30 Days South India Tour is the complete intensive tour of South India. South India is made up of the 4 states of Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Kerala and Tamil Nadu. They all lie in the southern part of the Indian Peninsula. During the 30 Days South India Tour you will visit all these parts of South India, finest beaches, hill stations, wildlife sanctuaries, backwaters and some of the finest temples in South India like Kodaikanal, Ooty, BR Hills, Munnar, Periyar, Kovalam, Alleppey, Mysore, Pondicherry, Bangalore and Chennai.

Day 1: Chennai
Arrival in Chennai (formerly Madras). The cosmopolitan City and capital of Tamil Nadu is the main gateway for travelers to South India. You are met by an Indo Vacations representative and transferred to your Hotel. 

Day 2: Chennai - Kanchipuram (about 70 km)
After a late breakfast we start the sightseeing of Chennai. We visit the Fort St. George near the harbour area of Chennai which was built by the British in the 17th century and also the St. Mary's church which was the first English church in India. In the afternoon we drive to Kanchipuram. This temple town was once the capital of the Pallava dynasty. Kanchipuram is one of the India's Seven sacred cities. The silk sarees produced here are famous throughout the world. In the afternoon we visit the Vaikuntam Perumal Temple. This temple is one of the important Vishnu temples which were built by Pallava King Nandivarman Pallavamalla in the 7th century A.D. The presiding deity Lord Vishnu is depicted in sitting, standing and reclining postures. After visiting this temple we visit the Kailasanathar Temple. This Pallava temple was constructed in the 8th century and has an attractive panel depicting Shiva and Parvathi in the midst of one of their innumerable dance competitions. The architecture of this temple resembles the Shore Temple at Mamallapuram. Overnight stay in Kanchipuram

Day 3: Kanchipuram - Mamallapuram (about 67 km / 1½ hours)
Today we drive to Mamallapuram. Mamallapuram situated on the shores of the Bay of Bengal, was once a port of the Pallavas. The Pallavas have created many marvellous monuments, caves, monolithic Rathas and Temples. Today we visit the Arjuna's Penance. This skilfully carved rock is the largest bas-relief sculpture in the world. This sculpture derived its name from Arjuna, the hero of Mahabharata, who performed a penance to obtain a boon from Lord Shiva. After visiting the Arjuna's Penance we visit the Five Rathas, also known as the Pancha Pandava Rathas. There are five monolithic temples, each created in different style. Four of the Rathas are supposed to have scooped out of a single rock formation. In the evening we visit the Shore Temple. This temple is one of the oldest temples in South India. It belongs to the 8th Century AD and is a good example of the first phase of structural temples constructed in Dravidian style.

Day 4: Mamallapuram
The whole day at leisure in Mamallapuram. (for your own activities)

Day 5: Mamallapuram - Pondicherry (about 100 km / 2 hours)
After having breakfast we proceed to Pondicherry. Pondicherry was retained as French colony until 1954. Pondicherry has even today the French atmosphere amidst the surrounding Tamil country. We visit the Sri Aurobindo Ashram, which is a world famous Yoga and philosophy center.

Day 6: Pondicherry - Tanjore (about 175 km / 3 hours)
We drive through the tropical mountains to Chidambaram. Chidambaram lies on the north edge of the coleroon river. In Chidambaram we visit the Natraja Temple which is dedicated to the dancing Lord Shiva, a famous Hindu deity of the Chola Kings. On the way to Tanjore we have a stop over in Kumbakonam. Kumbakonam is famous for its 18 temples in the town centre. Visit the Gangaikoda Cholapuram temple and the Fharasuram temple which are the most important for their architecture. Later drive to Tanjore and check into your Hotel and unwind.

Day 7: Tanjore
The city Tanjore (Thanjavur) is the capital of great chola empire who built more than 70 temples between 10th and 14th century. We visit here one of the world heritage monument, Brihasdisvara Temple (11th century), which is also known as big temple. Later we visit The Palace of Tanjore also makes for an important tourist destination. It is characterized by its vast corridors, large halls, its shady courtyards and observation towers. It started being built by the Nayaks in the mid-16th century but was completed by the Marathas. The palace now functions as the Royal Museum, housing a collection of royal remains.  Art Gallery is another place that should not be missed while at Tanjore. It has a collection of around 250 Chola bronze statues and 150 stone statues dating back to the 9th and 12th century and belonging to the many groups like the Bhairava, Umasahita Shiva, Kali and Rama Lakshmana. Overnight stay at Tanjore.

Day 8: Tanjore - Trichy (about 75 km / 1 hours 20 mins)
Today we drive to Srirangam and visit the Ranganathasvami Temple which is one of the largest temples in India dedicated to god Vishnu. After the visit of Srirangam we proceed to Trichy. Trichy, the land near the delta is very fertile and productive. This town Trichy is so ancient that it was mentioned by Ptolemy in the 2nd century BC by Alexandrian geographer. We climb stairs to the famous Rock Fort which was built on 84 m high rock in the centre of town in about 1660. We also visit a Shiva and Ganesha temple and enjoy a wonderful view of the surroundings from the top.

Day 9: Trichy - Madurai (about 135 km / 2 hours)
Today we leave Trichy and drive to Madurai. Madurai, situated on the bank of river Vaigai is also referred to as the Athens of the East. Madurai has the most outstanding examples of Vijayanagar temple architecture in the Minakshi Temple, a standing monument to the temple builders of the 16th and 17th century. We spend enough time in Minakshi Temple and afterwards have a walk through the bazaars of this 2500 years old town before we drive back to our hotel.

Day 10: Madurai - Kodaikanal (about 120 km / 3 hours)
Today we drive from Madurai to Kodaikanal. In the evening arrive in Kodaikanal.

Day 11: Kodaikanal
Today morning, proceed for a trekking program. The various trekking routes will keep the trekker busy with their sheer number of choices. The trek to the Dolphin Nose and the 3-4 trek of 40 Miles Rounded from Berijam Lake to the Kerala border Vandaraw via ‘Poondi’, Kavunji, and Kukkal is a treat for their breathtaking views of the hills, plains and cascading waterfalls and zigzagging streams. Kodaikanal also has a wonderful Orchidorium having 300 species of trees and flowers. The Orchidorium is open for visitors from 10 am to 12 noon and 3 pm to 5 pm on weekdays. Return to your hotel and unwind.

Day 12: Kodiakanal - Munnar (about 165 km / 5 hours)
Today we drive from Kodaikanal to Munnar. Munnar is a beautiful hill resort situated in the cradle of tea plantations. Munnar, the queen of hill stations is located at the confluence of three mountain streams namely, Mudrapuzha, Nallathanni and Kundala, along the western Ghats on the eastern border of Kerala and was once the summer resort of the British government in South India. Sprawling tea plantations, picture-book towns and winding lanes make this a popular resort. On arrival drive to the hotel. Rest of the day at leisure.

Day 13: Munnar
In the morning you will have sightseeing in Munnar and visit the tea plantation, Rajmalai, the top peak of Munnar and Mattupetty. Rajmalai is the natural habitat of the Nilgiri Tahr, located about 15 km from Munnar. Half of the world population of the rare mountain goat, which is becoming extinct, is now found here. Mattupetty is located about 15 kms from Munnar and known for its highly specialised dairy farm - the Indo Swiss Livestock project. Over a 100 varieties of high yielding cattle are reared here. 

Day 14: Munnar
Letchmi hills trek Today we drive about 3 kilometers towards Cochin (road) from Munnar, to the starting point of Letchmi hills trek. (Usually we start around 08.30hrs or 09.00hrs.) The trek will start at the height of 1420 meters MSL (approx), we will start through the tea plantations for about 30 to 40 minutes, After reaching the top of the hill, rest of our couple of hours trek will be on the ridge which offers beautiful views around, it will be through grasslands, one side will be rocky mountain slope and the other side will be tea plantations, patches of Shola forest etc…, in a clear sky day we could see the Anaimudi “highest peak in S. India” and the water reservoir of  Idukki Dam which listed as highest arch dams in Asia and third tallest dam in India. We will have refreshment/picnic lunch at any suitable place during the trek, our trek we will be through Nature Zone where we can see some of exotic spices like Coffee, Cardamom, etc…, also its one of the best places to spot some endemic birds of this part of Western Ghats. Will have another 40 minutes to 01 hours walk through the tea plantations to finish the trek, highest point of this trek will be about 1950 meters MSL (approx)  return to your hotel and unwind.

Day 15: Munnar - Periyar (about 80 km / 2 hours)
In the morning after having breakfast drive to Periyar (Thekkady). On arrival drive to the hotel. Thekkady is a naturalist's paradise of unending chains of hills and spice scented plantations. It has unspoilt tropical forests and incredible wealth of animal and plant life. Thekkady is well known for the Periyar National Park and the elephants are the major attractions here. In the afternoon, drive to the Periyar National Park. The Periyar National Park and Tiger Reserve is one of the most captivating wildlife parks in the world and also one of the largest and finest wildlife reserves in India. Periyar National Park covers an area of 780 square km and was designated a part of project Tiger in 1973. In the evening we have a boat ride on the Periyar lake and observe the activities of elephants, tiger, bison, wild oxen, wild boar and spotted deer.

Day 16: Periyar - Kovalam (about 220 km / 5 hours 30 mins)
Today you will drive to the famous Kovalam Beach. The Kovalam beach is located about 16 kms. from the city of Trivandrum. This internationally renowned beach resort has been a favourite place of tourists since 1930. Kovalam consists of three adjacent crescent beaches. The southernmost beach is known as the Lighthouse Beach and is the most popular beach. Enjoy your whole day at this beach.

Day 17: Kovalam
Today morning take a day trip to Kanyakumari. Located 87 kms from Trivandrum, Kanyakumari is the southernmost part of the Indian mainland. Here the Indian Ocean, the Bay of Bengal and the Arabian Sea converge. Kanyakumari has great religious importance for the Hindus. The place is devoted to the Goddess Devi Kanya, an incarnation of Parvati, Lord Shiva’s wife. Pilgrims visit the temple and bathe in the holy waters here. Another major tourist attraction here is the Vivekananda Memorial, built about 400 metres offshore. Swami Vivekananda meditated here in 1892 before embarking on a journey to introduce religious reforms throughout the country. The mandapam built in his memory here reflects architectural styles from all over the country. Later visit the Padmanabhapuram Wooden palace, A magnificent wooden palace of the 16th century, Padmanabhapuram Palace lies at the land's end of mainland India. An enticing piece to any lover of art and architecture this old palace of the kings of the erstwhile Travancore (1550 to 1750 AD) is a fine specimen of Kerala's indigenous style of architecture. Charles Correa, India architect par excellence selected as one among the top ten architects of the world by the British Institute of architects, says that it is his most favorite building. He has incorporated many ideas from this building, in his architectural style. Return to your hotel and unwind.

Day 18: Kovalam
Today morning visit the Sri Padmanabhaswamy Temple - Spread over an area of 2,400 sq. metres, the Sri Padmanabhaswamy temple is believed to be over 260 years old. The temple with its Gopuram (tower) towering majestically is believed to be among the 108 shrines sacred to the Vaishnav in India.
Napier Museum - Dating back to 1880, the Napier Museum building combines the Mughal, Kerala, Chinese and Italian architectural styles. The building has a natural air-conditioning system. The museum offer glimpses of Kerala’s rich cultural heritage. The museum showcases an excellent collection of bronzes historic ornaments, ivory carvings and chariots, and life-size figurines of the Kathakali dancers in full costume. 
Sri Chitra Art Gallery - The Sri Chitra Art Gallery displays paintings from the Rajput, Mughal and Tanjore schools of art. Besides these, the gallery houses some rare collection of paintings by Raja Ravi Varma, Svetoslav and Nicholas Roerich. An Oriental collection of paintings from China, Japan, Tibet and Bali are a visual treat to the visitor.

Day 19: Kovalam - Alleppey (about 162 km / 3 hours 30 mins)
In the morning drive to Alleppey. Alleppey, the coastal town on the Arabian Sea is known as the Venice of the East and famous for the numerous backwater canals that meander through the town. This town holds a thrilling event of snake boat race every year during August. It is also known for its cashew nuts. In the evening arrive in Alleppey and drive to the hotel.

Day 20: Alleppey - Cochin (about 55 km / 1 hours)
In the morning after having breakfast drive to Cochin. Cochin is the most interesting town in South India at Malabar Coast and is also known as Venice of South. Cochin is also known as the Queen of the Arabian Sea. After arrival in Cochi, drive to the hotel. In Cochin we visit St. Francis church, the oldest European church in India in which the grave of famous sailor Vasco da Gama can be visited. After the visit of St. Francis Church we have a walk through the Jewish area of Mattancherry. 

Day 21: Cochin
Cochin – Tea with local family  & Cookery show – This is a non touristic program which we have designed for our guests. Around 3 PM, you will be taken to one of the local families in Ernakulam. After a formal introduction, we start the program with a visit to their roof top vegetable garden, we also explain them about the different trees and fruits which is seen in their backyard. You will be explained how a coconut’s outer skin is peeled off and how to extract the coconut from the shell. High tea will be served to the guest in a short while with traditional Kerala snacks. The hostess brief them the preparation methods and also make them do it in the Kitchen. This will be followed by an interaction session during which the Hostess explain about their family, life style, festivals they celebrate about the culture, local cuisines etc. Normally, the guest spend around 3 Hrs at the house and can depart with fond memories.

Day 22: Cochin - Ooty (about 275 km / 6 hours 30 mins)
From the tropical coast of Kerala we drive on the serpent road and pass through the Tea plantation and eucalyptus forests of mountains of Nilgiri and arrive in the city Ooty (Udhagammandalam). Ooty which was developed as hill station by British, lies at an altitude of 2300 m. and still has British flair.

Day 23: Ooty - BR Hills (about 140 km / 3 hours 30 mins)
In the morning we will drive along the forest stretch to BR Hills wildlife sanctuary. The Biligirirangana ranges of hills are picturesquely situated between the Cauvery & Kapila Rivers. At a height of 5091 feet above sea level, this hill stretches from north to south for about 16 Kms. All round are deciduous trees and roaming amidst the long grass and tall trees are animals. We will take a stroll through the sylvan surroundings.

Day 24: BR Hills
Today in the morning again we will have a stroll through the sylvan surroundings of BR Hills.

Day 25: BR Hills - Mysore (about 85 km / 2 hours)
In the morning we pass through the betel nut and pepper plantation and proceed to Mysore. Today we visit the most impressive and one of the largest city palaces in India. The City Palace of Mysore "Ambar Vilas" is built in the Indo-Saracenic style. Mysore is famous for its Silk and Sandalwood. We have an opportunity to see how incense is made and how silk saris are woven by the local weavers. 

Day 26: Mysore - Hassan (about 120 km / 2 hours 30 mins)
In the morning we drive to Hassan via Protima Bedi's Dance Village. Arrive Hassan by lunch. After having lunch visit the Sravanabelagola where we visit the colossal monolithic statue of Gomateshvara, standing 18 meters high. This Jain sculpture represents the saintly prince Bahubali after he had gained enlightenment. Today we will also visit the famous Hoysala temples of Halebid. Overnight in Hassan.

Day 27: Hassan - Bangalore (about 145 km / 3 hours)
Today we drive to Bangalore. Bangalore is the capital city of the Indian state Karnataka. This former "Garden city" Bangalore is known today as "computer city" of India. In Bangalore we visit the monolithic Nandi, Shiva's Bull and famous Gowda Fort which was built by Tipu Sultan.

Day 28: Bangalore - Tirupati (about 250 km / 4 hours 30 mins)
Today we drive to visit the famous pilgrimage shrine, Tirupati. There we visit the famous Tirupati temple, dedicated to the Lord Vishnu and later drive down hill and visit the temples of Padavathi. 

Day 29: Tirupati - Chennai (about 140 km / 3 hours)
Today we drive from Tirupati to Chennai. In the evening arrive in Chennai. Evening at leisure in Chennai. After having dinner transfer to the airport.

Day 30: Chennai (Departure)
Flight to home destination. (End of our services)

Tour Reservation
To get more information or to book this tour please submit the Query Form or send us              an e-mail ! Your booking will be activated only after we get a reconfirmation from your side.

Our Services Include:
      Accommodation in double rooms on twin sharing basis with bath and WC in the
         chosen category. 
      Rooms on the departure day.
      American/continental Breakfast.
      Boat ride on the lake of Periyar.
      Services of qualified local guides (English speaking or languages of your choice)
         at every place of sightseeing.
      All Transfers and departures on arrival and departure by Indo Vacations
         representative.
       All Transfers and Sightseeing throughout the tour by an air-conditioned Car with
         driver. For groups an individual air-conditioned bus (Except Standard Hotels) will be
         provided.   

Exclusions:
      Any kind of Personal Expenses such as Tips, Laundry, Telephone Bills and Alcoholic
         beverages.
      Camera Fees (Still or Movie).
      Any Flight Charges.
      Monument Entrances.
      Unspecified Meals etc.