Kerala Backwaters Tour with South India Temples
A private, tailor-made 12-day journey covering Kochi, Kumarakom, Periyar, Madurai, Trichy. Designed day by day by Anant Bharata's local experts and fully customisable to your dates and pace.
Destinations covered
- Kochi
- Kumarakom
- Periyar
- Madurai
- Trichy
- Tanjore
- Pondicherry
Day-by-day itinerary
Day 1 · Arrival in Kochi
Upon arrival at Kochi Airport, you will receive a warm welcome and assistance to your hotel, where you will be greeted with a traditional garland. Take some time to relax or enjoy refreshments. In the evening, explore the vibrant markets of Kochi, followed by dinner at one of the city’s renowned restaurants. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 2 · Kochi Sightseeing
After breakfast, embark on a city tour of Kochi. Visit Fort Kochi to see the iconic Chinese fishing nets, and explore the Hill Palace Museum, which houses a rich collection of historical artifacts. Enjoy lunch at a traditional restaurant before spending the afternoon at your leisure, immersing yourself in the lush surroundings. In the evening, witness the captivating Kathakali performance, a traditional dance form rooted in Indian mythology. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 3 · Kochi to Kumarakom
Following breakfast, travel to Kumarakom, renowned for its enchanting backwaters. Enjoy a serene boat ride through the backwaters and visit the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, home to a diverse range of bird species. Later, check in at a Kerala Ayurvedic resort for a rejuvenating spa treatment using local herbal remedies. Conclude the day with a traditional Kerala dinner. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 4 · Kumarakom Exploration
Spend the day exploring Kumarakom and its surroundings. After breakfast, embark on a backwater tour, visiting historical sites and engaging in activities like fishing. Discover Vembanad Lake, the largest lake in southern India. In the afternoon, indulge in another Ayurvedic massage, followed by a delicious dinner featuring local cuisine. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 5 · Kumarakom to Periyar
After breakfast, proceed to Periyar. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and take some time to relax. Later, enjoy a boat ride on the backwaters of Thekkady and Kumily, followed by a visit to Periyar National Park, famous for its diverse wildlife, including tigers and leopards. Afterward, enjoy dinner at your hotel. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 6 · Periyar to Madurai
After breakfast, depart for Madurai, known for its rich cultural heritage and historic temples. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and then visit the renowned Meenakshi Sundareshwar Temple. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, followed by a visit to Azhagar Kovil, dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Spend the evening exploring Madurai's vibrant markets. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 7 · Madurai to Trichy
Today, travel to Trichy after breakfast. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel. Explore famous temples such as Srirangam Temple, Ayyapan Temple, and others. After your temple visits, enjoy some leisure time in the local markets. In the evening, dine at a well-known restaurant in Trichy. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 8 · Trichy to Tanjore
After breakfast, travel to Tanjore, a city celebrated for its historical temples. Check in at your hotel upon arrival, then visit significant sites such as the Brihadeeswarar Temple, the Royal Palace, and the Art Gallery. In the evening, enjoy shopping at local markets. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 9 · Tanjore to Pondicherry On your ninth day, journey to Pondicherry.
Visit notable attractions including the Jalaram Temple and the Thirunallar Temple. After a day of sightseeing, return to your hotel to relax. In the evening, explore the markets and enjoy dinner at a traditional restaurant. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 10 · Pondicherry to Mahabalipuram
After breakfast, depart for Mahabalipuram, approximately a four to five-hour drive. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and relax. In the afternoon, visit the Shore Temple and the Mandapas, significant examples of Dravidian architecture. Enjoy dinner at your hotel. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 11 · Exploring Mahabalipuram
Spend the day exploring Mahabalipuram’s rich heritage. After breakfast, visit famous sites including Arjuna's Penance and the Pancha Pandava Rathas. Enjoy lunch, followed by a visit to the caves of Mahabalipuram and Krishna's Butterball in the afternoon. Conclude the day with dinner at a well-known restaurant. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 12 · Mahabalipuram to Chennai On the final
Mahabalipuram to Chennai On the final day of your tour, after breakfast, travel to Chennai, located approximately 58 kilometers away. Upon arrival, you will be taken to Chennai Airport for your onward journey home, concluding your Kerala Backwaters Tour with South India Temples. This itinerary combines the tranquil beauty of Kerala's backwaters with the rich cultural heritage of South India, ensuring a comprehensive and memorable travel experience.
Every detail is tailor-made to your dates, pace and interests — your quote is shared on enquiry.
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