Package Best For
Go on a comprehensive 21-day journey through South India with us, an unforgettable circuit that weaves together temple architecture, colonial history, verdant mountains, misty plantations, backwaters, royal palaces, ancient ruins, and sun-kissed beaches. This itinerary spans six Indian states and offers deep exploration into the cultural soul of the South—every day packed with meaningful exploration, local interactions, and unforgettable experiences. From Chennai buzzing urban energy to the silence of Wayanad’s forests, from sacred rituals at Madurai’s Meenakshi Temple to the bohemian beaches of Goa—this is truly the best of South India in one seamless itinerary.
Tour Highlights
- Walk through colonial, French, and Dravidian heritage
- Houseboat stay in Alleppey’s tranquil Kerala backwaters
- Explore ancient empires in Hampi & Thanjavur
- Experience wildlife in Thekkady and tribal cultures in Wayanad
- Enjoy the coastlines of Goa and the cosmopolitan charm of Mumbai
Tour Itinerary
Day-1: Arrival in Chennai – Welcome to South India
Arrive in Chennai, Tamil Nadu’s coastal capital. Meet your tour representative at the airport and transfer to your hotel. After settling in, start your journey with a light city exploration. Visit the Kapaleeshwarar Temple, an architectural gem dedicated to Lord Shiva. Drive past the Santhome Cathedral, built over the tomb of St. Thomas the Apostle, and enjoy views of the Marina Beach, one of the longest urban beaches in the world. Visit the local markets and sample some authentic Tamil cuisine. Overnight stay in Chennai.
Day-2: Chennai – Mahabalipuram – Pondicherry (160 km / 3.5 hrs)
After breakfast, begin your drive along the scenic East Coast Road to Mahabalipuram, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the Shore Temple, Five Rathas, and Arjuna’s Penance – remarkable stone carvings that date back to the Pallava dynasty. Continue your drive to Pondicherry, a former French colony known for its colonial architecture and seaside charm. On arrival, check in at a heritage hotel. Evening: Relax on Promenade Beach or walk through the White Town, the colonial quarter of the city. Overnight stay in Pondicherry.
Day-3: Pondicherry Exploration – Spiritual & Colonial Heritage
After breakfast, visit the Aurobindo Ashram, a spiritual community founded by Sri Aurobindo and The Mother. Then drive to Auroville, a universal township devoted to human unity. Visit the Matrimandir, the golden globe-shaped meditation center. In the afternoon, stroll through the French Quarter—lined with mustard-colored colonial villas, bougainvillea-draped walls, and charming cafés. Optional: Attend a yoga or meditation session. Evening free for leisure or shopping. Overnight in Pondicherry.
Day-4: Pondicherry – Thanjavur (180 km / 4 hrs)
After breakfast, drive to Thanjavur, the seat of the Chola Empire and home to some of India’s most majestic temples. On arrival, check in and relax. In the evening, visit the Brihadeeswarar Temple, a 1000-year-old UNESCO World Heritage Site built by Raja Raja Chola I. The temple’s towering vimana and detailed murals are awe-inspiring. Later, visit the Royal Palace Complex, housing ancient manuscripts, bronze statues, and the Saraswathi Mahal Library. Overnight stay in Thanjavur.
Day-5: Thanjavur – Madurai (190 km / 4.5 hrs)
Drive to Madurai, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. Upon arrival, check in and rest. Witness the Aarti ceremony at the Meenakshi Amman Temple, where hundreds gather for spiritual rituals amidst music, lamps, and incense. The temple, with its 14 towering gopurams, is one of the greatest examples of Dravidian architecture. Overnight stay in Madurai.
Day-6: Madurai – Culture & History Immersion
Spend the day exploring Madurai. Start with a guided tour of the Meenakshi Temple complex, followed by a visit to Thirumalai Nayak Palace, known for its Indo-Saracenic architecture. Visit the Gandhi Memorial Museum, which houses exhibits from India’s independence movement. In the evening, explore the bustling Puthu Mandapam market for handicrafts and local street food. Try the city’s signature Jigarthanda drink. Overnight in Madurai.
Day-7: Madurai – Thekkady (140 km / 3.5 hrs)
After breakfast, drive to Thekkady, a nature-rich town nestled in the Western Ghats. Check in to your jungle resort. Later, enjoy a boat cruise on Periyar Lake, where you may spot elephants, bison, wild boars, and exotic birds along the banks. Visit a nearby spice plantation, where you’ll see how cardamom, pepper, and cloves are grown. Evening options include a Kalaripayattu martial arts show or a relaxing Ayurvedic massage. Overnight in Thekkady.
Day-8: Thekkady – Alleppey (140 km / 4 hrs)
After breakfast, proceed to Alleppey, Kerala’s iconic backwater destination. Check into a private houseboat for a unique overnight cruise. Sail through the tranquil backwaters lined with coconut palms, lush paddy fields, and charming villages. Enjoy traditional Kerala meals onboard, freshly prepared by the onboard chef. Watch the sun set over the backwaters and anchor for the night in a quiet canal. Overnight on the houseboat.
Day-9: Alleppey – Munnar (160 km / 5 hrs)
After disembarkation, begin the drive to Munnar, Kerala’s scenic hill station known for its cool climate and tea plantations. Check in at your resort nestled among the hills. Evening at leisure: You may choose to visit a local tea estate for a short walk or sip on fresh Nilgiri tea while enjoying the misty views. Overnight stay in Munnar.
Day-10: Munnar – Tea & Nature Trails
After breakfast, go on a full-day sightseeing tour. Visit Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr and expansive views of rolling hills. Continue to the Tea Museum, Mattupetty Dam, and Echo Point, where your voice echoes off the surrounding hills.
Optional: Take a soft trek through the tea estates or a visit to Top Station for panoramic views of Tamil Nadu’s plains. Return for a cozy night in Munnar.
Optional: Take a soft trek through the tea estates or a visit to Top Station for panoramic views of Tamil Nadu’s plains. Return for a cozy night in Munnar.
Day-11: Munnar – Cochin (130 km / 4 hrs)
Drive to the vibrant port city of Cochin. Check in at your hotel in Fort Kochi. In the afternoon, explore Fort Kochi’s colonial history: see the Chinese Fishing Nets, St. Francis Church, Santa Cruz Basilica, and Dutch Palace in nearby Mattancherry. Wander through Jew Town and explore antique stores and spice shops. End the day with a Kathakali dance performance, where dancers perform with elaborate makeup and gestures. Overnight in Cochin.
Day-12: Cochin – Wayanad (275 km / 7 hrs)
After an early breakfast, set out for Wayanad, a forested region in northern Kerala. Check into an eco-resort surrounded by wildlife and greenery. Rest and relax after the long drive. Enjoy the peaceful natural ambiance of the Western Ghats. Overnight in Wayanad.
Day-13: Wayanad – Forests, Waterfalls & Caves
Explore the highlights of Wayanad today. Begin with the Edakkal Caves, home to prehistoric rock engravings. Then visit Soochipara Waterfalls, where you can take a short forest walk. Optional: Safari in the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary to spot elephants, peacocks, and even leopards.
Visit a tribal village to understand the unique lifestyle of the local communities. Return to your eco-lodge for a peaceful night.
Visit a tribal village to understand the unique lifestyle of the local communities. Return to your eco-lodge for a peaceful night.
Day-14: Wayanad – Mysore (130 km / 3.5 hrs)
Drive to the royal city of Mysore, Karnataka. Check in to your hotel and visit the famous Brindavan Gardens, known for its musical fountain show. Explore Devaraja Market, a colorful and fragrant spot selling flowers, spices, and Mysore silk. Overnight stay in Mysore.
Day-15: Mysore – Palaces & Silk
Start your day with a visit to the opulent Mysore Palace, an Indo-Saracenic marvel with stained glass, ivory doors, and royal thrones. Climb up to Chamundi Hill to visit the Chamundeshwari Temple and admire panoramic views of the city. Later, visit a silk weaving center and learn about Mysore’s rich textile tradition. Overnight in Mysore.
Day-16: Mysore – Hampi (440 km / 8 hrs)
Begin your scenic drive to Hampi, the ancient capital of the Vijayanagara Empire. Upon arrival, check into a boutique guesthouse amid ruins or by the river. Rest and prepare for the next two days of exploration. Overnight in Hampi.
Day-17: Hampi – Ancient Ruins Exploration
Spend the day exploring the sprawling Hampi ruins, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit Virupaksha Temple, the Stone Chariot, Vittala Temple with its musical pillars, and the Lotus Mahal. Take a coracle boat ride on the Tungabhadra River and climb Matanga Hill for an epic sunset over the boulder-strewn landscape. Overnight in Hampi.
Day-18: Hampi – Goa (320 km / 7 hrs)
Drive to Goa, India’s most beloved beach destination. Check into a beach resort and relax by the Arabian Sea. Evening at leisure, walk along Baga, Candolim, or Anjuna Beach, or enjoy a quiet dinner by the sea. Overnight in Goa.
Day-19: Goa – Culture & Beaches
Explore Old Goa, home to Portuguese-era churches like the Basilica of Bom Jesus, Se Cathedral, and Church of St. Francis of Assisi. Stroll through Fontainhas, the Latin Quarter in Panaji. Later, relax on the beach or enjoy water sports. In the evening, experience Goa’s vibrant nightlife or sunset at Chapora Fort. Overnight stay in Goa.
Day-20: Goa – Mumbai (By Flight)
Fly to Mumbai, India’s largest city and home to Bollywood. On arrival, check into your hotel. Visit the Gateway of India, Marine Drive, and Colaba Causeway for shopping and people-watching. Consider dining at a heritage café or taking a night drive along the Queen’s Necklace. Overnight in Mumbai.
Day-21: Departure from Mumbai
Depending on your flight time, explore Dhobi Ghat, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, or visit an art gallery. Our representative will drop you at the airport for your flight back home, concluding your incredible journey through South India.
Note: Please note – The above itinerary is a suggested one. We can do customization in the South India Grand Circuit package to make an itinerary as per your comfort, special interest, and requirement. This can include adding new places to visit, changing the number of days, altering hotel categories, or adjusting the sequence of the travel route.