Pearls of South India

Upon your arrival in Kochi, our friendly agent will warmly welcome you and escort you to your comfortable hotel in the city. After checking in and taking some time to refresh, and then you will set out to explore the vibrant and historical city of Kochi.

You will start your sightseeing tour with a visit to Fort Kochi, a popular area in Cochin where the remnants of colonial history come alive. Here, you are free to stroll through the quaint streets lined with charming buildings that showcase a blend of Dutch, Portuguese, and British architectural styles.

At Fort Kochi, you must also visit the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets, which are a tribute to the unique and historical method of fishing introduced by the Chinese traders in the 15^th century.

Next, you will head towards the St. Francis Church, which is the oldest European Church in India. This church holds significant historical value as it is the original burial site of the great Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama, who discovered India. This will be followed by a visit to the Santa Cruz Basilica, another popular church in Kochi, that is known for its stunning architecture and beautiful frescoes.

From there, you will proceed towards the Mattancherry Palace, which is also known as the Dutch Palace. This 16^th century palace features exquisite murals depicting scenes from the Ramayana and Mahabharata, providing a fascinating glimpse into Kerala’s regal history.

After this, you will set off to explore the vibrant Jew Town, that is home to the Paradesi Synagogue, the oldest active synagogue in the Commonwealth of Nations. Here, you are free to shop and soak in the local atmosphere that is lined with antique shops, spice markets, and exotic cafes.

After a leisurely lunch at a local restaurant (at your own expense), you will visit the Kerala Folklore Museum. This cultural museum houses an extensive collection of artifacts, traditional costumes, and folk art, providing deep insights into the rich heritage and traditions of Kerala.

As the evening approaches, you will take a leisurely walk along the Marine Drive promenade to enjoy the cool breeze and stunning views of the backwaters during sunset.

Later, you will conclude the day’s sightseeing by returning to your cozy hotel to relish a delectable dinner and enjoy a restful night’s sleep.

After a delicious breakfast, embark on an enchanting journey to Munnar. As you leave the coastal town behind, the landscape gradually transforms into lush greenery, featuring rolling hills and sprawling tea plantations.

On your way to Munnar, you will take a brief stop at the enchanting Cheeyappara and Valara waterfalls that are nestled amidst intriguing dense forests. Here, enjoy the cool mist and take some amazing photographs to capture the beauty of the cascading waterfalls.

Soon, you will bid farewell to the waterfalls and continue your journey to Munnar, where you will check into your cozy hotel to refresh and to grab a little rest.

After some relaxation, you will embark on a captivating sightseeing tour of Munnar, starting with a visit to the Mattupetty Dam, which is a beautiful reservoir that is surrounded by lush green hills and forests.

Next, you will visit the Echo Point, which is known for its unique echo phenomenon. Here, you can shout out and hear your voice reverberate through the hills, making it a delightful experience. Moreover, the scenic views of the surrounding hills and the lake make it an excellent spot for photography and relaxation.

Lastly, you will conclude your day’s sightseeing with a visit to the Kundala Lake, which is another beautiful lake which offers you an opportunity to enjoy a peaceful pedal boat ride (but at your own expense). Here, you will witness a mesmerizing sunset on its tranquil waters.

Later, return to your hotel to savour a delicious traditional dinner and to have a restful night’s sleep.

Wake up to the refreshing mountain air of Munnar and relish a hearty breakfast at your hotel. Then you will set off to explore various captivating attractions in Munnar like the Eravikulam National Park, Nayamakad Waterfalls, the Tea Museum, Carmelagiri Elephant Park, and the Botanical Gardens.

You will start with a visit to the Eravikulam National Park, which is a wildlife sanctuary that was established to protect the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. This park is especially worth a visit during the blooming season of the Neelakurinji flowers, which blanket the hillsides in vibrant blue hues every twelve years, with the last recorded bloom in 2018. The park is also known for its rolling hills and lush grasslands, offering panoramic views of the Western Ghats. Here, you will be able to spot the Nilgiri Tahr as well as a few other wild animals in its natural habitat.

After this, you will proceed towards the Nayamakad Waterfall, which is a beautiful waterfall surrounded by verdant greenery. This mesmerizing waterfall tumbles down from a height of about 1600 meters, providing a scenic and a tranquil setting to capture the nature’s beauty.

Next, you will visit the Tea Museum of Munnar, where you will have a wonderful opportunity of taking a dive into the history and the process of tea production. Here, you can also participate in a tea-tasting session to sample some of the finest local brews and then purchase your preferred tea as a souvenir.

After immersing yourself in the world of tea, you will head to the Carmelagiri Elephant Park to experience the thrill of an elephant ride through Munnar’s beautiful greenery (but at your own expense). The park also offers various opportunities to feed and interact with the elephants, making it a memorable experience for visitors of all ages.

This will be followed by a visit to the Botanical Gardens, which is a beautifully landscaped area that is home to a wide variety of flora, including vibrant flower beds, ornamental plants, and rare species of trees & shrubs. Here, you can take a leisurely stroll among the colourful flowers, and spend some quality time amidst the aromatic air.

Later, you will return to your hotel to savour a delectable traditional dinner and to enjoy a peaceful night’s sleep

Today, we recommend you to wake up a bit early to a fresh new day in Munnar, enjoy a delicious breakfast, and then you will embark on a 4 hour drive to Alleppey, which is a popular town that is known for its enchanting backwaters and is often referred to as the ‘Venice of the East’.

Upon your arrival in Alleppey, you will check-in to your luxurious houseboat, that is equipped with all modern amenities for a comfortable and memorable stay. Once you settle into your cozy cabin, prepare for an unforgettable cruise on the tranquil backwaters. As the houseboat glides gently, admire the lush paddy fields, swaying coconut palms, and quaint villages lining the banks.

Soon, you will be served a delicious lunch prepared by an experienced chef using farm-fresh ingredients and local flavours to provide a delightful culinary experience. As you continue to cruise through the narrow canals and expansive lakes, you’ll gain a glimpse into the rustic lifestyle of the communities thriving along these backwaters.

As dusk approaches, you can relax on the deck and enjoy the enchanting sunset over the shimmering golden waters, while sipping on a cup of tea or coffee.

After sunset, feel free to relax in your cabin. Later, indulge in a sumptuous dinner on the houseboat and conclude your day with a peaceful night’s sleep.

Wake up to the gentle sounds of the backwaters and enjoy a delectable breakfast on your houseboat. After breakfast, bid farewell to the tranquil waters of Alleppey and embark on a scenic drive to Kovalam, which is a coastal town known for its crescent-shaped beaches and vibrant atmosphere.

On the way to Kovalam, you’ll make a brief halt at Thiruvananthapuram to visit the renowned Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple that is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. This ancient temple is an architectural marvel and is counted among the richest temples in the world. Here, you’ll not only receive the divine blessings of Lord Vishnu but will also be amazed by the intricate stone carvings, towering gopurams (gateway towers), and the serene ambiance that makes it a must-visit for spiritual and architectural enthusiasts. Please note: Entry to the temple is restricted to Hindus, and pilgrims need to follow a strict dress code.

After seeking the blessings of the divine, you will continue your journey to Kovalam, where you’ll check in to your cozy beachside hotel to rest and freshen up.

Soon, you will begin your exploration of Kovalam with a visit to the iconic Kovalam Beach, which is a cluster of three adjacent crescent-shaped beaches – the Lighthouse Beach, Hawa Beach, and Samudra Beach.

Firstly, you will visit the Lighthouse Beach, which has been named after the old Vizhinjam Lighthouse that stands tall on a rocky promontory adjoining the beach. Here, you can climb to the top of the lighthouse to soak in the panoramic views of the Arabian Sea and the surrounding coastline.

This will be followed by a visit to the Hawa Beach, which is also known as the Eve’s Beach and is renowned for its lively atmosphere and picturesque sunset views. Here, you can spend some quality time on the soft golden sands, take a dip in the clear blue waters, or simply relax under the shade of a palm tree. You can also try some local snacks from popular beachside vendors, but at your own expense.

Next, you will proceed towards the Samudra Beach, which is a less crowded beach that is known for its rocky outcrops and calm waves, making it ideal for a peaceful walk or quiet reflection by the sea.

After soaking in the beach vibes, head to the Halcyon Castle, which is also known as the Kovalam Palace. This beautiful palace was built in 1932 by M.R.Ry Sri Rama Varma Valiya Koil Thampuran, the husband of Maharani Sethu Lakshmi Bayi, as a retreat for their family. The palace was later sold to the Kerala Government in 1964 and is now a luxurious heritage hotel. The palace is surrounded by lush gardens and offers stunning views of the Arabian Sea.

Finally, you will conclude your day’s exploration by returning to your beachside hotel to enjoy a delicious dinner and a restful night’s sleep.

Wake up to a beautiful view of the Arabian Sea, relish a delightful breakfast, and then you will begin your journey to Kanyakumari, which is the southernmost tip of India.

En route Kanyakumari, you will take a detour to visit the Poovar Island, which is a tranquil spot where the Neyyar River and the Poovar Lake meet the Arabian Sea. Here, enjoy a captivating boat ride through serene backwaters, surrounded by lush mangroves and golden sands.

After spending some quality time exploring the Poovar Island, you will depart for Kanyakumari. Upon your arrival in Kanyakumari, you will check into your hotel and take some time to freshen up. After grabbing some rest, you will step out to visit the Vivekananda Rock Memorial, which is situated on a small island just off the coast. You will take a short boat ride to reach this memorial that is dedicated to the great philosopher Swami Vivekananda. Nearby, you will also see the towering statue of the great Tamil poet, Thiruvalluvar.

After spending some quality time there, you will return to the mainland to explore the vibrant town of Kanyakumari, that is renowned for its unique geographical location where the Arabian Sea, the Bay of Bengal, and the Indian Ocean converge. Here, you will take a leisurely walk along the coast to experience the confluence of these waters and the gentle sea breeze.

As the day winds down, you will Soon witness a spectacular sunset. After this, return to your hotel to enjoy a scrumptious dinner featuring authentic local South Indian cuisine. Later, settle in for a peaceful night’s sleep.

Today, we recommend you to rise early to witness the captivating sunrise at the Sunrise Point, where the sun’s rays paint the sky with vibrant hues over the sea. After this enchanting experience, return to your hotel to freshen up and enjoy a delicious breakfast.

After breakfast, you will begin your day’s exploration with a visit to the Kanyakumari Amman Temple, that is also known as the Bhagavathy Amman Temple. This revered temple is one of the 108 Shakti Peethas and is dedicated to Goddess Kanyakumari, an incarnation of Goddess Parvati as an adolescent girl. Located near the southernmost tip of India, this ancient temple offers stunning ocean views and holds significant spiritual and historical importance. Legends say that Goddess Kanyakumari performed penance here to marry Lord Shiva, but the marriage was called off, leaving the grains meant for the feast to turn into stones, which can still be seen on the shore.

Next, you will visit the Triveni Sangam, where the Bay of Bengal, Arabian Sea, and Indian Ocean converge. Here, you will observe the merging of three oceans and will notice the water with different colours. You may choose to bathe here as bathing here is believed to cleanse the soul and help attain moksha (nirvana).

After this, you will proceed to the Our Lady of Ransom Shrine, which is an impressive Gothic structure with a striking white facade against the blue ocean backdrop. This Catholic church is dedicated to the Goddess Virgin Mary, and features beautiful stained glass murals.

Follo Your visit to the church, you can take a leisurely walk along the Kanyakumari Pier to soak in the panoramic ocean views and to capture stunning photographs.

Optionally, you can spend some leisure time at the Kanyakumari Beach or climb the View Tower for a breathtaking 360-degree view of the surrounding seas and coastline. The rhythmic sound of waves and picturesque views provide a perfect setting to relax and unwind.

In the early afternoon, you will bid farewell to Kanyakumari and embark on a scenic journey to Rameshwaram. En route, marvel at the spectacular Pamban Road Bridge, which spans the Bay of Bengal. Here, enjoy the panoramic views of the deep blue sea on both sides as you cross this iconic bridge, eventually reaching the Pamban Island.

Upon your arrival in Rameshwaram, you will check into your hotel to savour a delicious dinner, and to enjoy a restful night’s sleep.

Today, we recommend you to wake up a bit early to make the most of your time, as there’s a lot to explore.

After a refreshing start, have a delicious breakfast, and then begin your exploration of Rameshwaram with a visit to the Sri Arulmigu Ramanathaswamy Temple. This temple is a jyotirlingam and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The Rameshwaram temple is considered as one of the holiest temples in India and is a key part of the Char Dham pilgrimage. Here, you will not only be blessed by Lord Shiva, but will also marvel at its magnificent corridors, intricately carved pillars, and 22 sacred wells (which are believed to possess different medicinal properties).

Next, visit the peaceful Agni Teertham, which is one of the 64 sacred baths in India. Pilgrims perform various rituals here, and it is believed that taking a dip in these waters absolves one of sins. So, we recommend you to take a bath here as well. In addition to the holy bath here, you can also take a contemplative stroll or on the beach near the Agni Teertham to refresh your soul with the soothing sounds of the sea.

From here, you will head towards Dhanushkodi, where the Bay of Bengal and the Indian Ocean converge. According to legend, this is the place where Lord Rama built the Rama Setu (a bridge to Lanka (present-day Sri Lanka)), to rescue his wife Sita from the demon king Ravana. Dhanushkodi, was once a thriving town that was devastated by a cyclone in 1964, leaving behind a hauntingly beautiful landscape. Here, you can enjoy some time playing in the waters at the Dhanushkodi beach, but exercise caution and avoid venturing too far into the ocean.

After exploring Dhanushkodi, you will embark on a journey to Madurai, where you will check into your hotel upon arrival to have a delicious dinner, and to have a restful night’s sleep.

Today, wake up and start your day early to make the most of your time in Madurai.

After a hearty breakfast, begin your sightseeing tour with a visit to the Shri Arulmigu Subramaniya Swami Temple, which is an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Murugan (Lord Kartikey), the Tamil God of War and Victory. This temple is a significant place of worship in Madurai and is known for its beautiful architecture, which is a wonderful representation of the Dravidian style. The most notable feature of the temple is its towering gopuram (gateway tower), that is richly decorated with colourful statues.

Next, you will head to the Arulmigu Koodal Azhagar Temple, which is among the oldest Vaishnavite temples in India. This ancient temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu in his incarnation as Koodal Azhagar. The temple’s scriptures and inscriptions provide invaluable insights into the religious and social life of its time, making it a key site for historical and theological study.

If time permits, you can choose to visit the St. Mary’s Cathedral, which is known for its remarkable Romanesque architecture that blends both European and Indian styles, reflecting the colonial past and the adaptation of Christianity into the local culture. This beautiful church is one of the most important Catholic shrines in Madurai, that serves as a peaceful sanctuary and a meeting ground for diverse cultural interactions.

After this, you will visit the Vandiyur Mariamman Teppakulam, which is a vast temple tank that is the site of the famous float festival, where the goddess Meenakshi and her consort, Lord Sundareshwarar, are taken around the tank on beautifully decorated floats during the Teppam festival.

Conclude your temple tour with a visit to the Arulmigu Kallalagar Kovil, another significant temple in Madurai dedicated to Lord Vishnu, depicted here as Lord Kallalagar. The intricate carvings and the colorful gopuram are visually stunning, making it a fitting culmination to your temple tour in Madurai.

As your day of sightseeing tour comes to an end, we will drop you at your preferred destination, be it the airport or the railway station to assist you with your onward journey back home with memories of a culturally rich and spiritually uplifting trip.