Timeless South India Temples Backwaters and Shores

Bangalore, India
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Duration15 days
Free cancellationFull refund up to 24 hours before
Instant confirmationYour booking is confirmed right away
TicketMobile or paper ticket accepted
LanguagesEnglish
Private tourOnly your group will participate
Pickup offeredSee the meeting and pickup details below

Overview

This 15-day South India journey offers a well-balanced blend of heritage, culture, nature, and coastal relaxation. Starting from Bengaluru, the tour covers the historic Hoysala temples of Belur and Halebid, followed by Kerala’s cultural and trading centers including Kozhikode, Thrissur, and Kochi.
The itinerary continues through the wildlife landscapes of Periyar, the serene backwaters of Alleppey with a houseboat stay, and the scenic beaches of Varkala and Kovalam. A highlight of the tour is the visit to Kanyakumari, the southernmost point of India where three seas meet. The journey concludes in Thiruvananthapuram, completing a thoughtfully paced and culturally enriching South Indian experience.

Options

ChuttiS28-03/With 5* Hotels

Tour with 5* Hotels: Includes private car with driver, guide, entrance fees, and accommodation in prestige category hotels.
Pickup included

ChuttiS28-02/With 4* Hotels

Tour with 4* Hotels: Includes private car with driver, guide, entrance fees, and accommodation in superior category hotels.
Pickup included

ChuttiS28-01/With 3* Hotels

Tour with 3* Hotels: Includes private car with driver, guide, entrance fees, and accommodation in standard category hotels.
Pickup included

What's included

  • Kathakali dance show in Kochi
  • Boat ride on Lake Periyar
  • Toll taxes, parking fees, fuel charges, and driver allowances
  • Lunch
  • All applicable government taxes
  • Private air-conditioned vehicle with a professional and experienced driver
  • Dinner
  • All sightseeing and transfers as per the itinerary
  • Breakfast
  • Entrance fees to monuments, temples, museums, and sightseeing attractions as per the itinerary
  • One night stay on a traditional Kerala houseboat in Alleppey
  • Accommodation in preferred category hotels, as per the selected option.
  • English-speaking local guides at major sightseeing locations (where applicable)
  • International or domestic airfare
  • Optional activities and excursions (Ayurveda, trekking, water sports, etc.)
  • Personal expenses, including laundry, phone calls, minibar, room service, or additional snacks
  • Travel insurance
  • Tips and gratuities for guides, drivers, and hotel staff

What to expect

Day 1: Arrival in Bengaluru – Drive to Hassan (183 km)
  1. Hassan
    4h
    On arrival in Bengaluru, you will begin a comfortable road journey to Hassan, a calm and scenic town in Karnataka known for its pleasant weather, green landscapes, and historical importance. Hassan is surrounded by ancient temples and reflects the rich cultural traditions of the region. Enjoy the countryside views along the way before checking in at your hotel. Overnight stay in Hassan.
Day 2: Hassan – Belur & Halebid Excursion – Return to Hassan (85 km)
  1. 30m · Admission ticket included
    After breakfast, proceed for a full-day excursion to Belur and Halebid, two of the finest examples of Hoysala temple architecture. At Belur, visit the Chennakesava Temple, a 12th-century monument dedicated to Lord Vishnu, famous for its detailed stone carvings, sculpted pillars, and perfectly balanced design.
  2. Hoysaleswara Temple
    30m · Admission ticket included
    Continue to Halebid to explore the Hoysaleswara Temple, a twin-shrine Shiva temple known for its richly carved walls that depict gods, goddesses, animals, and scenes from Hindu epics.
  3. 30m · Admission ticket included
    You will also see the Kedareshwara Temple, the large stone Nandi Statue, and the onsite Archaeological Museum, which displays original sculptures.
  4. 30m · Admission ticket included
    An optional visit to nearby Jain Temples may be included before returning to Hassan. Overnight stay in Hassan.
Day 3: Hassan to Kozhikode (Calicut) (282 km)
  1. Kappad Beach
    30m · Admission ticket included
    Today, drive to Kozhikode, historically known as Calicut, once a major spice trading port that connected India with Arabia, China, and Europe. On arrival, explore Kappad Beach, the historic site where Vasco da Gama first landed in India in 1498.
  2. Pazhassiraja Museum and Art Gallery
    1h · Admission ticket included
    Visit the Pazhassirajah Museum to gain insight into Kerala’s history and heritage, and view artworks of the famous painter Raja Ravi Varma.
  3. 30m · Admission ticket included
    If time permits, visit Dolphin’s Point, a coastal area known for occasional dolphin sightings. Overnight stay in Kozhikode.
Day 4: Kozhikode to Thrissur (122 km)
  1. Sree Vadakkumnathan Temple
    30m · Admission ticket included
    After breakfast, continue your journey to Thrissur, widely regarded as the cultural capital of Kerala. Visit the Vadakkumnathan Temple, one of the oldest Shiva temples in the state, located in a large traditional courtyard in the heart of the city.
  2. 30m · Admission ticket included
    You will also visit the Thiruvambadi Sri Krishna Temple and see several Colonial-era Churches and Basilicas that reflect the region’s historical and cultural diversity. Overnight stay in Thrissur.
Day 5: Thrissur to Kochi (86 km)
  1. Kochi (Cochin)
    3h
    Drive to Kochi, a historic port city shaped by Arab, Portuguese, Dutch, and British influences. After check-in, the remainder of the day is free to relax or explore local markets, cafés, and seaside areas at your own pace. Overnight stay in Kochi.
Day 6: Kochi Sightseeing
  1. 30m
    Enjoy a full-day sightseeing tour of Kochi, starting with St. Francis Church, one of the oldest European churches in India.
  2. Mattancherry Palace
    1h · Admission ticket included
    Visit the Jewish Synagogue, known for its beautiful Chinese tiles and antique chandeliers, followed by the Dutch Palace (Mattancherry Palace), famous for its traditional Kerala murals and royal collections.
  3. Chinese Fishing Nets
    2h · Admission ticket included
    Continue exploring historic Mosques and Temples that highlight Kochi’s religious harmony. Later, see the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets along the waterfront, visit the Hill Palace Museum, and enjoy a walk along Marine Drive or Cherai Beach.
  4. 1h · Admission ticket included
    In the evening, attend a traditional Kathakali Dance Performance. Overnight stay in Kochi.
Day 7: Kochi to Periyar (145 km)
  1. Periyar National Park
    2h · Admission ticket included
    After breakfast, drive through scenic hill roads and spice plantations to Periyar, home to the famous Periyar National Park. On arrival, check in at your hotel and relax amidst the natural surroundings. Overnight stay in Periyar.
Day 8: Periyar – Wildlife & Nature Experiences
  1. Periyar Lake
    2h · Admission ticket included
    Spend the day enjoying Periyar’s natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere. Take a boat ride on Periyar Lake, which often offers opportunities to spot wildlife such as elephants and birds along the forested banks.
  2. Kauveri Spices Farm & Ayurveda Plantation
    1h · Admission ticket included
    You may also choose to enjoy a guided soft trek inside the forest area or visit nearby Spice and Tea Plantations to learn about local cultivation methods.
  3. Periyar
    1h
    Later, explore the colorful Local Markets before returning to your hotel. Overnight stay in Periyar
Day 9: Periyar to Alleppey – Houseboat Experience (128 km)
  1. Kerala Backwaters
    1 day · Admission ticket included
    Today, drive to Alleppey and board a traditional Kerala Houseboat. Cruise through the serene Backwaters of Alleppey, passing coconut groves, paddy fields, and village life along the canals. Freshly prepared Kerala meals will be served onboard as you relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Overnight stay on the houseboat.
Day 10: Alleppey to Varkala (116 km)
  1. Varkala Cliff
    18h · Admission ticket included
    After breakfast, proceed to Varkala, a unique coastal town known for its dramatic Varkala Cliff views overlooking the Arabian Sea. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and spend the rest of the day at leisure, enjoying the beach or relaxing by the cliffs. Overnight stay in Varkala.
Day 11: Varkala Sightseeing
  1. 2h · Admission ticket included
    Today, explore the spiritual and historical attractions of Varkala. Visit the Janardana Swami Temple, an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, followed by the Sivagiri Mutt, established by the renowned social reformer Sree Narayana Guru.
  2. 2h · Admission ticket included
    You will also see the historic Varkala Tunnel and Anjengo (Anchuthengu) Fort, built during the British era.
  3. Varkala Beach
    1h · Admission ticket included
    In the evening, relax on Varkala Beach and enjoy a beautiful sunset view. Overnight stay in Varkala.
Day 12: Varkala to Kovalam (58 km)
  1. Kovalam
    12h
    Drive to Kovalam, a well-known beach destination famous for its palm-lined shores and calm waters. After check-in, the day is free for leisure or optional Ayurvedic wellness treatments. Overnight stay in Kovalam.
Day 13: Kovalam – Leisure Day
  1. Lighthouse Beach
    12h · Admission ticket included
    Enjoy a relaxed day in Kovalam, spending time at Lighthouse Beach, Hawa (Eve’s) Beach, and the nearby Fishing Harbour, where you can observe local life. Guests may also choose optional activities such as swimming, surfing, or Ayurvedic therapies. Overnight stay in Kovalam.
Day 14: Kovalam – Kanyakumari – Thiruvananthapuram
  1. 1.3 days · Admission ticket included
    Depart in the morning for Kanyakumari, the southernmost point of India where the Arabian Sea, Bay of Bengal, and Indian Ocean meet. Take a ferry to visit the Vivekananda Rock Memorial and see the impressive Thiruvalluvar Statue standing offshore.
  2. 2h · Admission ticket included
    Continue to the Bhagavathy Amman Temple and the Gandhi Memorial, and enjoy panoramic coastal views famous for sunrise and sunset scenes. After sightseeing, proceed to Thiruvananthapuram and check in at your hotel. Overnight stay in Thiruvananthapuram.
Day 15: Thiruvananthapuram – Departure
  1. Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple
    1h · Admission ticket included
    Depending on your flight schedule, spend the morning visiting the Padmanabhaswamy Temple, one of the most important temples in South India, noting that a strict dress code applies.
  2. 1h · Admission ticket included
    You may also visit the Napier Museum and Sree Chithra Art Gallery if time permits. Later, transfer to the airport for your onward journey.

Meeting and pickup

Pickup details

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Additional information

  • Specialized infant seats are available
  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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