Duration : 13 Nights / 14 Days
Place Covered : Chennai - Mahabalipuram - Puducherry - Madurai - Munnar - Thekkady - Allpey - Kochi - Bengaluru
Hotels
Sightseeing
Entry Tickets
MealsThe Grand South India Circuit – 14 Days brings together the essence of three vibrant states: Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Karnataka. Starting in Chennai, travelers explore ancient Dravidian temples and colonial landmarks before continuing to Mahabalipuram and Puducherry, where UNESCO monuments and French colonial quarters add depth to the experience. The spiritual core of Madurai with the Meenakshi Amman Temple marks the highlight of Tamil Nadu’s sacred traditions.
From here, the journey enters Kerala, celebrated for its scenic landscapes. The cool hills of Munnar offer tea gardens, waterfalls, and mountain air, while Thekkady introduces guests to spice plantations and wildlife safaris in Periyar National Park. A private luxury houseboat cruise in Alleppey’s backwaters provides relaxation, followed by cultural immersion in Kochi, Kerala’s heritage hub.
The final leg leads to Karnataka, where Bengaluru blends modernity with colonial charm, and Mysuru showcases royal grandeur with its palaces, markets, and cultural richness. Carefully curated stays in boutique hotels and heritage resorts ensure comfort, while private guided tours create an engaging, stress-free experience.
This 14-day circuit is ideal for international travelers who want a complete South India experience, balancing temples, history, wildlife, and relaxation.
Arrive at Chennai International Airport, where you are welcomed and transferred to your luxury hotel. Evening free to relax or take a short orientation walk along Marina Beach. Overnight stay in Chennai.
After breakfast, begin your guided sightseeing. Visit Kapaleeshwarar Temple, known for its towering gopurams, followed by San Thome Basilica, built over the tomb of St. Thomas. Continue to Fort St. George, the first British fortress in India, and the Government Museum. Evening free for leisure. Overnight stay in Chennai.
Drive along the scenic East Coast Road to Mahabalipuram. On arrival, check into a seaside resort. Afternoon guided visit to UNESCO monuments – Shore Temple, Arjuna’s Penance rock carving, and the Pancha Rathas (Five Chariots). Evening at leisure by the Bay of Bengal. Overnight stay in Mahabalipuram.
After breakfast, drive to Puducherry. On arrival, check into a French Quarter boutique hotel. Afternoon heritage walk through cobbled lanes with colonial villas, churches, and seaside cafés. Evening free to enjoy the seaside promenade. Overnight stay in Puducherry.
Spend the day exploring Puducherry. Visit Aurobindo Ashram, Sacred Heart Basilica, and Auroville, an experimental township with the golden Matrimandir. Afternoon free to relax in French-style cafés or shop for handicrafts. Overnight stay in Puducherry.
Transfer for flight or train to Madurai, one of South India’s oldest cities. On arrival, check into your hotel. In the evening, visit the Meenakshi Amman Temple for the lively evening Aarti ceremony, a spiritual highlight of Tamil Nadu. Overnight stay in Madurai.
Morning visit to Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace, blending Dravidian and Islamic architecture. Explore the Gandhi Memorial Museum and vibrant local markets. Afternoon free to relax at the hotel or continue exploring with your guide. Overnight stay in Madurai.
Drive into Kerala’s Western Ghats to reach Munnar, surrounded by rolling tea plantations. En route, enjoy waterfalls and spice gardens. On arrival, check into a hillside resort. Evening free to relax in the cool mountain air. Overnight stay in Munnar.
Full-day sightseeing in Munnar. Visit Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, followed by Mattupetty Dam, Echo Point, and the Tea Museum. Learn about tea processing and sample local brews. Evening free to enjoy your resort. Overnight stay in Munnar.
Drive to Thekkady, home of Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. Check into your spice plantation resort. Afternoon guided spice plantation walk with explanations on cardamom, pepper, and cinnamon. Evening enjoy a Kalaripayattu martial arts performance. Overnight stay in Thekkady.
Morning boat safari on Periyar Lake, where elephants and birdlife can often be spotted. Afternoon optional activities include bamboo rafting, nature walks, or visiting a tribal cultural center. Evening Ayurvedic spa session. Overnight stay in Thekkady.
Drive to Alleppey and board your private luxury houseboat. Sail through palm-lined canals, paddy fields, and fishing villages. Fresh Kerala meals prepared by the onboard chef are served as you cruise. Overnight stay on the houseboat.
After breakfast on the houseboat, disembark and drive to Kochi. Afternoon guided sightseeing covering St. Francis Church, Jewish Synagogue, Mattancherry Palace, and spice markets. Evening Kathakali dance performance. Overnight stay in Kochi.
Morning flight to Bengaluru. On arrival, drive to Mysuru (3.5 hours) for a guided tour of the Mysore Palace, Chamundi Hill Temple, and Devaraja Market. Later in the evening, transfer back to Bengaluru for international departure.
Three – Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Karnataka.
Yes, one night in a private luxury houseboat in Alleppey.
Mahabalipuram monuments and Mattancherry Palace in Kochi (part of tentative UNESCO heritage).
Yes, Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary safaris are included in Thekkady.
Heritage walks, Kathakali dance, Kalaripayattu martial arts, and temple rituals.
October to March for pleasant weather.
Yes, with an English-speaking driver throughout.
Yes, extensions to Goa or Hampi can be added.
14 days, covering the most important highlights of South India.
Yes, with a mix of temples, wildlife, and leisure, it suits families.