Coimbatore - Palani - Kodaikanal - Madurai - Rameshwaram - Tiruchendur - Kanyakumari - Trivandrum - Alleppey - Thekkady - Munnar - Kochi
A Journey from the Spiritual Plains of Tamil Nadu to the Emerald Backwaters of Kerala
Welcome to your grand 13-day exploration of South India! Upon your arrival at Coimbatore Airport or Railway Station, our representative will greet you. We begin our expedition by driving towards Palani, one of the most sacred pilgrimage sites for devotees of Lord Murugan. You will visit the Arulmigu Dhandayuthapani Swamy Temple, situated atop a hill. The climb via the winch or cable car provides a panoramic view of the vast plains of Tamil Nadu.
After receiving divine blessings, we start our ascent to the "Princess of Hill Stations," Kodaikanal. The drive through the winding ghat roads of the Western Ghats is refreshing, with cool breezes and mist-covered peaks. Once we arrive, check into your resort and spend the evening relaxing by the serene Kodaikanal Lake. This is the perfect start to a long and beautiful journey. Overnight stay in Kodaikanal.
After a healthy breakfast, get ready for a full day of sightseeing in Kodaikanal. We begin with Coaker’s Walk, where you can walk along the edge of the mountain for breathtaking views. Next, we visit Bryant Park, a beautifully maintained botanical garden. Our journey continues to the iconic Pillar Rocks, three massive granite pillars standing tall against the sky. We also visit the mysterious Guna Caves and the refreshing Pine Forests.
In the afternoon, we head to Green Valley View, which offers a deep bird's-eye view of the Vaigai Dam. The highlight of the day is the star-shaped Kodai Lake, where you can enjoy boating or cycling. This day is dedicated to experiencing the natural beauty and tranquility that the hills of Tamil Nadu offer. Overnight stay in Kodaikanal.
Today, we descend from the hills and head towards Madurai, the cultural capital of Tamil Nadu. Known as the "Athens of the East," Madurai is home to incredible history. Upon arrival, check into your hotel. In the evening, we visit the legendary Meenakshi Amman Temple, a masterpiece of Dravidian architecture with its towering gopurams and the "Hall of Thousand Pillars."
Witness the intricate stone carvings and the vibrant religious life of the city. Later, visit the Thirumalai Nayakkar Mahal, an Indo-Saracenic style palace built in the 17th century. The grandeur of the giant white pillars will leave you in awe. In the evening, explore the bustling markets around the temple. Overnight stay in Madurai.
After breakfast, we drive towards the holy island of Rameshwaram. The highlight of this drive is crossing the historic Pamban Bridge, which offers a stunning view of the Indian Ocean. Rameshwaram is a vital pilgrimage site and holds great significance in Indian mythology. Upon arrival, visit the Ramanathaswamy Temple, famous for its magnificent corridors—the longest in the world.
Before entering the temple, take a holy dip in the 22 Theerthams (holy wells) and the Agni Theertham sea shore. In the afternoon, visit Lakshmana Tirtham and other local shrines. The spiritual vibrations of this island are truly unique. Overnight stay in Rameshwaram.
Start your morning with a visit to Dhanushkodi, the ghost town at the southeastern tip of India. Here, you can stand at the confluence of the Bay of Bengal and the Indian Ocean. The ruins of the town, destroyed in a 1964 cyclone, tell a hauntingly beautiful story. After exploring the "Ram Setu" point, we drive towards Tiruchendur.
Tiruchendur is home to the Subramanya Swamy Temple, the only one among the Six Abodes of Lord Murugan located on the seashore. Watching the sunset while the waves crash against the temple walls is a meditative experience. After a peaceful darshan, check into your hotel. Overnight stay in Tiruchendur.
After breakfast, we proceed towards the southernmost tip of mainland India, Kanyakumari. This place is famous for being the meeting point of three oceans. Upon arrival, take a ferry to the Vivekananda Rock Memorial and the 133-foot Thiruvalluvar Statue. The sight of the waves hitting the rocks is spectacular.
In the evening, visit the Kumari Amman Temple and the Gandhi Memorial. The day concludes with a breathtaking sunset view at the beach, where the sun appears to dip into the horizon where the three seas meet. Overnight stay in Kanyakumari.
Wake up early to witness the magnificent sunrise over the ocean. After breakfast, we bid farewell to Tamil Nadu and cross the border into Kerala. Enroute, we visit the 16th-century Padmanabhapuram Palace, a marvel of traditional wooden architecture. Upon reaching Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum), visit the world-renowned Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple.
Known for its gold treasures and strict traditions, this temple is a must-visit. Later, explore the Napier Museum and Kovalam Beach. Kovalam is one of the most beautiful beaches in India, perfect for a relaxing evening by the lighthouse. Overnight stay in Trivandrum.
Today, we head to Alleppey, the "Venice of the East." This is one of the most anticipated parts of the tour. Upon arrival, board a traditional Kerala Houseboat for an overnight cruise through the backwaters. As you glide through the canals, you can witness the rustic life of Kerala—paddy fields, coconut groves, and local life along the banks.
Enjoy freshly prepared Kerala meals on board. The serene environment and the gentle movement of the boat on the water provide a truly romantic and peaceful experience. Overnight stay in the Houseboat.
After breakfast on the houseboat, disembark and drive towards Thekkady. This journey takes you through the spice heartland of Kerala. Upon arrival, check into your hotel. In the afternoon, enjoy a boat safari on Periyar Lake, where you might spot wild elephants, deer, and exotic birds by the water's edge.
Later, take a guided tour through a Spice Plantation to see how cardamom, pepper, and coffee are grown. In the evening, witness a traditional Kathakali performance or Kalaripayattu (martial arts). Overnight stay in Thekkady.
We continue our drive through the Western Ghats to the stunning hill station of Munnar. Known for its vast tea estates, Munnar offers cool weather and breathtaking greenery. On the way, we stop at Cheeyappara and Valara Waterfalls. Upon arrival in Munnar, check into your hotel and enjoy the cool mountain air.
Munnar was once the summer resort for the British, and its colonial charm is still visible. Spend the evening at leisure, perhaps walking through the tea gardens near your resort. Overnight stay in Munnar.
A full day dedicated to the beauty of Munnar. Visit Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. Next, head to Mattupetty Dam and Echo Point, where your voice resonates through the valleys. We also visit Kundala Lake and the Tea Museum to learn about the history of tea production in the region.
The rolling hills covered in tea plantations provide endless photo opportunities. If you're lucky, you might see the Neelakurinji flowers (once in 12 years). This day is all about nature and tranquility. Overnight stay in Munnar.
After breakfast, we drive to our final destination, Kochi (Cochin). Kochi is a fascinating blend of Indian, Portuguese, Dutch, and British influences. Upon arrival, visit Fort Kochi, the Chinese Fishing Nets, and the Jewish Synagogue. The Dutch Palace (Mattancherry Palace) showcases beautiful murals and royal history.
In the evening, enjoy a sunset walk along the Kochi beach or watch a Kathakali performance if you missed it earlier. Kochi is also great for last-minute souvenir shopping. Overnight stay in Kochi.
On your final day, enjoy a leisurely breakfast. If time permits, visit the Lulu Mall for some modern shopping or take a quick drive to the Marine Drive. Our representative will then transfer you to Kochi International Airport or the Railway Station for your onward journey.
You leave with your heart full of memories, from the misty hills of Kodaikanal and Munnar to the sacred temples of Tamil Nadu and the peaceful backwaters of Kerala. Thank you for choosing South India Tours & Travels for your grand holiday!