Best of South India

Starting From : Ask For Price

Duration : 26N / 27D

Destination Covered : Mysore – Ooty – Madurai - Rameswaram – Trichy – Tanjore – Pondicherry – Mahabalipuram – Chennai – Tiruvannmalai – Coimbatore - Cochin – Munnar – Periyar – Kumarakom – Alleppey – Kovalam – Trivandrum

The Best of South India Tour is a captivating journey through the rich cultural heritage, scenic landscapes, tranquil backwaters, ancient temples, and tropical beauty of southern India. This tour offers travelers a perfect blend of spirituality, nature, history, wildlife, and coastal charm across so...

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1 : Arrive Bangalore

On arrival at the Bangalore International Airport, our tour representative helps you with an assisted transfer to your hotel. The term 'Bangalore' is an anglicized version of "Bengalooru," a Kannada term. The word "Bengalooru" was in turn derived from the phrase 'bende kaalu ooru' meaning 'the town of boiled beans'. Overnight stay at the hotel.

Day 2 : Bangalore Sightseeing

After breakfast sightseeing tour and visit Tipu Sultan Palace, Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace, in Bangalore, India, is an example of Indo-Islamic architecture and was the summer residence of the Mysorean ruler Tipu Sultan. Hyder Ali commenced its construction within the walls of the Bangalore Fort, and it was completed during the reign of Tipu Sultan in 1791. ISKCON Temple Sri Radha Krishna-chandra Temple is one of the largest Krishna Hindu temples in the world, affiliated with ISKCON Revival Movement. Lal Bagh Garden, Lalbagh Botanical Garden, or shortened Lalbagh, is an old botanical garden in Bengaluru, India. First planned and laid out during the dalavaiship of Hyder Ali and later adorned with unique plant species by his son Tippu, it was later managed under numerous British Superintendents before Indian Independence. Overnight stay at hotel.

Day 3 : Bangalore – Mysore (145 Km / approx 04 Hrs)

After breakfast drive to Mysore, Mysuru, is one of the most important places in the country regarding ancient reigns. It is replete with the history of its dazzling royal heritage, intricate architecture, its famed silk sarees, yoga, and sandalwood, to name just a few. The highlight is the majestic Mysore Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which is a must-visit. Upon arrival check in at hotel. After taking some rest you will visit the Brindavan Garden which is a botanical park with a musical fountain. Enjoy the evening here in the garden and spend some quality time here amidst the lush greenery. The rest of the time is at your leisure. You can rest or take a stroll at the streets of Mysore or explore the nearby market of the city and enjoy the shopping. Overnight stay at hotel.

Day 4 : Mysore Sightseeing

After breakfast sightseeing tour visit Maharaja’s Mysore Palace which was the seat of the Kingdom of Mysore. Snuggled in the centre of Mysore and faces the Chamundi Hill, the Mysore Palace was the official residence of Wadiyar Dynasty. Explore the exquisite architecture of the palace and delve into the enchanting beauty of this beautiful edifice. After this, you will visit the Chamundi Hills which is perched at an altitude of 3,300 feet above the sea level. Here you will visit the Chamundeshwari Temple which is set atop the hill. The temple is dedicated to the Goddess Chamundi and within the sanctum; there is a sculpted depiction of the goddess. From the top of the hill, you will be able to witness the sheer beauty of the Mysore Palace, Karanji Lake and the bird’s eye view of the Mysore. Then you will head towards the Mysore Zoo which is home to some of the exotic wildlife species. The zoo accommodating more than 1450 specimens of 168 species and here you will be able to spot the Lion, Tiger, Jaguar, Elephant, Giraffe, Leopard, Lagoon, Crocodile, Sloth Bear, and many more. Saint Philomena's Church will be the next place of the sightseeing tour. It is one of the majestic churches in India and this Catholic Church was constructed in 1936. It is a perfect example of the Neo-gothic architectural style. This is one of the largest churches in Asia. You will get the glimpses of the enchanting beauty of the church and spend some quality time amidst the peace and tranquility in the church. Visit Jagan Mohan Palace which is an Art Gallery. This palace was an all-ternate retreat for the royal family. This three-story palace is built in the Hindu architectural style. The art gallery houses more than 2,000 murals and paintings and this palace exhibits weapons of war, musi-cal instruments, sculptures, unique artifacts, and many more things which belonged to the bygone era. Overnight stay at hotel.

Day 5 : Mysore - Ooty (125 Km / approx 03 Hrs) (Enroute visit Bandipur National Forest)

After breakfast drive to Ooty, Ooty is a scenic beauty of south India; it is surrounded by the Nilgiri Hills and is popularly known as the Queen of Hills. En-route visits the Bandipur National Forest & Madumali Forest which comprises a wide range of beautiful wildlife and a multitude of teak and sandalwood trees. Here you will be able to spot the hornbills, elephant, python, sloth bears, etc. The national park was once served as a hunting ground and then converted into the national park. It is the largest biosphere reserve in India and a famous tiger reserve. Revel into the enchanting beauty this wonderland you will head towards the Ooty. Upon arrival check in at hotel. You will visit Rose Garden which is a retreat for the nature lovers. You can take a stroll and enjoy the time here encompassed by the lush greenery. Ooty Lake you can enjoy paddle boat, rowing boat, and motorboats. There is a mini-train also in which children can take a ride and enjoy the time. The lake is spread over a sprawling area of 65 acres and you can spot some of the exotic species of birds here. Botanical Garden is spread over a sprawling area of the 22 hectares and here you can spot the exotic and indigenous plants, shrubs, ferns, trees, herbals, and bonsai plants. The botanical garden is the home to the rare species of the trees. Overnight stay at hotel.

Day 6 : Ooty

After breakfast sightseeing tour and visit Doddabetta Peak - It is the highest point of Nilgiris hills with a height of about 2,623 meters. It is also the second highest peak in South India. A junction of Western and Eastern Ghats, its breathtaking view of the landscape around is something not to be missed. Deer Park – visit along with deer such as Sambhar and the Chithal, this park hosts a variety of flora and fauna, especially avian fauna. Kalhatti Waterfalls - the waterfalls can be reached after a two mile trek from the Kalahatti village. It is fabled that Saint Agastya used to live here. Along with a variety of flora and fauna, it is also ideal for bird watching. Kamraj Sagar Dam - Also known as the Sandynallah Reservoir, it is a wonderful picnic spot with refreshing nature around. It is also frequented by a lot of bird watchers. Overnight stay at hotel.

Day 7 : Ooty – Madurai (287 Km / 06 Hrs)

After breakfast drive to Madurai, Madurai dazzling city takes pride in being the capital city of Pandiyas and Thirumalai Nayakar. The architectural style here is greatly admired by all. Meenakshi Amman temple in Madurai is one of the famous temples in India. Apart from architecture this city is famous for South Indian spicy foods, scrumptious Jigarthanda and fluffy Idly (Rice cake).Upon arrival check in at hotel. Overnight stay at hotel.

Day 8 : Madurai sightseeing

In the morning, a half Day tour to Meenakshi Amman Temple and historical monument Tirumalai Palace will be on the cards for you. Back to hotel for relax. We will take you to Meenakshi Temple once again to watch the night ceremony. Overnight stay at hotel.

Day 9 : Madurai – Rameswaram (175 Km / approx 03 Hrs)

After breakfast drive to Rameswaram, Rameshwaram, as it is said, is the place where Lord Rama offered thanks to Lord Shiva in return for his support in defeating King Ravana. This makes Rameshwaram an important pilgrimage destination for devotees of both Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu. Rameshwaram is home to some of the most fascinating temples in entire India. This island in the Gulf of Manner is connected to the mainland at Mandapam by Indira Gandhi Bridge. Completed in the year 1988, this was considered as an engineering marvel, a feat unparalleled at that time. Upon arrival check in at hotel. After that full day temple tour including Ramanathaswamy, this magnificent temple is one of the 12 Jyotirlinga situated in different parts of India. Ramanathaswamy Temple also has its name in history books as it has the largest hallway anywhere in India. Overnight stay at hotel.

Day 10 : Rameswaram

After breakfast temple tour of Rameswaram, visiting Sri Ramanathaswami temple. The temple has 22 holy springs which are believed to have medicinal properties. After Darshan, visit the Ghanthamathana Parvatham which provides fine views of the island. Later, visit Dhanushkodi; it is one of the Tirthas in the island of Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu, India. This is located beside the ghost town of Dhanushkodi at the eastern most tip of Rameswaram Island. Rama used his bow's (Dhanush) end (Kodi) to break the bridge - Adam's Bridge (hence the name). This bridge was used for his army to cross over to Lanka for the victorious war against Ravana. Overnight stay at hotel.

Day 11 : Rameswaram – Trichy (270 Km / approx 05 Hrs)

After breakfast drive to Trichy. Upon arrival check in at hotel. There after visit Sri Ranganathaswamy temple surrounded by the Kaveri water is a 600 acres island town enclosed within the seven walls on the gigantic Sri Ranganathaswamy temple. There are no less than 22 gopurams, one of which is the tallest in India. The 72 m high 13 tiered gopuram dominates the landscape for miles around. The Rock Fort situated on the banks of the Kaveri River, Trichy's most famed landmark is an 84 m high rock, one of the oldest in the world approx. 3,800 million years. The attraction is not for fort itself but the temple at the summit. 344 steps hewn out of rock lead to the top where are the inscriptions dating back to the 3rd century B.C. Overnight stay at hotel.

Day 12 : Trichy – Tanjore – Pondicherry (200 Km / 04 Hrs)

After breakfast drive to Pondicherry, Enroute visit Tanjore. The home of Carnatic music, musical instruments, dance and traditional handicrafts, Tanjore (Thanjavur) is famous for the Brahadeeswarar Temple. The temple constructed more than a thousand years ago by the Chola King Raja Rajan is an architect's marvel. The Art Gallery and the Saraswathi Mahal Library are also well known places of interest. Continue drive to Pondicherry, It is a quiet little town on the southern coast of India. The unmistakable French connection, the tree lined boulevards, the quaint colonial heritage buildings, the spiritual sceneries, the endless stretches of unspoilt virgin beaches and backwaters and a surprising choice of restaurants serving a mélange of cuisines provide a heady mix of experience that draws travelers from near and far to the city. It is the perfect place to come if you want to take the pace of life down a few notches. Upon arrival check in at hotel. Overnight stay at hotel.

Day 13 : Pondicherry – Mahabalipuram

After breakfast drive to Mahabalipuram, Mahabalipuram is to the town of Temples, sea and sand, Mahabalipuram. You will be accommodated to a pre booked hotel after reaching Mahabalipuram. Upon arrival check in at hotel. Overnight stay at hotel.

Day 14 : Mahabalipuram (Excursion Kanchipuram approx 70 Km / 02 Hrs)

After breakfast, you will explore the city of Mahabalipuram covering Krishna Mandapam and Arjuna's Penance, the Shore Temple, Kamakshi Amman Temple, Mahishasura Mardini Cave etc. Later visit to Kailasanathar Temple, Ekambaranathar, Kamakshi Amman Temple (Parabrahma Rupini) and Silk Sari Weaving Center at Kanchipuram. Overnight stay at hotel.

Day 15 : Mahabalipuram – Chennai (70 Km / 02 Hrs)

After breakfast drive to Chennai, upon arrival check in at hotel. After that go for the sightseeing of Chennai like British-built Old Government House, Basilica of San Thome, the lighthouse and Marina Beach. Overnight stay at hotel.

Day 16 : Chennai – Tiruvannamalai (195 Km / approx 04 Hrs)

After breakfast drive to Tiruvannamalai, Thiruvannamalai was derived from the name of the holy mountain Tiruvannan Malai. Thiruvannamalai, Lord Shiva took the form of a column of fire which had no beginning or end, so as to destroy the ego of Lord Vishnu and Brahma. It is said that Lord Shiva in ardhanarashwari form, with one half being Goddess Umadevi, appeared before his devotees here. Upon arrival check in at hotel. After that sightseeing tour and visit Thiruvannamalai Arunachaleswara Temple: Nestled at the foot of the Arunachala hill, and devoted to Lord Shiva, this is one of the largest temples in India. Sri Ramana Ashram: Consecrated to Bhagavan Sri Ramana Maharshi, this Ashram is decked with flowering trees, accompanied by a soothing ambience. Overnight stay at hotel.

Day 17 : Tiruvannamalai – Coimbatore (330 Km / approx 06 Hrs)

After breakfast drive to Coimbatore, Coimbatore lies at The Foothills of the Nilgiri Hills and is one of the most influential and one of the most important cities of Tamil Nadu. Some of the major attractions of Coimbatore district are Aliyar Dam, Monkey Falls, Siruvani Dam, Sholayar Dam, Botanical Garden, Horticulture Farms and Vaitheki Falls. Upon arrival check in at hotel. Overnight stay at hotel.

Day 18 : Coimbatore - Cochin (190 Km / approx 05 Hrs)

After breakfast sightseeing of Coimbatore and visit Marudhamalai Temple is A Hill Temple Build by Tamil Kings during Sangam Period as Shown in Purananuru and dedicated to Lord Murugan, Siruvani Waterfalls. The Gateways on either side of the road across the dam are typical of the Kerala and Tamil architectural styles. You will visit Gass Forest Museum is a Government Run Natural History Museum situated at Coimbatore. Horace Arichibald Gass, Succeeded In establishing a museum for Forestry. It Was Opened To The Public 15 April 1902 By Baron Ampthill. The Isha Yoga Center situated at the foothills of Velliangiri, On the Outskirts of Coimbatore. Isha is a sacred Space for Self-transformation; Where You can come dedicate time towards your Inner Growth. The center offers all four Major Paths of Yoga – Kriya (Energy). The Adiyogi Statue Is A 34-Metre-Tall, 45-Metre-Long and 7.62-Metre-Wide Steel Statue of the Indian Deity Shiva at Coimbatore. Later drive to Cochin known as the ‘Queen of the Arabian Sea’, Cochin or Kochi is one of the most famous cities of Kerala state. The city is dotted with several popular tourist attractions. Upon arrival check in at hotel. In the evening, you can visit the local market where you can get your hands on some excellent spices, handicraft items and nuts. Overnight stay at hotel.

Day 19 : Cochin Sightseeing

After breakfast, you partake in sightseeing, visiting the popular tourist attractions of Cochin. The city’s attractions hold a Portuguese, Dutch and British touch in their architecture. The first visit of the day is to the Jewish Synagogue which was erected way back in the year 1568. The walls of the synagogue have been adorned beautifully hand -painted Chinese tiles in white and blue colors. Next, visit the oldest European church in India, the St. Francis Church. Visit to the church is followed by a visit to the Dutch Palace, also known as the Mattancherry Palace. This palace is known for its attractive murals, Palanquins and other ancient possessions. Thereafter, get all set to visit one of the most popular attractions of Cochin, the Chinese fishing nets. The evening is scheduled for enjoying a Kathakali performance. Overnight stay at hotel.

Day 20 : Cochin - Munnar (125 Km / 04 hours)

After breakfast drive to Munnar, Munnar, fondly known as the ‘Switzerland of India’. Upon arrival, check in at hotel. Probably, the most popular hill station of Kerala, Munnar is known to be blessed with abundant scenic beauty. The day is scheduled for a wildlife safari at the Eravikulam National Park, home to a rare species of a kind of mountain goat, Nilgiri Tahr. Embark on a jungle safari inside the national park. Once back to the hill town, explore the old town market. Overnight stay at hotel.

Day 21 : Munnar

After breakfast visit Tata Tea Plantation and watch how the tea leaves are plucked, processed and packed. A walk through the tea plantations is a beautiful experience to have. You can also check out Attukad Waterfalls and Lakkom Waterfalls or spend time peaceful time at the Kundala Lake. Towards the evening, head towards the Mattuppetty Dam and adjacent dairy farm. Catch the evening from the Mattuppetty Dam to wrap the day on a beautiful note. Overnight stay at hotel.

Day 22 : Munnar – Periyar (90 Km / approx 03 Hrs)

Early morning leisure nature walks in the verdant tea estates of Munnar where you can also spot Neela Kurunji, a rare floral species found in the region. Later drive to Thekaddy to go the extremely popular Periyar National Park, known for housing a decent population of elephant and tigers. Upon arrival check in at hotel. The evening is fixed for a bird watching tour while you enjoy boating in the placid waters of the vast Periyar Lake. You would be able to spot several colorful species of resident as well as migratory birds. Overnight stay at hotel.

Day 23 : Periyar – Kumarakom (115 Km / approx 03 Hrs)

After breakfast drive to Kumarakom, lying on the banks of Lake Vembanad. Upon arrival check in at hotel. Thereafter, spend the afternoon in enjoying the sights around the Lake. Hop into a boat and spot several colorful avifauna species. In the evening, embark on a leisure walk to explore the serene town or you can also visit the local market to get your hands on some wonderful handicrafts. Overnight stay at hotel.

Day 24 : Kumarakom – Alleppey (32 Km / approx 01 Hrs)

After breakfast drive to Alleppey, Alleppey best known for houseboat cruises along the rustic Kerala backwaters, a network of tranquil canals and lagoons. Alappuzha Beach is the site of the 19th-century Alappuzha Lighthouse. The city's Mullakkal Temple features a traditional design. This is going to be an overnight boat Alleppey round. Spend your day on this splendid cruise exploring the lush vast stretches of palm-fringe Kerala backwaters. Savor tasty meals prepared by a chef who would be accompanying you. This houseboat has well-equipped rooms and a fully-loaded kitchen. Admire the lovely surroundings. Overnight stay at houseboat.

Day 25 : Alleppey – Kovalam (160 Km / approx 04 Hrs)

After breakfast drive to Kovalam, Kovalam the leisure options at this beach are plenty and diverse. Sunbathing, swimming, herbal body toning massages, special cultural programmers and catamaran cruising are some of them. The tropical sun acts so fast that one can see the faint blush of coppery tan on the skin in a matter of minutes. Life on the beach begins late in the day and carries on well into the night. The beach complex includes a string of budget cottages, Ayurvedic health resorts, and convention facilities, shopping zones, swimming pools, Yoga and Ayurvedic massage centers. Upon arrival check in at hotel. Overnight stay at hotel.

Day 26 : Kovalam

Day free for leisure at beach. Overnight stay at hotel. (No Transportation)

Day 27 : Kovalam – Trivandrum (approx 30 Min) / Departure

On time transferred to the Trivandrum airport to board the flight to your onward destination.

Picture Gallery

Highlights

Explore the royal heritage and magnificent palaces of Mysuru, including the famous Mysore Palace.

Enjoy the scenic beauty and cool climate of Ooty, known for tea gardens, lakes, and Nilgiri mountain views.

Visit the iconic Meenakshi Temple in Madurai, one of South India’s most celebrated spiritual landmarks.

Experience the sacred pilgrimage destination of Rameswaram, famous for Ramanathaswamy Temple and Pamban Bridge.

Explore the temple heritage of Tiruchirappalli and the famous Rock Fort Temple.

Discover the architectural brilliance of Brihadeeswara Temple in Thanjavur, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Experience French colonial charm, beaches, and cafés in Puducherry.

Visit the ancient shore temples and rock-cut monuments of Mahabalipuram.

Explore the cultural attractions and Marina Beach in Chennai.

Experience spiritual serenity in Tiruvannamalai, home to the sacred Arunachaleswarar Temple.

Enjoy the natural beauty and tea plantations of Munnar in the Western Ghats.

Explore wildlife and spice plantations in Periyar.

Relax amidst the peaceful backwaters of Kumarakom and Alappuzha with traditional houseboat experiences.

Unwind on the beautiful beaches of Kovalam and explore the coastal charm of Thiruvananthapuram.

A perfect blend of spirituality, heritage, hill stations, beaches, backwaters, wildlife, and cultural experiences across South India.

Inclusion

✔ Warm Welcome by our Representative at the airport.

✔ Accommodation in hotels on Bed and Breakfast basis.

✔ Accommodation in base category of rooms at all hotels.

✔ Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner at Alleppey Houseboat.

✔ Services of Local English Speaking Guide for sightseeing.

✔ Air-conditioned transports per itinerary.

✔ Kathakali Dance at Cochin.

✔ Elephant ride at Periyar.

✔ Spice Plantation at Periyar.

✔ Boat ride at Periyar.

✔ All currently applicable taxes for hotels and transport.

Exclusion

✖ Travel Insurance.

✖ Any Monument Entrance fee.

✖ Any Airfare.

✖ Visa Service.

✖ Expenses of personal nature such as drinks, telephone, laundry bills etc.

✖ Tips and porter charges.

✖ Any additional expenses incurred due to any flight delay or cancellation, weather conditions, political closures, technical faults etc.

✖ Any other service/s not specified above.

✖ Guides in other languages (available at an additional cost).

Terms and Conditions

In case of any hike in the hotel rates, the package cost will be amended accordingly. In case of a change in the train / flight schedule or timing resulting to amend the itinerary, the cost if any, will advised separately and same will be paid by the guest.

Best Tours in India is presently not holding hotel for your proposed tour plan. Confirmation is subject to receiving an email from Best Tours in India of confirmation.

If the group members do not arrive or depart with the group, additional transfer charges will be applicable.
Quote does not include any meals, which is not specified. In case the same is required, during transfers, sightseeing and day trips, additional will be charged, on actual (if applicable).
The rates mentioned above are valid for the dates mentioned above only.
Please note Budget Hotels in India are very basic accommodation at most of the places.
In case of any immigration/Visa complications, the cancellation policy shall be applicable in full.

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