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Kerala Houseboat South India Tour
11 Day South India & Kerala Tour
Tanjore Temple South India Tour
Cochinsouthindiatour_edited
southindiaspiceplantation_edited
MyHoliday2 Kerala Houseboat Tour

11 Day South India & Kerala Backwaters

from

$1,499
Per Person

Typically $2,299
Our 11 Day tour of South India takes you to all the highlights of this special place, including a relaxing cruise on a houseboat through the tranquil Kerala backwaters. A must-see for any trip to the south of India.

the tour

Our South India tour is a complete contrast to the north of the country. This 11 day package takes you to all the highlights of south India, from Chennai to Cochin.  Here, you will experience sandy beaches, tropical coconut trees, rolling green hills and a much more relaxed pace of life. The pinnacle of this amazing trip is a relaxing cruise through the tranquil Kerala backwaters on an iconic houseboat. A must-do for any trip to the south of India.

The itinerary take you through the the mountainous Western Ghats. It is here where we visit Periyar National Park and Tiger Reserve, the home of wild elephants, deer, boar and tigers. If you are lucky you may catch a glimpse of these special creatures. Moving on, we pay a visit to the quaint French colonial town of Pondicherry.  Pretty colonial buildings draped in bougainvilleas line the streets. Ending the tour in Cochin “The Queen of Arabian Sea”, you will visit fragrant spice markets and see the famous picturesque Chinese fishing nets. These may be possibly the most photographed fishing nets in India!

INCLUSIONS

Our South India tour includes 10 nights accommodation. Daily breakfast, mineral water and a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle. We provide a knowledgeable English speaking driver, along with all car road fees, taxes and tolls. Plus, sightseeing per the itinerary, as well as an overnight cruise on a deluxe houseboat. Small group touring with MAXIMUM 10 people. You can secure your booking from a 25% deposit. Please see tabs below for departures, prices and a full list of inclusions. 

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Itinerary

Download PDF Intinerary

DAY 1: Arrive Chennai

Your Holiday to India starts now! On your arrival in Chennai, our Executive will welcome you at the airport and introduce our driver to you. Then you will be transferred to your hotel and relax. The rest of the day is at your own leisure.

Note: Generally the check in time at the hotels is 12 pm

MEALS: None

OVERNIGHT: 3 or 4 Star hotel in Chennai

DAY 2: Chennai ~ Mahabalipuram (1 ½ hrs drive)

After breakfast drive to Mahabalipuram which is known as an open air museum or the poetry in Stone. On arrival, check in at your hotel and relax. Later on we explore Mahabalipuram. Visit Five Rathas, where each of the five temples are created in a different style but resemble chariots. Arjuna’s Penance, The world’s largest bas carving and it’s wonderful depictions of Hindu mythology. The huge whaleback shaped rock contains figures of Gods, Demigods, men, beasts, birds and in fact represents creation. Also visit Ganesh Ratha; a shrine to Ganesh the elephant god and nearby is Krishna’s butter ball, a huge boulder that does not move but seems to balance quite precariously. The Mandapas which are also nearby and scattered over the main hill are amongst the earliest of the rock cut temples. Then spend some time at the Sculpture Museum which contains more than 3000 local sculptures and also exhibits some fine paintings.

MEALS: Breakfast

OVERNIGHT: 3 or 4 Star hotel in Mahabalipuram.

DAY 3: Mahabalipuram ~ Pondicherry (2 hours drive)

Today a short drive to Pondicherry – the former French colony. On arrival, check in at your hotel and relax. In the afternoon we take a city tour around Pondicherry to take a look at the old French colonial architecture and sights such as the Vinayagar temple, built prior to 15th Century A.D and dedicated to Lord Ganesh and the Aurobhindo Ashram, Sacred Heart Jesus Church. In the evening stroll along the beach pathway and check out some local shopping.

MEALS: Breakfast

OVERNIGHT: 3 or 4 Star hotel in Pondicherry

DAY 4: Pondicherry ~ Chidambaram ~ Kumbakonam (4-5 hrs drive)

After early breakfast drive to Chidambaram – an important pilgrim centre for the Hindus and it represents one of the five elements – Sky. Chidambaram is also called as the land of cosmic dancer. It is dedicated to Lord Nataraja (Shiva) built by the Cholas. It is one of the rarest temples of Lord Shiva and it is represented by an idol rather than the customary Lingam. Later drive to Kumbakonam, one of the oldest towns in Tamilnadu and is known as “Temple Town”. The town is famous for brass vessels especially lamps, Silks, Panchaloga (5 metals) idols & Betel leaves. Dozens of temples are scattered around the town and this is a good base to visit the Chola temples nearby. We will take you to visit the Airavatheeswarar Temple, a storehouse of art and architecture recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Monument as well as bronze and silk weaving factories.

MEALS: Breakfast

OVERNIGHT: 3 or 4 Star hotel in Kumbakonam

DAY 5: Kumbakonam ~ Tanjore ~ Madurai (5 hours drive)

Today morning drive to Tanjore – the Rice Bowl of Tamilnadu. Tanjore is an important centre for South Indian art and architecture. Most of the living Chola temples and UNESCO world heritage monument are located in and around Tanjore. Tanjore is also the home of the Tanjore painting, a unique style of this region. Tanjore was at height of its glory during King Raja Raja Chola. Visit Brahadeeshwar temple aka “Big Temple”, which was built by King Raja Raja Chola. It is an architect’s marvel & it is one of the UNESCO world heritage sites. Later visit to Art gallery and palace. Then drive to Madurai. On arrival, check in at your hotel and relax.

MEALS: Breakfast

OVERNIGHT: 3 or 4 Star hotel in Madurai

DAY 6: Madurai

Madurai is one of the most ancient cities in India and it is situated on the bank of river Vaigai. Madurai has a rich cultural heritage passed on from the great Tamil era more than 2500 years old. Madurai has a rich historical background in the sense that Lord Shiva himself performed sixty-four wonders called “Thiruvilaiyadals”. It was the capital city for the great Pandya kings. Visit Meenakshi Amman temple which has fabulous art & architecture. A striking feature of this temple is the astonishing structure known as “Aayiramkall Mandapam” meaning 1000 pillared hall. Then visit to Thirumalai Naicker Mahal and Vandiyur Mariamman tank.

MEALS: Breakfast

OVERNIGHT: 3 or 4 Star hotel in Madurai

DAY 7: Madurai ~ Periyar National Park (3 ½ hrs drive)

From the Rice Bowl to the Spice Bowl. After breakfast drive to Periyar – the spice bowl of Kerala. Periyar is famous for its wildlife sanctuary and for a large variety of spices found here. On reaching there, check into the hotel and then proceed for the boat ride (not included) on Periyar lake, where you may be able to see elephants, deer, wild boar, bison, etc.

Then you have the option of a tour around a spice plantation (not included) -The fertile soils and warm, wet climate of Kerala make it one of the world’s premier spice-producing regions. Many of the condiments we add to our food have their origins here and it is a fascinating experience to see such staples as cardamom, pepper, vanilla and nutmeg growing in a spice garden near Periyar. A guided walk around one of these Spice gardens will give visitors an insight into the history of the spice trade, as well as the many uses of these health-giving plants in traditional and modern medicine as well as their more well-known culinary uses.

Later in the evening watch & enjoy the Kalaripayattu show -martial art of Kerala (not included).

MEALS: Breakfast

OVERNIGHT: 3 or 4 Star hotel in Periyar National Park (Thekkady)

DAY 8: Periyar ~ Alleppey (4-5 hours drive)

This is what you’ve been waiting for! After early breakfast drive to Alleppey – known as the Venice of the East- famous for the backwaters and houseboats. You can embark your deluxe houseboat at around 12.30/1pm. While cruising from Alleppey to Alleppey, you will pass through the beautiful canals, lagoons and can watch the day to day activities of local people. Your crew will prepare the delicious Keralian meal on board the houseboat. At the time of sunset (approx 5.00pm), the houseboat will be anchored at a jetty where you will stay overnight. Enjoy the serenity of the backwaters as you relax on the deck watching the sun go down.

MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

OVERNIGHT: Deluxe Houseboat

DAY 9: Alleppey ~ Cochin (2 hours drive)

Continue cruising along for a couple of hours and then after breakfast, disembark the houseboat and you will be met by your driver at the boat jetty. We then drive to Cochin, on arrival check in at your hotel and relax.

Today you have an opportunity to take “Ayurvedic Body Massage” (not included) at your hotel which is something special in Kerala. Rest of the day free for your own activities.

MEALS: Breakfast

OVERNIGHT: 3 or 4 Star hotel in Cochin

DAY 10: Cochin

Cochin is known as “The Queen of Arabian Sea” and today we will explore it so you will find out why. First explore the Cochin Fort, which has been in the hands of the Dutch, British, Portuguese and Chinese, with each having influenced the history and appearance of the Fort area in subtle yet unmistakable ways.

Visit to Dutch Palace (closed on Fridays), Jewish Synagogue (closed on Fridays & Saturdays), Santa Cruiz Basilica, and the very picturesque Chinese Fishing nets. After visit the spice market if you wish. With virtually no traffic the spice market is the perfect place to explore by foot. Later in the evening attend a Kathakali dance (not included) performance, where heavily made up and elaborately dressed artists play out the Hindu epics.

MEALS: Breakfast

OVERNIGHT: 3 or 4 Star hotel in Cochin

DAY 11: End of Tour

Unfortunately your Holiday2India has come to an end. After breakfast your driver will transfer you to the airport in time for your onward flight.

Description

Our South India tour is a complete contrast to the north of the country. This 11 day package takes you to all the highlights of south India, from Chennai to Cochin.  Here, you will experience sandy beaches, tropical coconut trees, rolling green hills and a much more relaxed pace of life. The pinnacle of this amazing trip is a relaxing cruise through the tranquil Kerala backwaters on an iconic houseboat. A must-do for any trip to the south of India.

The itinerary take you through the the mountainous Western Ghats. It is here where we visit Periyar National Park and Tiger Reserve, the home of wild elephants, deer, boar and tigers. If you are lucky you may catch a glimpse of these special creatures. Moving on, we pay a visit to the quaint French colonial town of Pondicherry.  Pretty colonial buildings draped in bougainvilleas line the streets. Ending the tour in Cochin “The Queen of Arabian Sea”, you will visit fragrant spice markets and see the famous picturesque Chinese fishing nets. These may be possibly the most photographed fishing nets in India!

INCLUSIONS

Our South India tour includes 10 nights accommodation. Daily breakfast, mineral water and a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle. We provide a knowledgeable English speaking driver, along with all car road fees, taxes and tolls. Plus, sightseeing per the itinerary, as well as an overnight cruise on a deluxe houseboat. Small group touring with MAXIMUM 10 people. You can secure your booking from a 25% deposit. Please see tabs below for departures, prices and a full list of inclusions. 

INCLUSIONS

 

9 Nights Accommodation in 3 or 4 Star Hotels, single/twin/double/triple share

Daily Breakfast

2 Day Deluxe Houseboat Cruise on Kerala’s Backwaters

All meals on board the Houseboat in Alleppey

See Amazing Wildlife in Periyar National Park

City Tour of French Colony City Pondicherry

City Tour of Cochin

Marvel at UNESCO World Heritage Sites

A/C Transportation Throughout

A Knowledgeable English Speaking Driver

All car expenses like fuel, toll, parking fee and taxes

Arrival and Departure Transfers and assistance at airports

1x Complimentary Mineral Water Bottle in the car per day

All Taxes

MAXIMUM 10 people in group

EXCLUSIONS

 

International airfares

Indian visa fee

Entrance fees

Local guide service at each monument – approximately AUD$20-$50 for a group of 1-5 or AUD$30-$70 for a group of 6-10

Monument Entry Fee – South India (based on the itinerary):

Mahabalipuram (group of monuments)- AU$ 14

Tanjore (Palace, Art Gallery, Saraswathy Mahal Library)- AU$ 5

Madurai (Thirumalai Naicker Mahal & Meenakshi Amman temple) – AU$ 3

Cochin – AU$ 1

Tipping (recommended $10 per day for your guide/driver)

Travel insurance

Personal expenses

Other meals not included in itinerary

Optional tours

Anything that is not mentioned in the Inclusions list

DEPARTURE DATES

 

DEPARTURE DATES 2024:

January: 9, 16

February: 13, 20

March: 12, 19

April: 2, 16

May: 7, 21

June: 4, 18

July: 9, 23

August: 6, 20

September: 3, 17

October: 1, 15

November: 12, 26

December: 3

 

DEPARTURE DATES 2025:

January: 14, 28

February: 4, 18

March: 4, 18

April: 8, 22

May: 6, 20

June: 3, 17

July: 1, 15

August: 5, 19

September: 2, 9

HOTELS

 

3 STAR HOTELS:

Chennai: Benz Park

Mahabalipuram: Ideal Beach Resort

Pondicherry: Shenbaga

Kumbakonam: Quality Inn Viha

Madurai: JC Residency

Periyar: Tree Top

Alleppey: Deluxe Houseboat

Cochin: Abad Atrium

 

4 STAR HOTELS:

Chennai: Grand by GRT

Mahabalipuram: Grande Bay Resort / Radisson

Pondicherry: Accord Puducherry

Kumbakonam: Indeco – a heritage style hotel

Madurai: GRT Regency

Periyar: Cardamom County

Alleppey: Deluxe Houseboat

Cochin: Radisson / Olive Downtown

 

In the unlikely event that the listed hotels are fully booked, alternative hotels of the same standard will be used

Triple share rooms are not available

UPGRADES & OPTIONS

 

PGRADES:

Upgrade to 4 Star Hotels for $500 per person

 

EXTRA NIGHTS:

Extend your time in India with extra nights pre or post tour

 

PRE-TOUR

3 Star Hotel Chennai – $250

4 Star Hotel Chennai – $300

POST TOUR

3 Star Hotel Cochin – $250

4 Star Hotel Cochin – $300

 

Prices are based per room per night and include breakfast and airport transfers

TOUR INFORMATION

 

VALIDITY:

Voucher valid on selected dates until September 2025

Voucher valid for 1 person, based on twin/double/triple share

Bookings must be made at least 60 days prior to travel

 

RATES:

11 Day South India 3 Star Package  – $1499 per person 2024 / $1699 per person 2025

11 Day South India 4 Star Package – $1999 per person 2024 / $2199 per person 2025

 

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT:

A single traveller surcharge applies for solo travellers

3 Star Package – $800

4 Star Package – $1200

 

GROUP SIZE:

Minimum of 2 people

Maximum 10 people

 

CHILDREN POLICY:

Children under the age of 5 travel free of charge if sharing bed, extra bed will incur surcharge

Children aged 6 years plus at time of travel require an adult voucher

Maximum room capacity is 2 adults and 1 child (rollaway bed or single bed)

 

IMPORTANT INFORMATION:

It is the customers responsibility to research the current Covid-19 requirements and recommendations for international travel for their destination prior to departure and cover all fees associated with any testing and quarantine requirements.

Travel insurance is recommended. MyHoliday2 takes no responsibility for any travel issues that may arise

This tour includes a knowledgeable English speaking driver who will be with the group throughout the tour. The driver does not accompany the group into monuments
Customers may hire ‘Expert Guides’ at each monument if they desire a deeper understanding of the site
Cost per guide is approximately AUD$20-$50 for a group of 1-5 or AUD$30-$70 for a group of 6-10
Your driver can help organise an Expert Guide at each monument if you require one
Please see our terms and conditions for more information on types of Guides [Terms and Conditions]

Day tours included in itinerary may join a larger group than specified

It is the customers responsibility to obtain the correct visa for their destination and cover all fees associated

It is the customers responsibility to ensure they have a valid passport for travel and must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the period of intended stay.

We offer a 7 Day Money Back Guarantee. See Refund policy for details

After 7 days from purchase, travel vouchers/tour packages are non refundable

Travel vouchers are non-redeemable for cash

Travel vouchers cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer/promotion

Travel vouchers must be redeemed within the validity period or will be deemed void

MyHoliday2 pricing reflects current market rates, so package prices may fluctuate from day to day. This is the nature of the tourism industry, and MyHoliday2 is not obliged to refund you to match any subsequent price reductions after purchase

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