14 day Magical South Tour of India

Chennai, India – Arrival
The British turned a strip of Local village into India’s major southern city, leaving an eclectic blend of architecture and a fine example of Indo-Saracenic Victorian construction which they called Madras (Chennai).

On arrival, you will be met by our local representative and transferred to your accommodation.

Overnight: Taj Connemara – Colonial Room

Chennai, India
Immerse yourself in the rich history and cultural significance of these sites as you explore their architectural marvels and spiritual heritage. It’s a perfect way to begin your day, delving into the religious and historical essence of the city. Your day will start with a visit to city’s highlights including the ancient Shiva Temple (kapleeshwarar temple) and the San Thomas Cathedral, where the remains of St. Thomas are said to be housed. The rest of the evening is yours to explore on your own.

Overnight: Taj Connemara – Colonial Room

Meals: Breakfast & Welcome Dinner

Chennai, India – Pondicherry, India
After breakfast you will head to Pondicherry. You will stop at Mamallapuram to explore the spectacular UNESCO World Heritage listed Shore Temples. Later, drive to the pretty seaside town of Puducherry, the former capital of the French territories in India.

Overnight: Palais De Mahe – Mahe Chambre Room

Meals: Breakfast

Pondicherry, India
Following breakfast, you will explore the local bazaar to watch the opening of the day. Enjoy a stroll through the narrow lands meeting fruit and vegetable vendors. Finish your walk with a cup of authentic meter high filter “kaafi” (coffee), before you return to your hotel for breakfast.

Later learn how the local Tamil population successfully assimilated French culture with theirs during a heritage walking tour. Stroll past charming Tamil and colonial fusion architecture and visit the Aurobindo Ashram.

Overnight: Palais De Mahe – Mahe Chambre Room

Meals: Breakfast & Lunch

Pondicherry, India – Tanjore, India
Today, journey through the ‘rice bowl’ of Tamil Nadu and on to Tanjore. You will be stopping at Gangaikonda Cholapuram temple, another UNESCO World Heritage site and a living sample of the Great Living Chola Temples.

Overnight: Svatma Hotel – Millenium Deluxe Room

Meals: Breakfast & Dinner

Tanjore, India – Madurai, India
Following breakfast, you will be driven to one of the oldest cities in South Asia “Madurai’, also known as the “Athens of the East”. In the evening, an impressive sight awaits us as you visit one of South India’s biggest pilgrimage sites, the Sri Meenakshi Temple to witness the night ceremony.

Later take a walk through the heritage section of town, wander through the local flowers and vegetables, and the weaver’s market.

Overnight: Taj Gateway Pasumalai – Colonial Room

Meals: Breakfast & Dinner

Madurai, India – Munnar, India
This morning head up to the Western Ghats and look out for some wonderful waterfalls on your way up to the tea country. The Munnar region was initially settled by ten tribal communities, the most prominent of whom have been the Muthuvans, Mannans, and Hill Pullayas. Their villages and hamlets are still in evidence across the high ranges.

Overnight: Windermere Tea Estate

Meals: Breakfast & Dinner

Munnar, India
A guided trek is a great way to experience the gorgeous tea gardens up close and to understand how they work, and today you will be doing just that. You will also meet the lovely people who work on the estates. If you like hiking, you’ll love Kolukumalai, one of the highest tea estates in India.

Overnight: Windermere Tea Estate

Meals: Breakfast & Dinner

Munnar, India – Alleppey, India
Today you will begin your journey to Alleppey on board a houseboat. Alleppey is a sleepy little village tucked away from the hustle and bustle of city life.  It showcases a lovely amalgamation of mangroves, paddy fields, coconut clusters, a network of criss-cross canals, rivers and natural water bodies. You will also explore the beauty of backwaters and the laid-back world of Kerala and let your cares drift away as you soak up the setting sun while sipping your tea.

Overnight: Spice Coast Houseboat – 1 bedroom houseboat

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Alleppey, India – Cochin, India
Today you will be driven to Cochin, where you can spend the remainder of the day at leisure. Stroll along the waterfront to see fishermen working the Chinese fishing nets or just relax at your hotel. Finally, you will experience an evening cooking session with a local family.

Overnight: Brunton Boatyard – sea facing room

Meals: Breakfast & Cooking Demo followed by Dinner

Cochin, India
Head down to the harbor to see the fisherman in action if you didn’t get the chance yesterday. Then, discover the different colonial influences during your tour of Fort Cochin; visit Mattacherry Palace, Jew Town, and the Synagogue.

Overnight: Brunton Boatyard – sea facing room

Meals: Breakfast & Lunch

Cochin, India – Hyderabad, India
After breakfast, you will be driven to Cochin Airport for your flight to Hyderabad. Known for being the origin of the magnificent Koh-i-Noor diamond, Hyderabad is also famous for its pleasure-loving Nizams. The city’s rich history and cultural heritage offer a captivating experience, blending ancient grandeur with modern vibrancy. Enjoy your time in this historic destination.

Overnight: Brunton Boatyard – sea facing room

Meals: Breakfast

Hyderabad, India
Today, embark on a heritage tour of the city of Nizams, starting with a visit to the Charminar, the iconic landmark surrounded by vibrant bazaars and historic buildings. Explore the bustling lanes with your guide, to uncover the city’s rich offerings.

Next, enjoy a guided tour of Chowmahalla Palace, the former seat of the Asaf Jahi dynasty, still owned by the Nizam’s heirs. “Chowmahalla” means “four palaces,” and the site offers a fascinating glimpse into Hyderabad’s regal past.

Overnight: Taj Falaknuma Palace – palace room

Meals: Breakfast & Farewell Dinner

Hyderabad, India – Departure
It is the last day of your main tour and time to go home. Legend has it, that the elements of India have a magical power and bring people back. You’ll be driven to Hyderabad airport to board your international flight to wherever your next destination may be. We hope you enjoyed a magical time in India!

Meals: Breakfast