South-India-Temple-Waterways-Tour

This morning we’ll set out to explore the mesmerising town of Thanjavur, with a stop in Chidambaram at the Thillai Nataraja Temple. Once we arrive in Thanjavur and check-in at the hotel, we’ll explore the dizzying historical legacy of the Chola empire with a visit to Brihadishvara Temple. The late afternoon is the best time to visit this crowning glory as the sun bathes the rocks and sublime sculptures in a hot palette of reds and oranges.

Sangam Hotel, Thanjavur (4-star)

Today includes…

Excursions & visits: Visit to Chidambaram Temple (morning)
Visit to Brihadishvara Temple (afternoon)

Breakfast & Dinner

We'll hit the road and make our way to Madurai, with a stop in Trichy along the way. Driving through Trichy, we'll catch a glimpse of the stunning rock fort, perched high on a massive outcrop, before making our way to Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple, so large it feels like a self-enclosed city. As we walk through the temple grounds, we'll see ornate gopurams (monumental entrance towers), intricately carved pillars, and stunning frescoes depicting scenes from Hindu mythology. Upon arrival at our hotel in Madurai, one of the oldest cities in India, we’ll spend the evening at leisure.

Courtyard by Marriott by Marriott Madurai (5-star)

Today includes…

Excursions & visits: Visit to Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple (morning)

Breakfast & Dinner

We’ll rise early to start our day with a sensory overload at the vibrant flower market in Madurai. The early morning hours are the best time to experience the wonderful colours and fragrances that fill the air. As you wander, you’ll be amazed by the sheer variety of flowers from delicate jasmine, which dominates the market due to its religious significance, to the bright hues of red and pink roses, the bold orange of marigolds, and the towering presence of gladioli. Next, we’ll immerse ourselves in the soul of Madurai with a visit to the magnificent Meenakshi Amman Temple, the colourful abode of the triple-breasted warrior goddess Meenakshi. The temple towers high above its surroundings, making it an iconic landmark. We’ll then head to the crumbling Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace. In the afternoon there’s an optional excursion to see traditional bronze-making, glass painting and veena (musical instrument) making units - the traditional crafts of the region.

Courtyard by Marriott by Marriott Madurai (5-star)

Today includes…

Excursions & visits: Visit to local flower market, Meenakshi Amman Temple and Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace (morning)

Breakfast & Dinner

We head to Periyar, one of India's most magnificent wildlife sanctuaries. Nestled in the High Ranges, this picturesque paradise is home to a diverse range of exotic flora and fauna. After checking in at our hotel, we’ll have the chance to explore Periyar Spice and Ayurvedic Garden. Here, you'll get to see and smell different spices such as cardamom, cinnamon, pepper, tea and coffee growing in their natural environment. Periyar's altitude of 1,000m above sea level makes it an ideal location for spice growing. In fact, 95% of India's pepper is produced here. In the evening, there’s an optional outing to enjoy a Kalaripayattu performance. Considered amongst the oldest and most scientific martial arts in the world, Kalaripayattu evolved in Kerala and aims for ultimate coordination between mind and body.

The Elephant Court (5-star) or Poetree Sarovar Portico (5-star), Periyar

Today includes…

Excursions & visits: Visit to spice garden (morning)

Breakfast & Dinner

We’ll embark on a guided nature walk through the lush jungle of Periyar National Park. Led by a trained tribal guide, this walk offers an excellent opportunity to spot elephants, wild boar, monkeys, birds, butterflies, and other wildlife. The trails wind through evergreen and deciduous forests interspersed with marshy grasslands, providing a gentle yet immersive trekking experience that will leave you feeling connected with nature. Alternatively, if you prefer a more adventurous activity, you can opt for a half-day bamboo rafting - a dawn-to-afternoon excursion hiking through some of the richest forest tracts of the Periyar Tiger Reserve, before boarding traditional bamboo rafts. As you raft along the lake, you'll be treated to a panoramic view of forest-clad hills and the possibility of spotting animals like elephants, bison, and Sambar deer up close.

The Elephant Court (5-star) or Poetree Sarovar Portico (5-star), Periyar

Today includes…

Excursions & visits: Guided nature walk through Periyar National Park or half-day bamboo rafting (morning)

Breakfast & Dinner

We’ll take a scenic morning drive to Kumarakom, a beautiful town situated on the banks of Vembanad Lake in the backwaters of Kerala. Upon arrival, we'll check in at our luxurious backwaters resort and spend the rest of the day at leisure. You can choose to simply relax and unwind at the resort, taking in the serenity and enjoying the many amenities on offer. Alternatively, you can opt for an optional Kumarakom village walk. This unique experience takes you through the local fish markets and allows you to interact with women immersed in their daily chores. You'll also have the chance to meet female groups involved in the cottage industry of coir mat weaving, coconut palm frond weaving, screw pine weaving, and broomstick making. If you're feeling particularly adventurous, you can even try your hand at these traditional village jobs, gaining a deeper appreciation for rural Kerala’s way of life.

Coconut Lagoon - CGH Earth Resort, Kumarakom (5-star)

Today includes…

Breakfast & Dinner

Today we'll embark on a cruise across the backwaters of Kerala on a traditional Kettuvalam houseboat. As we float along the intricate maze of waterways, we'll be mesmerised at every turn by the serene beauty and simple charm of the backwaters. This is the perfect opportunity to soak up the countryside of Kerala at its best, with endless paddy fields and an array of coconut trees that seem to stretch on forever. We'll enjoy a delicious lunch on board the Kettuvalam, prepared using fresh and locally sourced ingredients, before returning to our resort.

Coconut Lagoon - CGH Earth Resort, Kumarakom (5-star)

Today includes…

Excursions & visits: Cruise on a traditional Kettuvalam (morning)

Breakfast,Lunch & Dinner

It's time to pack our bags and head to Kochi, a vibrant and unlikely blend of medieval Portugal and an English village grafted onto the tropical Malabar Coast. Upon arrival, we'll check into our hotel where you can enjoy a restful day, perhaps lazing in arty cafés, wandering markets or simply relaxing by the pool. In the evening, get ready for a truly spectacular experience as we witness a Kathakali dance performance. One of India's most famous and vibrant dance dramas, it’s characterised by elaborate makeup and costumes and dancers wearing ornate masks designed to express different emotions and characters. Accompanied by drummers and musicians, the performers will transport you to a world of myth and legend, immersing you in the beauty and drama of this ancient art form.

Crowne Plaza Kochi (5-star)

Today includes…

Excursions & visits: Kathakali dance show in Kochi (evening)

Breakfast & Dinner

For our final day, we’ll take a heritage walk of Fort Kochi, a charming area famous for the Chinese fishing nets that flank the harbour. This is the best way to explore the local life and culture, taking us through Fort Kochi’s eventful history. We'll also visit St Francis Church and the Santa Cruz Basilica. This afternoon we’ll visit the Dutch Palace and the Jewish Synagogue, and in the evening there's an optional sunset motorboat harbour cruise with spectacular views.

Crowne Plaza Kochi (5-star)

Today includes…

Excursions & visits: Heritage walk of Fort Kochi (morning)
Visit to Dutch Palace and Jewish Synagogue (afternoon)

Breakfast & Dinner

We transfer to the airport for our return flight to the UK.

Delhi - UK

Today includes…

Breakfast