South India Uncovered: FULLY ESCORTED Over 60s Social Tour

Departures & Pricing

Cabin grades, balcony upgrades and pre-cruise hotel options are quoted on enquiry — call 1300 414 198.

Itinerary

1. 1

   Arrive in Chennai – Gateway to South India

   Upon arrival at Chennai International Airport, you'll be warmly welcomed by our representative and transferred to your hotel. Chennai, India’s fourth largest city, is also called the Gateway to the South. From a tiny hamlet in 1639, it grew around the Fort St. George built by the British. A lush green city famed for its temples, silk, music and dance, Chennai gives a sense of serenity and spaciousness, enhanced by one of the world’s largest and most beautiful beaches, the Marina beach. Hotel: Radisson Blu or similar. Meals Included: None.

2. 2

   Explore Chennai’s Rich Heritage

   After breakfast, embark on a full-day sightseeing tour of Chennai. Begin with a visit to the Kapaleeshwarar Temple, a colourful and intricately carved shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. Next, explore St. Mary’s Church, the oldest Anglican church in Asia, followed by the historic Fort St. George and its museum showcasing colonial-era relics. In the afternoon, continue to the Government Museum and National Art Gallery, home to a remarkable collection of Chola bronzes and archaeological treasures. End your day with a relaxing stroll along Marina Beach, one of the world’s longest urban beaches. Hotel: Radisson Blu or similar. Meals Included: Breakfast.

3. 3

   Chennai – Mahabalipuram – Puducherry

   After breakfast, depart Chennai and drive south along the scenic East Coast Road to Mahabalipuram. Explore the magnificent rock-cut architecture of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, including the Five Rathas, Shore Temple, and the famed Descent of the Ganges relief. In the afternoon, continue to Puducherry, a former French colony with colonial villas, tree-lined streets, and a tranquil seaside promenade. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and enjoy the evening at leisure. Hotel: Accor Puducherry or similar. Meals Included: Breakfast.

4. 4

   Puducherry Spiritual & Colonial Discovery

   Begin your day with a visit to Auroville, where the golden-domed Matrimandir stands as a symbol of spiritual unity and consciousness. Next, explore the Sri Aurobindo Ashram, founded in 1926 and central to Puducherry's identity. Enjoy lunch at a local French-inspired restaurant. In the afternoon, visit the Puducherry Museum, known for its excellent collection of Chola bronzes and colonial artifacts. Conclude your day with a charming rickshaw ride through the French Quarter, offering a glimpse into the town’s elegant past. Hotel: Accor Puducherry or similar. Meals Included: Breakfast & Lunch.

5. 5

   Puducherry – Chidambaram – Kumbakonam

   After breakfast, drive to the temple town of Kumbakonam. En route, stop at the ancient Chidambaram Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva in his cosmic dancer form, Nataraja. Upon arrival in Kumbakonam, enjoy a traditional South Indian lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, visit the Airavatesvara Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site built during the Chola dynasty, showcasing intricate carvings and architectural brilliance. Later, take a short walk through a nearby traditional village to experience local life and customs. Hotel: INDeco Swamimalai or similar. Meals Included: Breakfast & Lunch.

6. 6

   Kumbakonam – Tanjore – Trichy

   This morning, travel to Thanjavur (Tanjore), where you'll explore the magnificent Brihadeeswara Temple, a UNESCO site and a masterpiece of Chola architecture. Visit a bronze sculpture workshop to witness the traditional lost-wax casting technique that dates back centuries. Continue your journey to Trichy (Tiruchirappalli), and upon arrival, check in to your hotel. In the afternoon, visit the grand Ranganathaswamy Temple at Srirangam, one of the largest and most revered temple complexes in India. Hotel: Courtyard by Marriott or similar. Meals Included: Breakfast.

7. 7

   Trichy – Madurai

   After breakfast, drive to Madurai, Tamil Nadu’s cultural capital. Upon arrival, visit the bustling Flower Market, famous for its vibrant colors and the scent of Madurai jasmine, locally known as Madurai Malli. In the afternoon, tour the iconic Meenakshi Temple, a sprawling temple complex known for its colorful gopurams and spiritual significance. Later, visit the 17th-century Thirumalai Nayakkar Mahal, an architectural fusion of Dravidian and Islamic styles. Hotel: Courtyard by Marriott or similar. Meals Included: Breakfast.

8. 8

   Madurai – Thekkady

   This morning, journey through scenic hills and spice plantations to Thekkady, located in Kerala’s lush Idukki district. In the afternoon, visit a local spice plantation to learn about the cultivation of cardamom, pepper, cinnamon, and other aromatic crops. The cool climate and natural beauty make Thekkady a refreshing retreat. Hotel: Mountain Courtyard or similar. Meals Included: Breakfast.

9. 9

   Thekkady – Leisure & Optional Experiences

   Enjoy a relaxed day with the option to revisit a spice plantation or attend a traditional Kalaripayattu martial arts performance in the evening. You may also take this time to unwind at the hotel or explore local markets offering handmade crafts and spices. Hotel: Mountain Courtyard or similar. Meals Included: Breakfast.

10. 10

    Thekkady – Nature & Culture

    Today is dedicated to experiencing the natural and cultural richness of Thekkady. In the afternoon, enjoy a scenic boat ride on Periyar Lake, surrounded by dense forests that shelter elephants, deer, and other wildlife. In the evening, witness a captivating Kalaripayattu martial arts show. If you're an early riser, you may opt for a guided nature walk through Periyar National Park before breakfast. Hotel: Mountain Courtyard or similar. Meals Included: Breakfast.

11. 11

    Thekkady – Alleppey (Backwaters)

    After breakfast, drive to Alleppey, known as the “Venice of the East.” Check in to your private houseboat and enjoy a freshly prepared lunch onboard. Spend the afternoon cruising through tranquil backwaters, passing lush paddy fields, coconut groves, and traditional villages. Accommodation: Premium Backwater Houseboat. Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.

12. 12

    Alleppey – Cochin

    Disembark from your houseboat after breakfast and drive to Cochin. En route, stop at a local home for a traditional Kerala cooking demonstration and lunch hosted by Nimmy Paul. In the afternoon, check in to your hotel. The rest of the day is free for independent exploration or relaxation. Hotel: Crowne Plaza, Holiday Inn, or similar. Meals Included: Breakfast & Lunch.

13. 13

    Cochin – Colonial Charm & Cultural Show

    Spend your day exploring the historical town of Fort Kochi. Visit the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets, believed to have been introduced by Chinese explorers in the 14th century. Continue to Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica, the Jewish Synagogue in Mattancherry, and the Dutch Palace (Mattancherry Palace), known for its murals and royal exhibits. In the evening, attend a mesmerizing Kathakali dance performance, showcasing Kerala’s rich artistic heritage. Hotel: Crowne Plaza, Holiday Inn, or similar. Meals Included: Breakfast.

14. 14

    Departure from Cochin

    After breakfast, check out from your hotel and transfer to Cochin International Airport for your onward journey. We hope you leave with unforgettable memories of South India’s cultural riches and natural beauty. Meals Included: Breakfast.

    Note: Itinerary is subject to change without prior notice.

Accommodation

Book this cruise

Send us an enquiry and a consultant will be in touch, or call 1300 414 198 for personal help choosing a departure.

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