam, one of the most important Vaishnavite pilgrimage sites in India. Explore its vast complex, monumental gopurams and intricate sculptural details, subject to local access and temple schedules.
Overnight: Trichy.
Day 4 – Trichy, Thanjavur and Madurai
After breakfast, travel towards Madurai with a sightseeing stop in Thanjavur, historically associated with the powerful Chola dynasty.
Visit Brihadishwara Temple, an outstanding example of Chola architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Admire its monumental vimana, sculptural details and the impressive Nandi statue in the temple complex.
Continue by road to Madurai. On arrival, transfer to your hotel and relax.
Overnight: Madurai.
Day 5 –Madurai to Kumarakom
After breakfast, visit the magnificent Meenakshi Amman Temple, dedicated to Goddess Meenakshi and Lord Sundareshwarar. Its colourful gopurams, detailed sculptures and vibrant religious atmosphere make it one of South India's most celebrated temple complexes. Temple access is subject to local rules and opening hours.
Later, travel towards Kumarakom in Kerala, a beautiful region of islands, waterways and lakeside settlements associated with Vembanad Lake.
On arrival, transfer to your hotel. The remainder of the day is available to relax and enjoy the tranquil surroundings.
Overnight: Kumarakom.
Day 6 – Kumarakom to Cochin
Enjoy breakfast and some time at leisure in Kumarakom before travelling to Cochin, also known as Kochi.
Historically an important port on the Indian Ocean spice-trade routes, Cochin reflects centuries of contact with Arab, Chinese, Portuguese, Dutch and British traders.
After arrival and hotel check-in, enjoy time at leisure or explore the city's waterfront atmosphere, depending on your schedule.
Overnight: Cochin.
Day 7 – Cochin Sightseeing and Kathakali Performance
After breakfast, explore historic Cochin and its remarkable blend of cultural influences.
Visit Mattancherry Palace, also known as the Dutch Palace, subject to its opening schedule. Continue to the historic Jewish Quarter and the Paradesi Synagogue, subject to opening hours and local access arrangements.
Explore Fort Kochi and see its iconic Chinese fishing nets. Visit St Francis Church, an important landmark associated with the early European presence in the region.
In the evening, enjoy a traditional Kathakali performance, Kerala's celebrated form of classical dance-drama, known for its expressive gestures, elaborate costumes, distinctive makeup and storytelling.
Overnight: Cochin.
Day 8 – Departure from Cochin
Enjoy breakfast at your hotel. At the scheduled time, transfer to Cochin International Airport for your onward flight.
Your South India journey concludes with memories of Tamil Nadu's remarkable temples, the cultural legacy of the Chola dynasty and Kerala's historic coastal heritage.
Meals: Breakfast.
End of tour services.
Why Choose This South India Tour?
A journey through two distinctive regions: Discover the temple traditions of Tamil Nadu before experiencing Kerala's coastal history and relaxed atmosphere. Exceptional Dravidian architecture: Explore celebrated landmarks including Mahabalipuram's rock-cut monuments, Srirangam and Brihadishwara Temple in Thanjavur. Madurai's spiritual heritage: Visit Meenakshi Amman Temple, one of the most recognisable religious landmarks in Southern India. Kerala's multicultural history: Cochin's historic neighbourhoods and waterfront landmarks reveal the city's role in international spice trading. A cultural performance: The itinerary includes a Kathakali dance-drama performance in Cochin, offering an introduction to one of Kerala's celebrated art forms. A planned 8-day itinerary: The regular departure format connects key destinations in a structured programme. Confirm the operating dates and final arrangements before booking.
✦ Trip Highlights
- Chennai: Kapaleeshwarar Temple, San Thome Basilica and Marina Beach.
- Mahabalipuram: Five Rathas, Shore Temple and celebrated rock carvings.
- Trichy: Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple at Srirangam.
- Thanjavur: Brihadishwara Temple and Chola architectural heritage.
- Madurai: Meenakshi Amman Temple and its magnificent sculptural traditions.
- Kumarakom: A lakeside destination associated with Kerala's backwater region.
- Cochin: Mattancherry Palace, the Jewish Quarter, Chinese fishing nets and Fort Kochi.
- Kathakali: Traditional Kerala dance-drama performance included in the programme.
✦ Recommended Hotels or Choose Your Own
-
Chennai (02 Nights)
Cat 4*: Central Regent or Similar
Cat 5* Std: Radisson GRT Chennai / Raintree Chennai or Similar -
Trichy (01 Night)
Cat 4*: Red Fox or similar
Cat 5* Std: Courtyard By Marriott or Similar -
Madurai (01 Night)
Cat 4*: JC Residency or Similar
Cat 5* Std: Heritage Madurai or similar -
Kumarakom (01 Night)
Cat 4*: Whispering Palm or Similar
Cat 5* Std: Rhythm or Similar -
Cochin (02 Nights)
Cat 4*: Abbot ATRIUM or Similar
Cat 5* Std: Fragrant Nature Cochin or Similar
Important note: In the event that a hotel is unavailable due to weddings, conferences, or other local events, alternative accommodation of the same category will be offered.
✓ Services Included
- 7 nights' accommodation in selected hotels.
- Daily breakfast at the hotels.
- Arrival assistance in English.
- Spanish-speaking guide for the tour, as specified in the source programme.
- Kathakali dance performance in Cochin.
- Monument entrance fees specified in the programme.
- Applicable rates and taxes stated in the original programme, subject to confirmation at booking.
✕ Services Not Included
- International and domestic flights unless confirmed otherwise.
- Destination gratuities: the source programme specifies USD 70 per person for the guide, driver and hotel porters. Confirm the current amount and payment arrangements before booking.
- Camera and video fees at monuments, where applicable.
- Personal hotel expenses, including telephone calls, laundry and other extras.
- Meals and drinks not specifically mentioned as included.
- Travel insurance and personal expenses.
- Any service not explicitly listed under inclusions.
Recommended Hotels or Choose Your Own
The Oberoi
The Imperial
Taj Palace
The Oberoi Amarvilas
ITC Mughal
BrijRama Palace
Taj Ganges
Rambagh Palace
The Oberoi Rajvilas
Samode Haveli
Umaid Bhawan Palace
Ajit Bhawan Palace
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a private and tailor-made tour?
Yes. This 8-day South India tour is fully private and can be tailored to match your specific interests, dates, and travel preferences.
What makes this 8-day itinerary ideal?
This route perfectly balances the rich Dravidian architectural heritage of Tamil Nadu with the natural beauty and serene backwaters of Kerala.
When is the best time to do this tour?
The best time to visit South India is from November to March, when the weather is pleasant and less humid for exploring temples and backwaters.
What should I pack for temple visits?
Modest clothing covering shoulders and knees is mandatory for entering temples in South India. Easy-to-remove footwear is recommended, as you must leave shoes outside temple premises.
How can I request a quotation for this itinerary?
Simply use the enquiry form on this page or click “Plan My Journey”. Our Asia Escapes team will contact you to discuss your requirements and prepare a personalized quotation.
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