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Classical Southern India (Kerala & Tamil Nadu)
Journey from the temple towns of Tamil Nadu to the tea-covered hills and palm-fringed backwaters of Kerala, discovering some of Southern India’s greatest architecture, cuisine and culture along the way. Finish on the coast at Marari, with time to unwind by the beach.
- 16 Nights
- October – April
- India
- Authentic
Trip Overview
This journey through Tamil Nadu and Kerala brings together the great temples, colonial heritage and rich traditions of Southern India. Beginning in Chennai, travel down the Coromandel Coast to the former French enclave of Pondicherry, before heading inland to the grand merchant mansions of Chettinad and the magnificent Meenakshi Temple in Madurai. Along the way, explore UNESCO-listed temples, local crafts and markets, and enjoy the region’s distinctive cuisine.
The journey then climbs into the Western Ghats, with walks through the tea estates of Munnar and the spice plantations of Thekkady, and a jungle walk in Periyar National Park. From here, continue to the backwaters of Kumarakom and the historic port of Cochin, before finishing with a cruise aboard a traditional houseboat and time to relax on the beach at Marari
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Chennai (1 Night)
1 Night
Chennai
Arrival in Chennai
On arrival in Chennai, you will be met and transferred to the Taj Connemara to check in and relax. Later, head out with your guide to explore the city, with a walking tour of the historic Mylapore district, including the Kapaleeshwarar Temple.
Taj Connemara
Taj Connemara is one of Chennai’s oldest hotels, with a history dating back to 1854, and has something of a different character to the city’s more conventional luxury hotels
Learn MorePondicherry (2 Nights)
2 Nights
Pondicherry
Down the Coast to Pondicherry
After breakfast, drive south to Pondicherry, a journey of approximately four hours. En route, stop at Mahabalipuram to visit the Shore Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site overlooking the Bay of Bengal. On arrival, check in to Palais de Mahe and, in the evening, enjoy a stroll along the Promenade.
The French and Tamil Quarters
Spend the morning on a heritage walking tour of Pondicherry’s French and Tamil quarters, discovering the town’s distinctive blend of cultures. In the afternoon, take an excursion to Auroville to visit the Matrimandir and learn more about the community’s vision of human unity.
Palais de Mahe
Palais de Mahe is a small, characterful hotel in the French Quarter of Pondicherry, just 50 metres from the seafront promenade and the Bay of Bengal. Designed to resemble a traditional French colonial mansion, it has high ceilings, arched doorways, deep verandahs and ochre-yellow walls, with a lovely central courtyard and swimming pool.
Learn MoreChettinad (1 Night)
1 Night
Chettinad
Across Tamil Nadu to Chettinad
After breakfast, drive to Chettinad, a journey of approximately six hours. En route, stop at Kumbakonam to visit the Darasuram Temple and explore the area’s local arts and crafts, before taking a break for a traditional lunch at a local restaurant. On arrival, check in to Visalam and relax.
Visalam
Visalam is a handsome Chettinad mansion in the small town of Kanadukathan, near Karaikudi, which has been carefully restored as a 15-room heritage hotel. It was built by a wealthy Chettiar family, whose trading connections once stretched across South East Asia, and the house reflects the considerable influence and wealth they brought back to this part of Tamil Nadu.
Learn MoreMadurai (2 Nights)
2 Nights
Madurai
Chettinad Mansions and On to Madurai
Spend the morning exploring the villages of Chettinad and their grand mansions, before driving to Madurai, a journey of approximately three hours. On arrival, check in to Heritage Madurai. In the evening, witness the captivating night ceremony at the Meenakshi Temple.
Discovering Madurai
Spend the morning exploring Madurai, taking in its vibrant markets and the Thirumalai Nayak Palace. Return to the Meenakshi Temple to see it by daylight and admire the intricate Dravidian architecture of its towering gateways.
Heritage Madurai
Heritage Madurai occupies the grounds of the former Madurai Club, with the main clubhouse designed in the 1970s by the renowned Sri Lankan architect Geoffrey Bawa. It is a fine example of his tropical modernist style, using honey-coloured granite from the surrounding area, salvaged pillars and other local materials, with open courtyards and verandahs bringing the gardens into the buildings.
Learn MoreMunnar (2 Nights)
2 Nights
Munnar
Into the Tea Hills
Today, leave the plains behind and drive up into the hills to Munnar, a picturesque journey of approximately four and a half hours. On arrival, check in to Windermere Estate and, later, enjoy a leisurely walk through the surrounding tea plantations.
Exploring Munnar
Set out on a hike to the Letchmi Hills, followed by a visit to a British-era tea factory, with a walk through the estate and a tea-tasting session. The afternoon is at leisure.
Windermere Estate
Windermere Estate is more than just a retreat; it’s a window into the heart of Kerala’s highlands. Nestled amidst 55 acres of cardamom and coffee plantations, this family-owned property has been a part of Munnar’s landscape since the 1940s.
Learn MoreThekkady (1 Night)
1 Night
Thekkady
The Spice Gardens of Thekkady
After breakfast, drive to Thekkady, a journey of approximately three hours. After checking in to Spice Village, visit a nearby spice plantation with a local expert to learn how cardamom, pepper and coffee are grown.
Spice Village
Spice Village is not just a resort; it’s an ode to the traditions, ecology, and rich heritage of Kerala’s highlands. Located in Thekkady, on the doorstep of the renowned Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, this eco-friendly retreat immerses guests in the sights, sounds, and smells of the spice-scented hills.
Learn MoreKumarakom (2 Nights)
2 Nights
Kumarakom
Periyar and the Backwaters
Rise early for a jungle walk inside Periyar National Park, before driving to Kumarakom, a journey of approximately four and a half hours. On arrival, check in to Philipkutty’s Farm and spend the remainder of the day enjoying its lakeside setting.
Life on the Water
Spend the day exploring the village life of the surrounding lakeside communities. Later, join a cooking lesson, followed by a traditional Keralan meal at the farm.
Philipkutty’s Farm, Kerala Backwaters
Philipkutty’s Farm is a family-owned homestay situated on a private island in Kerala’s backwaters, near Vembanad Lake. Established in the early 1950s, the farm spans approximately 35 acres and is renowned for its sustainable and organic farming practices, cultivating crops such as coconut, banana, and various vegetables.
Learn MoreCochin (2 Nights)
2 Nights
Cochin
On to Cochin
Enjoy a morning at leisure before driving to Cochin, a journey of approximately two and a half hours. On arrival, check in to Brunton Boatyard and relax. In the evening, watch a spectacular Kathakali dance performance, arriving early to see the artists applying their elaborate make-up.
Historic Fort Cochin
Spend the morning on a heritage walking tour of Fort Cochin, taking in the Chinese fishing nets, St. Francis Church, the Mattancherry (Dutch) Palace and the Jewish Synagogue, with a stop for tea at Kashi Art Café.
Brunton Boatyard
Brunton Boatyard occupies a historic stretch of waterfront in Fort Kochi, on the site of the former boatyard of George Brunton & Sons, a prominent shipbuilding family in the 19th century.
Learn MoreMarari (3 Nights)
3 Nights
Marari
A Backwater Cruise
Today, drive to the jetty at Alleppey to board a traditional houseboat for a day cruise through the backwaters, with lunch served on board. Afterwards, continue to Marari Beach Resort.
Marari Harbour
Rise early for a tour of Marari Harbour and the local fishermen’s village by tuk-tuk. The rest of the day is at leisure to relax by the beach.
A Day at Leisure in Marari
Enjoy a final full day at your own pace. Relax on the coast or, if you would like to explore further, discover more of the unspoilt local life around Marari.
Marari Beach Resort, Alleppey
Marari Beach Resort is a serene coastal haven that captures the essence of Kerala’s traditional village life. Located near the quiet fishing village of Mararikulam, the resort sprawls across 30 acres of coconut groves, lily ponds, and lush gardens, offering a tranquil retreat just a short walk from the Arabian Sea.
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Indian Wildlife (FAQs) Need to Know
What cultural etiquette should I be aware of during my holiday in India?
Understanding local customs enhances your experience:
- Dress Modestly: Especially in religious sites; covering shoulders and knees is advisable.
- Remove Shoes: Before entering homes and temples.
- Right Hand Usage: Use your right hand for eating and giving or receiving items.
- Respect Traditions: Be mindful of local customs and practices, and always ask before taking photographs of people.
Being culturally sensitive enriches your interactions and shows respect for the local communities.
Do I need vaccinations to go to India?
Please follow the link below for up to date information
https://travelhealthpro.org.uk/countries/india#Vaccine_Recommendations
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Kerala itineraries (faqs)
What is the best time to visit Kerala?
The best time to travel is between November and March, when temperatures are comfortable and the monsoon rains have passed. This period is ideal for exploring the backwaters, walking in the hills, and enjoying Kerala’s coastline.
How does a houseboat fit into this Kerala itinerary?
A night or two aboard a traditional houseboat is woven into the journey — a quiet way to travel through the backwaters, passing villages, coconut groves and fishermen at work. It’s not a cruise, but a chance to absorb a different rhythm of life.
What should I pack for a Kerala itinerary?
Light, breathable clothing is best — plus a shawl or scarf for temple visits and a lightweight rain layer if you’re travelling near the start or end of the monsoon. Comfortable shoes are helpful for village walks and spice garden visits.
Do I need vaccinations for travel to Kerala?
Please follow the link below for up to date information,
https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/india/entry-requirements
What else is there to do in India?
Please follow the link below to see our other itineraries in India,