South India Discovery
Kerala backwaters, tea hills and the temples of the south. 7 Days / 6 Nights, December 27, 2026 to January 2, 2027. A festive New Year departure: travel through the holidays and welcome 2027 on the road, with a small group and expert guides.
Description
Overview
A seven day journey through South India from the temples of Chennai and the stone architecture of Mahabalipuram to the French Quarter of Pondicherry, the tea hills of Munnar and the backwaters of Kumarakom. Luxury hotels and resorts throughout.
Highlights
- Kapaleeshwarar Temple and San Thome Basilica in Chennai
- The Shore Temple and rock-cut monuments at Mahabalipuram
- Pondicherry's French Quarter and seaside promenade
- Tea plantations and misty viewpoints in Munnar
- Backwaters and lakeside relaxation in Kumarakom
Itinerary
Day 1: Chennai, arrival and city exploration
Welcome to South India! Upon arrival in Chennai, settle into your hotel before exploring the city's cultural landmarks, including Kapaleeshwarar Temple and the historic San Thome Basilica. Enjoy a relaxed introduction to Tamil Nadu's rich heritage.
Accommodation: Luxury hotel in Chennai
Day 2: Chennai, Mahabalipuram and Pondicherry
Travel along the scenic East Coast Road to Mahabalipuram, a historic coastal town renowned for its remarkable stone architecture. Visit the Shore Temple and the ancient rock-cut monuments before continuing to Pondicherry.
Accommodation: Luxury hotel in Pondicherry
Day 3: Pondicherry
Discover Pondicherry's charming French Quarter, colonial architecture and seaside promenade. Visit Sri Aurobindo Ashram and enjoy time exploring the town's boutiques, cafes and distinctive blend of French and Tamil culture.
Accommodation: Luxury hotel in Pondicherry
Day 4: Pondicherry, Chennai, Kochi and Munnar
Return to Chennai Airport for a domestic flight to Kochi. Upon arrival, travel by road into Kerala's Western Ghats to Munnar, a beautiful hill station known for its rolling tea plantations and mist-covered mountains.
Accommodation: Luxury resort in Munnar
Day 5: Munnar
Explore Munnar's picturesque tea gardens, scenic viewpoints and local tea heritage. Enjoy the region's tranquil mountain landscapes and discover the natural beauty of Kerala's highlands.
Accommodation: Luxury resort in Munnar
Day 6: Munnar to Kumarakom
Travel through Kerala's lush countryside to Kumarakom, situated along the beautiful Vembanad Lake. Spend the afternoon relaxing by the backwaters, with the option of a scenic boat cruise through palm-lined waterways.
Accommodation: Luxury lakeside resort in Kumarakom
Day 7: Kumarakom, Kochi and departure
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast overlooking Kerala's peaceful backwaters before transferring to Kochi Airport for your onward journey.
Tour concludes in Kochi.
Optional Extensions
- Varkala, coastal escape: seaside cliffs, beaches and relaxed coastal cafes. Suggested extension: 2 nights
- Alleppey, backwater retreat: a traditional houseboat or private cruise. Suggested extension: 1 to 2 nights
- Thekkady, wildlife and spice country: forest landscapes and spice plantations around Periyar. Suggested extension: 1 to 2 nights
- Madurai, temple heritage: the Meenakshi Amman Temple and the traditions of Tamil Nadu. Suggested extension: 2 nights
Inclusions
- Six nights in luxury hotels and resorts in Chennai, Pondicherry, Munnar and Kumarakom
- Domestic flight from Chennai to Kochi on day 4 and road transfers as described
- Sightseeing as described in the itinerary
- Each extension arranged separately, with its own transport, accommodation and schedule
Planning Notes
- Final inclusions, meals, guides and pricing are confirmed in your quotation.
Plan This Journey
Tell us your dates and group size and a Melissa Tours travel specialist will shape the journey around you.
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