South India Heritage & Nature Tour (14 Days)
Route: Chennai ➝ Mahabalipuram ➝ Kanchipuram ➝ Thiruvannamalai ➝ Pondicherry ➝ Chidambaram ➝ Kumbakonam ➝ Tanjavur ➝ Karaikudi ➝ Madurai ➝ Munnar ➝ Thekkady ➝ Alappuzha ➝ Kochi
Day 1: Chennai – Arrival & Sightseeing
Begin your journey in Chennai, the cultural and economic capital of Tamil Nadu. Known for its vibrant city life, colonial history, and spiritual significance, Chennai offers a mix of beaches, temples, churches, and museums. It’s a gateway to South India’s artistic and religious traditions.
Highlights:
- Marina Beach – one of Asia’s longest urban beaches
- Kapaleeshwarar Temple – a stunning Dravidian-style temple
- San Thome Basilica – a Gothic church built over St. Thomas’ tomb
- Fort St. George – historic British fort and museum
Day 2: Mahabalipuram – UNESCO Heritage Site
Travel to Mahabalipuram, an ancient port city known for its rock-cut temples and shoreline monuments. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this town is filled with intricately carved architecture from the Pallava dynasty. The sea breeze and ancient stonework make this a magical stop.
Highlights:
- Shore Temple – temple on the Bay of Bengal shore
- Pancha Rathas – monolithic stone chariots
- Arjuna’s Penance – massive stone relief carving
- Mahabalipuram Beach – ideal for photography and walks
Day 3: Pondicherry – French Colonial Charm
Explore the peaceful streets of Pondicherry, known for its French architecture, spiritual centers, and laid-back beachside vibe. Visit Aurobindo Ashram and the experimental township of Auroville, making this town a unique mix of East and West.
Highlights:
- Aurobindo Ashram – serene spiritual retreat
- Auroville – global experimental township
- Promenade Beach – perfect for relaxing walks
- French Town – colonial streets and vibrant cafés
Day 4: Kanchipuram – City of Thousand Temples
Kanchipuram is one of the seven sacred cities of India, famed for its ancient temples and silk sarees. Visit beautifully sculpted temples from the Pallava and Chola eras while also witnessing traditional silk weaving.
Highlights:
- Ekambareswarar Temple – Shiva temple with a 1000-pillared hall
- Kailasanathar Temple – oldest temple with sandstone carvings
- Kamakshi Amman Temple – dedicated to the goddess Kamakshi
- Silk Saree Weaving Units – see artisans at work
Day 5: Thiruvannamalai – Spiritual Vibes
Thiruvannamalai is a major pilgrimage town, home to the grand Arunachaleswarar Temple and Arunachala Hill, revered by Shiva devotees. The town is known for spiritual retreats and the teachings of Ramana Maharshi.
Highlights:
- Arunachaleswarar Temple – sprawling Shiva temple complex
- Girivalam Path – sacred hill path for pilgrimage walk
- Ramana Ashram – meditation and teachings of Ramana Maharshi
Day 6: Chidambaram – Dance of the Divine
Chidambaram is famous for the Nataraja Temple, where Lord Shiva is worshipped as the Cosmic Dancer. Nearby is Pichavaram, one of the largest mangrove forests in India, offering a breathtaking boat ride experience.
Highlights:
- Nataraja Temple – unique temple for Shiva as the cosmic dancer
- Pichavaram Mangrove Forest – scenic boat rides through waterways
- Chidambaram Temple Architecture – brilliant Chola craftsmanship
Day 7: Kumbakonam – Temple Town
Known for its countless temples, Kumbakonam is a treasure trove of Chola architecture and religious energy. It’s also famous for the Mahamaham Festival and South Indian filter coffee.
Highlights:
- Airavatesvara Temple – UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Adi Kumbeswarar Temple – vibrant temple with deep spiritual roots
- Sarangapani Temple – known for its massive gateway tower
- Mahamaham Tank – sacred tank hosting a once-in-12-years festival
Day 8: Tanjavur – Art, Culture & Kings
Tanjavur, or Thanjavur, was the capital of the mighty Chola empire. Explore the majestic Brihadeeswarar Temple, a UNESCO site, and experience Tanjore painting, bronze casting, and Carnatic music.
Highlights:
- Big Temple – iconic Chola temple with towering vimana
- Tanjore Palace & Art Gallery – royal residence and art treasures
- Agriculture & Rice Fields – lush paddy landscapes and farming legacy
- Tanjore Paintings Workshop – traditional art form demonstrations
Day 9: Karaikudi – Chettinad Heritage
Head to Karaikudi, the heart of Chettinad, famous for its heritage mansions, unique cuisine, and antique markets. Explore the lifestyle of Chettiar merchants and try the famous Chettinad cuisine.
Highlights:
- Chettinad Mansions – grand ancestral homes with European designs
- Chettinad Cuisine – flavorful South Indian delicacies
Day 10: Madurai – City of Temples
Madurai is one of the oldest cities in India and home to the magnificent Meenakshi Amman Temple, known for its towering gopurams and intricate sculptures. The city has a vibrant spiritual, literary, and cultural history.
Highlights:
- Meenakshi Amman Temple – stunning twin-towered temple complex
- Thirumalai Nayakar Mahal – Indo-Saracenic palace architecture
- Gandhi Museum – insights into India’s freedom struggle
Day 11: Munnar – Hills & Tea Estates
Cross into Kerala and reach Munnar, a hill station famous for its cool climate, tea plantations, and scenic landscapes. With mist-covered hills and lush greenery, it’s a paradise for nature lovers.
Highlights:
- Tea Factory – walk through lush green plantations
- Eravikulam National Park – home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr
- Mattupetty Dam – scenic lake views and boating
- Tea Museum – history of tea in Kerala
Day 12: Thekkady – Spice Hills & Wildlife
Drive to Thekkady, home to Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. A perfect blend of nature, adventure, and spices, Thekkady offers jungle treks, elephant rides, and spice plantation visits.
Highlights:
- Periyar Lake Boat Safari – wildlife spotting from the water
- Spice Plantation Tour – walk through cardamom and pepper farms
- Elephant Interaction – feeding and bathing experiences
- Thekkady Jeep Safari – an adventurous ride through rugged forests and scenic plantations
Day 13: Alappuzha (Alleppey) – Backwaters & Houseboats
Relax in Alleppey, the Venice of the East, with its famous backwaters and traditional houseboats. Cruise through serene canals, passing lush villages and paddy fields on a luxurious houseboat.
Highlights:
- Houseboat Stay – overnight cruise with authentic Kerala meals
- Vembanad Lake – tranquil and scenic backwaters (Optional)
- Alleppey Beach – ideal for a sunset walk (Optional)
Day 14: Kochi – Heritage Port City & Departure
Conclude your journey in Kochi, a city blending Dutch, Portuguese, and British influences. Explore Fort Kochi, known for its Chinese fishing nets, colonial buildings, and vibrant art cafés before your drop-off.
Highlights:
- Fort Kochi – colonial history and art galleries
- Jew Town & Synagogue – antique shops and Jewish heritage
- Chinese Fishing Nets – iconic waterfront scene
- Mattancherry Palace – Kerala-style palace with murals
- Drop at Kochi Airport
NOTE : Please Check the Route before Booking
✅ Included in Tour Package
- AC Vehicle for the Entire Tour (with fuel, toll, parking & driver allowance)
- All Sightseeing Tours as per the itinerary
- Experienced Driver / Tour Manager
- Pickup & Drop
- 24/7 Customer Support During the Tour
- Basic First Aid Kit in the Vehicle
- Complimentary Mineral Water Bottles (1–2 per day)
❌ Not Included in the Tour Package
- Airfare / Train Tickets (unless specifically mentioned)
- Entry Fees to monuments, parks, museums, or heritage sites
- Boating, Jeep Safaris, Toy Train Rides, or other paid activities
- Personal Expenses such as laundry, telephone calls, mini-bar, room service
- Lunch & Dinner (unless specified; usually only breakfast is included in hotels)
- Camera / Video Charges at tourist spots
- Travel Insurance
- Tips & Gratuities for guides, drivers, or hotel staff
- Alcoholic Beverages or Soft Drinks
- Medical Expenses or emergency hospitalization
- Optional Tours / Activities not mentioned in the itinerary
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Why Choose Kumar South Tours for Your South India Journey?
At Kumar South Tours, we provide expertly crafted travel packages that allow you to explore the best of South India, we offer a comprehensive and enriching experience of South India. Our team of local experts will guide you through every step of your journey, ensuring a hassle-free and memorable travel experience.
- Customized Itineraries
- Affordable & Convenient
- Experienced Local Guides
- Seamless Travel Experience