14 Days South India Beaches and Heritage

After breakfast, you will explore the key sights in Mahabalipuram. The Shore Temple, an architectural marvel built in the 7th century, is one of the main attractions. Other fascinating sights include Arjuna’s Penance, a massive rock relief, and the Pancha Rathas, five monolithic temples. After touring the historical landmarks, you’ll proceed to Pondicherry, which is a short two-hour drive away. Once in Pondicherry, check into your hotel and enjoy the evening by walking along the beautiful beaches or through the French Quarter, which is filled with colonial-style architecture. You’ll enjoy a delicious dinner and overnight stay in Pondicherry.

Pondicherry, which has seen the influence of French, Portuguese, Dutch, and English rulers, offers a unique blend of Tamil and French cultures. After breakfast, you’ll visit the Pondicherry Museum, showcasing the city’s history and cultural heritage. You’ll also see the French War Memorial, Aayi Mandapam, and the beautiful Promenade beach. The Sri Aurobindo Ashram, a spiritual center, is another highlight, offering a tranquil atmosphere. After exploring the city, enjoy a leisurely evening and have dinner at your hotel. Stay overnight in Pondicherry.

After checking out from your hotel, you will head towards Kumbakonam, which is famous for its ancient temples. On the way, you’ll stop at Pichavaram, one of the largest mangrove forests in the world. You will embark on a scenic boat ride through the forest, enjoying the lush greenery and spotting local wildlife. Once you arrive in Kumbakonam, check into your hotel and relax for the evening. Enjoy a calm dinner and overnight stay in this historic town.

The day will be spent exploring Kumbakonam, which is known as the "Temple Town." First, you’ll visit the Darasuram Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the finest examples of Chola architecture, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Afterward, you’ll visit other significant temples like the Kumbeswara Temple, Sarangapani Temple, and Ramaswamy Temple. If you’re in town during the Mahamaham festival, you may have the chance to participate in this grand celebration. After a day of exploration, you’ll enjoy dinner and stay overnight at your hotel.

You will begin your day with breakfast at your hotel and then check out to head to Madurai, one of the oldest cities in India. Known for its rich Tamil culture and history, Madurai is home to the Meenakshi Temple, a stunning example of Dravidian architecture. After checking into your hotel in Madurai, you will head to the Meenakshi Temple for the evening Aarti ceremony, a spiritual and mesmerizing ritual. Afterward, enjoy the glowing lights of the city at night. Return to your hotel for dinner and overnight stay.

You will spend the morning exploring Madurai in more detail. You’ll visit the Meenakshi Temple, an architectural gem dedicated to Goddess Meenakshi, and the Tirumala Nayak Palace, an Indo-Saracenic style palace with magnificent domes and arches. Later, you will head to the Gandhi Memorial Museum, housed in the historic Tamukkam Palace, to learn about the life and legacy of Mahatma Gandhi. The museum features an array of exhibits, including the blood-stained cloth worn by Gandhi when he was assassinated. After a day of sightseeing, you will have dinner and stay overnight in Madurai.

After a hearty breakfast, you’ll check out and drive to Thekkady, the spice capital of India. On the way, you’ll visit the Grape Vineyards in Cumbum Valley. This is a unique experience, where you’ll learn about grape cultivation and have the chance to shop for fresh wine. Upon arriving in Thekkady, check in at your resort and spend the afternoon exploring the spice markets or relaxing. In the evening, you’ll witness a traditional Kathakali dance performance, which is a colorful and dramatic art form. You can also watch a demonstration of Kalaripayattu, an ancient martial art. Enjoy dinner and stay overnight in Thekkady.

This day will focus on wildlife and nature. After breakfast, you’ll enjoy a boat safari in the Periyar National Park. You will have the chance to spot elephants, tigers, and various bird species. The park’s lush greenery and serene atmosphere make it an ideal location for nature lovers. Afterward, you’ll visit the spice plantations, where you can learn about and smell the various spices like cardamom, cinnamon, and pepper. After your nature-filled day, you’ll return to your resort for dinner and overnight stay.

After breakfast, you’ll check out and head to Alleppey to explore Kerala’s famous backwaters. The journey will take you to a houseboat cruise in the serene backwaters. Your boat, a Kettuvallam, is a traditional rice barge with modern amenities. It includes a crew that will cater to your needs throughout the cruise. You’ll enjoy freshly prepared Kerala-style meals while cruising through the peaceful waterways, surrounded by lush greenery. The houseboat will stay overnight in the backwaters, allowing you to relax and take in the tranquility.

After breakfast on the houseboat, you’ll disembark and head to Alleppey Beach, where you can relax and soak in the sun. Next, you’ll visit the Coir Factory and Coir Museum to learn about the process of making coir, a natural fibre derived from coconuts. Afterward, you’ll drive to Marari Beach Resort, a beautiful beachside property known for its picturesque surroundings and serene atmosphere. You’ll check in, enjoy the rest of the day at leisure, and take a walk along the beach. Enjoy a delicious dinner at the resort and stay overnight.

After a morning yoga or meditation session at the resort, you’ll enjoy a hearty breakfast and then take part in a cooking demonstration. Learn how to prepare authentic Kerala dishes using the region’s aromatic spices. Afterward, you can explore the resort property on a bicycle tour, where you’ll discover the local culture and natural beauty. Spend the evening relaxing on Marari Beach, enjoying the golden sands and watching the sunset. After a full day of activities, you’ll have dinner and stay overnight at the resort.

Start your day with a morning yoga session to rejuvenate. After breakfast, indulge in an Ayurvedic treatment at the resort's Ayurvedic center. Kerala is famous for its Ayurvedic therapies, and you can enjoy a relaxing spa session (please note that Ayurvedic treatments are not included in the package cost). In the afternoon, you can explore the nearby village and experience the local way of life, either by strolling through the area or riding a bicycle. The evening will be spent watching the stunning sunset at the beach. Enjoy your final dinner at the resort and relax overnight.

On the final day of your journey, you’ll have breakfast at the resort and check out. You’ll then drive to Kochi Airport for your flight back home, concluding your enriching holiday in South India.