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Private moments, room upgrades, special interests and extra nights can be adapted before you commit.
Overview & Highlights
Embark on an unforgettable journey with our expertly crafted 14 days South India Heritage and Ayurveda Tour, designed to give you a perfect blend of culture, history, nature, and wellness. This immersive journey takes you through ancient temples, royal palaces, vibrant heritage cities, scenic hill stations, and peaceful backwaters, while also offering authentic Ayurveda therapies and relaxation by the coast. Discover South India’s rich traditions, colorful architecture, local cuisine, and spiritual charm, balanced with rejuvenating wellness experiences that refresh both body and mind. Ideal for travelers seeking culture, comfort, and healing in one seamless journey. Book now or customize this tour for an incredible holiday!
Key highlights of South India Heritage and Ayurveda Tour Package:
- Explore the ancient rock-cut temples and stunning shorelines of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Mahabalipuram.
- Experience the charming blend of French colonial architecture and serene beaches in the coastal town of Pondicherry.
- Marvel at the grandeur of Thanjavur, renowned for its exquisite Brihadeeswarar Temple and rich Chola dynasty heritage.
- Discover Madurai, the cultural capital of Tamil Nadu, known for its magnificent Meenakshi Amman Temple and vibrant heritage.
- Rejuvenate your body and mind with authentic Ayurvedic therapies in the serene coastal town of Kovalam.
Follow a 14 Days route covering 15 destinations from Chennai, India to Trivandrum, India.
Customize hotels, pace, room category and special interests before you confirm the trip.
Stay in 7 hotel options selected to match comfort, location and travel flow.
Book with trusted local experts, fast response times and ongoing trip assistance before and during travel.
Guiding and trip support available in English, German.
Itinerary
On arrival at Chennai International Airport, an Alkof Holidays representative will welcome you at the airport and transfer you to the hotel. Rest of the day at leisure. Overnight stay at the hotel.
After breakfast, embark on a full-day guided tour of Chennai. Visit Marina Beach, the towering Marina Lighthouse, the historic San Thome Church, and the revered Kapaleeshwarar Temple. Conclude the day with visits to Kalakshetra and Theosophical Society before returning to the hotel for an overnight stay.
After breakfast, drive towards Mahabalipuram with a stop at Kanchipuram, one of the seven sacred cities of India, famous for its ancient temples and silk weaving tradition. Visit the Ekambareswarar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, and the Kailasanathar Temple, the oldest temple in the city, known for its fine carvings. Also visit the Varadaraja Perumal Temple, an important Vishnu temple admired for its grand architecture. Later, continue your drive to Mahabalipuram and check in at the hotel. Overnight stay in Mahabalipuram.
After breakfast at the hotel, set out to explore Mahabalipuram, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its ancient rock-cut monuments built by the Pallava dynasty. Visit the Shore Temple, the Pancha Rathas (Five Rathas), the impressive stone relief of Arjuna’s Penance, and Krishna’s Butterball, a giant natural rock balanced on a slope. Later, drive to Pondicherry. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel for an overnight stay.
After breakfast, proceed on an excursion to Auroville, an international township known for peace and spiritual living, where you may view the Matrimandir from the outside and explore the serene surroundings. Later, continue to Pondicherry and enjoy sightseeing in the French Quarter, visiting attractions such as Sri Aurobindo Ashram and the Promenade Beach. In the evening, enjoy free time to stroll along the seafront or explore local cafés. Return to your hotel for an overnight stay.
After breakfast, depart for Thanjavur with a stop at Chidambaram, a historic town closely linked to the Chola dynasty and South Indian temple culture. On arrival, visit the Pichavaram Mangrove Forest, famous for its peaceful backwaters and unique mangrove ecosystem. Enjoy a short boat ride, subject to time and availability. Later, visit the iconic Thillai Nataraja Temple, renowned for its remarkable architecture, cultural significance, and association with classical Indian dance. After the visit, continue your drive to Thanjavur. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and relax. Overnight stay in Thanjavur.
After breakfast, visit the Brihadeeswarar Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a masterpiece of Chola architecture, known for its massive tower and detailed sculptures. Later, drive to Gangaikonda Cholapuram (approx. 70 km / 1.5 hours), the former capital of the Chola dynasty, and visit its grand Shiva temple. After sightseeing, return to Thanjavur in the evening. Overnight stay at the hotel in Thanjavur.
After breakfast, leave for Madurai with a stop in Trichy (Tiruchirappalli). In Trichy, visit the Rock Fort Temple, perched on a rocky outcrop with panoramic views and ancient shrines. Explore Jambukeshwara Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva and known for its architectural grandeur. Also visit Srirangam Temple, one of the largest and most important Vaishnavite temples in South India. Later, continue your drive to Madurai. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel for overnight stay.
After breakfast, embark on a full-day sightseeing tour of Madurai. Begin with a visit to the Meenakshi Amman Temple, one of South India’s most important temple complexes, admired for its towering gopurams and intricate sculptures. Located near the Vaigai River, the temple attracts millions of visitors each year. Continue to the Thirupparankundram Murugan Temple, set against a scenic rock hill and known for its historical significance. Later, visit the grand Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace, famous for its impressive arches and Indo-Saracenic architectural style. Explore the Gandhi Memorial Museum, which provides valuable insight into India’s freedom movement. Return to the hotel for an overnight stay.
After breakfast at the hotel, drive to Kanyakumari, the southernmost tip of India. Upon arrival, visit the Vivekananda Rock Memorial, built on the rock where Swami Vivekananda is believed to have meditated. Continue to the Shri Bhagavathy Amman Temple, a 3,000-year-old shrine dedicated to Goddess Kanya Kumari. Later, see the Triveni Sangam, where the Arabian Sea, Bay of Bengal, and Indian Ocean meet, and visit the Gandhi Mandapam, built in memory of Mahatma Gandhi. If time permits, visit the Suchindram Temple, known for its fine carvings and musical pillars. In the evening, check in at your hotel for an overnight stay in Kanyakumari.
After breakfast at the hotel, proceed to Trivandrum for sightseeing. Visit key attractions including the Napier Museum, Kuthiramalika Palace, and view the sacred Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple from outside. Later, continue your drive to Kovalam. Upon arrival, check in at the resort and spend the rest of the day at leisure visiting the famous Kovalam Beach, including Lighthouse Beach, Hawa Beach, and Samudra Beach, where you can enjoy scenic coastal views and a relaxed atmosphere. Overnight stay at the resort in Kovalam.
After a nourishing breakfast, rejuvenate with specialized Ayurveda treatments offered by expert therapists at the resort. Spend the rest of the day at your leisure—either unwind on the pristine Kovalam beach, soaking in the Arabian Sea's waves, visiting the iconic lighthouse, or relishing a breathtaking sunset. Enjoy a peaceful overnight stay at the resort.
After a nourishing breakfast, rejuvenate with specialized Ayurveda treatments offered by expert therapists at the resort. Spend the rest of the day at your leisure—either unwind on the pristine Kovalam beach, soaking in the Arabian Sea's waves, visiting the iconic lighthouse, or relishing a breathtaking sunset. Enjoy a peaceful overnight stay at the resort.
After breakfast or earlier as per your flight schedule, our driver will transfer you to Trivandrum International Airport for onward journey.
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What is Included in This Tour
- 13 nights accommodation in 3 star deluxe hotels on twin or double sharing basis.
- Daily breakfast at the hotels.
- All meals at the resort in Kovalam (B, L, D - Buffet / Fixed Menu).
- English speaking local destination guides.
- Airport pick-up / drop-off, all sightseeing and transfers by private air-conditioned vehicle as per the itinerary.
- 1-2 persons - by comfortable sedan car such as Toyota Etios or Suzuki Dzire or similar.
- 3 persons - by comfortable MUV car such as Toyota Innova Crysta or similar.
- 4 or more persons - by comfortable mini-van such as Tempo Traveller / Tourist Bus or similar.
- Personal assistance during arrival and departure.
- Daily treatments (2 or 3), typically lasting between 90 to 120 minutes or longer, will be provided according to the doctor’s prescription and focus areas.
- You will have a daily consultation with an Ayurvedic doctor to track your progress and make any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan.
- Yoga and meditation sessions.
- Prakriti Analysis - Body type assessment.
- Internal Medicine during the stay.
- Tailor made guidance for diet and lifestyle based on body type.
- Internal medicine during the stay.
- Vegetarian Full Board.
- 1 mineral water bottle per person per day.
- All applicable taxes.
- Any International or domestic flights are not included.
- It is advisable that you buy a comprehensive medical/travel insurance in advance from your country before traveling to India.
- Please Note: Tour guides for specific languages, Italian, German, French, Spanish, Portuguese, Russian, Chinese, and Dutch, are also available on request basis at an additional cost.
- Any VISA fee (if applicable).
- Any monument entrance fee, camera fee.
- Any kind of tips, activity, personal expenses, laundry, or telephone charges.
- Anything not mentioned in the inclusions.
Accommodation
Frequently Asked Questions
At Alkof Holidays, we ensure smooth travel planning. Our FAQ covers everything from booking procedures and payment methods to travel itineraries, best times to visit, hotel upgrades, and more. For more assistance, contact us anytime.
The best time to visit South India is generally during the winter months from October to March. During this time, the weather is cooler and more pleasant, making it ideal for exploring popular destinations like Kerala, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Andhra Pradesh. The monsoon season (June to September) brings heavy rainfall to the region, which can affect travel plans and outdoor activities. Summer (April to June) can be hot and humid, particularly in coastal areas.
Yes, this tour is ideal for first-time visitors. It offers a balanced mix of culture, heritage, nature, and relaxation with a comfortable travel pace.
The Brihadeshwara Temple in Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, is one of the most mysterious temples in the region. Built in the 11th century by Rajaraja Chola I, this UNESCO World Heritage site is known for its towering vimana topped with an 80-tonne granite block, the lifting of which remains a mystery. The temple's architectural precision ensures its central tower's shadow never falls on the ground at noon. Adding to its intrigue is the belief that any leader entering through the main gate will lose their power or face death, a superstition that many still respect.
Ayurveda is a traditional system of medicine that originated in India over 5,000 years ago. It focuses on achieving balance in the body, mind, and spirit through natural therapies, including herbal treatments, dietary practices, and lifestyle changes. Ayurveda emphasizes prevention and healing through a holistic approach tailored to each individual's unique constitution.
Yes. We can fully customize your South India trip based on your interests, travel pace, and preferences.
Yes, you can upgrade to 4 star or 5 star hotels, or select your preferred properties. We will customize your accommodation to match your comfort and travel style. Please contact us to share your preferences.
Yes, we accept international credit cards. Your payments are highly secure, as we process them through trusted platforms such as CCAvenue and PayPal. This ensures your transaction details are protected with the highest level of security standards.
Upon your arrival at Chennai International Airport, India, our local representative will be waiting at the main entrance of the terminal, holding a placard with your name and our company logo for easy identification. Additionally, we will provide you with a list of 24-hour emergency contact numbers for your convenience.
Know Before Your Go
Important Information
- Please Note: At Madurai Temple, only practicing Hindus are allowed to visit the Main Deity Room. People of other religions can enter the temple grounds but are only allowed in certain areas and cannot visit the Main Deity Room.
- If rooms are not available at the mentioned hotels, we will provide alternate hotels of a similar category. Early check-in or late check-out is subject to availability.
- For easy communication on the go, consider downloading WhatsApp, as it is widely used in India.
- Transportation is provided according to the itinerary only and is not available on a disposal or point-to-point basis.
- Tipping in India is not compulsory, it is optional but appreciated. A small gratuity is expected in some cases; tip generously for exceptional service. The amount can range from $2, $5, $10 per day, or more, depending on satisfaction and the quality of service received.
- Any costs arising from natural calamities such as road blockages, political disturbances (e.g., strikes), etc., are to be borne by the client. We will not be held liable for any refunds or compensation claims resulting from these circumstances.
- India VISA: Citizens of Nepal and Bhutan do not need a visa to enter India. However, all other foreign nationals must obtain a visa to enter India. For more information, please check https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/tvoa.html.
Payment Terms
A deposit of 10% is required to confirm this tour, and the remaining balance will be charged 30 days prior tour starting date. For any bookings within 30 days of departure, the full tour amount will be charged upon booking. This can be paid through bank transfer, credit/debit card, or cash.
Cancellation
If you cancel the tour at least 31 days before the scheduled departure date, there will be no cancellation fee. Kindly read complete details at Cancellation Policy.
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Why book this tour with Alkof Holidays?
Alkof Holidays creates private and customizable journeys for international travelers with local insight, responsive support, and carefully selected travel partners across India.