Vanakkam-Welcome to South India
Tropical South India – Nature, Culture & Temple Architecture
Chennai • Mahabalipuram • Pondicherry • Tanjore • Chettinad • Madurai • Periyar • Kumarakom • Kochi • Mysore • Hassan
Embark on a meticulously curated 20-day journey exploring the culturally rich and diverse landscapes of South India. This immersive itinerary traverses the architectural marvels of the Pallava and Chola dynasties in Tamil Nadu, the serene, palm-fringed backwaters of Kerala, and the royal heritage of Karnataka. Travelers will experience a seamless blend of history, spirituality, and tranquility through exclusive stays in eco-resorts, traditional Chettiar mansions, and a private houseboat. The expedition culminates in the regal splendor of Mysore and the modern vibrancy of Bangalore, offering an unforgettable exploration of the region’s sweeping beauty and rich traditions.
Shore Temple, Mahabalipuram
Day 01
Arrival in Mumbai
Arrive late in the evening at the bustling metropolis of Mumbai, where you will be warmly welcomed by a Mondial Trails representative. You will be swiftly transferred to a comfortable hotel located conveniently near the domestic airport. This brief overnight stay provides the perfect opportunity to rest and rejuvenate after your international flight. It sets a relaxed pace before officially commencing your sweeping journey across the southern states the following morning.
Day 02
Mumbai to Chennai and drive to Mahabalipuram
Begin the morning with a transfer to the domestic airport for your flight from Mumbai to Chennai. Upon arrival, a representative will greet you and guide you through an introductory tour of the coastal city of Chennai. Afterward, enjoy a scenic drive to the historic town of Mahabalipuram, where you will check in to the Ideal Beach Resort. The evening is yours to relax by the sea and prepare for tomorrow’s exploration of ancient monuments.
Day 03
Mahabalipuram and Kanchipuram
Discover the magnificent 7th-century granite monuments built by the Pallava dynasty, including the iconic Shore Temple, majestic rock bas-reliefs, and intricately sculpted monolithic chariots. In the afternoon, take an optional excursion to Kanchipuram, renowned as the city of a thousand temples and one of Hinduism’s seven sacred cities. Here, you can marvel at the impressive Ekambaresvara temple, another monumental legacy of the Pallava kings. Return to the Ideal Beach Resort in Mahabalipuram for a restful evening.
Shore Temple in Mahabalipuram
French colonial city Pondicherry
Brihadisvara Temple World Heritage monument
Ranganathaswamy Temple in Trichy and Srirangam
Heritage mansion stay in Chettinad
Meenakshi Temple evening ceremony
Wildlife sanctuary and spice plantations in Periyar
Houseboat cruise in backwaters
Chinese fishing nets, historic synagogue
Kathakali performance in Cochin
Mysore Maharaja’s Palace and
Hoysala temples in Belur and Halebid
Day 04
Mahabalipuram to Pondicherry
Travel by road to the charming former French settlement of Pondicherry and check into the hotel. The afternoon is dedicated to exploring the city, starting with the Sri Aurobindo Ashram, founded by the revered philosopher and his French collaborator, who envisioned the international university city of “Auroville”. Afterward, stroll through the picturesque French Quarter to admire well-preserved landmarks. You will see the Dupleix residence, the French high school, the Joan of Arc statue, and the World War I memorial.
Day 05
Pondicherry to Kumbakonam
Depart for Chidambaram to visit the remarkable Nataraja temple, a sacred complex characteristic of Dravidian India where Shiva is worshipped as the cosmic dancer. Continue to Gangaikonda Cholapuram to admire the magnificent Shiva temple built by a powerful Chola king, renowned for its rich architectural sculptures. Later, arrive in Kumbakonam to visit a stunning temple dedicated to Vishnu. Overnight near Kumbakonam.
Day 06
Kumbakonam to Tanjore
Following breakfast, travel to Tanjore to explore the ancient Chola capital and the monumental Brihadisvara Temple, a masterpiece of Dravidian architecture. Marvel at the temple’s refined details, including its beautiful gopurams, double enclosure, surprising monolithic dome, and courtyard frescoes. Later, visit the Tanjore Museum and Saraswati Mahal, which houses an exquisite collection of 11th and 12th-century Chola bronze statues. Spend a relaxing afternoon unwinding at the hotel in Tanjore.
Brihadeswara Temple, Tanjore
Maheshwar
Day 07
Tanjore and Trichy Excursion
Embark on an excursion to Trichy, stopping first at the sacred island of Srirangam, bordered by the Kaveri River. Here, you will explore the lively Ranganathaswamy Temple, adorned with 21 magnificent gopurams featuring mythological statues and bustling with pilgrims. Continue to the industrial city of Trichy to visit the Ganesh temple perched atop the Rock Fort. From this elevated vantage point, enjoy spectacular views of the surrounding rice paddies and Srirangam island before returning to Tanjore.
Day 08
Tanjore to Chettinad
Journey into the heart of Chettinad, a culturally rich region gradually opening up to tourism. This area was once dominated by a wealthy community of bankers known as the Chettiars, who built magnificent, palatial homes throughout the region. Though many Chettiars have relocated to larger cities, they left behind a stunning architectural heritage. You will stay overnight in one of these beautiful heritage mansions, with ample free time to enjoy local activities.
Day 09
Chettinad to Madurai
Enjoy a leisurely morning in Chettinad to relax or pursue independent activities around your heritage property. In the afternoon, continue your journey by road to the vibrant, ancient city of Madurai and check into the Hotel. Later, visit the Thiruparankundram temple, a fascinating site situated off the traditional tourist circuit. This specific temple visit offers a highly interesting cultural experience, highlighted by its traditional Vedic school.
Day 10
Madurai
Spend the day exploring Madurai, beginning with the enormous 17th-century Meenakshi Temple, renowned for its towering gopurams and rich lotus iconography symbolizing purity and divine joy. Proceed to the 17th-century Thirumalai Nayak Palace, which beautifully showcases the influence of Mughal art on traditional local architecture. Enjoy free time to wander through the local market, famous for its exquisite silk and carved wooden sculptures. In the evening, return to the temple to witness the sacred ceremony of putting Shiva to rest in his wife Meenakshi’s sanctuary.
Day 11
Madurai to Periyar
After breakfast, drive toward the small town of Thekkady, located near the expansive 777-square-kilometer Periyar National Park in the heart of the spice plantations. This vast nature reserve offers excellent opportunities to spot native wildlife, including elephants, gaurs, antelopes, and monkeys. You will also have the option to visit lush spice gardens showcasing the dozens of spices that make Kerala famous. Check into the the hotel.
Day 12
Periyar to Kumarakom
Depart by road for Kumarakom, traversing breathtaking Kerala landscapes that alternate between vast plains and endless rice paddies. Kumarakom is celebrated for its lush greenery and serene atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for relaxation. Upon arrival, you can choose to rent a small boat to navigate the network of wide and narrow canals, observing the daily life of the local residents. Settle into the hotel for a peaceful overnight stay.
Kerala spices
White temple Chiang Rai
Day 13
Kumarakom
Dedicate this entire day to complete relaxation and rejuvenation amidst the tranquil surroundings of Kumarakom. You may opt to rent a traditional boat for a leisurely ride through the intricate network of small backwater canals, witnessing authentic Keralan village activities. Alternatively, you can book a deeply restorative traditional Ayurvedic massage to soothe the mind and body. Spend another comfortable night enjoying the amenities at the hotel.
Day 14
Kumarakom to Houseboat
After breakfast, board a traditional houseboat for a captivating cruise through the famous Kerala backwaters. Navigate a vast network of lagoons, lakes, rivers, and canals fringed with coconut palms and punctuated by traditional Chinese fishing nets. Discover the unique lifestyle of local villagers who live on narrow strips of land and sustain themselves through fishing and transporting goods like coir, copra, and cashews. Enjoy a freshly prepared dinner and a uniquely peaceful overnight stay on board the boat.
Day 15
Houseboat to Cochin
Enjoy breakfast on board before disembarking in Alleppey in the late morning. Continue by road to Cochin, the bustling commercial capital of Kerala. In the afternoon, enjoy free time to stroll through the vibrant Fort Kochi market, also known as the Jews Market. Take a picturesque walk near the iconic Chinese fishing nets at sunset, or optionally rent a boat to visit the nearby islands and fishing ports.
Day 16
Cochin
Explore the historic Fort Cochin area, admiring its famous Chinese fishing nets and charming old quarters filled with numerous antique shops. Visit the beautifully preserved 16th-century synagogue and the historic Dutch Palace to uncover the city’s multi-layered colonial past. In the evening, immerse yourself in traditional Keralan culture by visiting a local Kathakali dance school. Here, you will have the unique opportunity to watch the intricate makeup and mask preparation before the theatrical performance.
Day 17
Cochin to Mysore via Calicut
Start the day with an early transfer to the Ernakulam railway station to board the scenic train journey to Calicut. Arrive in Calicut, where you will be warmly greeted by your driver for the onward journey. Embark on a picturesque drive transitioning from the coastal state of Kerala into the royal state of Karnataka. Arrive in the historic city of Mysore and check into the hotel
Day 18
Mysore
Discover Mysore, a city that retains a provincial charm and the lingering magnificence of the Maharaja era. Explore the grandiose Maharaja’s Palace, featuring fluted pillars, stained glass ceilings, massive silver doors, and a legendary solid gold throne encrusted with diamonds. Later, ascend the 1,000 steps of the 300-year-old Chamundi Hills, guarded by a massive 5-meter monolithic Nandi bull. At the summit, visit the 2,000-year-old Chamundeshwari temple, dedicated to the royal family’s tutelary goddess, before returning to the hotel.
Sanchi stupa
White temple Chiang Rai
Day 19
Mysore to Hassan
Depart for Hassan, stopping en route at Srirangapatna, the former island capital of Tipu Sultan, known as the Tiger of Bengal. Visit the elegant Dariya Mahal palace, set within vast gardens on the banks of the Kaveri River. After arriving at the Hoysala Village Resort in Hassan, take an afternoon excursion to Halebid and Belur. Marvel at the Hoysaleshwara temple’s Ramayana carvings in Halebid and the intricately sculpted 12th-century Chennakeshava temple in Belur.
Day 20
Hassan to Bangalore and Departure
Drive towards Bangalore, stopping at the Jain pilgrimage center of Shravanabelagola to climb 600 steps to the magnificent 17-meter Gomateshwara statue. Arrive in Bangalore, a city once favored for its pleasant climate that now stands as an example of modern India with its booming IT and aeronautics industries. Enjoy an afternoon city tour to witness its vibrant blend of parks and modern development. Conclude your journey with a farewell dinner before transferring to the international airport for your late-night departure flight to Paris.