South India Explorer - 14 days

South India Explorer - 14 days

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14 Days From

$2685

South India Explorer - 14 days

14 Days Starting in Chennai, India and ending in Kochi, India

Visiting: Chennai, Mahabalipuram, Pondicherry, Thanjavur, Madurai, Trichy, Kochi, Munnar, Alleppey, Kumarakom

Tour operator:

On The Go Tours

Tour code:

2037/SIEX

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

2 - 24

Physical rating:

Low

Age range:

15-

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians, Please contact On The Go Tours with specific dietary requests

Tour operated in:

English

Trip Styles:

Sailing

Activities:

Sightseeing, Walking

From: $2685

NB: Prices correct on 23-Dec-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Embark on a captivating 14-day journey through South India, exploring its rich cultural tapestry and stunning landscapes. Begin in Chennai and traverse through the French colonial charm of Pondicherry, the ancient temples of Mahabalipuram, and the vibrant city of Tanjore. Experience the tranquil village life in Chettinad, renowned for its flavorful cuisine, and witness the spiritual fervor in Madurai. Discover the lush tea plantations of Munnar and the wildlife sanctuary of Periyar. Sail the serene Kerala backwaters on a deluxe rice boat, and conclude your adventure in the coastal city of Kochi. With guided tours, luxurious accommodations, and the option to witness traditional Kathakali dance, this small group tour offers an immersive cultural experience in the heart of India.

Highlights

  • Kerala Backwaters – Sail along the famous backwaters in a deluxe rice boat and enjoy marvelous views.

  • Visit the impressive Shore Temple on the Bay of Bengal and the striking Five Rathas in Mahabalipuram.

  • Relax on the shores of Lake Vembanad in Kumarakom and opt to visit the local bird sanctuary.

  • Attend an evening Aarti prayer ceremony in Madurai and see the impressive rock cut temple of Thirupparankunram Murugan.

  • Spot herds of elephants from an included boat ride on Lake Periyar at Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary.

  • Explore the giant 1,000-year-old Brihadishwara Temple in Tanjore.

  • Enjoy free time to explore the coastal city of Kochi and perhaps enjoy a traditional Kathakali dance show.

  • Tour the French colonial city of Pondicherry, including the Sacred Heart Basilica and a walk on the beach.

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1 : Chennai

Location: Chennai

Welcome to Southern India! On arrival in Chennai you'll be transferred to our hotel in Mahabalipuram where the rest of the day is at leisure.

Day 2 : Mahabalipuram

Location: Mahabalipuram

Meals Included: Breakfast

Enjoy a guided visit to see the plethora of temples at Kanchipuram and enjoy a guided tour of Mahabalipuram. See the beautiful Shore Temple, the largest bas-relief in the world at Arjuna's Penance and the Five Rathas. These temples were covered by sand until the British rediscovered them 200 years ago.

Day 3 : Pondicherry

Location: Pondicherry

Meals Included: Breakfast

Travel to Pondicherry today for a guided tour. Stroll along the beach and see the beautiful red and white Sacred Heart Basilica.

Day 4 : Thanjavur

Location: Thanjavur

Accommodation Name: overnight in Tanjore

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today we drive to Tanjore, with numerous stops en route. Visit the famous temple at Chidambaram and the iconic Airavateswara Temple before we arrive in Tanjore for an evening at leisure.

Day 5 : Madurai

Location: Madurai

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Today we tour the city of Tanjore including the towering Brihadishwara Temple. After the tour we drive to Madurai and attend the evening Aarti prayer at Meenakshi Temple.

Day 6 : Madurai

Location: Madurai

Meals Included: Breakfast

Enjoy a half day guided tour of Madurai including the rock-cut temple of Thirupparankunram Murugan and then explore the bustling local bazaar this evening.

Day 7 - 8 : Trichy

Location: Trichy

Accommodation Name: Overnight Train

Meals Included: Breakfast

Travel to Trichy and explore the iconic Rock Fort Temple, which sits on a hill overlooking the city. After our tour we board the overnight train to Kochi.

Day 9 : Munnar

Location: Munnar

Accommodation Name: Overnight: Kumily

Meals Included: Breakfast

Enjoy a guided tour of Fort Kochi and see the famous Chinese fishing nets and St Francis' Church. We then travel to the former hill station of Munnar and enjoy a guided stroll through a tea plantation on day 10. The rest of the day is at leisure.

Day 10 : Munnar

Location: Munnar

Accommodation Name: Overnight: Kumily

Meals Included: Breakfast

Enjoy a guided stroll through a tea plantation on day 10. The rest of the day is at leisure.

Day 11 : Alleppey

Location: Alleppey

Accommodation Name: Deluxe rice boat

Meals Included: Breakfast

Travel to Alleppey today and board our deluxe rice boat for a cruise along the lush Kerala Backwaters. Enjoy freshly prepared meals and the night onboard and admire your stunning surroundings as we sail.

Day 12 : Kumarakom

Location: Kumarakom

Accommodation Name: Overnight: Deluxe rice boat

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Disembark at Kumarakom for two free days to relax or explore. Opt to visit the Kumarakom bird sanctuary or take a boat ride on Lake Vembanad.

Day 13 : Kumarakom

Location: Kumarakom

Meals Included: Breakfast

Disembark at Kumarakom for two free days to relax or explore. Opt to visit the Kumarakom bird sanctuary or take a boat ride on Lake Vembanad.

Day 14 : Kochi

Location: Kochi

Meals Included: Breakfast

Return to Kochi this morning where our tour ends with an included airport transfer. Flights from Kochi should depart after 2pm.

What's Included

  • Accommodation
    3 - 4 star and heritage properties

  • 13 breakfasts, 1 lunch and 2 dinners

    Enjoy 13 breakfasts, 1 lunch, and 2 dinners during your tour.

  • 12 nights 3-4 star and heritage hotels

    Stay for 12 nights in 3-4 star and heritage hotels.

  • 1 night deluxe houseboat cruise along the Keralan backwaters

    Experience a 1-night deluxe houseboat cruise along the Keralan backwaters.

  • Guided sightseeing - Mahabalipuram, Pondicherry, Tanjore, Chettinad, Madurai and Munnar Tea Plantation

    Enjoy guided sightseeing tours in Mahabalipuram, Pondicherry, Tanjore, Chettinad, Madurai, and Munnar Tea Plantation.

  • Boat ride on Lake Periyar

    Take an included boat ride on Lake Periyar to spot wildlife.

  • Escorted by an English-speaking Indian tour guide (for groups of 4 or more)

    Be escorted by an English-speaking Indian tour guide for groups of 4 or more.

  • Services of English-speaking Indian specialist guides at some sites

    Benefit from the services of English-speaking Indian specialist guides at some sites.

  • Airport arrival transfer on day 1 (For departures in 2024 a departure airport transfer is provided on day 14)

    Receive an airport arrival transfer on day 1, and for departures in 2024, a departure airport transfer on day 14.

  • All relevant transfers and transportation in private air-conditioned vehicles

    Enjoy all relevant transfers and transportation in private air-conditioned vehicles.

What's Not Included

  • International flights and visa

    International flights and visa are not included in the tour package.

  • Tip for your tour guide

    Tip for your tour guide is not included.

    It is recommended to allow USD$4-7 per day, per traveller.

  • Entrance Fees

    Entrance fees ranging from USD$35-45 per person, paid in local currency, are not included.

Age Policy

15 + if accompanied by an adult.

Accommodation

Experience a blend of modern comfort and heritage charm with stays at The Residency, Hotel GRT Grand, Hotel Atithi, Hotel Sangam, Chidambara Vilas, JC Residency, Eastend Munnar, The Elephant Court, Deluxe Houseboat, Eastend Lakesong, and Trident Hotel Kochi. Enjoy spacious rooms, luxurious amenities, and unique cultural settings across South India.

Mode of Transport

Travel in private air-conditioned vehicles throughout the tour, with all relevant transfers included. Enjoy a deluxe houseboat cruise along the Keralan backwaters and a boat ride on Lake Periyar. Airport arrival transfer is provided on day 1, and a departure transfer is available for 2024 departures.

Check out our Q&As

  • What type of accommodation is provided during the tour?

    The tour includes 12 nights in 3-4 star and heritage hotels, and 1 night on a deluxe houseboat cruise along the Keralan backwaters.

  • Is there a guide provided during the tour?

    Yes, the tour is escorted by an English-speaking Indian tour guide for groups of 4 or more, and there are also services of English-speaking Indian specialist guides at some sites.

  • What meals are included in the tour package?

    The tour package includes 13 breakfasts, 1 lunch, and 2 dinners.

  • Are airport transfers included in the tour?

    Yes, an airport arrival transfer is included on day 1, and for departures in 2024, a departure airport transfer is provided on day 14.

  • What activities are included in the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary visit?

    The visit to Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary includes a boat ride on Lake Periyar to spot herds of wild elephants.

  • What is the highlight of the visit to Mahabalipuram?

    The highlight of the visit to Mahabalipuram is the exploration of the 7th century Shore Temple and the Five Rathas, which are UNESCO-listed sites.

  • What can I expect during the houseboat cruise on the Keralan backwaters?

    During the houseboat cruise on the Keralan backwaters, you will sail along the enchanting palm-fringed backwaters, pass by local villages, and enjoy meals prepared by the onboard chef using fresh local produce.

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    Ensuring our footprint is light and that the benefits of travelling reach the local communities you visit is paramount to us. We’re proud to say that when travelling with us, the large majority of your holiday funds remain within the countries you visit, supporting local economies at a grass roots level.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Since 1998

  • Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?

    With English-speaking tours, it's not a huge surprise that most on our travellers are from English-speaking countries or have English as their second language. Our group tours cater for everyone from 18 years old to 70+

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

Reviews of this operator

Nicola Hodgkinson (Google Reviewer)  

Recently returned from Greece, a...

07-May-2024

Recently returned from Greece, a 5 day tour with OTG. Unfortunately, I had a negative experience on day 2 where I needed local support to get me out of a tricky situation. Thank you to Alexandra Z from Hetco Tours in Athens for helping me continue on with the trip, to the Hotel Zafolia staffing team and to Danielle and team here in the UK for supporting me with the aftermath. Your kindness will not be forgotten and I will pay it forward. I've now booked 3 trips with yourselves and will continue to go back. Thank you all. Honestly, I am SO grateful. Blessings to you all. Nicola

Calvin  

Wonderful experience

05-Jan-2023

Jamal is our tour guide. Right from the start, he created a group chat in whatsapp and if any issues to make sure we contact him. He was on the ball with every issue thrown at him. Luggage being left behind, stragglers wondered off in a different path, hotel room etc. He explains the various site along our route to give us a better understanding of the local cultures. We had a great time, thanks to Jamal.

Trustpilot
Norma Sullivan  

Land of the Northern Lights 5 day tour of Iceland

10-Sep-2021

The Land of Northern Lights tour was a triumph! My tour of Southern Iceland was absolutely wonderful. The venues chosen, the timing allotted at each venue and the variety of things to experience was nearly perfect. Our guide, "Thor", was smart, amusing, full of history and anecdotal stories as well as being incredibly hospitable and helpful. This small group experience was my first, but not my last thanks to On the Go.

Trawls (Google Reviewer)  

On The Go Tours Sri...

05-Feb-2024

On The Go Tours Sri Lanka was an incredible experience that was made even better by our tour guide Akthar. He was incredibly knowledgeable about his country and he loved sharing it with us. The tour covers a wide range of activities so you can truly experience what Sri Lanka is all about. The beautiful 4-5 star hotels at the end of every day was an absolute bonus. Thanks for a great trip OTGT I’m sure this won’t be my last

Xtreme Floor Care (Google Reviewer)  

Traveled through Egypt with On...

30-Nov-2023

Traveled through Egypt with On the Go Tours, professional service, very informative and helpful tour guides. The choice of hotels was excellent... Definitely recommend this company

Gavin Harrigan  

King Tutankhamun 10 day tour of Egypt

16-Sep-2021

I have just returned from my tour with On The Go and it was an amazing trip! From arriving at the airport and meeting the OTG representative, everything was well organised and hassle free.  Our tour guide was Amir. He is awesome!! From the beginning he was so friendly and enthusiastic about showing us around Egypt, giving us loads of information at each place and time to explore ourselves. Learnt so much from him about this fascinating place, and he was always happy to answer more questions.   The trip itself was amazing. There's lots of travelling on this trip, but it's really not too bad, and the sights you see when you get to where you are going are worth it. I'm not a big fan of boats, but the Felluca ride across the Nile was pretty fun too.  On the first day I also did the optional tour of Cairo with Ahmed Helal - another excellent guide from OTG. It's worth doing this add on as you don't spend much time in Cairo, and you go to three very different places.  I'm so glad that I decided to do this trip. It was just ace.  If you're thinking about it too, you should probably just book it. And hopefully you get Amir as your guide.

Joyce Heitler (Google Reviewer)  

I would give this tour...

09-May-2024

I would give this tour group no stars if possible. The tour was not guaranteed but they did not inform me when I booked and they did not have enough people. Way after I booked they said I needed a doctors letter because I was over 70. Also way after booking I was informed I needed travel insurance. They knew my age when I booked. They would not refund my tour even though it was 4 months away.

Simla Patel (Google Reviewer)  

This company doesn’t deserve even...

26-Nov-2024

This company doesn’t deserve even 1 star. I would not recommend this company. There are hidden fees which means the cost of the holiday ends up being very expensive. We recently came back from our trip to China where it is not customary to tip in restaurants & hotel staff. Yet we had to make a payment upfront in cash to to the guide for more than £100. The hotel service was appalling. Just think £100 from each person. The trip was suppose to be a Tour yet we had to pay for all entrance fees. We complained about the poor condition of the hotels but no one responded to our emails to date. The after sales service is non existent. Do not use this company. Far far too expensive for what you get. Not competitive at all. They messed up our booking; repeatedly asked for the same information. We spent so much time correcting their errors. Very difficult to get hold of anyone because they all work in S Africa or New Zealand. Absolute nightmare

Sarah Paterson (Google Reviewer)  

Terrible tour of India. For...

27-Dec-2023

Terrible tour of India. For some reason On the Go hadn't realised that my room mate had booked her own room for the first night of tour. So the hotel in Delhi had tried to put me in her room after midnight, by wheeling in an extra bed. She went Crazy!! I then had to sit in hotel reception for hours. While the tour guide said he couldn't find me a room. Throughout the tour the guide consistently ask me and my room mate for money for my room, causing more friction between us. Don't book with this company had the worst experience ever. Go with Intrepid or G Adventure

brandy hoffman (Google Reviewer)  

I had used them once...

09-Aug-2023

I had used them once before and loved them. I decided to try them again for a Baltic tour not knowing that they put me on another Tour group- Baltic vision. Loved that tour but was not impressed they marked up the cost for me over 100%. I understand taking some for yourself because of paperwork, but over double the cost everyone else paid on the tour. Just double check before you book with them that you’re not over paying.

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Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    On The Go Tours requires a minimum deposit of 600 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of on the go tours charges.

    Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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