Day 07 : Tanjore - Trichy (70kms , 2hrs)
Sightseeing of Tanjore includes a visit to Brihadewswara (or Big) Temple, the main attraction of Tanjore. This massive temple is a majestic monument to Chola architecture, but as it is still in use for worship today; one gets a real sense of the continuity of the civilization in this part of India. You will also visit the Tanjore Palace and museum, home to one of the finest collections of Chola bronze statues in existence. Later drive to Trichy and enjoy a late afternoon city tour taking in Rock Fort Temple and Srirangam Temple. Overnight in Trichy.

Day 08 : Trichy - Karaikudi (100kms , 4hrs)
After breakfast drive to Karaikudi visiting Sithannavasal (famous for their ancient monuments and Jain caves with intricate wall Paintings) and continue on into the heart of the Chettinad district. The Chettiars are a merchant people whose intense involvement with many other trading communities over several centuries has produced a unique amalgam of culture, art and cuisine. Overnight at the Chettinad Mansion in Karaikudi.


Day 09 : Karaikudi - Madurai (90kms , 2hrs)
This morning explore more of the unique Chettinad culture including a visit to the hand-painted tile factory. After lunch, drive to Madurai, the second largest city in Tamil Nadu. This evening you will be able to witness the closing pooja at another huge, living temple; Sri Meenakshi Amman temple, which dates back 2000 years and occupies an area of six hectares with twelve temple towers (Gopurams). You will visit include Thirumalai Nayak Palace and then overnight in Madurai.


Day 10 : Madurai
Morning visit the home of Dr Shobana Kumar, an accomplished artist in the Tanjore style. She has a small gallery in her home and is happy to explain the processes involved in this unique style of painting. The afternoon is free for another visit to Meenakshi Temple, the Gandhi Museum, shopping and personal activities. Overnight in Madurai.


Day 11 : Madurai - Kovalam (340kms , 7hrs)
This morning drive to Kanyakumari for lunch and a chance to see the southern-most tip of the Indian subcontinent. At this point three bodies of water meet- the Bay of Bengal, the Arabian Sea and the Indian Ocean. Visit the Vivekananda Rock Memorial and the Gandhi Memorial. Continue on via Padmanabapuram Teak Palace and then to Kovalam. Enjoy the beach and the many seaside restaurants and overnight in Kovalam.


Day 12 : Kovalam
Full day relaxation at the beautiful beaches of Kovalam you can also go into Trivandrum city (20 minutes) and visit the Napier Art Gallery. Overnight in Kovalam.


Day 13 : Kovalam - Houseboat
After breakfast drive towards Cochin visiting Krishnapuram Palace on the way. At Thottapally, board a private houseboat and commence your cruise on the unique backwaters of Kerala with traditional Keralan meals prepared on board by your crew. Overnight on the Houseboat.


Day 14 : Alleppey - Cochin
After breakfast, disembark your Houseboat at Alleppey and drive 90 minutes to Cochin. Afternoon at leisure with time to explore the galleries of the town and later in the evening witness the famous Kathakali Dance performance performed by professional artists in an Air-Conditioned Auditorium. Overnight in Cochin.


Day 15 : Cochin
Today enjoy the historic sights of Cochin including Hill Palace Museum, Parisath Thamburan Museum, The Jewish Synagogue and Mattancherry Palace. This evening you can witness the Kalari Payattu ' traditional Keralan Martial Arts. Overnight in Cochin.


Day 16 : Cochin - Bangalore (Fly)
Transfer to the airport for your flight to Bangalore. The tour can end here with your departure back home, or connect to our Karnataka Heritage Tour for a further 14 days exploring the rich art and culture of South India's largest state.


NOTE : Please note that this, and all other itineraries on this website, are suggested programmes only and can be modified to suit your individual needs and interests.