India Dravida Exploration
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This 11-day tour begins in Chennai and finishes in Kochi, offering a rich blend of history, culture, and nature. Youll explore Chennais colonial heritage and vibrant temples before heading to Mahabalipuram and Thanjavur to admire ancient temples and silk weaving traditions. The journey continues to Madurais colourful Meenakshi Temple and the wildlife sanctuary of Periyar, where a boat ride reveals elephants and other exotic animals. Experience the serene backwaters of Alleppey aboard a traditional houseboat, then finish with a leisurely couple of days in Kochi, discovering its historic Jewish Quarter, Dutch Palace, and bustling streets at your own pace.
For a detailed itinerary and information about visas, money, weather and more.
Tour Overview
Duration
11 daysHotel Rating
-5 star hotelsStarts
ChennaiEnds
KochiMinimum age
No minimum ageMaximum age
100Arrival Transfer
YesDeparture Transfer
YesTour Guide
Yes - English speaking guide.Country
IndiaPassengers
$2,940.00
$400.00
Tour Style
Group Size
Min 1 / Max 20
Trip Type
Group Tours
Range
This tour is operated by our trusted local partner and has been handpicked by us to deliver you an unforgettable trip.
Guiding Style
This tour includes scheduled sightseeing with expert guides in key destinations as per the Inclusions, as well as transportation (either with a driver or public transport), plus of course your accommodation. There is no single tour guide or tour leader throughout the trip. You’ll have support where it counts, and more freedom in between. Our cruise tours also fall into this category where you will be looked after by a crew. For more information, check the Inclusions of this tour.
Tour Pace
A balanced pace, with a mix of free time and visits to multiple locations, allowing for both relaxation and exploration. Generally doesn't visit more than one or two destinations per day.
Physical Rating
A moderate amount of walking is required during sightseeing, with some free time, offering a balance between activity and relaxation. As a general rule, you should be able to walk 2-kilometres without stopping.
Tour Guide
Yes - English speaking guide.Group Size
Min 1 / Max 20Tranportation
N/ALanguage
EnglishLanguage
EnglishRange
This tour is operated by our trusted local partner and has been handpicked by us to deliver you an unforgettable trip.
Guiding Style
This tour includes scheduled sightseeing with expert guides in key destinations as per the Inclusions, as well as transportation (either with a driver or public transport), plus of course your accommodation. There is no single tour guide or tour leader throughout the trip. You’ll have support where it counts, and more freedom in between. Our cruise tours also fall into this category where you will be looked after by a crew. For more information, check the Inclusions of this tour.
Tour Pace
A balanced pace, with a mix of free time and visits to multiple locations, allowing for both relaxation and exploration. Generally doesn't visit more than one or two destinations per day.
Physical Rating
A moderate amount of walking is required during sightseeing, with some free time, offering a balance between activity and relaxation. As a general rule, you should be able to walk 2-kilometres without stopping.
Trip Type
Group ToursTour Highlights
Included
Not Included
Itinerary
Day 1 - Chennai
Upon arrival at Chennai Airport, you will be greeted by our tour representative and transferred to your hotel for check-in. Chennai, formerly known as Madras, is the capital of Tamil Nadu and sits along the Bay of Bengal. Established after 1639 by the British East India Company, the city developed around Fort St. George, with many colonial-era buildings still visible today. The remainder of the day is yours to relax and explore at your leisure. Overnight in Chennai.
Day 2 - Chennai
After breakfast at the hotel, we begin a half-day tour of Chennai. Our first stop is Fort St. George, completed in 1653, which houses reminders of the citys colonial past, including St. Marys Churchthe first church consecrated on Indian soil. We then visit the National Museum, showcasing human history and culture (please note it is closed on Fridays). Next, we take a stroll along Marina Beach, an elegant promenade by the Bay of Bengal, and pass by Chennai University, one of Indias oldest universities, noted for its beautiful Senate House and the Nawab Palace. The tour continues to Mylapore, the old Indian quarter, where we visit San Thome Basilica, linked to the apostle Thomas Didymus, who is believed to have lived and preached here. We conclude with a visit to the Kapaleeshwarar Temple, dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva, renowned for its vibrant and intricate sculptures. After the tour, we return to the hotel for a free afternoon at your leisure. Overnight in Chennai.
Day 3 - Chennai - Kanchipuram - Mahabalipuram
After breakfast, we leave Chennai and travel to Mahabalipuram, stopping en route at Kanchipuram, known as the Golden City. This ancient town features around 125 shrines dating back to the early Chola period around 200 BC. It served as the capital for the Cholas, Pallavas and Vijayanagara Rayas, reflected in its impressive temples. Kanchipuram is also famous for its silk weaving tradition, producing the highly prized Kanchi saris. After exploring Kanchipuram, we continue to Mahabalipuram and check in to the hotel. The remainder of the day is yours to relax and enjoy at leisure. Overnight in Mahabalipuram.
Day 4 - Mahabalipuram - Chidambaram - Darasuram - Thanjavur
After breakfast, we depart for Thanjavur, stopping en route at Chidambaram and Darasuram. Chidambaram is a significant pilgrimage site dedicated to Lord Shiva, renowned for its Nataraja Templean outstanding example of Tamil Nadus Dravidian architecture. The temple honours Shiva as the cosmic dancer, symbolising creation, preservation, destruction, vigilance, and blessing. Next, we visit Darasuram to explore the Airavatesvara Temple, one of the three great living Chola temples. Built by Chola Raja II, it features a finely carved stone image of Shiva at its centre. After these visits, we continue to Thanjavur, known as the Tamil Nadu Rice Basin, where we check in to the hotel for the night.
Day 5 - Thanjavur - Trichy - Thanjavur
After an early breakfast, we set off for an excursion to the historic town of Trichy. Our first stop is the imposing Rock Fort, perched 90 metres above the surrounding landscape. We climb 434 steps carved into the rock, passing shrines dedicated to Lord Ganapathi, before reaching the temple of Lord Shiva at the summit. From here, you can enjoy sweeping views of the sacred Kaveri River. Next, we visit the island of Srirangam, home to an extensive temple complex dedicated to Vishnu. This temple is notable for its vibrant bazaar within the walls and its large annual winter festival that draws many devotees. After the tour, we return to the hotel in Thanjavur for the night.
Day 6 - Thanjavur - Madurai
After a leisurely breakfast, we travel to Madurai, the spiritual heart of Tamil Nadu. Upon arrival, you will check in to your hotel before joining us for a visit to the stunning Meenakshi Temple. This remarkable temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is renowned for its ten towering gopurams adorned with over 30,000 colourful statues. We then explore the 17th-century Thirumalai Nayak Palace, an impressive example of Indo-Saracenic architecture. In the afternoon, you will have the opportunity to attend a Hindu puja ceremony, witnessing the traditional ritual of offerings to the deities. Overnight in Madurai.
Day 7 - Madurai - Mlappara
After breakfast, we depart for Periyar, arriving around midday to check in at the hotel. Prepare to explore Periyar Nature Sanctuary and Thekkady Nature Park, renowned for their diverse flora and fauna. The sanctuary is a protected area in Kerala, noted as both an elephant and tiger reserve. We will enjoy a boat ride on Periyar Lake, offering excellent opportunities to spot wildlife such as elephants, sambhar deer, bison, spotted deer, tigers, leopards, Malabar flying squirrels, and mongooses. Following the boat trip, we visit a spice plantation to learn about the regions spices before returning to the hotel for the evening. Overnight in Periyar.
Day 8 - Alleppey - Mlappara
After breakfast, we depart for Alleppey, often called the Venice of the East. Upon arrival, we board a traditional houseboat to explore Keralas intricate network of backwaters, lagoons and canals. This peaceful cruise offers a unique view of the regions hidden islands, villages and waterways, providing insight into the local way of life. Lunch and dinner are served on board as you relax and soak in the tranquil surroundings. Overnight on the houseboat.
Day 9 - Alleppey - Kochi
After breakfast on the houseboat, we disembark and transfer by bus to Kochi. Upon arrival, you will check in at the hotel before setting out on an afternoon sightseeing tour. We explore the historic Jewish Quarter, home to a community dating back to the 6th century BC, including visits to the Mattancherry Synagogue and the nearby palace. Next, we visit the dock area to see the iconic Chinese fishing nets, followed by the Dutch Palace, originally built by the Portuguese in 1510. The tour continues to the Church of San Francisco, Indias oldest Catholic church, which houses the tomb of the explorer Vasco da Gama. After the tour, you return to the hotel with the remainder of the day at your leisure. Overnight in Kochi.
Day 10 - Kochi
After a leisurely breakfast at the hotel, spend the day at your own pace exploring Kochi. You might choose to stroll through its vibrant streets, taking in the colourful markets, local sights and sampling regional cuisine, or simply relax at the hotel and enjoy its facilities. Today is yours to discover Kochi as you wish. Overnight in Kochi.
Day 11 - Kochi
After breakfast at the hotel, you will be transferred to the airport to connect with your onward flight. This marks the conclusion of your time in Kochi and the end of this stage of your journey.
Tour Reviews
Extras and add-ons
If you'd like to add extras or add-ons to your booking, you can do this easily during checkout. Just review the available options and select any additional services or upgrades you'd like before completing your purchase.
Hotels
The hotels listed below are examples which we frequently use on this tour. Alternative hotels of a similar standard may be used instead.
Prices & Dates
Departure dates are guaranteed with 2 travellers. 'Double/Twin' prices are per person when there are 2 people on the same booking sharing a room. 'Single' prices are applicable to anyone wanting the privacy of their own room. 'Triple' prices are per person when there are 3 people on the same booking sharing a room. 'Shared' prices are for solo travellers who are happy to share with another solo traveller of the same sex in a twin room - a single room will be provided at no additional cost if there are no suitable travellers to share with.
Can't find a date that works for you?
Dates for 2027 haven't been released yet.
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