Overview
Explore the cultural and natural treasures of South India on this captivating journey through ancient temple towns, UNESCO heritage sites, serene coastal villages, and lush hill stations. From the historic landmarks of Chennai and Mahabalipuram to the spiritual ambience of Rameshwaram and the colonial elegance of Thanjavur and Chettinad, each destination offers a unique glimpse into Tamil Nadu's rich past. Traverse the scenic Western Ghats, unwind amidst the greenery of Munnar and Thekkady, and relax in the tranquil backwaters of Kumarakom before ending your tour in the charming port city of Cochin. This itinerary blends spiritual retreats, cultural exploration, and eco-tourism experiences, making it an ideal choice for a fulfilling South India tour in 2025.
Detailed Itineary
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Day 1 : Mumbai Arrival
Upon your arrival at Mumbai airport, you’ll be received by our Indian Panorama representative and he will assist you in transferring you to the hotel. Spend the rest of the day at leisure, settling into your surroundings. Overnight stay in Mumbai.
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Day 2 : Mumbai
After your breakfast get ready to explore the largest and most cosmopolitan city, Mumbai. Your full-day sightseeing tour starts from South Mumbai, visit the Gateway of India, the city's most iconic monument, before moving on to see significant sites like grand colonial-era buildings that line the heritage-rich streets. Then proceed to Dhobi Ghat, the world's largest open-air laundry, and enjoy the energy of Chowpatty Beach, a favorite hangout of both locals and tourists. In the afternoon, you can explore the Kanheri Caves, a historical complex of Buddhist rock-cut caves, or visit the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya, Mumbai's most renowned museum. Overnight stay in Mumbai.
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Day 3 : Mumbai
After your breakfast in the morning, take a scenic boat ride across Mumbai Harbour to Elephanta Island, popular for its cave temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. Return to the city to relax in the afternoon. If you very much interested in exploring then you can go for shopping. Overnight stay in Mumbai.
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Day 4 : Mumbai – Mangalore
After breakfast, transfer to the airport and fly south to Mangalore, nestled along the Sapphire Coast, known for its tranquil beaches and charming coastal culture. On arrival, you’ll be met and driven a short distance to your beach resort. Overnight stay near Mangalore.
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Day 5 : Mangalore
After your breakfast enjoy your full day to relax and marvel at the serene beauty of the Arabian Sea, the resort's amenities, and the calm atmosphere of the Sapphire Coast. Swim, stroll along the shoreline, or simply relax. Overnight stay near Mangalore.
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Day 6 : Mangalore – Coorg
After your breakfast drive to the Coorg district in Karnataka, popular for its lush coffee plantations and cool climate. On the way visit Bylakuppe, the largest Tibetan settlement in South India. The area is also known for its eco-tourism and scenic trekking trails. Overnight stay near Madikeri.
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Day 7 : Coorg
After your breakfast get ready to experience the best of Coorg like coffee and spice plantation. Later, visit Talakaveri, the source of the mighty Cauvery River, or go cycling to nearby tribal villages. The region's landscape is the best for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Overnight stay near Madikeri.
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Day 8 : Coorg – Nagarhole
After your breakfast depart for Nagarhole National Park, one of South India's most diverse wildlife sanctuaries. In the afternoon, take a jeep safari guided by a trained naturalist through dry deciduous forests that provide habitat to wildlife like elephants, deer, bison, and a wide array of birdlife. If you are lucky you may spot a leopard or tiger. Overnight stay at Kabini Lake/Nagarhole.
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Day 9 : Nagarhole
After your breakfast spend the day exploring Nagarhole further with both morning and afternoon safaris. A boat safari on Kabini Lake offers a unique vantage point to observe elephants and other wildlife that gather along the banks. The post-monsoon grasslands here are a paradise for photographers and wildlife enthusiasts. Overnight stay at Kabini Lake/Nagarhole.
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Day 10 : Nagarhole – Thalasseri
After a final early morning safari and breakfast, return back to the coast and check into a beachside homestay near Thalasseri. This coastal town is rich in cuisine, heritage, and has a cultural identity distinct from the rest of Kerala. Overnight stay near Thalasseri.
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Day 11 : Thalasseri
After your breakfast, spend the day relaxing along the Arabian Sea. Observe local fishermen at work, explore the nearby town of Kannur, or—if the timing is right—experience a Theyyam performance, an ancient ritual dance with mystical and shamanistic elements. These performances are deeply rooted in history and regional beliefs and can take place during unconventional hours. Overnight stay near Thalasseri.
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Day 12 : Thalasseri – Cochin
After your breakfast, enjoy a leisurely morning before boarding a 5-hour train journey through Kerala's lush coastal plains to Cochin. Upon your arrival, you’ll be transferred to your hotel. Overnight stay in Cochin.
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Day 13 : Cochin Sightseeing
After your breakfast, get ready for a full day sightseeing in Cochin- a port city steeped in history that has been shaped by centuries of global influence. Explore Fort Cochin and Mattancherry, where remnants of Arab, Jewish, Dutch, Portuguese, and British cultures can still be witnessed. Later in the day, enjoy a sunset cruise in Cochin Harbour, which offers panoramic views of the city's waterfront. Overnight stay in Cochin.
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Day 14 : Cochin – Alleppey
After your breakfast, drive to Alleppey (Alappuzha), popular for its tranquil backwaters. Board a private houseboat for a leisurely lunch cruise, drifting past paddy fields, coconut groves, and small villages. In the evening, disembark and check into a peaceful backwater resort. Overnight stay near Alleppey.
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Day 15 : Alleppey
Staying in the backwaters enables you to explore areas that are unreachable by large boats. Take a dugout canoe ride, take a leisurely walk along village paths, or bike through quiet trails. This slow-paced region allows you to experience the best of Kerala's rural life. Overnight stay near Alleppey.
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Day 16 : Alleppey – Kovalam
After your breakfast, drive south to Kovalam, one of India's best-known beach destinations, famed for its crescent-shaped shoreline, experience Ayurvedic retreats, and relaxed ambiance. Overnight stay at the best luxury resort in Kovalam.
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Day 17 : Kovalam – Kanyakumari – Madurai
After your breakfast, travel to Kanyakumari, where the Arabian Sea, Bay of Bengal, and Indian Ocean meet. Visit the Gandhi Memorial and enjoy a boat ride to the Vivekananda Rock Memorial. Proceed north to Madurai, a city of temples and vibrant local culture. Overnight stay in Madurai.
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Day 18 : Madurai Sightseeing – Trichy
After your breakfast, travel take a guided morning tour of Madurai, including the magnificent Meenakshi Amman Temple, known for its colorful towers and spiritual significance, and the Nayak Palace, featuring Indo-Saracenic architecture. Drive to Trichy (Tiruchirappalli) and visit Srirangam Temple, a temple complex so vast it resembles a living town. Explore the local bazaar in the evening. Overnight stay in Trichy.
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Day 19 : Trichy – Tanjore – Tranquebar
In the morning, after your breakfast head to Tanjore (Thanjavur), a cultural capital famed for its Brihadeeswara Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit the royal palace before proceeding to Tranquebar, a tranquil beachside village with Danish colonial roots, highlighted by the Dansborg Fort. Overnight stay in Tranquebar.
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Day 20 : Tranquebar – Pondicherry
After your breakfast, enjoy a relaxed morning on the beach or take a leisurely around the vibrant streets of Tranquebar. Drive north to Pondicherry, a former French colony where colonial architecture, pristine beaches, and spiritual ashrams coexist. In the afternoon, follow the self-guided French Quarter heritage trail. Later in the evening, explore the bustling Tamil quarters. Overnight stay in luxury resort at Pondicherry.
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Day 21 : Pondicherry – Mahabalipuram
After your breakfast, depart for Mahabalipuram, home to some of the finest examples of Pallava-era rock-cut architecture. Visit the Shore Temple, Arjuna's Penance, and other remarkable monuments that make up the UNESCO World Heritage Site. Overnight stay in luxury resort at Mahabalipuram.
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Day 22 : Mahabalipuram Sightseeing - Chennai - Departure
On the last day spend the morning by exploring more of Mahabalipuram's ancient marvels before you get transferred to Chennai airport (90 minutes approx.) for your onward journey. The trip ends with wonderful memories of India's vibrant coasts, historic cities, and sacred temples.