Highlights of Kerala South Indian Explorer
SOUTH INDIAN EXPLORER
14 Nights / 15 Days
CHENNAI−MAHABALIPURAM−PONDICHERRY−TANJAVU−TRICHY− MADURAI−KANYAKUMARI−KOVALAM−ALLEPPEY−COCHIN
Chennai, the capital of Tamil Nadu is the 4th largest city in India and a major commercial centre in South India. This city was the first British major settlement in India. Enjoy a tour of the city covering Kapaleeshwarar Temple, San Thome Cathedral, Fort St. George & the Fort Museum.
The small seaside town of Mahabalipuram, offers a beautiful beach spanning 20 Kms. The 7th century town is famous for its rock hewn temples, sculptures and the world's largest stone basalt relief. Enjoy a tour covering Arjuna's Penance, Krishna Mandapam, the Five Rathas and the Shore Temple.
Kanchipuram, the city of 1000 temples is one of the most sacred Hindu pilgrim centres. The city was the capital of the early Cholas till the 2nd century BC and a Pallava capital between the 6th & 8th centuries. You will visit the many famous local temples.
A former French colony, Pondicherry is a unique fusion of Indian and French cultures. A 32 Kms. long coastline set by a charming French Boulevard town.
The ‘rice bowl’ of Tamil Nadu, Thanjavur is a bustling country town and the home of Carnatic music, musical instruments, dance and traditional handicrafts. It has the distinction of having been the capital of the Cholas - one of the greatest dynasties of the South. Visit Brihadishwara Temple, Palace and the world famous Thanjavur paintings.
Situated on the banks of the river Cauvery, Trichy is the 4th largest city in Tamil Nadu with a fine blend of tradition and modernity built around the Rock Fort. En route visit Srirangam, known for its Vishnavite Temple dedicated to Lord Ranganathaswamy, and the Rock Fort Temple itself.
Situated on the banks of River Vaigai, Madurai is one of India’s most ancient cities with a history dating back to the 6th century. It was the capital of the Pandyan Empire in the 14th century. Madurai was the seat of Tamil learning and the last of the Tamil Sangams (academies) flourished here nearly 2000 years ago. Visit the Meenakshi Temple, with its towering gopurams and rare sculptures.
Visit Tirumalai Nayak Palace, Gandhi Museum and Meenakshi Temple.
Kanyakumari (referred to as Cape Commorin by the British), is the southernmost point of the peninsular and the meeting point of three oceans- the Bay of Bengal, India Arabian Sea and the Indian Ocean. Kanyakumari was once referred to as the Alexandria of the east.
En route to Kovalam visit Sucheendram Temple; a well-known temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Padmanabhapuram palace, the summer residence of the erstwhile Rajas of Travancore.
The palm-fringed beach of Kovalam is one of the most famous in India with the boundless blue waters of the Arabian Sea and miles of white sands.
Trivandrum, the capital city of Kerala, still preserves the ancient roots of Keralan life. Visit Padmanabhaswamy temple and the Horse Palace - a magnificent wooden palace constructed by the Travancore king in 18th century.
On arrival at Alleppey, board a Houseboat for an overnight cruise up to Kumarakom. Cruise through the palm fringed canals; Cruise until the evening when the houseboat will rest in the lake for an overnight stay. Evening, candlelit dinner onboard.
Cochin, the commercial capital of Kerala, is located on the cluster of islands and narrow peninsulas. Enjoy winding streets packed with 500 year old Portuguese houses. The city is also home to 16th century Synagogue as the city is home to a Jewish community whose roots go back to the Diaspora.
After breakfast you will transferred to the Cochin International airport in time for you return flight.