Temples, Backwaters & Beaches

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Southern India is renowned for its tranquil backwaters, tropical beaches, rich history and fascinating culture. We cruise by houseboat on the Malabar Backwaters - a network of waterways, to discover how the communities of the region live, and visit thriving and colourful temple complexes, before relaxing on the beaches of Kovalam. From Chennai we drive to the French colonial town of Pondicherry, with a visit to the Ashram at Auroville. We explore the temples and palaces of Tanjore, Trichy and Madurai, including Trichy?s Rock Fort Temple. Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary is home to wild elephants, bison, spotted deer and the elusive tiger. Kumarakom lies in the heart of the Backwater Country, and is famous for its beautiful canals, backwaters and lagoons. We cruise to Alleppey on a traditional Kerala rice boat, staying overnight on board. As we watch local life sail by and experience the fascinating world of rice boats, we sample the delicious South Indian cuisine. Then on to Kovalam with its tropical beaches, and coconut palms, before ending our tour in Kochi.

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Classical Rajasthan

Highlights of India


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Itinerary

Day 1

Join Chennai (Madras)

Day 2

Chennai ? Kapaleeswarar Temple. Drive via Mahabalipuram Temples to Pondicherry. Visit Auroville Ashram

Day 3

Visit Chidambaram, Gangaikondacholapuram. Tanjore - Bridadeshwara Temple, Nayakas Palace. Drive Trichy

Day 4

Trichy - Rock Fort Temple, Srinrangam Temple. Drive Madurai

Day 5

Madurai - Meenakshi Temple, Thirumalai Nayaka Palace. Free Afternoon. Optional Evening Indian Prayer Ceremonies

Day 6

Drive Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary - Free Afternoon, Spice Plantation

Day 7

Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary ? Elephant Ride. Drive Kumarakom ? Board Houseboat. Afternoon ? Bird Sanctuary

Day 8

Rice Boat to Alleppey. Overnight Alleppey

Day 9

Drive Kovalam ? Beach Stay

Day 10

Kovalam ? Free Day to Relax on Beaches

Day 11

Drive to Kochi. City Tour - Fort Cochin, Mattancherry Palace, Jewish Synagogue, Chinese Fishing Net

Day 12

Kochi (Cochin) - Tour Ends After Breakfast

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