Vibrant southern India experience

Chennai

Day 1: Welcome to Chennai

Welcome to Chennai, capital of the state of Tamil Nadu. Upon your arrival, transfer to your accommodation to check in and relax after your travels. If you have the stamina to spare, you'll have time to explore the city's vibrant culture; visit landmark attractions such as Marina Beach and the Kapaleeshwarar Temple, and learn about Chennai's history as a former military garrison and trading outpost for the East India Company.

Chennai - Pondicherry

Day 2: The coastal & colonial charms of Pondicherry

Today, set your sights on the many charms of Pondicherry: bid farewell to Chennai as you take a private transfer to this coastal destination, where after almost 200 years of occupation, the French have left a clear and vibrant mark. Explore the French Quarter filled with colonial architecture, visit the unique experimental township of Auroville nearby, and relax on the beaches that line the city's coast, all before settling down for an overnight stay.

Pondicherry - Thanjavur

Day 3: Historic draws in Thanjavur

Today you'll take a private transfer to Thanjavur, which can be reached in under five hours by car. Known for its many temples and silk-weaving heritage, it's a historic and culturally-rich place that's definitely worth exploring in depth. You'll have the opportunity to visit the Brihadeeswarar Temple, a remarkable UNESCO World Heritage Site located on the south bank of the Kaveri River. Then, tour the grounds of Thanjavur Palace and marvel at the striking works which fill its art gallery, before enjoying the rest of the day at leisure.

Thanjavur - Chettinadu

Day 4: A day in captivating Chettinadu

Today, say goodbye to Thanjavur as you take a private transfer to Chettinadu, where a unique heritage and architectural wonders await. Visit the Kanadukathan Palace and walk past local mansions aplenty, before sitting down to enjoy a traditional culinary experience; sample local dishes featuring rich spices made from freshly-ground masalas, as well as salted vegetables and sun-dried meats, altogether served with rice-based sides.

Chettinadu - Madurai

Day 5: Explore the marvels of Madurai

It's on to your next port of call today: the bold and dynamic city of Madurai, which you'll reach via private transfer upon leaving Chettinadu. Once you've arrived, visit the Meenakshi Amman Temple, a significant religious and architectural landmark on the bank of the Vaigai River. Take your time exploring the city's bustling streets and markets, filled to the brim with intoxicating scents and scenes, before settling down for an overnight stay.

Madurai - Munnar

Day 6: The fragrant tea fields of Munnar

Today, swap the buzz of city life for the slower pace of the Keralan countryside, as you journey to Munnar - a hill station known for its tea plantations, nestled in the Western Ghats mountain range. Here you'll have the chance to visit tea estates, where you can learn about the town's storied history and local tea production processes, and perhaps even sample a brew or two. Explore the scenic grounds of Eravikulam National Park, a sanctuary for sloth bears, tigers, leopards, gaurs and the endangered Nilgiri tahr, and soak up the ravishing natural landscapes that abound in this part of Southern India. Once you're feeling suitably worn-out from a day in the country, settle down in your accommodation for an overnight stay in Munnar.

Munnar - Thekkady

Day 7: Back-to-nature explorations in Thekkady

Pack your bags today for a private transfer to the town of Thekkady, close to which you'll find the mesmerising Periyar National Park. These gorgeous grounds are home to majestic tigers, as well as leopards, sambar deer, elephants and much more, so you'll have ample opportunities to wildlife-spot to your heart's content. Sail across the waters of Periyar Lake on a thoroughly enjoyable boat safari, before heading to your accommodation in Thekkady for an overnight stay.

Thekkady - Alleppey

Day 8: Cruise the waterways of Alleppey

Leave Thekkady behind today with a private transfer to Alleppey, a city known for its picturesque network of lagoons and canals. You'll embark on an overnight houseboat cruise through the backwaters of Kerala - a relaxing and truly unforgettable experience, which will open you up to the tranquillity of your natural surroundings in all their splendour.

Alleppey - Kochi

Day 9: Off to the coast in Kochi

This morning, disembark from the houseboat and take a private transfer onwards to Kochi, a port city on Kerala's southwestern coast. Experience its intriguing heritage and historic influences from Arab, European and Chinese merchants, and take your time to wander the grounds of Fort Kochi. Visit the Chinese fishing nets, widely considered to be an iconic emblem of the city, and sit down for an entertaining Kathakali dance performance, before retiring to your accommodation for an overnight stay.

Kochi - Bardez

Day 10: Take a scenic train journey to Goa

Make an early start today, to board a train from Ernakulam Town or Ernakulam Junction railway stations in Kochi to Goa's Madgaon station. A long yet utterly scenic journey awaits, as the train makes its way along the coastline. Arrive into Goa, where you'll have the chance to slow your pace and enjoy some relaxation by the sea. You'll bed down in the taluka (administrative division) of Bardez, in North Goa.

Bardez

Day 11: Explore North Goa to your heart's content

With Bardez as your base, spend the day getting to know the beaches, markets, and historic sites of North Goa, with a private car and driver on hand to help you explore with ease. Visit popular attractions such as Anjuna Beach, Baga Beach and Aguada Fort, always remembering to keep a slow and steady pace as you go - your itinerary up until now has been pretty packed, so take the opportunity to relax and unwind!

Bardez - Old Goa - Bardez

Day 12: The sights & sounds of South Goa

Today, take on the serene beaches and cultural heritage of South Goa, still with a private car and driver on hand to aid your explorations. Unmissable sights and areas to add to your list include the white sands of Palolem Beach, Cabo de Rama Fort, and Old Goa's Basilica of Bom Jesus - an iconic church and pilgrimage centre. Once you're ready, return to your accommodation in Bardez for one final night in India.

Bardez - Dabolim Airport

Day 13: Farewell, India!

Depending on your flight schedule, you may have time for some last-minute relaxation or exploration before departing for your onward journey home, from Dabolim Airport (also known as Goa International Airport).