Overview
Set off on a mesmerizing South India tour that blends ancient heritage, spiritual wonders, tropical beaches, and lush backwaters. This 21-day cultural travel itinerary through South India is perfect for those seeking authentic local experiences, architectural marvels, and nature’s untouched beauty. From the iconic Meenakshi Temple in Madurai to the tranquil Kerala backwaters in Alleppey, and the ancient ruins of Hampi to the vibrant energy of Mumbai, this journey covers the most scenic, spiritual, and offbeat destinations in South India. Whether you're a cultural enthusiast, nature lover, or spiritual seeker, this itinerary offers the best of South India tourism in 2025 — combining wellness travel, culinary adventures, and astounding storytelling in every stop.
Detailed Itineary
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Day 1 : Chennai Arrival
On arrival in Chennai, you'll be welcomed by one of our Indian Panorama representative and introduced to your driver. You will then soon depart on a 90-minute drive to the beachside town of Mahabalipuram, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its ancient rock-cut temples. Overnight stay in a luxury hotel in Mahabalipuram.
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Day 2 : Mahabalipuram
After your breakfast, you can start exploring Mahabalipuram - Popular beach destination with sunrise views and seaside charm. You can indulge in a half-day sightseeing tour in the afternoon to explore the ancient shore temples and monuments of Mahabalipuram, which date back to the 7th century. Overnight stay in Mahabalipuram.
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Day 3 : Mahabalipuram – Kanchipuram – Mahabalipuram
After your breakfast, take a day excursion to Kanchipuram, one of South India’s most sacred cities, renowned for its Dravidian temples and silk weaving tradition. On your return, you may opt to visit Dakshinachitra, a cultural living-history museum that showcases South Indian heritage. Overnight stay in Mahabalipuram.
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Day 4 : Mahabalipuram – Trichy
After your breakfast, travel to Trichy (Tiruchirappalli), a spiritual hub of Tamil Nadu, home to the towering Srirangam Temple—one of the largest functioning Hindu temples in the world—and the Rock Fort Temple, perched on an ancient rock formation. The nearby Rock Fort Bazaar is bustling with shops, making it an exciting spot for local souvenirs. Overnight stay in Trichy.
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Day 5 : Trichy – Madurai
After your breakfast, depart Trichy and drive for three hours to Madurai, one of India’s oldest continuously inhabited cities. In the afternoon, visit the magnificent Meenakshi Amman Temple, known for its stunning architecture, and the Nayak Palace. Enjoy free time to explore Madurai’s vibrant markets. In the evening, join our popular ‘Food Safari’ in Madurai to sample authentic street food and regional specialties. Overnight stay in Madurai.
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Day 6 : Madurai – Periyar
After your breakfast, begin your day with our Vanakkam Madurai walking tour, designed to offer a serene view of the city before it wakes—perfect for observing local rituals and temple customs. After breakfast, depart for Periyar, a 4-hour drive into the Western Ghats. Spend the afternoon with optional activities such as a guided forest trek in Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, a visit to a spice plantation, or tranquil bamboo rafting. Overnight stay in Periyar.
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Day 7 : Periyar – Alleppey
After your breakfast drive from Periyar to Alleppey, where you'll board a traditional Kerala houseboat for a lunch cruise through the enchanting backwaters—a must-do experience in 2025 South India travel. After the cruise, you'll check into a cozy homestay or resort beside the backwaters. Overnight stay near Alleppey.
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Day 8 : Alleppey – Cochin
After your breakfast start the day with a paddled canoe ride or a stroll along the smaller canals before heading to Cochin (Kochi), about 90 minutes away. In the afternoon, explore Fort Cochin, a melting pot of cultures featuring Dutch, Portuguese, and British architecture. Overnight stay in Fort Cochin.
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Day 9 : Cochin – Wayanad
After your breakfast, enjoy a full-day drive to Wayanad, a remote yet scenic district in Kerala known for its eco-tourism, waterfalls, and spice plantations. Overnight stay in the best resort in Wayanad.
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Day 10 : Wayanad
After your breakfast, spend the day trekking, exploring a wildlife sanctuary by jeep, or visiting prehistoric Edakkal Caves and ancient Jain temples hidden within the lush forest. Overnight stay in Wayanad.
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Day 11 : Wayanad – Mysore
After your breakfast, drive down to Mysore, and in the afternoon visit the colorful Devaraja Flower Market and the grand Mysore Palace, known for its Indo-Saracenic architecture and royal legacy. If it’s a Sunday, catch the spectacular illumination of the palace with nearly 100,000 lights. Overnight stay in the best hotel at Mysore.
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Day 12 : Mysore – Hassan
After your breakfast, depart for Hassan, stopping en route at Shravanabelagola, home to a colossal 57-foot Jain statue of Gommateshwara. Later, visit the Hoysala temples of Belur and Halebid, admired for their intricate stone carvings. Overnight in luxury stay at Hassan.
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Day 13 : Hassan – Hospet
After your breakfast, take a full-day drive to Hospet, a gateway to the historic ruins of Hampi. Settle into your hotel ahead of the exploration. Overnight stay in Hospet.
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Day 14 to 15 : Hospet
Spend two enriching days exploring the UNESCO-listed ruins of Hampi, once the glorious capital of the Vijayanagara Empire. One day will be guided for deep historical insights, and the next can be spent at your own pace. Overnight stay in Hospet.
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Day 16 : Hospet – Badami
After your breakfast, drive to Badami, stopping at the temples and cave shrines of Aihole - laboratory of temple architecture", exhibiting an early styles that later evolved across India and Pattadakal, known as the cradle of temple architecture in South India. Overnight stay in Badami.
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Day 17 : Badami – Goa
After your breakfast, drive west to reach Goa, renowned for its sun-kissed beaches, Portuguese heritage, and vibrant nightlife. Overnight stay in best resort at Goa.
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Day 18 to 19 : Goa
Spend two days enjoying guided sightseeing across Panaji and Old Goa, including visits to Basilica of Bom Jesus, local spice markets, and beach time. (Note: There seems to be an inconsistency in your original text referencing Mysore instead—this has been corrected for accuracy.) Overnight stay in Goa.
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Day 20 : Goa – Mumbai
After your breakfast, return back from Goa to Mumbai, where you'll be met by one of our Indian Panorama representative and transferred to your hotel. In the afternoon, visit the Gateway of India, Dhobi Ghats (Open-air laundry where hundreds of washermen wash clothes by hand) Hanging Gardens, and various colonial-era buildings in South Mumbai. Overnight stay in Mumbai.
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Day 21 : Mumbai
Begin your day with a visit to the Elephanta Caves, situated on an island in Mumbai Harbour and famous for their rock-cut sculptures of Lord Shiva. Then be transferred to Mumbai International Airport for your onward flight with a heart full of wonderful memories!