| TRIVANDRUM |
Day 01 |
On arrival in Thiruvvanathapuram, you will be met and tranfered to you hotel. Checking in at noon, you'll then be whisked off for an afternoon city tour, visiting Padmanabhaswamy Temple, the palace Museum, Napier Museum, the Art Galley and the Handicrafts Institute before returning to the hotel to spend the evening at your leisure. Overnight at hotel. |
|
COCHIN |
Day 01 |
After breakfast at hotel, proceed for sightseeing of Cochin, the city famed as 'Queen of Arabian Sea, which takes you to Mattanchery Dutch Palace, St. Francis Church, The Oldest European Church In India, The Chinese Fishing Nets - living symbols of centuries Old Chinese influence. If time permits go for a shopping tour of Cochin for purchase of souvenirs for your friends & relatives.Overnight at the hotel / resort. |
|
KUMARAKOM |
Day 01 |
Transfer to Kumarakom, check in to the hotel, after breakfast, drive to Kumarakom to check into the hotel / resort. Kumarakom is the charming emerald peninsula jutting into the ever-effervescent Vembanad Lake takes you into the heart of the scenic lake where you'll come across plenty of traditional country crafts, boats and canoes. The fresh water of the lake runs into the mainland making a labyrinth of lagoons, brooks, canals and waterways. The backwater houses a variety of species of both fauna and flora. They are rich with marine life namely the exclusive 'Kumarakom Karimeen' (pearl spotted fish), Konju (tiger prawns), Njandu (crabs), Chemeen (prawns) and many more. Overnight at the hotel / resort. |
|
HOUSEBOAT |
Day 01 |
Board the houseboat. Take a journey through the scenic backwaters with typical Kerala meals served on board. It is an incredibly different experience to cruise in the back waters on houseboats absorbing the beauty of Kerala villages. The scenery flashes up vivid contrasts of breath-taking greens and deep blues. A journey through the curving and winding backwaters of Kerala is an experience of returning to nature. The fully furnished Houseboat takes one to a fascinating cruise at a leisurely and relaxing pace. Overnight on board the houseboat. |
|
VARKALA |
Day 01 |
Arrive Trivandrum International Airport. Meet, greet and assistance at the airport and transfer to Varkala The world-renowned beach of Kerala, Varkala is situated 56 km north of Trivandrum and is one of the best beaches in India. On account of its natural location, it affords facilities for safe sea bath. A rocky promontory jutting into the sea renders the beach safe for sea bathing even in rough weather. Full day at your disposal. You can either relax by the beach or enjoy a soothing Ayurvedic massage (optional). Overnight Hotel or Resort. |
|
KANYAKUMARI |
Day 01 |
Morning proceed to Kanaykumari- enroute sightseeing of Padhamanabapuram palace & Suchindram Temple. Afrernoon arrival at Kanyakumari. Take first boat to Vivekandha Rock Temple. Late return back to the mainland and visit the Kanyakumari Devi temple, Gandhi Museum etc. After watching the sunset return back to Hotel at Kovalam. Return to Hotel / Resort. |
|
THEKKADY |
Day 01 |
Enjoy a drive through the spectacular countryside to arrive the hill station of Thekkady (Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary)- the very sound of the word Thekkady conjures up images of elephants, unending chains of hills and spice scented plantations. In the Periyar forest of Thekkady is one of the finest wildlife reserves in India, and spread across the entire district are picturesque plantations and hill towns that hold great opportunities for treks and mountain walks. Evening boat ride at Periyar Lake to watch the wildlife at close quarters. Overnight at Hotel / Resort. |
|
MUNNAR |
Day 01 |
Drive to Munnar, the most beautiful hill station on the Western Ghats at about 1600 meters above sea level. En route visit tapioca and banana plantations. Continue to Munnar. The town is situated at the confluence of the three mountains streams Mudrapuza, Nallathanni and Kundala. There are lakes, reservoirs, forests and several tea estates. Eravikulam National Park is 30 Kms from Munnar. Munnar was the summer resort of British govt. in south. On arrival check in at hotel. Rest of the day free to relax OR for own activities. Overnight at hotel.Munnar is most famous for its tea and nearly 55,000 acres of land covered with tea and look like a green carpet on earth. Morning drive to the Munnar hills to visit Eravikulam national park, Mattupetty dam, the scattered villages and later the tea factory. A visit to this beautiful hilly town (old Munnar) and the local market will be interesting. Overnight at hotel. |
|
THRISSUR |
Day 01 |
Thrissur is known as the cultural capital of Kerala. Early morning to visit 'Oothumadam' where the Brahmins learn Vedas. Later take and orientation tour through the city. |
|
CALICUT |
Day 01 |
Calicut was once the great ports on the west coast. Now a center of the timber industry it was the capital of the powerful Zamorins. Vasco de Gama, the first European landed in India at Kappad near Calicut in 1498 AD. Later the Dutch, French and British dominated the era. Morning sightseeing of Calicut includes Beypore, Kalari centre and Quilandi. |
|
VYTHIRI |
Day 01 |
Vythiri, an unexploited land by the tourist, situated in the northern part of the state. On arrival transfer by jeep to VYTHIRI RESORT, a beautiful eco friendly resort, constructed in 500 acres of private forestland, specially designed to fit into the natural landscape in perfect harmony with the surrounding flora and fauna. It is built in a vernacular style with its very own 'tribal village' designed to take you to the past. Overnight at resort. |
|
KOLAGAPARA |
Day 01 |
Kolagapara, a remote village in north Kerala where you will stay in a nice guesthouse called Kuppamadi estate in a Coffee estate, running by Mr. Victor Dey. They have only 6 rooms and a private swimming Pool. |
|
ARANMULA |
Day 01 |
On arrival check in at 'VIJANA KALA VEDI' - a cultural Educational Institution engaged in teaching and propagating Indian Culture and Traditional Arts. Here you will get an opportunity to have a close up view of the Indian arts and can learn them under the supervision of professional Indian artists. The major art forms offered are Kathakali, Mohiniattam, Bharatanatyam, Karnatic Vocal Music etc. |
|
KANCHEEPURAM |
Day 01 |
Kancheepuram, the 'City of Thousand Temples', is considered as the second holiest place of India and one of the seven sacred cities. It was successively the capital of the Pallavas and Cholas. This place is also famous for hand woven silk fabrics. Evening back to hotel. Overnight stay. |
|
NAGARHOLE |
Day 01 |
This wild life sanctuary is situated in the picturesque district of Kodagu in Karntataka, this sanctuary is extends over an area of 643.39 sq kms. The park is located an average of 800 - 850 meters above sea level. The Nagarhole wildlife sanctuary has a very rich variety of plant and animal life. Morning go for coracle ride on the Kabani River. Evening game viewing. Overnight at resort. |
|
MADURAI |
Day 01 |
Madurai known as the temple town of South India is the second largest city in Tamil Nadu. Once the capital city of Pandyas. Madurai is famous for the Meenakshi Temple, with its towering gopurams and rare sculptures. Other important attractions include Thirumalai Naicker Palace, Koodal Azhagar Temple and the Gandhi Museum. Full day sightseeing including all the above places. Evening to witness Pooja ceremony in the temple. Overnight stay at hotel |
|
TANJORE |
Day 01 |
Tanjore was once the capital of Chola dynasty of temple builders who ruled South India between 10th and 14th centuries. The important sightseeing places include, the Sri Brahadeeswara temple, the massive temple, destroyed palace and art gallery. Lunch at city hotel. |
|
TRICHY |
Day 01 |
This temple town is situated on the banks of river Cauvery. The city was a Chola citadel from the Sangam age. Morning to visit Srirangam, 10 km from city known for its Vishnavite temple dedicated to Lord Ranganathaswamy. The temple has 21 magnificent towers surrounded by seven walls, which were built around the 13th and 14th centuries. Morning to visit the temple. Afternoon to visit Rock Fort temple. It is an 83 meters hill and can be reached by climbing 437 steps cut into a tunnel through the rock. Visit the temple on the top. |
|
PONDICHERRY |
Day 01 |
Pondicherry is a charming coastal town with a few enduring pockets of French culture, and an ashram. Afternoon for sightseeing of Pondicherry including the Sree Aurobindo Ashram and meditation hall constructed by the global community. Overnight at hotel.Pondicherry covers an area of 480 sq km consisting of the four coastal regions of Pondicherry, Karakkal, Yanam and Mahe. These where French possessions situated on the eastern coast along the three states of Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh and Kerala transferred to the Indian Union in 1954. The places of Interest included Sree Aurobindo Asharm, the world famous Saint and Philosopher who came to Pondicherry and spent his life time here till death. Auroville, which is designed by the French architect Roger Anger according to the concept of the mother and the Raj Nivas. The beach in Pondicherry is also famous. Rest of the day free to relax. Overnight at hotel. |
|
THIRUVANNAMALAI |
Day 01 |
Tiruvannamalai is one of the greatest Saivite shrines in India, on a sprawling 24-acre temple campus, drawing hundreds of thousands of pilgrims every full moon. The hill here is considered to be a manifestation of Shiva. Tiruvannamalai is one of the Panchabhoota Stalams signifying the 5 elements of wind (Kalahasti), water (Tiruvanaikka), fire (Tiruvannamalai), earth (Kanchipuram) and space (Chidambaram). Kartikai Deepam festival here is of great significance. Manikkavacakar composed his Tiruvempavai here.The Paatala Linga shrine is connected with the spritual savant Ramana Maharishi. Arunagiri Nathar began composing his Tiruppukazh here at this temple. |
|
MAHABALIPURAM |
Day 01 |
On the way from Tanjore to Mahabalipuram, en route visit Darasuram and Gangaikondacholapuram. Both the temples are dedicated to Lord Shiva is built by King Raja Raja Chola in 10th century. Darasuram is also a Silk weaving center. On arrival at Mahabalipuram check in at hotel. Overnight stay. Mahabalipuram was once a flourishing port of the Pallavas of ancient India. The monuments of sculptures are world-renowned and attracting tourists from all over the world. Morning for sightseeing of Mahabalipuram including the shore temple, Arjun's penance, Artisans village etc. |
|
BANGALORE |
Day 01 |
Bangalore often referred, as the 'Garden City' is known for its numerous parks and avenues. Afternoon sightseeing tour of Bangalore visiting Tipu Sultan's Palace, Bull Temple, Lalbagh gardens, Cubbon Park & Museum and Vidhana Soudha building - which houses both the State Legislature and Secretariat. Capital of a former princely state, Mysore is a city of palaces and gardens, which is famous for its silk, sandalwood and jasmine. Full day sightseeing of Mysore including th Chamundi hill and Mysore Palace. Lunch by the Cauvery river (Srirangapatnam). Later visit Summer Palace of Tippu Sultan and Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary. |
|
MYSORE |
Day 01 |
Situated 140 kms from Bangalore is the former princely city of Mysore with its magnificent palaces and a myriad of historic sites. The city is also famous for its silk, sandalwood and incense industries. En route lunch by Cauvery river. Later to visit Srirangapatnam and Ranganathittu bird sanctuary. Continue to Mysore and check in at hotel. Morning city tour including Mysore Maharaja's Palace, which is one of the biggest in Indian (Palace is illuminated between 7 & 8 pm on every Sundays and during time of Dussehra festival); Chamudi hill and Deva Raja market. Rest of the day free to relax. |
|
HASSAN |
Day 01 |
Morning drive to Hassan from Mysore. En route visit Shravanabelagola. This legendary pilgrim center and shrine of the Jains since early times. Later continue to Hassan. Hassan is a picturesque town in the heart of Malnad with a a pleasant climate. Afternoon visit Belur and Halebid. Belur, 34 kms from Hassan is known as the Dakshina Varanasi or Southern Banaras. The serenity of Belur is attributed to the celebrated temple of Chennakeshava belonging to 1117 AD built by Samudra, the wealthy capital fo the Hoysalas. Halebid has several strikingly beautiful Hoysala temples and Jain shrines. Hospet was satellite town built during the reign of Krshandevaraya. This is a typical country town of Karnataka situated 13 kms from Hampi and is used by many people who come to see the Vijayanagar ruins |
|
HOSPET |
Day 01 |
Hampi was once the seat of the great Vijayanagar Empire and center of Hindu rule for over 200 years from its foundation in 1336. Today it is one of the most mesmerizing historical sites in South India. Morning goes for full day excursion to Vijayanagar to visit all the ruins and temples and if time permits a short cournty boat ride on River Tungabhadra. Evening back to Hospet. |
|
HAMPI |
Day 01 |
On the way to Badami enroute for the sightseeing of Aihole and Pattadakal. Situated 43 kms from Badami, Aihole was the regional capital of the Chalukyas between the 4th and 6th centuries. It is a picturesque village on the banks of Malapragha River and has as many as 10 temples of ancient origin that are excellent examples of Hindu medieval architecture. The second capital of the Badami Chalukyas, the village of Pattadakal situated 20 kms from Badami was used in particular for the royal coronation ceremonies. There are numerous temples here with the remains of the earliest ones dating back to the 3rd and 4th century. Later proceed to Badami. |
|
AIHOLE & PATTADAKAL |
Day 01 |
During 4th and 8th centuries, Badami was the capital of the Chalukyam Empire. The sculptural legacy left behind by the Chalukyas included some of the finest examples of Dravidian Temples; rock cut caves as well as the earliest structural temple in the country. Half day sightseeing of the town. |
|
BADAMI |
Day 01 |
The capital of the Early Chalukyas, Badami is picturesquely situated at the mouth of a ravine between two rocky hills. Badami is famous for its cave temples - all hewn out of sand stone on the rock face of a hill. After breakfast go for sightseeing of the town covering the historic sites. Afternoon visit to Aihole and Pattadakkal. Located 43 kms from Kudala Sangama, Aihole was the ancient capital of Chalukyas. Famous as the cradle of 'Indian Architecture', Aihole has over a hundred temples scattered around the village, built between the 6th & 8th centuries. Situated on the left bank of the Malaprabha river, Pattadakkal is a world heritage centre. The town has 10 major temples representing early Chalukyan architecture. Evening back to hotel |
|
Day 01 |
Bijapur has the feeling of a North Indian Muslim city with its array of mausoleums, mosques and mughal palaces. Bijapur was a part of the Kingdom of the erstwhile Chalukyas of Badami till the end of the 12th century and later came under the rule of Bamani Sultans. Afternoon go for sightseeing including Golgumbaz, the dome which is second largest in the world; Citadel - which contains the ruins of the palaces and durbar halls of the Adil Shah dynasty etc. |
|
BIJAPUR |
Day 01 |
Morning drive to Mudumalai National Park. In the foothills of the Nilgiris, this 321 sq km park is part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve that includes Bandipur and Wayanad in neighboring Karnataka and Kerala. Afternoon visit to elephant training camp and elephant pooja. |
|
MUDUMALAI |
Day 01 |
Located 28 kms from Mettupalayam, this beautiful hill station is home for a variety of flora & fauna and boasts of an impressive array of wildlife. Main attractions are Sim's park, Laws falls and Lambsax Rock. |
|
COONOOR |
Day 01 |
Coimbatore, popularly referred to as the Manchester or Detroit of the South for its textile manufacturing and engineering goods. Although not a touristy city, it is indeed a good place to halt en-route to Nilgiri hill stations. On arrival check in at hotel. |
|
COIMBATORE |
Day 01 |
Ooty popularly referred to as 'Queen of Blue Mountains' is located at height of 2,286 mts and was the first established hill station in India. The British founded this popular hill station in the early 19th century as the summer capital of the Madras government. Morning after breakfast go for sightseeing. Popular tourist attractions include the Botanical gardens, Lake, Doddabetta, Mukurti peak, the Pykara Dam and sprawling tea plantations. Trek routes are available. |
|
OOTY |
Day 01 |
After breakfast drive to Kodaikanal, one of the most beautiful hill resorts of South India. On arrival check in at HOTEL CARLTON for -- nights, the best hotel available in Kodaikanal, overlooking the star shaped lake. Rest of the day free to relax. Overnight at hotel. |
|
KODAIKANAL |
Day 01 |
It is one of India's best known hill stations situated on the southern crust of the Palani Hills about 120 km. north west of Madurai. Kodai has more sunshine than any other Indian hill station. The town nestles around the man-made Kodai Lake which spreads out in a star shape over sixty acres. Kodai has thickly wooded slopes, well laid out footpaths through picturesque prospects, tumultuous waterfalls and steep rock outcrops. Day free to explore OR go for sightseeing including the Lake, Coakers walk , Pillar rocks etc. Overnight at hotel. |
|
Day 01 |
Ajanta caves: - Nestling in an inner fold of the Sahyardi hills, 100 km from Aurangabad are the 30 rock-hewn caves of Ajanta dated from the 2nd century. Ajanta was once the retreat of Buddhist monasteries and the exquisite wall and ceiling paintings, panels and sculptures of Buddha's life are famous throughout the world as the earliest and finest examples of Buddhist pictorial art. |
|
AJANTA & ELLORA |
Day 01 |
Ellora Caves: - The World Heritage-listed cave temples of Ellora, located 30 km away from Aurangabad, are the pinnacles of Deccan rock-cut architecture. In all, there are 34 cave temples. The masterpiece of Ellora is the astonishing Kailasa Temple, which has the world's largest monolithic sculpture. Evening back to hotel |
|
SOLAPUR |
Day 01 |
Solapur - an ancient historical and religious place in the state of Maharashtra. Now, an important industrial city, Solapur is a leading center for cotton mills and power looms. Nandidhwaj procession on Makar Sankranti fare which is attended by millions of devotes is a unique event of this city. On arrival check in at hotel |
