Exclusive South India

Today, you will set out to discover the remarkable monuments of Mamallapuram, one of South India's finest heritage destinations. The site features an extraordinary collection of 14 cave temples, 9 monolithic rathas, 3 structural stone temples, and 4 magnificent rock-cut relief panels. During your visit, admire the iconic Shore Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site overlooking the Bay of Bengal, along with the famous Arjuna's Penance, one of the world's largest open-air rock carvings.

These masterpieces of Dravidian architecture were created during the 7th and 8th centuries and are dedicated mainly to the Hindu deities Vishnu and Shiva. The evening is free for you to relax or explore at your own pace.

After checking out of your hotel, travel to Puducherry and check in on arrival. Later, set out to explore some of the city's most notable landmarks that reflect its unique French colonial heritage. Visit Raj Nivas, the official residence of the Lieutenant Governor, an elegant building over 200 years old that overlooks Government Park, known for its landscaped gardens, walking paths, fountains, and sculptures.

Your trip then takes you to the Romain Rolland Library, home to a collection of more than 60,000 books, before you explore the Pondicherry Museum, where exhibits showcase the region's rich French-Indian history through an impressive range of artefacts. Your sightseeing also includes the Church of Notre Dame des Anges, completed around 1865 and famous for its rare oil painting of Our Lady of the Assumption, presented by Napoleon III. Stay overnight in Puducherry.

Le Pondy Beach Resort Pondicherry

Surrounded by tranquil gardens and overlooking a beautiful stretch of coastline, Le Pondy Beach Resort is an elegant beachfront retreat that offers the perfect balance of relaxation and comfort. Spacious accommodation, inviting outdoor spaces and thoughtful hospitality create a peaceful atmosphere for every guest. With direct beach access, excellent dining options, wellness facilities and a serene setting close to Puducherry's attractions, it provides an ideal base for enjoying both the region's cultural heritage and its scenic coastal charm.

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Begin your day with a visit to Auroville's Matrimandir, a peaceful space created for silent meditation and personal reflection, especially for those following the philosophy of Integral Yoga. Its striking design blends contemporary Western concepts with traditional Indian architectural influences. Continue to the Sri Aurobindo Ashram, where you can learn about the life and teachings of Sri Aurobindo. The ashram is also home to the Samadhi of Sri Aurobindo and The Mother, where devotees gather to meditate.

In the afternoon, visit the French War Memorial, dedicated to the soldiers who lost their lives during the First World War. Next, admire the Church of Our Lady of Angels, renowned for its Greek-Roman architecture and a rare oil painting of Our Lady of the Assumption. Browse the boutiques of White Town, known for distinctive home furnishings and local crafts, before visiting the Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, a neo-Gothic church established by French missionaries in 1908 and recognised as Puducherry's first basilica.

End your sightseeing at Promenade Beach, a 1.5-kilometre waterfront lined with historic landmarks. The evening is yours to enjoy at leisure before dinner and an overnight stay in Puducherry.

Next, continue your journey to Kumbakonam and check in on arrival. Often called the "Temple Town", Kumbakonam has a history that stretches back to the Sangam period and served as the capital of the Medieval Chola dynasty between the 7th and 9th centuries. The town also earned the nickname "Cambridge of South India" because of its reputation as an important centre of European education and Hindu learning.

Your overnight stay is at Mantra Koodam, a peaceful heritage-style retreat in the quiet village of Veppathur. Just a short distance from Kumbakonam, a destination renowned for its 5,000 temples, the resort reflects the area's cultural, historical and spiritual traditions. Combining rustic elegance with timeless charm, it provides an authentic setting where you can relax while experiencing the rich heritage of this remarkable region.

Mantra Koodam Kumbakonam

Blending traditional South Indian architecture with modern comforts, this charming heritage retreat offers a peaceful escape in the heart of Tamil Nadu's temple region. Inspired by the area's rich cultural legacy, the property features elegant accommodation, landscaped gardens and warm hospitality. One can enjoy authentic regional cuisine, relaxing surroundings and easy access to Kumbakonam's historic temples, making it an ideal base for discovering the town's spiritual and architectural heritage while enjoying a comfortable and memorable stay.

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Today's sightseeing begins at the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Airavatesvara Temple in Darasuram, located around 4 kilometres from Kumbakonam. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this magnificent temple was built during the 12th century under the Chola dynasty and is celebrated for its exceptional architecture, intricate carvings, and remarkable stone sculptures.

Its innovative design and artistic craftsmanship have made it one of the region's most admired historic monuments. Later, continue exploring Kumbakonam, a town renowned for its many sacred temples. Visit some of its best-known shrines, including the Kumbeswara, Sarangapani and Ramaswamy Temples, each showcasing impressive architecture and deep religious significance. Kumbakonam is also famous for hosting the grand Mahamaham festival, which attracts pilgrims and visitors from around the world. Return for an overnight stay in Kumbakonam.

You will travel to Madurai and check in to your hotel on arrival. Spend some time relaxing before heading out in the evening to witness the renowned Night Ceremony at the Meenakshi Amman Temple. Held daily at 9:00 pm, except on Fridays when it begins at 9:30 pm, this sacred ritual is one of the temple's most significant traditions. During the ceremony, the idol of Lord Shiva, worshipped as Sundareswarar, is ceremonially taken from his shrine to join Goddess Meenakshi, a form of Parvati, in hers. Accompanied by priests and devotees, the grand chariot procession creates a memorable spiritual experience. Dinner and an overnight stay are included at your hotel.

The Residency Signature, Madurai

Residency Signature, Madurai offers a stylish and comfortable stay in the heart of one of South India's oldest cities. Combining contemporary interiors with warm hospitality, the hotel provides well-appointed rooms, excellent dining options and modern facilities for a relaxing experience. Its convenient location allows easy access to Madurai's renowned cultural and historical attractions, making it an ideal choice for travellers seeking both comfort and convenience while exploring the city's rich heritage.

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Set off to discover the historic city of Madurai, beginning with a visit to the revered Meenakshi Amman Temple. Regarded as one of India's oldest and most significant Hindu temples, it is celebrated for its magnificent architecture, deep spiritual importance, and centuries of history, attracting thousands of devotees and visitors throughout the year.

Later, continue your journey to Isla's Ridge by CGH Earth, a peaceful boutique retreat in the biodiverse Palani Hills of the Western Ghats. Surrounded by mist-covered ridges and fragrant cardamom plantations, the property offers breathtaking views and a tranquil setting to unwind. Thoughtfully designed by a world-renowned artist, the retreat combines rustic elegance with modern comfort, while its locally inspired architecture, sustainable practices and authentic farm-to-table dining create a truly immersive nature experience.

Islas Ridge, Manalur

Isla's Ridge, Manalur is a tranquil boutique retreat set amidst the scenic Palani Hills, offering breathtaking views of the Western Ghats and surrounding cardamom plantations. Designed with sustainability and local character in mind, the property blends rustic elegance with contemporary comfort. You can unwind in peaceful surroundings, savour fresh farm-to-table cuisine and reconnect with nature through immersive experiences, making it an ideal escape for relaxation, wellness and exploring the region's remarkable natural beauty.

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Spend the morning at leisure, making the most of the peaceful surroundings. Take a gentle walk through the spice plantations, relax on your private sit-out while listening to birdsong, or admire the panoramic views of the Western Ghats. Whether you choose to unwind or explore, the tranquil setting offers a refreshing retreat. Overnight stay at the hotel.

Next, travel to Thekkady, home to the renowned Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. Covering around 777 square kilometres, including approximately 360 square kilometres of dense evergreen forest, this remarkable protected area is one of India's finest wildlife reserves. Declared a Tiger Reserve in 1978, it is rich in biodiversity and surrounded by scenic spice plantations.

At its heart lies the picturesque lake created by the Mullaperiyar Dam across the Periyar River, adding to the sanctuary's natural beauty. One of the highlights of your visit is the opportunity to observe wildlife from the safety of a boat, making it one of the few places in India to offer such a unique experience.

Cardamom County by Xandari

Cardamom County, Thekkady is a nature-inspired retreat set on the edge of the renowned Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. Surrounded by lush greenery and fragrant spice plantations, the resort offers a peaceful setting to relax after exploring the region. Comfortable accommodation, warm hospitality and thoughtfully designed spaces create a welcoming atmosphere, while its excellent location provides easy access to wildlife experiences, scenic boat rides and Thekkady's rich natural and cultural attractions.

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Start your morning with a scenic boat ride on Periyar Lake, offering an excellent opportunity to spot wildlife within the famous Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. Afterwards, explore the region's fragrant spice gardens before enjoying free time in the afternoon. You may choose to relax at your hotel, browse the local markets or take part in optional activities at your own pace.

Stay overnight in Thekkady. The following morning, after breakfast, continue to Alleppey and board a traditional houseboat, also known as a rice barge, for an unforgettable cruise through Kerala's tranquil backwaters. Over the next 22 hours, your houseboat becomes your floating home as you glide past villages, coconut groves and peaceful waterways. Witness everyday village life from a unique perspective, admire a beautiful sunset and spend the night on board your houseboat.

After breakfast, travel to Alleppey and board a traditional houseboat, also known as a rice barge, for a memorable cruise through Kerala's famous backwaters. For the next 22 hours, your beautifully appointed houseboat serves as your floating accommodation as you drift along peaceful canals and scenic waterways.

Along the journey, enjoy close-up views of local villages, lush coconut groves, and everyday life on the water, offering a truly authentic glimpse into Kerala's culture. As evening approaches, relax on deck while watching a spectacular sunset over the backwaters. Spend the night surrounded by the calm beauty of this unique landscape before continuing your journey the following day.

Deluxe Houseboat, Alleppey

Cruise through Kerala's enchanting backwaters aboard a beautifully crafted floating retreat, where traditional charm meets modern comfort. Drift past coconut groves, peaceful canals and picturesque villages while enjoying the ever-changing scenery from the deck. Freshly prepared local cuisine, spectacular sunset views and the gentle rhythm of the waterways create a truly relaxing experience. An overnight stay on the backwaters offers a unique opportunity to experience the region's natural beauty and authentic way of life from a different perspective.

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Enjoy a scenic one-hour drive to Cochin, a historic port city often known as the "Queen of the Arabian Sea" for its magnificent natural harbour and important role in international maritime trade. Following lunch, set out on a half-day sightseeing tour covering some of the city's most famous landmarks, including Fort Kochi Beach, Mattancherry Palace, the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets, the Jewish Synagogue and St. Francis Church.

Later, continue to Cranganor History Café & Riverside Château, located in a charming riverside village with a rich cultural heritage. Once a thriving centre of the spice trade, the region reflects centuries of Portuguese, Dutch and British influence. After checking in, spend the remainder of the day at leisure, relaxing or exploring the surroundings before enjoying an overnight stay at the backwater resort.

Cranganor, Cochin

Set along the peaceful banks of the river, this charming heritage retreat blends colonial elegance with Kerala's rich cultural traditions. Surrounded by lush landscapes, it offers a tranquil escape where history, comfort and nature come together. Guests can unwind in beautifully restored surroundings, savour authentic regional cuisine and explore the area's fascinating heritage. With its serene atmosphere and convenient location near Cochin's historic attractions, the property provides an ideal setting for a relaxing and memorable stay.

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Spend the day at leisure, making the most of the peaceful surroundings of your resort. Begin with an optional guided yoga and meditation session before enjoying breakfast. You may then explore the countryside on a bicycle ride along riverside paths and lush paddy fields, where migratory birds are often seen, or choose a gentle paddle along the winding river while taking in the beautiful scenery.

Later, discover the region's rich heritage on a historical trail, including a visit to the Jewish Heritage Museum in Paravur. Built in 1615, it is one of Kerala's largest Jewish places of worship and showcases the fascinating history of the Jewish community in the region. Continue to the St. Thomas Church, also known as the Marthoma Pontifical Shrine, a key site within the Muziris Heritage Project that houses a revered relic of St. Thomas. Return to the hotel for an overnight stay.

After breakfast, check out of your hotel and transfer to the airport for your onward flight. As your journey comes to an end, take home unforgettable memories of South India's rich heritage, peaceful landscapes and remarkable experiences.