India Invites by Elatrip Tours

INDIA invites

Travel Catalogue

Namaste! elatrip welcomes you to explore Indiaʼs never-ending wonders Elatrip is the perfect travel companion for the backpackers who want to explore the world and its umpteen wonders. With strong and eﬀective presence across the world, elatrip has already etched an impressive name on the global tourism map. In this peculiar era where the globetrotters curiously view India as a perfect travel destination, elatrip is very happy to acknowledge our steady commitment to help them to explore this countryʼs myriad touristic wonders. India, without doubt, is a destination in which every experience is unique, every person you meet diﬀers surprisingly and every spot you visit carries something special in its heart. This tour guide, which extensively covers Indiaʼs chief wonders, is arranged in a way to help the aspiring tourist to understand the key locations and their unique peculiarities. Besides, elatrip presents you unique tour packages in this guide so that you can select the suitable itinerary for you. Once again, we promise you our warm companionship in your journey. Make the most out of India!

Experience

India...

Its time to pack your bags... leave your busy schedule behind... and stumble on a magic called India!

elatrip, your ultimate travel companion...

Destinations India is packed with myriad surprises. Explore them with elatrip.

INDEX Package Name

Duration

Page

A Kerala Special

06 Nights / 7 Days

Kerala Exclusives

06 Nights / 07 Days

Golden Oldies

07 Nights / 08 Days

Godʼs Own Wonders

07 Nights / 08 Days

Malabar Special

07 Nights / 08 Days

Deccan Delights

09 Nights / 10 Days

North Indian Delights

10 Nights / 11 Days

Silky Colors

11 Nights / 12 Days

Splendors of South

11 Nights / 12 Days

A Flashback to Dravidian Culture

12 Nights / 13 Days

Into the Land of Dravidians

12 Nights / 13 Days

Endless Fantasies

13 Nights / 14 Days

South Indian Bonanza

13 Nights / 14 Days

Southern Symphonies

13 Nights / 14 Days

Southern Glories

14 Nights / 15 Days

Dravidian Ride

14 Nights / 15 Days

Rajputs & Rajasthan

15 Nights / 16 Days

Deccan Treasure Hunt

16 Nights / 17 Days

Explore the South

21 Nights / 22 Days

Inclusions and Exclusions

KOCHI, MUNNAR THEKKADY, ALAPPUZHA MARARI

A KERALA

6 Nights / 7 Days Highlights Kochi (Keralaʼs ﬁnancial capital - a city that combines modernity with ancient elegance), Munnar (Keralaʼs top-rated hill station with plenty of eye-feasts) Thekkady

(Location

Periyar

Wildlife Sanctuary - an adventurerʼs spot) Alappuzha (ʻThe Venice of the Eastʼ - Keralaʼs backwater tourism hub) Marari (A calm ideal beach destination)

Special

Day 1: Kochi

Day 5: Thekkady - Alappuzha

Make a head-start to your week long Kerala tour right at the ʻQueen of the Arabian Seaʼ, Kochi.

Now itʼs time to experience the typical Kerala specialty - the backwater cruise. Proceed to Alappuzha from Thekkady. With plenty of waterways, canals & backwater lagoons, Alappuzha is rightfully dubbed in the world tourism map as ʻthe Venice of the Eastʼ - also the hub of Keralaʼs backwater tourism.

Day 3: Munnar

There is hardly any better place than the No: 1 city in Kerala as your destination of arrival. You will be well-received by our executives who will let you to comfortably check in to the hotel at Kochi. After a brief settling down, set out for a city sightseeing tour. Kochi is a place that effectively combines its modern luxuries together with the medieval colonial charm. You will justify this fact after experiencing both - right from the main city center, to suburban locations like Mattancherry and Fort Kochi. The Chinese ﬁshing nets, St. Francis Church and Anglo Indian Bungalows at Fort Kochi and, the Dutch Palace, Jewish Street & Synagogue at Mattancherry bring back memories of the stylish colonial era... while the busy M G Road and Marine Drive thrives ahead in modernity. After a thorough city tour, return to your hotel and relax. Overnight stay at Kochi.

This day is devoted to sightseeing in & around the mesmeric Munnar. Start with a visit to the Eravikulam national park (Rajamala National Park), which is located about 15 km away from Munnar. This park is home to ʻNilgiri Tahrʼ (endangered mountain goat) and ʻAtlas Mothʼ (one of the worldʼs biggest moths) plus, plenty of exotic plants. Go trekking inside the park and rekindle your adventurous self. After charging up the self, visit the pleasant Dam Reservoir area at Mattupetty. Here you may avail boating facili-

ties too. Later, visit ʻEcho Pointʼ - a spot where, as its name implies, you can hear multiple echoes of own sound. This is also an ideal location for nature walks. After enjoying Echo Point, go to ʻKundalaʼ - the location of an artiﬁcial dam & catchment area; set in a fantasy ﬁlmy style. As night falls, return to your lodgings at Munnar and stay overnight.

Day 4: Munnar - Thekkady This morning, depart from Munnar to another natural beauty spot, Thekkady - abode of Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, a major wildlife reserve in the country. After arriving at the destination, soon set out to visit that wild hub. Enriched with variety ﬂora & fauna, Periyar Sanctuary attracts a

By afternoon check in to a houseboat at Alappuzha. As the overnight cruise begins, settle down in this ﬂoating luxury and get immersed in the gentle rhymes of backwaters. Watch the green paddies dotted with coconut trees, groups of ducks enjoying the waters, village folks engaged in their ages-old routines... grasp the spirit of rural Kerala that still thrives unaltered in these regions. Spice up your cruise with delicious Kerala cuisines along the way. Overnight stay in the houseboat comforts.

Day 6: Alappuzha - Marari After relishing the charm of backwaters, now itʼs time to feel the thrill of Keralaʼs seashore. In the morning, check out from the houseboat and drive to ʻMarariʼ - a calm & pleasant beach location in the neighborhood of Alappuzha. Spend this day all along at the gentle beach... get immersed in the thrills of sunbathing / swimming. After the dayʼs beach relaxation, stay overnight at the hotel / resort in Marari.

Day 7: Departure Today is the climax day... Time to bid farewell to Kerala and your one week tour. Leave Marari and drive to Kochi Airport / Railway Station, as per the departure schedule. A farewell with full of excitements

meters high, neighbored by lush jungles). Continue your thrilling high range ride with such eye-feasts... On reaching Munnar, check in to your Hotel / Resort and get tuned to the new chilling atmosphere. Later on, subject to time & availability, you can pay a visit to the famous ʻTea Museumʼ in Munnar Town - the only Museum of its kind; which illustrates the timeworn method of Tea production! Then opt for a little shopping at own convenience. Finally get back to your lodgings for overnight stay.

large number of nature lovers every year as it is ideal for watching animals in their natural habitat. Here you can either opt for a boating in the beautiful lake, or engage in other exciting activities like soft trekking, spice plantation visit, shopping spice items... Overnight stay at the hotel in Thekkady.

Route Map 7

KOCHI THEKKADY KUMARAKOM MARARI

6 Nights / 7 Days Highlights Kochi (Keralaʼs ﬁnancial capital - a city that combines modernity with ancient elegance) Thekkady

(Location

Periyar

Wildlife Sanctuary - an adventurerʼs spot) Kumarakom (A major centre for Kerala backwater tourism) Marari (A calm ideal beach destination)

Kerala

exclusives!

Day 1: Kochi

Day 3: Thekkady

Make a head-start to your week long Kerala tour right at the ʻQueen of the Arabian Seaʼ, Kochi. There is hardly any better place than the No: 1 city in Kerala as your destination of arrival. You will be well-received by our executives who will let you to comfortably check in to the hotel at Kochi. After a brief settling down, set out for a city sightseeing tour. Kochi is a place that ef-

A full day to discover the beauties of Thekkady... Enriched with variety ﬂora & fauna, Thekkadyʼs Periyar Sanctuary attracts a large number of nature lovers every year as it is ideal for watching animals in their natural habitat. Here you can either opt for

villages, where farming, irrigation and ﬁshing are still main sources of living. En route, enjoy the panoramic views of ʻThanneermukkom Bundʼ (artiﬁcial saltwater barrier) and ʻPathiramanal Islandʼ (an uninhibited isle with plentiful migratory birds). Delight yourself with delicious Kerala cuisines. Overnight stay in the houseboat surrounded by the gentle waters. a boating in the beautiful lake, or engage in other exciting activities like soft trekking, spice plantation

fectively combines its modern luxuries together with the medieval colonial charm. You will justify this fact after experiencing both - right from the main city center, to suburban locations like Mattancherry and Fort Kochi. The Chinese ﬁshing nets, St. Francis Church & Anglo Indian Bungalows at Fort Kochi and, the Dutch Palace, Jewish Street & Synagogue at Mattancherry bring back memories of the stylish colonial era... while the busy M G Road and Marine Drive thrives ahead in modernity. After a thorough city tour, return to your hotel and relax. Overnight stay at Kochi.

Day 2: Kochi - Thekkady Today travel to another natural beauty spot

Day 6: Kumarakom - Marari After relishing the charm of backwaters, now itʼs time to feel the thrill of Keralaʼs seashore. In the morning, check out from the houseboat and drive to ʻMarariʼ - a calm & pleasant beach location in the neighborhood of Alappuzha. Spend this day all along at the

visit, shopping spice items... Overnight stay at the hotel in Thekkady.

Day 4: Thekkady - Kumarakom From the adventurous mountains to the backwater beauties... Depart from Thekkady this morning and drive to Kumarakom, a major backwater hub in the Godʼs own country. On arrival, check in to the resort at Kumarakom. Later visit Kumarakomʼs major landmark the ʻBird Sanctuaryʼ, where you can

gentle beach... get immersed in the thrills of sunbathing / swimming. After the dayʼs beach relaxation stay overnight at the hotel / resort in Marari.

Day 7: Marari - Kochi (departure) Time to bid farewell to Kerala and your pleasure trip... Leave Marari and drive to Kochi Airport, as per the departure schedule.

in Kerala - Thekkady (abode of Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, a major wildlife reserve in India). After arriving at the destination, check in to your hotel and settle down. As time permits, have a quick get around to familiarize the new chilling environs. Overnight stay at Thekkady.

sight plenty of migratory birds. After ample birdwatching return to your resort at Kumarakom for overnight stay.

Day 5: Kumarakom This day experience what Kumarakom is well known internationally - the gushing backwaters. Check in to a traditional Kerala Houseboat to start off your backwater cruise. As the gentle journey begins, slowly settle down in the floating luxury... watch the picturesque combination of paddy fields and coconut groves that adorn the backwater banks. At most of the places, you can view the unaltered rural life of Kerala

Route Map 9

DELHI AGRA FATEHPUR SIKRI JAIPUR

6 Nights / 7 Days Highlights Delhi (Indiaʼs de-facto capital in terms of both history and legacy) Agra (the land of ʻTaj Mahalʼ - worldʼs most famous monument of love) Jaipur (the ʻpinkʼ city of gorgeous, lavish mansions - typical symbol of the Rajput heritage)

Golden Oldies

Day 1: Delhi

Day 3: Delhi - Agra

Arrival at New Delhi Airport - the starting point of your Golden Oldies tour... Upon arrival, proceed for check-in to your hotel at ʻNew Delhiʼ

Depart from Delhi to ʻAgraʼ - an ancient city plus erstwhile capital of the Mugals and moreover, the abode of elegant ʻTaj Mahalʼ. After arriving

- the legendary state capital of India. Take own time to settle down in the new environs. Subject to time, go for sightseeing New Delhiʼs nearby attractions. Overnight stay at the hotel in Delhi.

Day 2: Delhi Start oﬀ with a sightseeing trip of Delhi. Visit some of Delhiʼs precious landmarks, including, the ʻRajghatʼ (Resting place of ʻMahatma Gandhiʼ

at Agra, set out to see that monument which spread Indiaʼs name throughout the world. After the main entrance, a walk thru the lovely gardens brings you near the white marbled mausoleum. Watch how the surface is decorated with ﬂoral patterns & artistic calligraphy. Feast your eyes with this marvel of a monument - even now, only few could match it in terms of beauty & architectural brilliance. As the day ends, check in to your hotel at Agra for overnight stay. (Taj Mahal will be closed on Fridays for the public, except for those who go for afternoon prayers in the mosque next to the monument).

mountains and the Maotha Lake below. Inside the fortress, explore the beauty of the Mugal-Hindu architectural combination in several spots like, the ʻGanesh Polʼ, ʻMaharaja Palaceʼ, ʻDiwan-i-Amʼ & ʻDiwan-E-Khasʼ, ʻJai Mandirʼ, ʻSheesh Mahalʼ - a hall, full of tiny inlaid mirrors, and the adjoining ʻShila Devi Templeʼ. For descending the steeply hills from Amber Fort, you can opt for an exciting Elephant ride. Afterwards, tour to some of the cityʼs famous buildings like; ʻthe Monkey Templeʼ (an ancient shrine occupied by thousands of monkeys) ‒ where you can feed the inmates! Then, as time permits, do some shopping at Jaipur and ﬁnd out the innumerable special items that the city is known for. At dinner time, drop in to ʻChoki Dhaniʼ - an ethnic Village Resort that oﬀers an ideal pastoral experience of Rajasthan. After heartily enjoying the unique local cuisines return to your hotel for overnight stay.

Day 4: Agra - Fatehpur Sikri - Jaipur This morning depart Agra and drive to the ʻpink cityʼ Jaipur (aptly called due its rose-hued

- Father of the Nation of India), ʻOld Delhiʼ (Capitalʼs timeworn, olden part - a fortiﬁed city that served as a key post of former Islamic kingdoms in India), ʻQutub Minarʼ (One of the tallest monu-

buildings). On the way, visit ʻFatehpur Sikriʼ (oncecapital of the Mugal Kingdom, which was abandoned later). At Fatehpur Sikri, you can ʻvirtuallyʼ travel back to a bygone era by sightseeing plentiful monuments and red sandstone palaces - all still well preserved. Later on continue your drive to Jaipur. After reaching Jaipur, check in to your hotel and relax. Overnight stay at Jaipur. ments in the country - the ﬁrst one erected as the mark of Muslim conquest of Delhi, in 13th century),

and ʻLotus Templeʼ (Delhiʼs prominent shrine as well as a symbol of architectural brilliance)... Later, come back to the hotel, refresh and relax. Overnight stay at Delhi.

Day 5: Jaipur

Day 6: Jaipur - Delhi This morning, see some more of Jaipurʼs assets... Visit a classic testimony of the Rajputana architecture, the ʻHawa Mahalʼ (meaning ʻPalace of Windsʼ) - a pyramid shaped facade with ﬁve stories & decorated with hundreds of pink sandstone windows (all-together this resembles a giant honeycomb). Next, visit an elegant mansion, the ʻCity Palaceʼ - an eye catching fusion of Rajputana and Mughal Architecture. Later, depart Jaipur for Delhi. On reaching the state capital check in to your hotel and relax for some time. Later, as time permits, do a ﬂeeting sightseeing of Delhiʼs nearby attractions. Overnight stay at Delhi.

Day 7: Delhi (departure) Conclusion of your Golden Oldies tour... Check out from your hotel and proceed to Delhi Airport, a departure full of satisfaction.

This entire day is for Jaipur sightseeing... To begin with, visit the ʻAmber Fortʼ ( former capital of Rajput Kings), an imposing Fort city atop steeply hills. On the top of this majestic fort, you will be greeted with a spellbinding view of surrounding

Route Map 11

KOCHI, MUNNAR THEKKADY ALAPPUZHA KOVALAM

7 Nights / 8 Days Highlights Kochi (Keralaʼs ﬁnancial capital - a city that combines modernity with ancient elegance) Munnar (Keralaʼs top-rated hill station with plenty of eye-feasts) Thekkady

(Location

Periyar

Wildlife Sanctuary - an adventurerʼs spot) Alappuzha (ʻThe Venice of the Eastʼ - Keralaʼs backwater tourism hub) Kovalam (An internationally reputed Beach haven)

Wonders God’s Own

Day 1: Kochi Make a head-start to your week long Kerala tour right at the ʻQueen of the Arabian Seaʼ, Kochi. There is hardly any better place than the No: 1 city in Kerala as your destination of arrival. You will be well-received by our executives who will let you to comfortably check in to the hotel at

goat) and ʻAtlas Mothʼ (one of the worldʼs biggest moths) plus, plenty of exotic plants. Go trekking inside the park and rekindle your adventurous self. After charging up the self, visit the pleasant Dam Reservoir area at Mattupetty. Here you may avail boating facilities too. Later, visit ʻEcho Pointʼ - a spot where, as its name implies, you can hear multiple echoes of own sound. This is also an ideal location for nature walks. After enjoying Echo Point, go to ʻKundalaʼ - the location of an artiﬁcial dam & catchment area; set in a fantasy ﬁlmy style. As night falls, return to your lodgings at Munnar and stay overnight.

with delicious Kerala cuisines along the way. Overnight stay in the houseboat comforts.

Day 6: Alappuzha - Kovalam After the backwater glories, now itʼs the turn of Keralaʼs splendid seashores. Today proceed to one of the ﬁnest beach havens in the world -

Day 4: Munnar - Thekkady

Kochi. After a brief settling down, set out for a city sightseeing tour. Kochi is a place that effectively combines its modern luxuries together with the medieval colonial charm. You will justify this fact after experiencing both - right from the main city center, to suburban locations like Mattancherry and Fort Kochi. The Chinese ﬁshing nets, St. Francis Church & Anglo Indian Bungalows at Fort Kochi and, the Dutch Palace, Jewish Street & Synagogue at Mattancherry bring back memories of the stylish colonial era... while the busy M G Road and Marine Drive thrives ahead in modernity. After a thorough city tour, return to your hotel and relax. Overnight stay at Kochi.

This morning, depart from Munnar to another natural beauty spot, Thekkady - abode of Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, a major wildlife reserve in the country. After arriving at the destination, soon set out to visit that wild hub. Enriched with variety ﬂora & fauna, Periyar Sanctuary attracts a large number of nature lovers every year as it is ideal for watching animals in their natural habitat. Here you

Kovalam. Check in to your hotel / resort at Kovalam on arrival and get ready to enjoy the beach beauties. Get around and familiarize the seashore. Have a pleasing sunset view. Overnight stay at Kovalam.

Day 7: Kovalam Fully explore Kovalam today... This land is blessed with three lovely crescent-shaped seashores, namely ʻSamudra Beachʼ (which is the main beach), ʻHowah Beachʼ and ʻLighthouse Beachʼ. Spent the entire day engaged in various beach activities - sunbathing, swimming, enjoying the

Day 2: Kochi - Munnar Today take a drive to Munnar - the ʻNumero Uno Hill Station in Keralaʼ. As the journey progress through the steep roads, you can have occasional halts to enjoy some splendid waterfalls on the way side... ﬁrst, ʻCheeyappara waterfallʼ (a refreshing seven stepped water cascade) and then, the ʻValara waterfallʼ (a cascade about 1000 meters high, neighbored by lush jungles). Continue your thrilling high range ride with such eye-feasts... On reaching Munnar, check in to your Hotel / Resort and get tuned to the new chilling atmosphere. Later on, subject to time & availability, you can pay a visit to the famous ʻTea Museumʼ in Munnar Town - the only Museum of its kind; which illustrates the timeworn method of Tea production! Then opt for a little shopping at own convenience. Finally get back to your lodgings for overnight stay.

Day 3: Munnar This day is devoted to sightseeing in & around the mesmeric Munnar. Start with a visit to the Eravikulam national park (Rajamala National Park), which is located about 15 km away from Munnar. This park is home to ʻNilgiri Tahrʼ (endangered mountain

can either opt for a boating in the beautiful lake, or engage in other exciting activities like soft trekking, spice plantation visit, shopping spice items... Overnight stay at the hotel in Thekkady.

Day 5: Thekkady - Alappuzha Now itʼs time to experience the typical Kerala specialty - the backwater cruise. Proceed to Alappuzha from Thekkady. With plenty of waterways, canals & backwater lagoons, Alappuzha is rightfully dubbed in the world tourism map as ʻthe Venice of the Eastʼ - also the hub of Keralaʼs backwater tourism.

big splashes in the rejuvenating sea breeze... After a satisfying beach stint, return to your hotel / resort for overnight stay.

Day 8: Trivandrum (departure) Time for departure... Check out from your hotel / resort and drive to the nearby city of Trivandrum - drop in at Airport for return journey.

Route Map 13

KOZHIKODE, WAYANAD MUTHUMALAI MYSORE BANGALORE

7 Nights / 8 Days Highlights Kozhikode (A major port city in North Kerala, erstwhile royal abode) Wayanad (Green Paradise of Godʼs own country, Kerala) Muthumalai (A wildlife sanctuary with strong tiger population, ideal spot for adventurers) Mysore (Power centre of former Mysore Kingdom that still retains its royal legacy) Bangalore (Indiaʼs Garden City & Silicon Valley)

Malabar

SPECIALS

Day 1: Kozhikode The tour begins with your arrival at the city of Kozhikode - the old port city that attracted Europeans to Malabar region. After arrival, grasp the legacy of Kozhikode as well as Malabar by visiting the ʻPazhassiraja Museumʼ - a favorite abode of art lovers and historians alike. Also visit the adjoining Art Gallery where you can view some of the world famous paintings of Keralaʼs artist legends like Raja Ravi Varma. As evening approaches, go for sightseeing the popular landmark of Kozhikode - the beach. Traces of colonial touch can be seen in the beachʼs time-stained piers and lighthouse. Overnight stay at the hotel in Kozhikode.

particularly high force of water (ʻsoochiʼ in Malayalam means ʻneedleʼ). Feel the thrill of needlelike cascade waters. As the daylight fades, return to your lodgings to relax. Overnight stay at Wayanad.

Day 4: Wayanad - Muthumalai Day 2: Kozhikode - Wayanad Make a head start towards a delightful high range trip by taking a ride from Kozhikode to Wayanad, the lush green hub of North Kerala. The route to Wayanad itself is thrilling with its exciting hair-pin curves. Feel the wild charm of Wayanad Mountain Pass (ʻThamarassery churamʼ in local) as you drive along... On the way visit the mystic ʻChain Treeʼ (it is believed that the spirit of a slain tribal youth is chained to this tree, so as to prevent the same from harming the drivers)! After some time, the Green Paradise of Malabar region will welcome you. At Wayanad, visit ʻVythiriʼ, an absolutely stunning location amidst the dense forests in high ranges. Feel the refreshing, pollution free air of Vythiri something very rare in the present modern chaos. After getting an exposure to Wayanadʼs unspoilt nature, get in to your lodgings for overnight stay.

Move on to more & more greenery today... from Wayanad drive to ʻMuthumalai wildlife sanctuaryʼ, a protected forest located between Kerala and Karnataka states. The landscape of Muthumalai is peculiar with combinations of thick jungles, ﬂat land, open grassland, valleys & swamps. On reaching ʻMuthumalaiʼ, start exploring the wildlife terrains. Apart from wide variety of animals, reptiles & birds this region is known for its strong Tiger population. The lucky ones can spot those majestic predators. After full day sightseeing of the wildlife abode, get in to your lodgings at Muthumalai and stay overnight.

Day 7: Mysore - Bangalore

Day 3: Wayanad Further explore the unscathed beauty of Wayanad today... to begin with; proceed to ʻKuruva Dweepʼ - a tiny island lying on the creeks of River Kabini. Enriched with dense forest, Kuruva Dweep is a place that still retains its pure natural beauty. Go for trekking through the wildwoods. Watch rare species of birds, orchids and herbs... get absorbed into the energizing non-polluted environs. Next, visit a true archeological wonder - the ʻEdakkal Cavesʼ. These rocky caves are regarded as one of the earliest centers of human habitat, much

Considered among the best of its kind in India, here you can view the painting & murals that showcase the legacy of Mysore Royal family, as well as famous paintings of various artists across the world. Later set out to visit a major attraction in the outskirts of Mysore - the Brindavan Gardens and Krishnarajasagar Dam. Built across the river Cauvery, Krishnarajasagar Dam is an important irrigation project in South India. Roam around the Brindavan Gardens, a beautifully laid out terrace garden enriched with fountains, terraces, cascading water-channels, trees, green lawns and ﬂower beds. Donʼt miss its prime attraction - the ʻmusical & dancing fountainʼ. Watch how the beauty is technically mingled with nature! At night, return to your hotel in Mysore for overnight stay.

Day 5: Muthumalai - Mysore From wildlife thrills, depart towards heritage charms... Leave for ʻMysoreʼ, a former royal capital, from Muthumalai. On arrival; settle down in the Hotel at Mysore. In the evening, as time permits, make a visit to one of the oldest & grandest churches in Mysore - St. Philomenaʼs Church, a perfect example of gothic style of architecture in India. Overnight stay at Mysore.

Today depart from Mysore to Bangalore Karnatakaʼs capital as well as a vibrant city. En route visit another post-royal place, ʻSrirangapattanaʼ (Capital of former Mysore King, Tipu Sultan). Visit its famed monuments like, Tipuʼs Fort and Palace. See the spot where the Sultan was killed during the fatal battle between Mysore and the British in 1799 (which paved way for the British dominance in South India). Carry on your journey to Bangalore... On arrival, check in to your hotel and settle down to wash oﬀ your journey hangover. Soon set out to a quick city sightseeing tour... Visit Bangaloreʼs prime spots of attraction like the imposing ʻVidhana Soudhaʼ buildings, the majestic ʻBangalore Palaceʼ, the shady ʻCubbon Parkʼ, etc. At nightfall return to your Hotel at Bangalore for overnight stay.

Day 8: Bangalore (departure) It is departure time... Check out from the hotel and proceed to Airport to catch your return ﬂight - a memorable trip concludes.

Route Map

Day 6: Mysore before the recorded history! Here you can see the cave walls are richly decorated with artistic carvings, which represent human / animal ﬁgures, objects of human use, prehistoric symbols... You will come to know; Wayanad does possess a very long time span of history & culture. Before the day ends, subject to time and your convenience, make an optional visit to the ʻSoochippara Waterfallsʼ - a three tier waterfall situated in dense forest. This cascade is called so due to its

A full day for you to tour throughout the legendary post-royal Mysore city... Start off your trip with a visit to the Mysore Palace - once the official residence of the Wodeyar Kings, erstwhile rulers of Mysore Kingdom. Watch the magnificent architectural brilliance of the palace, where you can find a blend of various noted construction styles in medieval India era, moreover a typical Indo-Saracenic style. Then, visit the nearby Art Gallery - which is also a former palace converted into art gallery.

BANGALORE, MYSORE OOTY,WAYANAD, KOZHIKODE

09 Nights / 10 Days Highlights Bangalore (Indiaʼs Garden City & Silicon Valley) Mysore (Power centre of former Mysore Kingdom that still retains its royal legacy) Ooty (An internationally renowned hill station) Wayanad (Green Paradise of Godʼs own country, Kerala) Kozhikode (A major port city in North Kerala, erstwhile royal abode)

DECCAN

DELIGHTS

Day 1: Bangalore

architecture in India. Overnight stay at Mysore.

Your exotic South Indian tour begins with the arrival at Bangalore - Indiaʼs garden city, so called

Day 3: Mysore A full day for you to tour throughout the historic post-royal Mysore city... Start oﬀ your trip with a visit to the Mysore Palace, once the oﬃ-

- the ʻmusical & dancing fountainʼ. Watch how the beauty is technically mingled with nature! At night, return to your hotel in Mysore for overnight stay.

Day 4: Mysore - Ooty Today, after recharging with breakfast, leave Mysore to the ʻQueen of Hill Stations in Southʼ -

as there is greenery everywhere, even in most urban centers. After a warm welcome, proceed to your Hotel for check in. Later, set out for a city sightseeing tour... Visit Bangaloreʼs prime spots of attraction like the imposing ʻVidhana Soudhaʼ buildings, the majestic ʻBangalore Palaceʼ, the shady ʻCubbon Parkʼ, the lush ʻLal Bagh gardensʼ, etc. At nightfall return to your Hotel at Bangalore for overnight stay.

Day 2: Bangalore - Mysore Today depart from Bangalore and proceed to the former royal power centre ʻMysoreʼ, capital of the legendary Mysore Kingdom. En route, visit another historic place - Srirangapattana (Capital of former Mysore King, Tipu Sultan). Visit its famed monuments like, Tipuʼs Fort and Palace. See the spot where the Sultan was killed during the fatal battle between Mysore and the British in 1799 (which paved way for the British dominance in South India). Carry on your journey to Mysore... On arrival,

cial residence of the Wodeyar Kings, erstwhile rulers of Mysore Kingdom. Watch the magniﬁcent architectural brilliance of the palace, where you can ﬁnd a blend of various noted construction styles in medieval India era, moreover a typical Indo-Saracenic style. Then, visit the nearby Art Gallery - which is also a former palace converted into art gallery. Considered among the best of its kind in India, here you can view the painting & murals that showcase the legacy of Mysore Royal family, as well as famous paintings of various artists across the world. Later set out to visit a major attraction in the outskirts of Mysore - the Brindavan Gardens

Ooty. An exciting ride with heartwarming views of plantations, streams and waterfalls brings you to the hill station queen. Upon reaching, check in to the Hotel at Ooty and take own time to settle in the coolish environs. As time permits, just roam around in the town area and do some shopping - as at times you cannot restrict buying some cute things typically unique to this place. Overnight stay at cozy comforts of the Ooty Hotel.

Day 5: Ooty A full day especially for Ooty sightseeing... Set out to experience the hill stationʼs prized attractions like, the Ooty Lake (where you can

avail boating options or horse riding along the banks), Botanical Gardens (where you can ﬁnd

settle down in the Hotel. In the evening, as time permits, make a visit to one of the oldest & grandest churches in Mysore - St. Philomenaʼs Church, a perfect example of gothic style of

and Krishnarajasagar Dam. Built across the river Cauvery, Krishnarajasagar Dam is an important irrigation project in South India. Roam around the Brindavan Gardens, a beautifully laid out terrace garden enriched with fountains, terraces, cascading water-channels, trees, green lawns and ﬂower beds. Donʼt miss its prime attraction

some of the treasured plants & ﬂowers in the world), Dodabetta Peak (the highest point in Ooty, where you can experience a spellbinding view of the misty mountains & valleys), Echo Rock (a rock that naturally took the shape of a lamb; also known as Lambʼs Rock)... After plenty of refreshments return to your Hotel in late evening for overnight stay.

Day 6: Ooty - Wayanad Bid adieu to the ravishing Ooty this morning and proceed to the ʻgreen paradise of the Godʼs own countryʼ - Wayanad. A couple

of the world famous paintings of Keralaʼs top artists like Raja Ravi Varma. Now see a very important landmark in the city, the ʻS M Streetʼ or ʻMittai Theruvuʼ in local. The exact age of this time stained street is unknown, but it is believed that one who runs a business here will never be in loss! Though you can shop a variety items here,

of hours of delightful ride brings you to the greenest district in Kerala state. On arriving at Wayanad, spend some time feeling the alluring calmness of the thick rainforests near the Lakkidi town. Then proceed to visit ʻKuruva Dweepʼ - a tiny island lying on the creeks of River Kabini. Enriched with dense forest, Kuruva Dweep is a place that still retains its pure natural beauty. Go for trekking through the wildwoods. Watch rare species of birds, orchids and herbs... You can actually feel the energizing, non-polluted environment. Later visit the ʻAmbalavayal Heritage Museumʼ to

Waterfallsʼ (a three-tier waterfall situated in the dense forest. The force of water here is quite high). After getting ample exposure to Wayanadʼs unscathed nature, get back to your lodgings and stay overnight.

Day 8: Wayanad - Kozhikode Last day at the ʻgreen paradiseʼ... say farewell to this wonderland on a high note by seeing a few more exotic locations such as, the ʻMeenmutty Waterfallsʼ - another beautiful cascade located in remote terrains. Enjoy the up & the street is best known for its sweet ʻhalwaʼ (dubbed as ʻSweet Meatʼ by the Europeans). Shop as much you like. As evening approaches go for sightseeing the popular landmark of Kozhikode - the beach. Traces of colonial touch can be seen in the beachʼs time-stained piers and lighthouse. Later return to your hotel at Kozhikode and stay overnight.

Day 10: Departure

get an insight into the ageless tribal culture of Wayanad. The Museum houses a fascinating display of numerous ingenious equipments and weapons used by the tribes. As the day ends check in to your hotel at Wayanad for overnight stay.

Day 7: Wayanad Today enjoy a full day sightseeing at Wayanad. Visit some breathtakingly beautiful spots like the ʻPookottu Lakeʼ (a perennial fresh water lake nestled in green coated mountains, ideal for boating too), ʻEdakkal Cavesʼ (an archeological wonder - rocky caves where the walls are adorned with artistic carvings that represent human /animal figures and objects of human use, which is one of the earliest centers of human habitat in the world), ʻSoochipara

down trekking from this location. Then halt at ʻVythiriʼ - eye feast with the chilling views of mist clad hills and lovely plantations. With full of joy embark the trip to Kozhikode. The route to Kozhikode itself is thrilling with awe inspiring hair-pin bends. Feel the exciting charm of Wayanad Mountain Pass (Thammaressery Churam) as you drive along... After a few hours the city of Kozhikode - the old port city that attracted Europeans to Malabar region will welcome you. Check in to your hotel and settle down. Overnight stay at Kozhikode.

Time to depart... check out from your hotel and leave to Kozhikode Airport / Railway Station, as per the departure schedule - a departure as a rejuvenated self.

Route Map

Day 9: Kozhikode Explore the most significant city in North Kerala today... Kozhikode is a place with plenty of legends. Letʼs grasp the legacy of Kozhikode, as well as Malabar region, by visiting the ʻPazhassiraja Museumʼ - a favorite abode of art lovers and historians alike. Visit the adjoining Art Gallery also, where you can view some

DELHI, MANDAWA JAIPUR, AGRA, KHAJURAHO, VARANASI, SARNATH

10 Nights / 11 Days Highlights

Delhi (Indiaʼs de-facto capital in terms of both history and legacy) Mandawa (a humble town known for its fascinating mansions and fort) Jaipur (the ʻpink cityʼ of gorgeous, lavish mansions - typical symbol of the Rajput heritage) Agra (the land of ʻTaj Mahalʼ worldʼs most famous monument of love) Khajuraho (world-famous archaeological site with a large collection of extraordinarily sculptured temples) Varanasi (Indiaʼs ʻCity of Templesʼ much revered place for Hinduism, Buddhism and Jainism) Sarnath (one of the most sacred sites of Buddhism in the world)

North Indian delights

Day 1:

Delhi

Arrival at New Delhi Airport, the starting point of your fascinating North Indian tour. Upon arrival, proceed for check-in to your hotel at ʻNew Delhiʼ ‒ the legendary state capital of India. Take own time to settle down in the new environs. Subject

Day 3:

Delhi - Mandawa

to time, go for sightseeing New Delhiʼs nearby attractions. Overnight stay at the hotel in New Delhi

Day 2:

Delhi

A day dedicated to Delhi sightseeing... Visit some of Delhiʼs precious landmarks, such as, the mighty ʻRed Fortʼ (a masterpiece of the Mughal architecture), ʻJuma Masjidʼ (the largest Mosque in India), ʻRajghatʼ (Memorial of ʻMahatma Gandhiʼ, regarded as the ʻFather of Indiaʼ), ʻIndia Gateʼ (a war memorial raised in honor of the Indian soldiers)... from India Gate you can view the grand ʻParliament Houseʼ (headquarters of Indian democratic system).

Continue your sightseeing with Delhiʼs other time tested famed monuments like; the ʻHumayunʼs Tombʼ (the Mausoleum of Mughal Emperor Humayun - a trendsetter of Indo Islamic architectural style that reached its peak at Taj Mahal), the ʻQutub Minarʼ (worldʼs tallest brick minaret, the ﬁrst monument built after the Islamic conquest of Delhi), ʻJantar Mantarʼ (an 18th century masonry observatory), ʻLakshmi Narayan Templeʼ (an epitome of modern Indian temple architecture), etc. After your Delhi-stint, come back to hotel and stay overnight.

Day 5: Jaipur - Agra

Today check out from your hotel at Delhi and proceed to Mandawa - a town in Rajasthan known for its proud fort and havelis (mansions). After reaching the destination, set out for sightseeing ʻMandawaʼ - the town often referred as an ʻopen art galleryʼ due to the presence of numerous charming havelis (mansions). Visit Mandawaʼs notable havelis, namely, ʻGulab Rai Haveliʼ, ʻBansidhar Newatia Haveliʼ, ʻShekawatiʼ ... Then, visit another major monument - the ʻMandawa Fortʼ. After getting an insight into the Rajasthani culture; return to your hotel at Mandawa for overnight stay.

Day 4:

Mandawa - Jaipur

Say good-bye to Mandawa and travel to Jaipur (Rajasthanʼs royal capital). On reaching Jaipur, after a short relax, set out for sightseeing. Visit the elegant mansion, ʻCity Palaceʼ ‒ an eye catching fusion of Rajputana and Mughal Architecture. Next, visit the ʻJantar Mantarʼ ‒ the largest Stone Astronomical Observatory in the World! Then proceed to view a classic testimony of the Rajputana architecture, the ʻHawa Mahalʼ (meaning ʻPalace of Windsʼ) ‒ a pyramid shaped facade with ﬁve stories & decorated with hundreds of pink sandstone windows. Afterwards, take a tour to ʻthe Monkey Templeʼ (an ancient shrine occupied by thousands of monkeys) ‒ where you can feed the ʻspecialʼ inmates. Overnight stay at Jaipur

This morning see a prime landmark of Jaipur the ʻAmber Fortʼ (former capital of Rajput Kings) - an imposing Fort city atop steeply hills. On the top of this majestic fort, you will be greeted with a spellbinding view of surrounding mountains and the Maotha Lake below. Inside the fortress, explore the beauty of the Mugal-Hindu architectural combination in several spots like, the ʻGanesh Polʼ, ʻMaharaja Palaceʼ, ʻDiwan-i-Amʼ & ʻDiwan-E-Khasʼ, ʻJai Mandirʼ, ʻSheesh Mahalʼ - a hall, full of tiny inlaid mirrors, and the adjoining ʻShila Devi Templeʼ. For descending the steeply hills from Amber Fort, you can opt for an exciting Elephant ride.

Later depart Jaipur for ʻFatehpur Sikriʼ (oncecapital of the Mugal Kingdom, which was abandoned later). At Fatehpur Sikri, you can ʻvirtuallyʼ travel back to a bygone era, by sightseeing plentiful monuments and red sandstone palaces - all still well preserved. Soon, an hourʼs drive from Fatehpur Sikri brings you to ʻAgraʼ - an ancient city plus erstwhile capital of the Mughals. At Agra, have a heartening ʻSunset viewʼ of the ʻTaj Mahalʼ, the ﬁnest specimen of Mughal architecture. As the day ends, check in to your hotel at Agra for overnight stay.

Day 6:

Agra

Warm yourself up with Agra sightseeing today... Visit ʻTomb of Itimad-ud-Daulaʼ - better known as ʻBaby Tajʼ as its design foreshadows the great Taj Mahal. Then visit the splendid ʻAgra Fortʼ - a massively walled palatial city - look alike of the celebrated ʻRed Fortʼ at Delhi. Later proceed to see the ﬁnest specimen of Mughal architecture ʻTaj Mahalʼ - the monument which spread Indiaʼs name throughout the world. After the main entrance, a walk thru the lovely gardens brings you near the white marbled mausoleum. Watch how the surface is decorated with ﬂoral patterns & artistic calligraphy. Feast your eyes with this marvel of a monument ‒ even now, only few could match it in terms of beauty & architectural brilliance. As the day ends get back to your hotel at Agra... stay overnight. (Taj Mahal will be closed on Fridays for the public, except for those who go for afternoon prayers in the mosque next to the monument)

Day 8:

Agra - Khajuraho

Time for more exposure with bygone times... Depart Agra and proceed to ʻOrchhaʼ (an erstwhile power centre during the Princely Statesʼ era). Enjoy this peaceful abode, free from maddening crowd, with a variety ancient temples and tombs. Visit Orchhaʼs most striking landmark - the ʻPalace Fortʼ and its constituent buildings, such as, ʻRaj Mandirʼ and ʻJahangir Mahalʼ. Next, proceed for ʻKhajurahoʼ - site of priceless monuments. Upon reaching; check in to the hotel. Overnight stay at Khajuraho

Day 10:

Varanasi

An eye-feast of a totally different kind awaits today... the mind boggling Temple-complex of Khajuraho. Nowhere else one can find such a large group of old shrines, that too with amazing carvings! Roam around Khajuraho temples... you can find plentiful Hindu as well as Jain temples, enriched with artistic carvings and realistic sculptures. Some sculptures will especially catch attention, owing to their peculiar ʻposesʼ! In the evening, you can opt for a ʻLight & Sound Showʼ at the Temple complex - which will throw insight into the history, philosophy and the art of sculpting of these magnificent temples. Afterwards return to your hotel at Khajuraho for overnight stay.

Day 9:

Day 7:

Khajuraho

Khajuraho - Sarnath

More options to go deeper into Indiaʼs vast cultural heritage... Today, depart Khajuraho to Varanasi, by ﬂight. Indiaʼs oldest city as well as one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world; Varanasi is much more than just a pilgrimʼs spot. On arrival, check in to your hotel at Varanasi and take time to familiarize the new surroundings.

This day is exclusively for getting to know Varanasi... Also known as ʻBanarasʼ, this has been the cultural & religious hub of North India for several thousand years. Here you can see that almost every road-crossing has a nearby Temple thus the legendary nickname, ʻCity of Templesʼ! Varanasiʼs holistic ambience is further enriched by the River Ganges - the holiest and largest river in India. In Hinduism, it is worshipped as ʻGoddess Gangaʼ, and since pre-historic times many provincial / imperial capitals were located on its banks. In fact a dip in the holy river Ganges is believed to wash away all the sins! Take an optional boat ride thru Ganges to learn more about Varanasiʼs specialties... Catch glimpses of multitudes of devotees purifying themselves in the holy waters and, watch the burning ghats - where cremations are conducted. After a soulsearching expedition, get back to your hotel at Varanasi for overnight stay.

Day 11:

Varanasi - Delhi (departure)

The ﬁnal day of your North Indian tour... After your ʻdiscovery of India in a nutshellʼ at Varanasi, depart from the holy city to Delhi by ﬂight - tour concludes.

Route Map

After some time, proceed to ʻSarnathʼ, a holy Buddhist site located close by. Originally a deerpark-site, it was at Sarnath that the Holy Buddha delivered his ﬁrst sermon (after his enlightenment). Visit the monument - ʻDhamekh Stupaʼ and the remains ancient Buddhist monasteries. If time permits, also visit ʻSarnath Archaeological Museumʼ where some ﬁnest Buddhist specimens are housed (including the famous ʻAsok Pillarʼ). At nightfall return to your hotel at Varanasi... stay overnight.

CHENNAI, MAHABALIPURAM, THANJAVUR, RAMESHWARAM, MADURAI, TRICHY

11 nights / 12 days Highlights Chennai (The ʻGateway to South Indiaʼ - a metropolis with rich historical background) Mahabalipuram (An ancient port city studded with elegant monuments - a World Heritage Site) Kancheepuram (ʻCity of Thousand Templesʼ, renowned for its culture & civilization and ʻSilkʼ) Gangaikondacholapuram (Former capital of Chola Empire, now houses heritage monuments) Kumbakonam (ʻTown of Templesʼ - a showcase of Dravidian architectural style) Thanjavur (The ʻGranary of South Indiaʼ - a legendary city and hub of classical arts & music) Rameshwaram (A holy city with a legacy dating back to the great Hindu Epic - ʻRamayanaʼ) Madurai (The ʻCultural Capital of Tamil Naduʼ, one of the antique & prestigious cities in India) Trichy (An important city in Tamil Nadu in terms of pilgrimage, education & industry)

Silky Colors

Day 1: Chennai Your exciting Dravidian tour commences from Chennai, South Indiaʼs largest city as well as

ings), ʻShore Templeʼ (a very old shrine with entry from the seashore) ... As the daylight paves way for nightfall, get in to your lodgings... settle down in its soothing environs. Overnight stay at Mahabalipuram.

Day 4:

Kancheepuram - Thanjavur

Bid farewell to one historic city and travel to another... from Kancheepuram to Thanjavur. On the

Day 3: Mahabalipuram -Kancheepuram Bid bye-bye to the legacy steeped Mahabalipuram and take a drive to your next destination, ʻKancheepuramʼ - a city with many tags, such as, the historical capital of former Pallava Kings... a city with countless temples of unique architectural beauty... one among the seven sacred ancient cities in India... a centre of learning, religious & culture of Tamil for centuries... etc. your starting point. After your arrival, followed by a warm welcome, check in to the Hotel at Chennai and get ready for a full day metro tour. Drive around the metro-city and get to know some of its famous landmarks. Visit the Fort St. George (the British built fortress, which still retains its colonial charm). Watch the big beach at Marina - regarded as worldʼs 2nd longest seashore. Later on, travel to a little outer from the metro area... towards the sacred hill St. Thomas Mount. It was from here that St. Thomas, the apostle of Christ, carried out his missionary activities till he attained martyrdom - somewhat 1900+ years back. Observe his deeds through the sculptures and relics at the old European-styled Church on the hilltop. You can find how harmoniously the traditional Tamil culture and modern British culture are blended. As the daylight fades, get to your Hotel. Overnight stay at Chennai.

Day 2: Chennai - Mahabalipuram

Now itʼs time for an insight into the priceless Dravidian culture & heritage... For that proceed to the most ideal place near Chennai - ʻMahabalipuramʼ (a centuries-old port city, abode of priceless heritage monuments). On reaching Mahabalipuram; set out for sightseeing... View some splendid specimens of Dravidian architecture & art forms - testimonies of former Pallava Kings, who were great patrons of arts / crafts - such as, ʻPancha Rathasʼ (ʻFive Chariotsʼ - monolithic structures, each carved from one single large piece of stone - named after the five ʻPandavasʼ of the great epic Mahabharata), ʻArjunaʼs Penanceʼ (a massive relief sculpture illustrating an episode from the epic Maha bharata), ʻDescent of the Gangesʼ (another giant open-air bas relief, depicting a famous scene from Hindu mythology), ʻVaraha Cave Templeʼ (a rock-cut-temple with fine carv-

At Kancheepuram, visit its prime shrine, the ʻEkambareswarar Templeʼ - one of the ʻPancha Boothaʼ Lord Shiva temples, each representing a natural element (ʻPancha Boothaʼ - Sky, Earth, Water, Fire and Wind - of these, Ekambareswarar Temple represents the element ʻEarthʼ). Then, visit ʻKailasanathar Templeʼ, another temple with noteworthy architecture and fresco-style paintings on its walls. Here you can see 58 small shrines situated around the main shrine - literally forming a compound wall. Later, visit Kancheepuramʼs world famous trademark - silk weaving units where the finest silk sarees in the country are made. Watch how those marvelous cloths are created, that too, by hand-weaving! You can very well purchase those glittering cloths. At the end of

the dayʼs tour, stay overnight at the hotel in Kancheepuram.

way, first halt at ʻGangai Konda Cholapuramʼ - erstwhile capital of great Chola emperor Rajendra I, who, after the conquest of North Indian Ganges regions, assumed the title Gangai Konda Cholan and named this place after him. Here visit the temple built by Rajendra Chola - an imposing multi storied shrine surrounded by a fort-like wall. Then you will know, like the Pallava kings; Cholas too were great connoisseurs of arts & crafts. Next, en route halt at Kumbakonam, nicknamed as the ʻtemple townʼ, due to presence of many beautiful shrines. After a quick get-around here, proceed to ʻDarasuramʼ, an ancient location nearby. At Darasuram you can find remnants of Airavateswar Shiva. View some exclusive architecture, sculptures & paintings at this Temple. Subject to time and convenience, take an optional halt at ʻSwamimalaiʼ - one of the six most important abodes of Lord Muruga, and also famous for its indigenous bronze sculptures. Here you can visit the sacred Lord Muruga

Temple and watch a local unit where bronze sculptures are made, using centuries-old indigenous methods of bronze casting! Continue with your trip... On reaching Thanjavur, check in to the hotel and settle down. Overnight stay at the hotel in Thanjavur.

Day 5:

Thanjavur

After warming up with breakfast at hotel; set out for a day long sightseeing of Thanjavur the ages-old capital royal of Chola Kings. Start with a masterpiece of Chola-styled architecture - the big temple ʻBrihandeswaraʼ (1000+ years old shrine, built by the esteemed Chola emperor Rajaraja I). Apart from its architectural intricacies and sculptures, what makes Brihandeswara temple unique is the high temple tower that is taller than the sanctum sanctorum - a feature not seen in other typical Tamil / Dravidian temples. Later, visit the nearby water tank ʻShivagangaʼ, a popular hangout place. As time permits, have a quick get-around in other notable sights like, ʻThanjavur Palaceʼ, ʻRoyal Museumʼ & ʻArt Galleryʼ. Afterwards do some shopping - buy unique Thanjavur specials, such as, the Thalayatti Bomai (head-nodding doll). Late evening, return to your hotel at Thanjavur for overnight stay.

Day 6: Thanjavur - Rameshwaram Today check out from your hotel early, depart Thanjavur and drive to the pilgrim town of ʻRameshwaramʼ. En route, halt at ʻPudukkottaiʼ (once a princely state - now a trove of archeological &

cultural remnants with traces from prehistoric to medieval times). After enjoying Pudukkottaiʼs antique charm, drive further to visit the nearby ʻThirumayam Fortʼ (a historically significant fortress). Inside the fortress, you can find beautifully sculptured pillars. Those interested in ancient era shrines can also visit the neighborhoodʼs two timeworn rock cut temples, one dedicated to Lord Shiva and other to Lord Vishnu - two of Hinduismʼs holy trinity. Continue with your trip... on reaching Rameshwaram, check into your hotel. Take time to get

attuned with the new surroundings. Overnight stay at the hotel in Rameshwaram.

Day 7:

Rameshwaram

Get ready early today for Rameshwaram temple visit... The ʻRamanathaswamy Templeʼ is one of the 12 holiest Lord Shiva Jyothirlingam Temples of India, plus, a member of ʻChar Dhamʼ (4 Temples, which according to Hindu legends, has to be visited in oneʼs life time to attain salvation). Here you will be amazed to see the stunningly long temple corridors with

richly carved granite pillars - regarded as the longest temple corridor in the world. Then experience Rameshwaram Temple Wells... bathing in these waters is considers as equivalent to penance. You are welcome to do that also. After the temple visit, proceed to a peculiar spot near Rameshwaram - the ʻGhost Townʼ of ʻDhanushkodiʼ, a place that invokes mixed feelings of curiosity & agony. Located at the southern tip of Rameshwaram, Dhanushkodi was once a thriving town till it was completely wiped out by a cyclone (in 1964). Now this place is virtually unoccupied expect a few fishermen & shoppers. At Dhanushkodi you can find scary remains of its past and also visit the shore where Indian Ocean meets Bay of Bengal. Later return to Rameshwaram and stay overnight.

Day 8:

Rameshwaram - Madurai

Leave from one sacred place to experience another... depart Rameshwaram to Madurai, regarded as the cultural capital of Tamil Nadu as well as one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. During this journey that takes several hours of drive you can get varied glimpses of the Tamil Nadu land - the humbleness of rural life, landscapes with varying shades of green, thriving little towns with typical Dravidian style ... Upon reaching Madurai, check into your hotel and take own time to refresh from the journey. After settling down in the new surroundings, subject to time & convenience, have a brief look-around of the Madurai city. The towering temple-towers of ʻMeenakshi Sundareswar

area of the great Meenakshi Temple! Later visit Maduraiʼs other important landmarks like the ʻThirumalai Nayakar Palaceʼ (a splendid palace of the former Madurai King, who made this city a memorable one), the ʻGandhi Museumʼ (a museum that awakes awareness of the life & times of ʻFather of modern Indiaʼ, Mahatma Gandhi)... get a brief outlook this ageless cityʼs royal legacy. At nightfall, get back to your lodgings at Madurai for overnight stay.

Day 10: Madurai - Trichy

Templeʼ will be your immediate attention grabbers among the cityʼs hustle & bustle. As the temple is too vast itʼs better to dedicate a full day for temple visit. As darkness deepens return to your hotel and stay overnight.

Day 9:

Madurai

Spend the morning at leisure readying for Madurai sightseeing. Begin your city tour with the grand ʻMeenakshi Sundareswar Templeʼ, which ranks among the countryʼs greatest cultural & architectural landmarks. Watch the looming temple towers, each studded with carvings of Gods, Goddesses, mythological figures and even depictions from fairy tales. Explore the sprawling temple complex... Visit the awe inspiring ʻThousand Pillar Hallʼ (in fact 985 now). Then see the ʻmusical pillarsʼ - each one, when struck, produces a different musical note! Then visit the ʻMariamman Teppakulamʼ, a huge water tank located near the Meenakshi Temple. The tank is known as Mariamman Teppakulam due to the presence of Goddess Mariamman Temple there (Teppakulam means water tank in Tamil). At the center of the tank is a Lord Ganesh temple - accessible only by water. The area of the tank and the island pavilion is approximately equal to the

This morning, depart Madurai to ʻTiruchirapalliʼ alias Trichy, a city of significance for Tamils. After reaching Trichy, check in to your hotel and get refreshed. Later proceed for Trichy visit. Start with the most important landmark in the city - the ʻRock Fort Ucchi Pillayar Templeʼ (a combination of two shrines located atop a high rock, 83 meters tall - one shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva and other to his son, Lord Ganesh, known as ʻPillayarʼ in Tamil). In these shrines, which are regarded as one of the oldest in the world, watch the awe inspiring rock architectures bearing ancient traits. Afterwards visit Trichyʼs most elegant Christian monument, the St Johnʼs Church - a colonial styled church that dates back to almost two centuries. Experience the vintage air that engulfs the Church. Also visit the neighboring cemetery... all these will remind you about some fairy tale scenes. As night falls, return to your hotel at Trichy and stay overnight.

Day 11:

temples, each representing a natural element (Sky, Earth, Water, Fire and Wind - of these, Jambukeshwara Temple represents the element ʻWaterʼ). In this large shrine with 7 temple towers and 5 concentric walls, all covered with life-like carvings, you may even virtually go back to past realms. After the turning-clock-back experience at Jambukeshwara, proceed to visit to the largest functioning temple complex in the world - ʻThe Ranganathaswamy Templeʼ. Located at Srirangam near Trichy, this overwhelmingly massive shrine is regarded as one among the holiest Vaishnavite (followers of Lord Vishnu) Temples in India. Watch in awe the fascinating architecture and sculptural beauty of this gigantic shrine. See the ʻOne Thousand Pillar Hallʼ (actually 953 intricately carved stone pillars) in the temple complex. Even though Ranganathaswamy Temple complex is very vast, you wonʼt miss its most striking feature - the ʻRajagopuramʼ - built by the Vijayanagara Emperors, this is the tallest temple tower in Asia! As the daylight fades, get back to your hotel and relax. Overnight stay at Trichy.

Day 12: Departure Time for the climax of your inspirational tour, ʻdeparture dayʼ. Leave your hotel and drive to Trichy Airport / Railway Station - farewell.

Trichy

Begin todayʼs Trichy sightseeing by visiting the legendary ʻSri Jambukeshwara Templeʼ. This is one of the ʻPancha Boothaʼ Lord Shiva

Route Map

CHENNAI, MAHABALIPURAM THANJAVUR, TRICHY MADURAI,OOTY BANDIPUR, BANGALORE

11 Nights / 12 Days Highlights Chennai (The ʻGateway to South Indiaʼ - a metropolis with rich historical background) Mahabalipuram (An ancient port city studded with elegant monuments - a World Heritage Site) Gangaikondacholapuram (Former capital of Chola Empire, now houses heritage monuments) Kumbakonam (ʻTown of Templesʼ - a showcase of Dravidian architectural style) Thanjavur (The ʻGranary of South Indiaʼ - a legendary city and hub of classical arts & music) Trichy (An important city in Tamil Nadu in terms of pilgrimage, education & industry) Madurai (The ʻCultural Capital of Tamil Naduʼ, one of the antique & prestigious cities in India) Ooty (An internationally renowned hill station) Bandipur (Location of an adventurous wildlife sanctuary with large Tiger population) Bangalore (Indiaʼs Garden City & Silicon Valley)

Splendors Of

SOUTH

Day 1: Chennai Begin your ﬁrst day of the Dravidian excursion at the metropolitan city of Chennai - ideal place to get oﬀ to a memorable start. After your arrival and the subsequent welcome, check in to the Hotel and get ready for a full day metro tour. Drive around the metro-city and get to know some of its famous landmarks. Visit the Fort St. George (the British built fortress, which still retains its colonial charm). Watch the big beach at Marina - regarded as worldʼs 2nd longest seashore.

an episode from the epic Mahabharata), ʻDescent of the Gangesʼ (another giant open-air bas relief, depicting a famous scene from Hindu mythology), ʻVaraha Cave Templeʼ (a rock-cuttemple with ﬁne carvings), ʻShore Templeʼ (a very old shrine with entry from the seashore)... to name a few. As the daylight paves way for nightfall, get in to your lodgings... settle down in its soothing environs. Overnight stay at Mahabalipuram.

sculptures, what makes Brihandeswara temple unique is the high temple tower that is taller than the sanctum sanctorum - a feature not seen in other typical Tamil / Dravidian temples. Later, visit the nearby water tank ʻShivagangaʼ, a popular hangout place. As time permits, have a quick get-around in other notable sights like, ʻThanjavur Palaceʼ, ʻRoyal Museumʼ & ʻArt Galleryʼ. Afterwards do some shopping - buy unique Thanjavur specials, such as, the Thalayatti Bomai

Day 3: Mahabalipuram - Thanjavur Today morning, depart Mahabalipuram and drive to the legendary city of Thanjavur... On the way, ﬁrst halt at ʻGangai Konda Cholapuramʼ erstwhile capital of great Chola emperor Rajendra I, who, after the conquest of North Indian Ganges regions, assumed the title Gangai Konda Cholan and named this place after him. Here visit the temple built by Rajendra Chola - an imposing multi storied shrine surrounded by a fort-like (head-nodding doll). Late evening, return to your hotel at Thanjavur for overnight stay.

Day 5: Thanjavur - Trichy A visit to Chennai will not be complete without tracing roots of its time tested lineage. Now, travel to a little outer from the metro area... towards the sacred hill St. Thomas Mount. It was from here that St. Thomas, the apostle of Christ, carried out his missionary activities till he attained martyrdom - around thousands of years back. Observe his deeds through the sculptures and relics at the old European-styled Church on the hilltop. You can ﬁnd how harmoniously the traditional Tamil culture and modern British culture are blended. As night falls, return to your Hotel for overnight stay.

Day 2: Chennai - Mahabalipuram Now itʼs time for an insight into the priceless Dravidian culture & heritage... For that proceed to the most ideal place near Chennai - ʻMahabalipuramʼ (a centuries-old port city, abode of priceless heritage monuments). On reaching Mahabalipuram; set out for sightseeing... View some splendid specimens of Dravidian architecture & art forms - testimonies of former Pallava Kings, who were great patrons of arts / crafts - such as, ʻPancha Rathasʼ (ʻFive Chariotsʼ

After exploring the legendary mythical city of Thanjavur, get to know another signiﬁcant spot in the Dravidian land... travel to Trichy (ʻTiruchirapalliʼ in local). On arrival, check in to your hotel at Trichy and get refreshed. After sometime proceed for Trichy visit... Begin with the most important landmark in the city - the ʻRock Fort Ucchi Pillayar Templeʼ (a combination of two shrines located atop a high rock, 83 meters tall - one shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva and other to his son, Lord Ganesh, known as ʻPillayarʼ in Tamil). In these shrines, which are regarded as one of the wall. Then you will know, like the Pallava kings; Cholas too were great connoisseurs of arts & crafts. Next, en route halt at Kumbakonam, nicknamed as the ʻtemple townʼ, due to presence of many beautiful shrines. After a quick get-around here, proceed to ʻDarasuramʼ, an ancient location nearby. At Darasuram you can ﬁnd remnants of Airavateswar Shiva Temple. View some exclusive architecture, sculptures & paintings at this Temple. Subject to time and convenience, take an optional halt at ʻSwamimalaiʼ - one of the six most important abodes of Lord Muruga, and also famous for its indigenous bronze sculptures. Here you can visit the sacred Lord Muruga Temple and watch a local unit where bronze sculptures are made, using centuries-old indigenous methods of bronze casting! Continue with your trip... On reaching Thanjavur, check in to the hotel and settle down. Overnight stay at the hotel in Thanjavur.

oldest in the world, you can view some elegant rock architectures with ancient traits. Afterwards visit Trichyʼs most elegant Christian monument, the St Johnʼs Church - a colonial styled church that dates back to almost two centuries. Experience the vintage air that engulfs the Church. Also visit the neighboring cemetery... all these will remind you about some fairy tale scenes. As night falls, return to your hotel at Trichy and stay overnight.

Day 4: Thanjavur

- monolithic structures, each carved from one single large piece of stone - named after the ﬁve ʻPandavasʼ of the great epic Mahabharata), ʻArjunaʼs Penanceʼ (a massive relief sculpture illustrating

After warming up with breakfast at hotel; set out for a day long sightseeing of Thanjavur - the ages-old capital royal of Chola Kings. Start with a masterpiece of Chola-styled architecture - the big temple ʻBrihandeswaraʼ (1000+ years old shrine, built by the esteemed Chola emperor Rajaraja I). Apart from its architectural intricacies and

Afterwards leave Trichy for another signiﬁcant Temple city - Madurai, one of the oldest & continuously inhabited cities in the world. After reaching Madurai, check into your hotel and wash oﬀ your journey marks. If time permits take a quick look-around the surrounding city area. Overnight stay at Madurai.

Day 7: Madurai

Watch the looming temple towers, each studded with carvings of Gods, Goddesses, mythological ﬁgures and even depictions from fairy tales. Explore the sprawling temple complex... Visit the awe inspiring ʻThousand Pillar Hallʼ (in fact 985 now). Then see the ʻmusical pillarsʼ each one, when struck, produces a diﬀerent musical note! Then visit the ʻMariamman Teppakulamʼ, a huge

Spend the morning at leisure, readying for Madurai sightseeing... Start with visiting one of Indiaʼs greatest cultural & architectural landmarks - the ʻMeenakshi Sundareswar Templeʼ

Vishnu) Temples in India. Watch in awe the fascinating architecture and sculptural beauty of this gigantic shrine. See the ʻOne Thousand Pillar Hallʼ (actually 953 intricately carved stone pillars) in the temple complex. Although Ranganatha

swamy Temple complex is very vast, you wonʼt miss its most striking feature - the ʻRajagopuramʼ - built by the Vijayanagara Emperors this is the tallest temple tower in Asia!

(dedicated to Meenakshi - Goddess Parvathy).

water tank located near the Meenakshi Temple. The tank is known as ʻMariamman Teppakulam due to the presence of Goddess Mariamman Temple there (Teppakulam means water tank in Tamil). At the center of the tank is a Lord Ganesh temple - accessible only by water. The area of the tank and the island pavilion is approximately equal to the area of the great Meenakshi Temple! Later visit Maduraiʼs other important landmarks like, the ʻThirumalai Nayakar Palaceʼ (a splendid palace of the former Madurai King, who made this city a memorable one). Get a brief outlook this ageless cityʼs royal legacy. At nightfall, get back to your lodgings at Madurai for overnight stay.

Day 8: Madurai - Ooty Today, after recharging with breakfast, proceed to the ʻQueen of Hill Stations in Southʼ - Ooty. An exciting ride with heartwarming views of plantations, streams and waterfalls brings you to the

Day 10: Ooty - Bandipur After uplifting your adventurous self in the Queen of Hill Stations, give it a further boost with some wildlife excitements... Leave Ooty and travel to ʻBandipur National Parkʼ, a reserve forest area famous for its Bengal Tiger and Elephant

hill station queen. Upon reaching, check in to the Hotel at Ooty and take own time to settle in the coolish environs. As time permits, just roam around in the town area and do some shopping - as at times you cannot restrict buying some cute things typically unique to this place. Overnight stay at cozy comforts of the Ooty Hotel.

Templeʼ... At nightfall, get in to your Hotel at Bangalore for overnight stay. population plus Sandalwood trees. At Bandipur engage yourself with jungle activities as per

Day 12: Departure Your wonderful tour concludes today. Check out from your hotel and proceed for departure. If time permits, you can do a quick shopping at

Day 9: Ooty A full day especially for Ooty sightseeing... Set out to experience the hill stationʼs prized attractions like, the Ooty Lake (where you can

personal choice: soft trekking with glimpses of wildlife, elephant ride (optional), etc. Overnight stay at Bandipur.

Day 11: Bandipur - Bangalore

avail boating options or horse riding along the banks), Botanical Gardens (where you can ﬁnd

Add a little urban touch to your tourʼs climax. Depart from Bandipur this morning and proceed to ʻBangaloreʼ - Karnatakaʼs state capital nicknamed as the garden city. After a few hours of drive with contrasting & enjoyable sceneries you will arrive at the city. Spend the rest of the time in Bangalore sightseeing... visit prime spots of attraction like, the imposing ʻVidhana Soudhaʼ buildings, the lush ʻLal Bagh gardensʼ, the holy & serene ʻISKCON

the famous Brigade Road, one of the cityʼs main shopping hubs. Then to the Airport / Railway station at Bangalore - a ﬁtting farewell.

Route Map 31

CHENNAI, MAHABALIPURAM THANJAVUR, TRICHY MADURAI,THENI KODAIKKANAL, THEKKADY ALAPPUZHA, MARARI

12 Nights / 13 Days Highlights Chennai (The ʻGateway to South Indiaʼ - a metropolis with rich historical background) Mahabalipuram (An ancient port city studded with elegant monuments - a World Heritage Site) Gangaikondacholapuram (Former capital of Chola Empire, now houses heritage monuments) Kumbakonam (ʻTown of Templesʼ - a showcase of Dravidian architectural style) Thanjavur (The ʻGranary of South Indiaʼ - a legendary city and hub of classical arts & music) Trichy (An important city in Tamil Nadu in terms of pilgrimage, education & industry) Madurai (The ʻCultural Capital of Tamil Naduʼ, one of the antique & prestigious cities in India) Theni (A lovely landscape nestled in greenish mountains) Kodaikkanal

(A world class hill

station in India) Thekkady

(Location of Periyar

Wildlife Sanctuary - an adventurerʼs spot) Alappuzha (ʻThe Venice of the Eastʼ - Keralaʼs backwater tourism hub) Marari (A calm ideal beach desti nation)

A FLASHBACK TO

DRAVIDIAN

CULTURE

Day 1: Chennai Arrival at Chennai, the bustling metropolis in Southern India... After experiencing a heartening welcome, check in to the Hotel and get ready for a full day metro tour. Drive around the metro-city and get to know some of its famous landmarks. Visit the Fort St. George (the British built fortress, which still retains its colonial charm). Watch the big beach at Marina, regarded as worldʼs 2nd longest seashore. Later on travel to a little outer from the metro area.. towards the sacred hill St. Thomas Mount. It

episode from the epic Mahabharata), ʻDescent of the Gangesʼ (another giant open-air bas relief, depicting a famous scene from Hindu mythology), ʻVaraha Cave Templeʼ (a rock-cut-temple

its indigenous bronze sculptures. Here you can visit the sacred Lord Muruga Temple and watch a local unit where bronze sculptures are made using centuries-old method of bronze casting (right from the Chola era). Continue with your trip... On reaching Thanjavur, check in to the hotel and settle down. Overnight stay at the hotel in Thanjavur.

Day 4: Thanjavur After warming up with breakfast at hotel; set out for a day long sightseeing of Thanjavur - the ages-old capital royal of Chola Kings. Start with a masterpiece of Chola-styled architecture - the big temple ʻBrihandeswaraʼ (1000+ years old with ﬁne carvings), ʻShore Templeʼ (a very old shrine with entry from the seashore)... As the daylight paves way for nightfall, get in to your lodgings... settle down in its soothing environs. Overnight stay at Mahabalipuram.

Day 3: Mahabalipuram - Thanjavur was from here that St. Thomas, the apostle of Christ, carried out his missionary activities till he attained ʻmartyrdomʼ in 72 AD. Observe his deeds through the sculptures and relics at the old European-styled Church on the hilltop. You can ﬁnd how harmoniously the traditional Tamil culture and modern British culture are blended. As night falls, return to your Hotel for overnight stay.

Today morning depart Mahabalipuram and drive to the legendary city of Thanjavur... On the way, ﬁrst halt at ʻGangai Konda Cholapuramʼ - erstwhile capital of great Chola emperor Rajendra I, who, after the conquest of North Indian Ganges

Day 2: Chennai - Mahabalipuram Now itʼs time for an insight into the priceless Dravidian culture & heritage... For that proceed to the most ideal place near Chennai - ʻMahabalipuramʼ (a centuries-old port city, abode of priceless heritage monuments). On reaching Mahabalipuram; set out for sightseeing.... View some splendid specimens of Dravidian architecture & art forms - testimonies of former Pallava Kings, who were great patrons of arts / crafts such as, ʻPancha Rathasʼ (ʻFive Chariotsʼ - mono-

lithic structures, each carved from one single large piece of stone - named after the ﬁve ʻPandavasʼ of the great epic Mahabharata), ʻArjunaʼs Penanceʼ (a massive relief sculpture illustrating an

shrine, built by the esteemed Chola emperor Rajaraja I). Apart from its architectural intricacies and sculptures, what makes Brihandeswara temple unique is the high temple tower that is taller than the sanctum sanctorum - a feature not seen in other typical Tamil / Dravidian temples. Later, visit the nearby water tank ʻShivagangaʼ, a popular hangout place. As time permits, have a quick get-around in other notable sights like, ʻThanjavur Palaceʼ, ʻRoyal Museumʼ & ʻArt Galleryʼ. Afterwards do some shopping - buy unique Thanjavur specials, such as, the Thalayatti Bomai (head-nodding doll). Late evening, return to your hotel at Thanjavur for overnight stay.

regions, assumed the title Gangai Konda Cholan and named this place after him. Here visit the temple built by Rajendra Chola - an imposing multi storied shrine surrounded by a fort-like wall. Then you will know, like the Pallava kings; Cholas too were great connoisseurs of arts & crafts. Next, en route halt at Kumbakonam, nicknamed as the ʻtemple townʼ, due to presence of many beautiful shrines. After a quick get-around here, proceed to ʻDarasuramʼ, an ancient location nearby. At Darasuram you can ﬁnd remnants of Airavateswar Shiva Temple. View some exclusive architecture, sculptures & paintings at this Temple. Subject to time and convenience, take an optional halt at ʻSwamimalaiʼ - one of the six most important abodes of Lord Muruga, and also famous for

Day 5: Thanjavur - Trichy

the awe inspiring ʻThousand Pillar Hallʼ (in fact 985 now). Then see the ʻmusical pillarsʼ - each

Now itʼs adieu to Thanjavur... Drive to Trichy (ʻTiruchirapalliʼ in local), an important city in Tamil Nadu. On arrival, check in to your hotel at Trichy and get refreshed. After sometime, proceed for Trichy sightseeing. Begin with the most important landmark in the city - the ʻRock Fort Ucchi Pillayar Templeʼ (a combination of two shrines

located atop a high rock, 83 meters tall - one shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva and other to his son, Lord Ganesh, known as ʻPillayarʼ in Tamil). In these shrines, which are regarded as one of the oldest in the world, watch the awe inspiring rock architectures bearing ancient traits. Afterwards visit Trichyʼs most elegant Christian monument, the St Johnʼs Church - a colonial styled church that dates back to almost two centuries. Experience the vintage air that engulfs the Church.

- the ʻRajagopuramʼ - built by the Vijayanagara Emperors which is the tallest temple tower in Asia. Afterwards leave Trichy for another signiﬁcant Temple city - Madurai, one of the oldest & continuously inhabited cities in the world. After reaching Madurai, check into your hotel and wash oﬀ your journey marks. If time permits take a quick look-around the surrounding city area. Overnight stay at Madurai.

one, when struck, produces a diﬀerent musical note. Then visit the ʻMariamman Teppakulamʼ, a huge water tank located near the Meenakshi Temple. The tank is known as ʻMariamman Teppakulam due to the presence of Goddess Mariamman Temple there (Teppakulam means water tank in Tamil). At the center of the tank is a Lord Ganesh temple - accessible only by

Day 7: Madurai Spend the morning at leisure, readying for Madurai sightseeing... Start with visiting one of Indiaʼs greatest cultural & architectural landmarks - the ʻMeenakshi Sundareswar Templeʼ (dedicated to Meenakshi - Goddess Parvathy). Watch the looming temple towers, each studded with carvings of Gods, Goddesses, mythological ﬁgures and even depictions from fairy tales. Explore the sprawling temple complex... Visit

Also visit the neighboring cemetery... all these will remind you about some fairy tale scenes. As night falls, return to your hotel at Trichy and stay overnight.

Day 6: Trichy - Madurai Begin todayʼs sightseeing on a high note with a visit to the largest functioning temple complex in the world - ʻThe Ranganathaswamy Templeʼ. Located at Srirangam near Trichy, this overwhelmingly massive shrine is regarded as one among the holiest Vaishnavite (followers of Lord Vishnu) Temples in India. Watch in awe the fascinating architecture and sculptural beauty of this gigantic shrine. See the ʻOne Thousand Pillar Hallʼ (actually 953 intricately carved stone pillars) in the temple complex. Although Ranganathaswamy Temple complex is very vast, you wonʼt miss its most striking feature

water. The area of the tank and the island pavilion is approximately equal to the area of the great Meenakshi Temple. Later visit Maduraiʼs other important landmarks like, the ʻThirumalai Nayakar Palaceʼ (a splendid palace of the former Madurai King, who made this city a memorable one). Get a brief outlook this ageless cityʼs royal legacy. At nightfall, get back to your lodgings at Madurai for overnight stay.

ducks enjoying the waters, village folks engaged in their age-old routines... grasp the spirit of rural Kerala that still thrives unaltered in these regions. Spice up your cruise with delicious Kerala cuisines along the way. Overnight stay in the houseboat comforts.

Day 8: Madurai - Theni Now experience the rustic beauty of Tamil Naduʼs countryside. Travel to ʻTheniʼ, a district enclosed in majestic Western Ghat mountain range. Enjoy the ride through Theni, immersing within the green stretches of cultivated lands

Day 10: Kodaikkanal - Thekkady

Day 12: Alappuzha - Marari

From one royal high range to another... Depart Kodaikkanal to experience a prime tourist location in Kerala - Thekkady, abode of Periyar Wild

After relishing the charm of backwaters, now itʼs time to feel the thrill of Keralaʼs seashore. In the morning, check out from the houseboat and drive to ʻMarariʼ - a calm & pleasant beach location in the neighborhood of Alappuzha. Spend

and tea gardens... Visit the panoramic ʻVaigai Damʼ site. You will understand Tamil Nadu is a trove of cultural legacy as well as abundant natural beauty. After the day-long enjoyment, stay overnight at the lodgings in Theni.

Day 9: Theni - Kodaikkanal This day brings you another scintillating experience - a trip to the ʻhill station royalʼ Kodaikkanal, which rivals any major hill stations across India in terms of attractive locations. After reaching Kodaikkanal, start your sightseeing with the prime

Life Sanctuary. After arriving at the destination, soon set out to visit that wild hub. Enriched with variety ﬂora & fauna, Periyar Sanctuary attracts a large number of nature lovers every year as it is ideal for watching animals in their natural habitat. Here you can either opt for a boating in the beautiful lake, or engage in other exciting activities like soft trekking, spice plantation visit, shopping spice items... Overnight stay at the hotel in Thekkady.

this day all along at the gentle beach... get immersed in the thrills of sunbathing / swimming.

Day 11: Thekkady - Alappuzha Now itʼs time to experience the typical Kerala

After the dayʼs beach relaxation, stay overnight beauty spots like, the ʻKodai Lakeʼ where you can go for boating and take a walk along its well laid out banks, enjoying the picturesque surroundings. Then visit the haunting beauty ʻDevilʼs Kitchenʼ - now better known as ʻGuna Cavesʼ (popularized by the Kamal starrer Tamil Movie ʻGunaʼ). This peculiar location, with its bat-infested chambers between three giant boulders, offers a challenging as well as fearsome exposure. Afterwards, the enthusiasts can take a trekking to explore the crude charm of Kodaikkanal. Enjoy the breathtaking views of endless Tea gardens and Pine Tree valleys. Depending on time

you can opt for some shopping too. At dusk, get back to your Hotel / Resort at Kodaikkanal and stay overnight.

at the hotel / resort in Marari.

Day 13: Departure

specialty - the backwater cruise. Proceed to Alappuzha from Thekkady. With plenty of waterways, canals & backwater lagoons, Alappuzha is rightfully dubbed in the world tourism map as ʻthe Venice of the Eastʼ - also the hub of Keralaʼs backwater tourism. By afternoon check in to a houseboat at Alappuzha. As the overnight cruise begins, settle down in this ﬂoating luxury and get immersed in the

Farewell day to the Godʼs own country... This morning check out from the hotel/resort in Marari and drive to Kochi - from where your departure is arranged. If time allows, make a quicktime-shopping at Kochi. Then proceed to the Airport / Railway Station and depart - happy & contented.

gentle rhymes of backwaters. Watch the green paddies dotted with coconut trees, groups of

Route Map 35

CHENNAI, MAHABALIPURAM THANJAVUR, TRICHY MADURAI, THENI KODAIKKANAL, THEKKADY KUMARAKOM, KOVALAM

(A world class hill

station in India) Thekkady

(Location of Periyar

Wildlife Sanctuary - an adventurerʼs spot) Kumarakom (A major centre for Kerala backwater tourism) Kovalam (An internationally reputed Beach haven)

IntoThe Land of

Dravidians

Day 1: Chennai The curtain raiser of your soul searching South India expedition is at Chennai - the place of your arrival. After experiencing warm greetings at the South Indian metropolis, check in to your Hotel and get ready for a full day metro tour. Drive around the metro-city and get to know some of its famous landmarks. Visit the Fort St. George (the British built fortress, which still retains its colonial charm). Watch the amazingly long beach at Marina - regarded as worldʼs 2nd longest seashore.

Now an experience of a diﬀerent kind... Drive to a little outer from the metro area, towards the sacred hill St. Thomas Mount. It was from here that St. Thomas, the apostle of Christ, carried out his missionary activities till he attained ʻmartyrdomʼ in 72 AD. Observe his deeds through the sculptures and relics at the old European-styled Church on the hilltop. You can ﬁnd how harmoniously the traditional Tamil culture and modern British culture are blended. As night falls, return to your Hotel for overnight stay.

Pallava Kings, who were great patrons of arts / crafts - such as, ʻPancha Rathasʼ (ʻFive Chariotsʼ - monolithic structures, each carved from one single large piece of stone - named after the

ﬁve ʻPandavasʼ of the great epic Mahabharata), ʻArjunaʼs Penanceʼ (a massive relief sculpture illustrating an episode from the epic Mahabharata), ʻDescent of the Gangesʼ (another giant open-air bas relief, depicting a famous scene from Hindu mythology), ʻVaraha Cave Templeʼ (a rock-cuttemple with ﬁne carvings), ʻShore Templeʼ (a very old shrine with entry from the seashore). As the daylight paves way for nightfall, get in to your lodgings... settle down in its soothing environs. Overnight stay at Mahabalipuram.

Day 3: Mahabalipuram -Thanjavur Now depart Mahabalipuram and drive to the legendary city of Thanjavur... On the way, ﬁrst halt at ʻGangai Konda Cholapuramʼ - erstwhile capital of great Chola emperor Rajendra I, who, after the conquest of North Indian Ganges regions, assumed the title Gangai Konda Cholan and named this place after him. Here visit the temple built by Rajendra Chola - an imposing multi storied shrine surrounded by a fort-like wall. Then you will know, like the Pallava kings;

ages-old capital royal of Chola Kings. Start with a masterpiece of Chola-styled architecture - the big temple ʻBrihandeswaraʼ (1000+ years old shrine, built by the esteemed Chola emperor Rajaraja I). Apart from its architectural intricacies and sculptures, what makes Brihandeswara temple unique is the high temple tower that is taller than the sanctum sanctorum - a feature not seen in other typical Tamil / Dravidian temples. Later, visit the nearby water tank ʻShivagangaʼ, a popular hangout place. As time permits, have a quick get-around in other notable sights like, ʻThanjavur Palaceʼ, ʻRoyal Museumʼ & ʻArt Galleryʼ. Afterwards do some shopping - buy unique Thanjavur specials, such as, the Thalayatti Bomai (head-nodding doll). Late evening, return to your hotel at Thanjavur for overnight stay.

Day 5: Thanjavur - Trichy

Cholas too were great connoisseurs of arts & crafts. Next, en route halt at Kumbakonam, nicknamed as the ʻtemple townʼ, due to presence of many beautiful shrines. After a quick get-around here, proceed to ʻDarasuramʼ, an ancient location nearby. At Darasuram you can ﬁnd remnants of Airavateswar Shiva Temple. View some exclusive architecture, sculptures & paintings at this Temple. Subject to time and convenience, take an optional halt at ʻSwamimalaiʼ - one of the six most important abodes of Lord Muruga, and also famous for its indigenous bronze sculptures. Here you can visit the sacred Lord Muruga Temple and watch a local unit where bronze sculptures are made, using centuries-old indigenous method of bronze casting (right from the Chola era). Continue with your trip... On reaching Thanjavur, check in to the hotel and settle down. Overnight stay at the hotel in Thanjavur.

This morning depart from Thanjavur to Trichy alias ʻTiruchirapalliʼ, another important city in Tamil Nadu. After a few hoursʼ drive, check in to your hotel at Trichy and get refreshed. Soon proceed for Trichy temple visit. Begin with the most

important landmark in the city - the ʻRock Fort Ucchi Pillayar Templeʼ (a combination of two shrines located atop a high rock, 83 meters tall one shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva and other to his son, Lord Ganesh, known as ʻPillayarʼ in Tamil). In these shrines, which are regarded as one of the oldest in the world, watch the awe inspiring rock architectures bearing ancient traits.

Day 4: Thanjavur After warming up with breakfast at hotel; set out for a day long sightseeing of Thanjavur - the

Afterwards visit Trichyʼs most elegant Christian monument, the St Johnʼs Church - a colonial styled church that dates back to almost two centuries. Experience the vintage air that engulfs the Church. Also visit the neighboring cemetery... all these will remind you about some fairy tale scenes. As night falls, return to your hotel at Trichy and stay overnight.

Day 6: Trichy - Madurai

Day 7: Madurai

Begin todayʼs sightseeing on a high note with a visit to the largest functioning temple complex in the world - ʻThe Ranganathaswamy Templeʼ. Located at Srirangam near Trichy, this overwhelmingly massive shrine is regarded as one among the holiest Vaishnavite (followers of Lord Vishnu) Temples in India. Watch in awe the fascinating architecture and sculptural beauty of this gigantic shrine. See the ʻOne Thousand Pillar Hallʼ (actually 953 intricately carved stone pillars)

Spend the morning at leisure, readying for Madurai sightseeing... Start with visiting one of Indiaʼs greatest cultural & architectural landmarks - the ʻMeenakshi Sundareswar Templeʼ (dedicated to Meenakshi - Goddess Parvathy). Watch the looming temple towers, each studded with carvings of Gods, Goddesses, mythological ﬁgures and even depictions from fairy tales. Explore the sprawling temple complex...

like, the ʻThirumalai Nayakar Palaceʼ (a splendid palace of the former Madurai King, who made this city a memorable one). Get a brief outlook this ageless cityʼs royal legacy. At nightfall, get back to your lodgings at Madurai for overnight stay.

in the temple complex. Although Ranganatha swamy Temple complex is very vast, you wonʼt miss its most striking feature - the ʻRajagopuramʼ - built by the Vijayanagara Emperors this is the tallest temple tower in Asia! Afterwards leave Trichy for another signiﬁcant Temple city - Madurai, one of the oldest & continuously inhabited cities in the world. After reaching Madurai, check into your hotel and wash oﬀ your journey marks. If time permits take a quick look-around the surrounding city area. Overnight stay at Madurai.

Visit the awe inspiring ʻThousand Pillar Hallʼ (in fact 985 now). Then see the ʻmusical pillarsʼ each one, when struck, produces a diﬀerent musical note! Then visit the ʻMariamman Teppakulamʼ, a huge water tank located near the Meenakshi Temple. The tank is known as Mariamman Teppakulam due to the presence of Goddess Mariamman Temple there (Teppakulam means water tank in Tamil). At the center of the tank is a Lord Ganesh temple - accessible only by water. The area of the tank and the island pavilion is approximately equal to the area of the great Meenakshi Temple! Later visit Maduraiʼs other important landmarks

within the green stretches of cultivated lands and tea gardens... Visit the panoramic ʻVaigai Damʼ site. You will understand Tamil Nadu is a trove of cultural legacy as well as abundant natural beauty. After the day-long enjoyment, stay overnight at the lodgings in Theni.

it is ideal for watching animals in their natural habitat. Here you can either opt for a boating in the beautiful lake, or engage in other exciting activities like soft trekking, spice plantation

Day 12: Kumarakom - Kovalam After the backwater glories, now itʼs the turn of Keralaʼs splendid seashores. Today proceed to one of the ﬁnest beach havens in the world Kovalam.

Check in to your hotel / resort at Kovalam, on arrival and get ready for a beach day. Kovalam is visit, shopping spice items... Overnight stay at the hotel in Thekkady.

Day 11: Thekkady - Kumarakom you can go for boating and take a walk along its well laid out banks, enjoying the picturesque surroundings. Then visit the haunting beauty ʻDevilʼs Kitchenʼ now better known as ʻGuna Cavesʼ (popularized

From the adventurous mountains to the gushing backwaters... Depart from Thekkady this morning and drive to Kumarakom, a major backwater hub in the Godʼs own county. By afternoon check in to a traditional Kerala Houseboat to start oﬀ your backwater cruise. blessed with three lovely crescent-shaped seashores, namely ʻSamudra Beachʼ (which is the main beach), ʻHowah Beachʼ and ʻLighthouse Beachʼ. Spent the entire day engaged in various beach activities - sunbathing, swimming, enjoying the big splashes in the rejuvenating sea breeze... After a satisfying beach stint, return to your hotel / resort for overnight stay.

by the Kamal starrer Tamil Movie ʻGunaʼ). This peculiar location, with its bat-infested chambers between three giant boulders, oﬀers a challenging as well as fearsome exposure. Afterwards, the enthusiasts can take a trekking to explore the crude charm of Kodaikkanal. Enjoy the breathtaking views of endless Tea gardens and Pine Tree valleys. Depending on time you can opt for some shopping too. At dusk, get back to your Hotel / Resort at Kodaikkanal and stay overnight.

As the gentle journey begins, slowly settle down in the floating luxury... watch the picturesque combination of paddy fields and coconut groves that adorn the backwater banks. At most of the places you can view the unaltered rural life of Kerala villages, where farming, irrigation and fishing are still main sources of living. En route enjoy the panoramic views of ʻThanneermukkom Bundʼ (artificial saltwater barrier) and

Day 13: Departure After morning breakfast check out from your hotel / resort at Kovalam for departure. Proceed to Trivandrum, Keralaʼs capital city, your farewell spot. Subject to time, do a quick get-around & shopping at Trivandrum before leaving to Trivandrum Airport / Railway Station - Farewell.

Day 10: Kodaikkanal - Thekkady After ﬁnding out what makes Kodaikkanal a truly world class hill station, now travel to another natural beauty spot in Kerala - Thekkady (abode of Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, a major wildlife reserve in India). After arriving at the destination,

ʻPathiramanal Islandʼ (an uninhibited isle with plentiful migratory birds). Delight yourself with delicious Kerala cuisines. Overnight stay in the houseboat surrounded by the gentle waters.

soon set out to visit that wild hub. Enriched with variety ﬂora & fauna, Periyar Sanctuary attracts a large number of nature lovers every year as

Route Map

CHENNAI, MAHABALIPURAM THANJAVUR, TRICHY MADURAI,THENI KODAIKKANAL, THEKKADY ALAPPUZHA, KOLLAM KOVALAM

13 Nights / 14 Days Highlights Chennai (The ʻGateway to South Indiaʼ - a metropolis with rich historical background) Mahabalipuram (An ancient port city studded with elegant monuments - a World Heritage Site) Gangaikondacholapuram (Former capital of Chola Empire, now houses heritage monuments) Kumbakonam (ʻTown of Templesʼ - a showcase of Dravidian architectural style) Thanjavur (The ʻGranary of South Indiaʼ - a legendary city and hub of classical arts & music) Trichy (An important city in Tamil Nadu in terms of pilgrimage, education & industry) Madurai (The ʻCultural Capital of Tamil Naduʼ, one of the antique & prestigious cities in India) Theni (A lovely landscape nestled in greenish mountains) Kodaikkanal

(A world class hill

station in India) Thekkady

(Location of Periyar

Wildlife Sanctuary - an adventurerʼs spot) Alappuzha (ʻThe Venice of the Eastʼ - Keralaʼs backwater tourism hub) Kollam (Land of lovely backwaters & beaches, also well known for its cashew industry) Kovalam (An internationally reputed Beach haven)

Endless

Fantasies

Day 1: Chennai Your tour gets oﬀ to a heady start at Chennai, Indiaʼs leading metro city & Tamil Naduʼs state capital. After your arrival and a hearty welcome, check in to the Hotel at Chennai. Get ready for a full day metro tour... Drive around the metro-city and get to know some of its famous landmarks. Visit the Fort St. George (the British built fortress, which still retains its colonial charm). Watch the long beach at Marina - regarded as worldʼs 2nd longest seashore. Time to experience some mystics and legacy... Travel to a little outer from the metro area, towards the sacred hill St. Thomas Mount. It was from here that St. Thomas, the apostle of Christ, carried out his missionary activities till he attained ʻmartyrdomʼ in 72 AD. Observe his deeds through the sculptures and relics at the old European-styled Church on the hilltop. You can ﬁnd how harmoniously the traditional Tamil culture and modern British culture are blended. As night falls, return to your Hotel for overnight stay.

to your lodgings... settle down in its comforts. Overnight stay at Mahabalipuram.

Day 3: Mahabalipuram -Thanjavur After breakfast, depart Mahabalipuram and drive to the legendary city of Thanjavur... On the way, ﬁrst halt at ʻGangai Konda Cholapuramʼ - erstwhile capital of great Chola emperor Rajendra I, who, after the conquest of North Indian Ganges regions, assumed the title Gangai Konda Cholan

Day 2: Chennai - Mahabalipuram Today, depart from the state capital and drive to ʻMahabalipuramʼ - an ancient port city and an ideal hub for understanding the priceless Dravidian culture & heritage. On reaching Mahabalipuram; set out for sightseeing... View some splendid specimens of Dravidian architecture & art forms - testimonies of former Pallava Kings,

and named this place after him. Here visit the temple built by Rajendra Chola - an imposing multi storied shrine surrounded by a fort-like wall. Then you will know, like the Pallava kings; Cholas too were great connoisseurs of arts & crafts. Next, en route halt at Kumbakonam, nicknamed as the ʻtemple townʼ, due to presence of many beautiful shrines. After a quick get-around here, proceed to ʻDarasuramʼ, an ancient location nearby. At Darasuram you can ﬁnd remnants of Airavateswar Shiva Temple. View some exclusive architecture, sculptures & paintings at this Temple.

Day 4: Thanjavur After morning warm up, set out for a day long sightseeing of Thanjavur, the ages-old capital royal of Chola Kings. Start with a masterpiece of Chola-styled architecture - the big temple ʻBrihandeswaraʼ (1000+ years old shrine, built by

the esteemed Chola emperor Rajaraja I). Apart from its architectural intricacies and sculptures, what makes Brihandeswara temple unique is the high temple tower that is taller than the sanctum sanctorum - a feature not seen in other typical Tamil / Dravidian temples. Later, visit the nearby water tank ʻShivagangaʼ, a popular hangout place. As time permits, have a quick get-around in other notable sights like, ʻThanjavur Palaceʼ, ʻRoyal Museumʼ & ʻArt Galleryʼ. Afterwards do some shopping - buy unique Thanjavur specials, such as, the Thalayatti Bomai (head-nodding doll). Late evening, return to your hotel at Thanjavur for overnight stay.

Day 5: Thanjavur - Trichy Today take a drive to Trichy (ʻTiruchirapalliʼ in local), another major city in land of Dravidians. After a few hoursʼ ride check in to your hotel at Trichy and get refreshed. Soon proceed for Trichy temple visit. Begin with the most important landmark in the city - the ʻRock Fort Ucchi Pillayar Templeʼ (a combination of two shrines

who were great patrons of arts / crafts - such as, ʻPancha Rathasʼ (ʻFive Chariotsʼ - monolithic structures, each carved from one single large piece of stone - named after the ﬁve ʻPandavasʼ of the great epic Mahabharata), ʻArjunaʼs Penanceʼ (a massive relief sculpture illustrating an episode from the epic Mahabharata), ʻDescent of the Gangesʼ (another giant open-air bas relief, depicting a famous scene from Hindu mythology), and the ʻVaraha Cave Templeʼ (a rock-cut-

temple with ﬁne carvings), ʻShore Templeʼ (a very old shrine with entry from the seashore). As the daylight paves way for nightfall, get in

Subject to time and convenience, take an optional halt at ʻSwamimalaiʼ - one of the six most important abodes of Lord Muruga, and also famous for its indigenous bronze sculptures. Here you can visit the sacred Lord Muruga Temple and watch a local unit where bronze sculptures are made, using centuries-old method of bronze casting (right from the Chola era). Continue with your trip... On reaching Thanjavur, check in to the hotel and settle down. Overnight stay at the hotel in Thanjavur.

Day 6: Trichy - Madurai

Day 8: Madurai - Theni

Begin this dayʼs sightseeing on a high note with a visit to the largest functioning temple complex in the world - ʻThe Ranganathaswamy Templeʼ. Located at Srirangam near Trichy, this overwhelmingly massive shrine is regarded as one among the holiest Vaishnavite (followers of Lord Vishnu) Temples in India. Watch in awe the fascinating architecture and sculptural beauty of this gigantic shrine. See the ʻOne Thousand Pillar Hallʼ (actually 953 intricately carved stone pillars) in the temple complex. Although Ranganathaswamy Temple complex is very vast, you wonʼt miss its most striking feature - the ʻRajagopuramʼ - built by the Vijayanagara Emperors this is the tallest temple tower in Asia! Afterwards leave Trichy for another signiﬁcant Temple city - Madurai, one of the oldest & continuously inhabited cities in the world. After reaching Madurai, check into your hotel and wash oﬀ your journey marks. If time permits take a quick look-around the surrounding city area. Overnight stay at Madurai.

Now experience the rustic beauty of Tamil Naduʼs countryside. Travel to ʻTheniʼ, a district enclosed in majestic Western Ghat mountain range. Enjoy the ride through Theni, immersing within the green stretches of cultivated lands and tea gardens... Visit the panoramic ʻVaigai Damʼ site. You will understand Tamil Nadu is a trove of cultural legacy as well as Watch the looming temple towers, each studded with carvings of Gods, Goddesses, mythological ﬁgures and even depictions from fairy tales. Explore the sprawling temple complex... Visit the awe inspiring ʻThousand Pillar Hallʼ (in fact 985 now). Then see the ʻmusical pillarsʼ each one, when struck, produces a diﬀerent musical note! Then visit the ʻMariamman Teppakulamʼ, a huge water tank located near the Meenakshi Temple. The tank is known as ʻMariamman Teppakulamʼ due to the presence of Goddess Mariamman Temple there (Teppakulam means water tank in Tamil). At the center of the tank is a Lord Ganesh abundant natural beauty. After the day-long enjoyment, stay overnight at the lodgings in Theni.

Day 9: Theni - Kodaikkanal This day brings you another scintillating experience - a trip to the ʻhill station royalʼ Kodaikkanal, which rivals any major hill stations

temple - accessible only by water. The area of the tank and the island pavilion is approximately equal to the area of the great Meenakshi Temple! Later visit Maduraiʼs other important landmarks like, the ʻThirumalai Nayakar Palaceʼ (a splendid palace of the former Madurai King, who made this city a memorable one). Get a brief outlook this ageless cityʼs royal legacy. At nightfall, get back to your lodgings at Madurai for overnight stay.

across India in terms of attractive locations. After reaching Kodaikkanal, start your sightseeing

with the prime beauty spots like, the Kodai Lake where you can go for boating and take a walk along its well laid out banks, enjoying the picturesque surroundings. Then visit the haunting beauty ʻDevilʼs Kitchenʼ - now better known as ʻGuna Cavesʼ (popularized by the Kamal starrer Tamil Movie ʻGunaʼ). This peculiar location, with its bat-infested chambers between three giant boulders, offers a challenging as well as fearsome exposure. Afterwards, the enthusiasts can take a trekking to explore the crude charm of Kodaikkanal. Enjoy the breathtaking views of endless Tea

Day 11: Thekkady - Alappuzha

Day 13: Kollam - Kovalam

After the backwater glories, now itʼs the turn of Keralaʼs splendid seashores. Today proceed to one of the finest beach havens in the world - Kovalam. Check in to your hotel / resort at Kovalam on arrival and get ready for a beach day. Kovalam

as ʻthe Venice of the Eastʼ - also the hub of Keralaʼs backwater tourism. By afternoon check in to a houseboat at Alappuzha. As the overnight cruise begins, settle down in this ﬂoating luxury and get immersed in the gentle rhymes of backwaters. Watch the green paddies dotted with coconut trees, groups of ducks enjoying the waters, village folks engaged in their ages-old routines... grasp the spirit of rural Kerala that still thrives unaltered in these regions. Spice up your cruise with delicious Kerala cuisines along the way. Overnight stay in the houseboat comforts.

is blessed with three lovely crescent-shaped seashores, namely ʻSamudra Beachʼ (which is the main beach), ʻHowah Beachʼ and ʻLighthouse Beachʼ. Spent the entire day engaged in various beach activities - sunbathing, swimming, enjoying the big splashes in the rejuvenating sea breeze... After a satisfying beach stint, return to your hotel / resort for overnight stay.

Day 12: Alappuzha - Kollam

gardens and Pine Tree valleys. Depending on time you can opt for some shopping too. At dusk, get back to your Hotel / Resort at Kodaikkanal and stay overnight.

The mind boggling houseboat overnight cruise is to be followed by another backwater special. This time it is a daylong cruise along the longest functioning waterway in Kerala - from Vembanad Lake (in Alappuzha) to Ashtamudi Lake (in Kollam)! Check out from the house-

The ﬁnal day of your leisure tour... Say good bye to Kovalam beach and drive to the nearby Trivandrum city, where your departure is arranged. If time permits, you can make a quick visitcum-shopping in the city. Then depart with fond memories.

Day 10: Kodaikkanal - Thekkady From the royal high ranges of Tamil Nadu to a wildlife beauty in Kerala... Travel from Kodaikkanal to Thekkady - abode of Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary (a major wildlife reserve in

India). After arriving at the destination, soon set out to visit that wild hub. Enriched with variety flora & fauna, Periyar Sanctuary attracts a large number of nature lovers every year as it is ideal for watching animals in their natural habitat. Here you can either opt for a boating in the beautiful lake, or engage in other exciting activities like soft trekking, spice plantation visit, shopping spice items ... Overnight stay at the hotel in Thekkady.

Day 14: Departure

boat this morning... and after a short break board a cruise boat that operates in Alappuzha-Kollam water route. This cruise, lasting around seven to eight hours, will take you deep into the fascinating world of backwaters - the unparalleled natural phenomenon that made Kerala worldfamous. The gentle rippling of waters, humming of water-birds, chirpy duck-gang, soothing winds across the lush paddy fields, gorgeous greeneries... Visual treats are in plenty! As the shadows begin to enlarge, you will arrive at the destination - Kollam. Check in to your resort hotel and settle down. Overnight stay at Kollam.

Route Map 43

CHENNAI, MAHABALIPURAM PONDICHERRY, TRICHY, THANJAVUR, MADURAI, KANYAKUMARI, KOVALAM, KOLLAM, THENMALA, TRIVANDRUM

SOUTH INDIAN

Trichy (An important city in Tamil Nadu in terms of pilgrimage, education & industry) Thanjavur (The ʻGranary of South Indiaʼ - a legendary city and hub of classical arts & music) Madurai (The ʻCultural Capital of Tamil Naduʼ, one of the antique & prestigious cities in India) Kanyakumari (Southernmost tip of Indian subcontinent - perfect for watching sunrise & sunset) Kovalam (An internationally reputed Beach haven) Kollam (Land of lovely backwaters & beaches, also well known for its cashew industry) Thenmala (A prime location for Ecotourism in Kerala) Trivandrum (Keralaʼs state capital, erstwhile royal capital of Travancore Kingdom)

A N N ZA O

Day 1: Chennai Your ﬁrst day of the fortnight-long tour... The chief port city of Southern India, Chennai welcomes you. After experiencing a traditional reception, check

- monolithic structures, each carved from one single large piece of stone - named after the five ʻPandavasʼ of the great epic Mahabharata), ʻArjunaʼs Penanceʼ (a massive relief sculpture illustrating an episode from the epic Maha bharata), ʻDescent of the Gangesʼ (another giant open-air bas relief, depicting a famous scene from Hindu mythology), ʻVaraha Cave Templeʼ (a rock-cut-temple with fine carvings), ʻShore Templeʼ (a very old shrine with entry from the seashore), etc . As the daylight paves way for nightfall, get in to your lodgings... settle down in its soothing environs. Overnight stay at Mahabalipuram.

city area). Then visit the port town ʻArikameduʼ - the most antique location near Pondicherry with a history much longer than the colonial times - in fact it was a Roman trade centre in earlier times , around 2nd century B.C. This was a place that witnessed many a power shift - from Romans to Cholas and finally Europeans. Subject to time and convenience, also pay a visit the ʻuniversal townshipʼ Auroville (known as City of Dawn) - a location with a holistic touch. After the daylong stint, get back to your lodgings at Pondicherry for overnight stay.

Day 5: Pondicherry - Trichy Day 3: Mahabalipuram - Pondicherry

in to your Hotel at Chennai. Soon get ready for a full day metro tour... Drive around the metro-city and get to know some of its famous landmarks. Visit the Fort St. George (the British built fortress, which still retains its colonial charm). Watch the big beach at Marina - regarded as worldʼs 2nd longest seashore. In addition to experiencing Chennaiʼs main assets, letʼs go back in time to understand the cityʼs deep-rooted legacy. Travel to the sacred hill St. Thomas Mount, located a little outer from the metro area. It was from here that St. Thomas, the apostle of Christ, carried out his missionary activities till he attained ʻmartyrdomʼ in 72 AD. Observe his deeds through the sculptures and relics at the old European-styled Church on the hilltop. You can ﬁnd how harmoniously the traditional Tamil culture and modern British culture are blended. Overnight stay at Chennai.

Day 2: Chennai - Mahabalipuram This day, proceed to ʻMahabalipuramʼ, a centuries-old port city near Chennai - ideal location to get an insight into the priceless Dravidian culture & heritage. On reaching Mahabalipuram; set out for sightseeing... View some splendid specimens of Dravidian architecture & art forms - testimonies of former Pallava Kings, who were great patrons of arts / crafts - such as, ʻPancha Rathasʼ (ʻFive Chariotsʼ

In addition to its deep rooted Dravidian traits, Tamil Nadu also exhibits marks of the Colonial era and the most remarkable testimony to this is ʻPondicherryʼ alias ʻPuducherryʼ. Depart Mahabalipuram to Pondicherry (a French Colony for centuries before merging with India) - more of a journey from Dravidian times to Colonial times! After reaching the destination, set out for a city sightseeing... though the French left Pondicherry about half-a-century ago, you can see that the city still bears a remarkable colonial inﬂuence. In fact, it consists of two major sections such as, the French ʻWhite townʼ and the Indian ʻBlack Townʼ. Experience French ambience in Pondicherryʻs numerous heritage buildings and monuments viz., Le Café, Dupleix Statue, Governorʼs Palace, Romain Rolland Library, Puducherry Museum... watch the well-laid out Europeanstyled avenues. Overnight stay at Pondicherry.

Day 4: Pondicherry

In the morning leave the Colonial ambience and get back to the typical Tamil culture... Travel from Pondicherry to Trichy alias ʻTiruchirapalliʼ - a major city in Tamil Nadu. On arrival, check in to your hotel at Trichy and get refreshed. Soon proceed for Trichy visit. Begin with the most important landmark in the city - the ʻRock Fort Ucchi Pillayar Templeʼ (a combination of two shrines located atop a high rock - one shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva and other to Lord Ganesh, known as ʻPillayarʼ in Tamil).

In these shrines, which are regarded as one of the oldest in the world, you can see inspiring rock architectures bearing ancient traits. Later visit the largest functioning temple complex in the world - ʻThe Ranganathaswamy Templeʼ. Located at Srirangam near Trichy, this overwhelmingly massive shrine is regarded as one among the holiest Vaishnavite (followers of Lord Vishnu) Temples in India. Watch in awe the fascinating architecture and sculptural beauty of this gigantic shrine. Also visit the ʻOne Thousand Pillar Hallʼ (actually 953 intricately carved stone pillars) in the temple complex. Though Ranganathaswamy Temple complex is very vast, you wonʼt miss its most striking feature - the ʻRajagopuramʼ - built by the Vijayanagara Emperors, this is the tallest temple tower in Asia! As night falls, return to your hotel at Trichy and stay overnight.

One more day for exploring Indiaʼs ʻLittle Franceʼ... This time, experience the beauty of Pondicherryʼs beaches such as, the ʻPromenade Beachʼ (the cityʼs main beach that stretches to nearly two kilometers), and the ʻParadise Beachʼ (another beach charmer located outside the

sculptured pillars. Continue with your trip... After reaching Madurai, check into your hotel and wash off your journey marks. If time permits take a quick look-around the surrounding city area. Overnight stay at Madurai.

tales. Explore the sprawling temple complex... Visit the awe inspiring ʻThousand Pillar Hallʼ (in fact 985 now). Then see the ʻmusical pillarsʼ each one, when struck, produces a different musical note!

Day 6: Trichy - Thanjavur Time to get more exposure to the timeless Dravidian legacy and culture... depart Trichy and drive to Thanjavur, the legendary city immortalized by Chola royal dynasty. On reaching Thanjavur, set out for a day long sightseeing... start with a masterpiece of Chola-styled architecture - the big temple ʻBrihandeswaraʼ (1000+ years old shrine, built by the esteemed Chola emperor Rajaraja I). Apart from its architectural intricacies and sculptures, what makes Brihandeswara temple unique is the high temple tower that is taller than the sanctum sanctorum - a feature not seen in other typical Tamil / Dravidian temples. Later, visit the nearby water tank ʻShivagangaʼ, a popular hangout place. As time permits, have a quick get-around in other notable sights like, ʻThanjavur Palaceʼ, ʻRoyal Museumʼ & ʻArt Galleryʼ. Afterwards do some shopping - buy unique Thanjavur specials, such as, the Thalayatti Bomai (head-nodding doll). Late evening, return to your hotel at Thanjavur for overnight stay.

Day 7: Thanjavur - Madurai This day, check out from your hotel early, depart Thanjavur and drive to another significant Dravidian city - Madurai, one of the oldest & continuously inhabited cities in the world. En route, halt at ʻPudukkottaiʼ (once a princely state - now a trove of archeological & cultural remnants with traces from prehistoric to medieval times). After enjoying Pudukkottaiʼs antique charm, drive further to visit the nearby ʻThirumayam Fortʼ (a historically signiﬁcant fortress). Inside the fortress, you can find beautifully

Day 8: Madurai Spend the morning at leisure, readying for Madurai sightseeing... Start with visiting one of Indiaʼs greatest cultural & architectural landmarks - the ʻMeenakshi Sundareswar Templeʼ

(dedicated to Meenakshi - Goddess Parvathy). Watch the looming temple towers, each studded with carvings of Gods, Goddesses, mythological figures and even depictions from fairy

Then visit the ʻMariamman Teppakulamʼ, a huge water tank located near the Meenakshi Temple. The tank is known as Mariamman Teppakulam due to the presence of Goddess Mariamman Temple there (Teppakulam means water tank in Tamil). At the center of the tank is a Lord Ganesh temple - accessible only by water. The area of the tank and the island pavilion is approximately equal to the area of the great Meenakshi Temple! Later visit Maduraiʼs other important landmarks like, the ʻThirumalai Nayakar Palaceʼ (a splendid palace of the former Madurai King, who made this city a memorable one). Get a brief outlook this ageless cityʼs royal legacy. At nightfall, get back to your lodgings at Madurai for overnight stay.

Day 9: Madurai - Kanyakumari Now take a tour to the southernmost tip of Indian subcontinent - ʻKanyakumariʼ. Bid farewell to the legendary city of Madurai and proceed southwards... On arrival at Kanyakumari, you will be greeted with spellbinding views of ʻVivekananda Rockʼ and ʻThiruvalluvar Statueʼ (two most notable landmarks here) from the seashore. Take a boat and visit the landmarks...

centre, Kovalam is blessed with three lovely crescent-shaped seashores namely, ʻSamudra Beachʼ (which is the main beach), ʻHowah Beachʼ and ʻLighthouse Beachʼ. Check in to your hotel / resort at Kovalam on arrival and get ready for a beach day. Spent the entire day engaged in various beach activities - sunbathing, swimming, enjoying the big splashes in the rejuvenating sea breeze... After a satisfying beach stint, return to your hotel / resort for overnight stay.

Day 11: Kovalam - Kollam After the beach pleasures, now itʼs time to experience the typical Kerala specialty - a houseboat cruise in backwaters. Proceed to Kollam the Land of Ashtamudi Lake, the deepest one

These rocks, with an air of holiness and chill of waves sprinkling all over, totally uplift the self. Late evening, view the sunset at the beach... At ﬁrst it may not sound something unusual to anyone. But, after watching the Sun slowly dipping in the seawaters at this location, you will swear this can be hardly seen in anywhere else. Kanyakumariʼs unique geographical location enables both sunset & sunrise views at the same beach. So plan accordingly to observe the phenomenon. Overnight stay at Kanyakumari.

Day 10: Kanyakumari - Kovalam First make sure to view the spectacular sunrise at Kanyakumari. Then after breakfast checkout

in the state with plenty of aquamarine wealth. Check in to a houseboat at Kollam. As the overnight cruise begins, settle down in this ﬂoating luxury and get immersed in the gentle rhymes of backwaters. Watch the green paddies dotted with coconut trees, groups of ducks enjoying the waters, village folks engaged in their ages-old routines.... grasp the spirit of rural Kerala that still thrives unaltered in these regions. Spice up your cruise with delicious Kerala cuisines along the way. Overnight stay in the houseboat at Ashtamudi Lake.

Day 12:

from the Hotel and drive to the most famous beach haven in Kerala, Kovalam. An internationally acclaimed Beach Tourism

Kollam - Thenmala

Go exploring Shenduruni... You can see that the Sanctuary houses large varieties of flora and fauna. Afterwards visit the ʻButterfly Safari Parkʼ - the first of its kind in Asia! Take pleasure in plentiful recreations at the park like; rope bridge walk, lake-boating, soft trekking... After enjoying eco-tourism to its fullest, proceed to Konni for staying. Subject to time, visit the ʻElephant campʼ at Konni to see the gentle giants in their natural environment. Overnight stay at Konni.

Day 13:

Konni - Trivandrum

Before concluding your fascinating tour, get the taste of Keralaʼs erstwhile royal legacy with a slight urban touch. Depart Konni and drive to ʻThiruvananthapuramʼ (Trivandrum) - Keralaʼs capital city and the capital of former Travancore Kingdom. On arrival set out to familiarize

the city... Pay a visit to the cityʼs famous trademarks like the marvelous ʻKanakakkunnu Palaceʼ and ʻNapier Museumʼ - a treasure store for historians. View the rare collection of paintings at the nearby ʻSree Chitra Art Galleryʼ. Enjoy the botanically-rich ʻZoological Parkʼ and the adjoining ʻZooʼ (one of the first in the country). Then proceed to experience the former royal legacy at the sacred ʻSri Padmanabhaswamy Templeʼ and the interesting monument ʻKuthiramalika Palace Museumʼ. After feasting your eyes, get in to the Hotel at Trivandrum for overnight stay.

Day 14: Departure Itʼs time for departure... Check out from your hotel this morning and proceed to Trivandrum Airport / Railway Station - the tour concludes on a happy note.

After the delightful experience with backwaters, itʼs time for some variety entertainment - Ecotourism. Take a drive to Thenmala - location of the ʻShenduruni Wildlife Sanctuaryʼ (the first eco-tourism project in the country).

Route Map 47

MAHABALIPURAM PONDICHERRY, KUMBAKONAM TRICHY, MADURAI, OOTY MYSORE, HASSAN BANGALORE

13 Nights / 14 Days Highlights Mahabalipuram (An ancient port city studded with elegant monuments - a World Heritage Site) Pondicherry (ʻIndiaʼs Little Franceʼ - former French colony, which still retains its colonial ﬂavor) Kumbakonam (ʻTown of Templesʼ - a showcase of Dravidian architectural style) Trichy (An important city in Tamil Nadu in terms of pilgrimage, education & industry) Madurai (The ʻCultural Capital of Tamil Naduʼ, one of the antique & prestigious cities in India) Ooty (An internationally renowned hill station) Mysore (Power centre of former Mysore Kingdom with strong royal legacy) Hassan (Nicknamed as the ʻScotland of Indiaʼ, a base to world famous temple sites - Belur and Halebid) Bangalore (Indiaʼs Garden City & Silicon Valley)

Symphonies outhern

Day 1: Chennai - Mahabalipuram Arrival at Chennai - Tamil Naduʼs capital and one of the largest metros in India. After a hearty welcome proceed to ʻMahabalipuramʼ, a centuries old port city near Chennai, for an insight into the priceless Dravidian culture & heritage. At Mahab-

French ʻWhite townʼ and the Indian ʻBlack Townʼ. Experience French ambience in Pondicherryʻs numerous heritage buildings and monuments viz., Le Café, Dupleix Statue, Governorʼs Palace, Romain Rolland Library, Puducherry Museum... watch the well-laid out European-styled avenues. Enjoy the bygone colonial charm in full. Stay overnight at Pondicherry.

Day 3: Pondicherry - Kumbakonam From the colonial charm make a return to Tamil Naduʼs deep rooted Dravidian traits. Travel to ʻKumbakonamʼ, nicknamed as the ʻtemple townʼ due to presence of many beautiful shrines. After visiting some of Kumbakonamʼs most elegant temples, proceed to ʻDarasuramʼ, an ancient

alipuram view some splendid specimens of Dravidian architecture & art forms - testimonies of former Pallava Kings, who were great patrons of arts / crafts - such as, ʻPancha Rathasʼ (ʻFive Chariotsʼ - monolithic structures, each carved from one single large piece of stone - named after the ﬁve ʻPandavasʼ of the great epic Mahabharata), ʻArjunaʼs Penanceʼ (a massive relief sculpture illustrating an episode from the epic Mahabharata), ʻDescent of the Gangesʼ (another giant open-air bas relief, depicting a famous scene from Hindu mythology), ʻVaraha Cave Templeʼ (a rock-cuttemple with ﬁne carvings), ʻShore Templeʼ

shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva and other to his son, Lord Ganesh, known as ʻPillayarʼ in Tamil). In these shrines, which are regarded as one of the oldest in the world, watch the awe inspiring rock architectures bearing ancient traits. Afterwards visit Trichyʼs most elegant Christian monument, the St Johnʼs Church - a colonial styled church that dates back to almost two centuries. Experience the vintage air that engulfs the Church. Also visit the neighboring cemetery... all these will remind you about some fairy tale scenes. As night falls, return to your hotel at Trichy and stay overnight.

Day 5: Trichy - Madurai Today, make a visit to the largest functioning temple complex in the world - ʻThe Ranganathaswamy Templeʼ. Located at Srirangam near Trichy, this overwhelmingly massive shrine is regarded as one among the holiest Vaishnavite (followers of Lord Vishnu) Temples in India. Watch in awe the

location nearby. At Darasuram you can ﬁnd remnants of Airavateswar Shiva Temple. View some

fascinating architecture and sculptural beauty of this gigantic shrine. Donʼt forget to see the interesting ʻOne Thousand Pillar Hallʼ (actually 953 intricately carved stone pillars) in the temple complex. Though the Ranganathaswamy

(a very old shrine with entry from the seashore)... As the daylight paves way for nightfall get in to your lodgings and settle down in its soothing environs. Overnight stay at Mahabalipuram.

exclusive architecture, sculptures & paintings at this Temple. Later - subject to time and convenience - make an optional visit to ʻSwamimalaiʼ - one of the six most important abodes of Lord Subramanya, also famous for its indigenous bronze sculptures. Overnight stay at Kumbakonam.

Day 4: Kumbakonam - Trichy Day 2: Mahabalipuram - Pondicherry Today morning, depart Mahabalipuram to Pondicherry (a French Colony for centuries before merging with India) - more of a journey from Dravidian times to Colonial times! After reaching the destination, set out for a city sightseeing... though the French left Pondicherry about half-a-century ago, you can see that the city still bears a remarkable colonial inﬂuence. In fact, it consists of two major sections such as, the

Leave Kumbakonam and travel to another important Dravidian city - ʻTiruchirapalliʼ alias ʻTrichyʼ. After reaching Trichy, check in to your hotel and get refreshed. Then proceed for

Temple complex is very vast, you wonʼt miss its most striking feature - the ʻRajagopuramʼ - built by the Vijayanagara Emperors this is the tallest temple tower in Asia. Afterwards leave Trichy for another signiﬁcant Temple city - Madurai, one of the oldest & continuously inhabited cities in the world. After reaching Madurai, check into your hotel and wash oﬀ your journey marks. If time permits take a quick look-around the surrounding city area. Overnight stay at Madurai.

Trichy sightseeing. Start with the most important landmark in the city - the ʻRock Fort Ucchi Pillayar Templeʼ (a combination of two shrines located atop a high rock, 83 meters tall - one

Day 6: Madurai Spend the morning at leisure, readying for Madurai sightseeing... Start with visiting one of Indiaʼs greatest cultural & architectural landmarks - the ʻMeenakshi Sundareswar Templeʼ (dedicated to Meenakshi - Goddess Parvathy). Watch the looming temple towers, each studded with carvings of Gods, Goddesses, mythological ﬁgures and even depictions from fairy tales. Explore the sprawling temple complex... Visit the inspiring ʻThousand Pillar Hallʼ (in fact 985 now). Then see the ʻmusical pillarsʼ - each one, when struck, produces a diﬀerent musical note!

Later visit the ʻMariamman Teppakulamʼ, a huge water tank located near the Meenakshi Temple. The tank is known as Mariamman Teppakulam due to the presence of Goddess Mariamman Temple there (Teppakulam means water tank in Tamil). At the center of the tank is a Lord Ganesh temple - accessible only by water. The area of the tank and the island pavilion is approximately equal to the area of the great Meenakshi Temple. Afterwards, as time permits, visit Maduraiʼs other landmarks like, the ʻThirumalai Nayakar Palaceʼ (a splendid palace of the former Madurai King, who made this city a memorable one). Get a brief outlook this ageless cityʼs royal legacy. At nightfall, get back to your lodgings at Madurai for overnight stay.

ranges. Depart from Madurai for an excursion to a very well known hill station in the world, Ooty. First take a drive to ʻCoimbatoreʼ - a major industrial city in Tamil Nadu as well as a transitdestination to Ooty. In a drive that takes several hours; enjoy the charm of rural Tamil landscapes that adorn both sides of the road. On reaching Coimbatore, check in to your lodgings, take own time to freshen-up and settle down. Overnight stay at Coimbatore.

Day 8: Coimbatore - Ooty Time to experience the beauty of southern high ranges... From Coimbatore proceed to the ʻQueen of Hill Stations in Southʼ - Ooty. A pleasurable drive with many exciting hair-pin curves plus

heartwarming views of greenery & occasional waterfalls brings you to the hill station queen. Upon reaching, check in to the Hotel at Ooty and take own time to settle in the coolish environs. As time permits, just roam around in the town area and do some shopping - as at times you cannot restrict buying some cute things typically unique to this place. Overnight stay at cozy comforts of the Ootyʼs lodgings.

Day 9: Ooty Day 7: Madurai - Coimbatore Get to know more about the versatility of Tamil landscapes... Add some thrills & chills to your trip with the feel of Tamil Naduʼs magniﬁcent high

A full day especially for Ooty sightseeing... Set out to experience the hill stationʼs prized attractions like, the ʻOoty Lakeʼ (where you can avail boating options or horse riding along the

banks), ʻBotanical Gardensʼ (where you can ﬁnd some of the treasured plants & ﬂowers in the world), ʻDodabetta Peakʼ (the highest point in Ooty, where you can experience a spellbinding view of the misty mountains & valleys), ʻEcho

Rockʼ (a rock that naturally took the shape of a lamb; also known as Lambʼs Rock)... to name a few. After plenty of visual entertainments return to your Hotel in late evening for overnight stay.

Day 10: Ooty - Mysore From one glamorous region to another... Bid farewell to Ooty and travel to Tamil Naduʼs neighboring state, Karnataka. Proceed to ʻMysoreʼ, former capital of the legendary Mysore Kingdom. Enjoy the trip thru some pristine landscapes; get absorbed in Southern Indiaʼs rural charm. After several hours of drive you will ﬁnd amongst the proud environs in the city of Mysore. Check in to the Hotel at Mysore; relax for some time. In the evening, as time permits, visit a major attraction in the outskirts of Mysore - the ʻBrindavan Gardensʼ

Hoysala temple architecture such as the Hoysal eshwara Temple and the Kedareshwara Temple. After seeing all these magniﬁcent monuments you will surely wonder; is there any such temples in the world outclass these classy ones in Belur & Halebid? Afterwards visit ʻBasadi Halliʼ where you will ﬁnd a number of serene Jain monasteries. Understand that Jainism was a dominant region in ancient India. As night falls, return to your lodgings at Hassan for overnight stay.

Day 13: Hassan - Bangalore & ʻKrishnarajasagar Damʼ. Built across the river Cauvery, Krishnarajasagar Dam is an important irrigation project in South India. Roam around the Brindavan Gardens, a beautifully laid out terrace garden enriched with fountains, terraces, cascading water-channels, trees, green lawns and ﬂower beds. Donʼt miss its prime attraction - the ʻmusical & dancing fountainʼ. Watch how the beauty is technically mingled with nature! At night, return to your hotel at Mysore for overnight stay.

Day 11: Mysore - Hassan Today spend some more time sightseeing the post-royal city of Mysore. Pay a visit to the Mysore Palace - once the oﬃcial residence of

the Wodeyar Kings, erstwhile rulers of Mysore Kingdom. Watch the magniﬁcent architectural brilliance of the palace, where you can ﬁnd a blend of various noted construction styles in medieval India era, moreover a typical IndoSaracenic style! After experiencing Mysoreʼs legacy, itʼs time to get more insight into the glorious times of bygone royal dynasties that once held sway in Deccan. Depart Mysore and travel to ʻHassanʼ - known as the ʻPoor Manʼs Ootyʼ for its scenic locations also the base of some fabulous heritage sites (Belur, Halebid). En route visit the historic place, ʻSrirangapattanaʼ (Capital of former Mysore King, Tipu Sultan). Visit its famed monuments like, Tipuʼs Fort and Palace. See the spot where the Sultan was killed during the fatal battle between Mysore and the British (which paved way for the

British dominance in South India). Continue your journey... Next halt at ʻShravanabelagolaʼ one of the holiest Jain pilgrimage sites; renowned for its colossal monolithic statue of Jain saint Gomateshwara. Created around 983 AD, the statue, standing at a height of 18 meters, is regarded the tallest monolithic statue in the world. Then proceed to Hassan... on arrival check in to your hotel for overnight stay.

Last but not the least; give a ﬁtting climax to your tour with a feel of Karnatakaʼs urban life. Leave Hassan and drive to Bangalore, the state capital as well as a vibrant city. After a long drive check in to your hotel at Bangalore... settle down to wash oﬀ your journey hangover. Soon set out to a quick city sightseeing tour... Visit Bangaloreʼs prime spots of attraction like the imposing ʻVidhana Soudhaʼ buildings, the majestic ʻBangalore Palaceʼ, the shady ʻCubbon Parkʼ, etc.

Day 12: Hassan From Hassan, start a tour to a pair of breathtakingly beautiful temple towns - Belur & Halebid - that are second to none anywhere else in architectural brilliance. Popularly known as Southern Banaras (Dakshina Varanasi), ʻBelurʼ was the former capital of Hoysala Kings who were great patrons of temples. Visit the most stunning trademark of Belur, the ʻChennakeshava Templeʼ. This star shaped temple will leave its onlookers spell-bound with sublime structural beauty. Its peculiar structure, vastly contrasting from other traditional

At nightfall return to your Hotel at Bangalore for overnight stay.

Day 14: Bangalore (departure)

Dravidian temples, together with fantastically carved temple-walls will always keep the visitors glued to this place! With a refreshed mindset, proceed to ʻHalebidʼ - another erstwhile capital of the Hoysalas. At Halebid visit other superb testimonials of

Itʼs time for departure... Check out from your hotel and embark your return journey - tour concludes.

Route Map 51

BANGALORE, MYSORE COORG, WAYANAD KOZHIKODE, GURUVAYUR MUNNAR, THEKKADY ALAPPUZHA, MARARI

14 Nights / 15 Days Highlights Bangalore (Indiaʼs Garden City & Silicon Valley) Mysore (Power centre of former Mysore Kingdom that still retains its royal legacy) Coorg (A charming hill station best known for its coﬀee plantations) Wayanad (Green Paradise of Godʼs own country, Kerala) Kozhikode (A major port city in North Kerala, erstwhile royal abode) Guruvayur (Most famous pilgrim town in Kerala also houses worldʼs largest elephant park) Munnar (Keralaʼs top-rated hill station with plenty of eye-feasts) Thekkady (Location of Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary - an adventurerʼs spot) Alappuzha (The Venice of the East Keralaʼs backwater tourism hub) Marari

calm

ideal

beach

destination)

SOUTHERN

GLORIES 52

Day 1: Bangalore

Day 3: Mysore

Arrival at Bangalore - the garden city of India; where your exhilarating tour takes oﬀ. After a warm welcome, proceed to your Hotel for check in. Later, set out for a city sightseeing tour...

Kushal Nagar is more like a miniature version of Tibet. In the Namdroling Monastery, it will feel like a world of totally diﬀerent kind - a holistic world of Buddhist Lamas. Near the Monastery, you can also purchase some unique Tibetan souvenirs. As the day ends, retire to your lodgings at Coorg for overnight stay.

Day 5: Coorg Another day for exploring the wild beauty of Coorg region... First set out to visit the ʻAbbey Fallsʼ, a waterfall located in a remote greenish terrain.

Visit Bangaloreʼs prime spots of attraction like the imposing ʻVidhana Soudhaʼ buildings, the majestic ʻBangalore Palaceʼ, the shady ʻCubbon Parkʼ, the greenish ʻLal Bagh gardensʼ, etc. At nightfall return to your Hotel at Bangalore for overnight stay.

Day 2: Bangalore - Mysore This morning, proceed to Mysore, once-powercentre of the legendary Mysore Kingdom. En route, visit another historic place - Srirangapattana (Capital of former Mysore King, Tipu Sultan). Visit its

the magnificent architectural brilliance of the palace, where you can find a blend of various noted construction styles in medieval India era, moreover a typical Indo-Saracenic style. Then, visit the nearby Art Gallery - which is also a former palace converted into art gallery. Considered among the best of its kind in India, here you can view the painting & murals that showcase the legacy of Mysore Royal family, as well as, famous paintings of various artists across the world. Later set out to visit a major attraction in the outskirts of Mysore - the Brindavan Gardens and Krishnarajasagar Dam. Built across the river Cauvery, Krishnarajasagar Dam is an important irrigation project in South India. Roam around the Brindavan Gardens, a beautifully laid out terrace garden enriched with fountains, terraces, cascading waterchannels, trees, green lawns and flower beds. Donʼt miss its prime attraction - the ʻmusical & dancing fountainʼ. Watch how the beauty is technically mingled with nature! At night, return to your hotel in Mysore for overnight stay.

After the energizing waterfall experience, return to Madikeri town. Here visit the ʻOmkareshwara Templeʼ, a Hindu shrine that exhibits a rare blend of Hindu-Islamic architectural style - which can be hardly seen in traditional temples. Then go to the most beautiful spot at Madikeri, the ʻRaja Seatʼ - a small hill which oﬀers an enchanting panoramic view of the town and the surrounding mist coated mountains & plantations. This place is named so because the then local ruler (ʻRajaʼ in local) used to enjoy the scenery from here! The park at the top of this hill is an ideal picnic spot. After ample eye-feasts, go for shopping some typical Coorg specials such as its pure honey, coﬀee, etc. Overnight stay at Coorg.

Day 4: Mysore - Coorg Today depart from Mysore and proceed to Coorg - a hill station best known for its enjoyable weather and coﬀee plantations. After reaching Coorg, go sightseeing at ʻCauvery Nisargadhamaʼ, a pristine island full of lush bamboo forest surrounded by River Cauvery. Here you can avail various options to relish the full beauty of this

famed monuments like, Tipuʼs Fort and Palace. See the spot where the Sultan was killed during the fatal battle between Mysore and the British in 1799 (which paved way for the British dominance in South India). Carry on your journey to Mysore... On arrival, settle down in the Hotel. In the evening, as time permits, make a visit to one of the oldest & grandest churches in Mysore St. Philomenaʼs Church, a perfect example of gothic style of architecture in India. Overnight stay at Mysore.

place like; a boat ride around the isle or an elephant ride thru the bamboo forest. Afterwards, visit the ʻNamdroling Monastery (Tibetan Golden temple)ʼ at Kushal Nagar which is located at a little distance away.

Day 6: Coorg - Wayanad Depart from the refreshing plantations of Coorg to experience the ʻgreen paradise of the Godʼs own countryʼ - Wayanad. A couple of hours of delightful ride brings you to the greenest district in Kerala state. On arriving at Wayanad, spend some time feeling the alluring calmness of the thick rainforests near the Lakkidi town. Then proceed to visit ʻKuruva Dweepʼ - a tiny island lying on the creeks of River Kabini. Enriched with dense forest, Kuruva Dweep is a place that still retains its pure natural beauty. Go for trekking through the wildwoods. Watch rare species of birds, orchids and herbs... You can actually feel the energizing, non-polluted environment. Later visit the ʻAmbalavayal Heritage Museumʼ to get an insight into the ageless tribal culture of Wayanad. The Museum houses a fascinating display of numerous ingenious equipments and weapons used by the tribes. As the day ends check in to your hotel at Wayanad for overnight stay.

Day 7: Wayanad

Day 8: Wayanad - Kozhikode

Today enjoy a full day sightseeing at Wayanad. Visit some breathtakingly beautiful spots like the ʻPookottu Lakeʼ (a perennial fresh water lake

Bid farewell to the wonderful Wayanad this morning and drive to Kozhikode. The route itself is thrilling with awe-inspiring hair-pin bends. Feel the exciting charm of Wayanad Mountain Pass (Thammaressery Churam) as

nestled in green coated mountains, ideal for boating too), ʻEdakkal Cavesʼ (an archeological wonder - rocky caves where the walls are adorned with artistic carvings that represent human / animal ﬁgures and objects of human use, which is one of the earliest centers of human habitat in the world), ʻSoochipara Waterfallsʼ a three-tier waterfall situated in the dense forest. (The force of water here is quite high). After getting ample exposure to Wayanadʼs unscathed nature, get back to your lodgings and stay overnight.

you drive along... After a few hours the city of Kozhikode - the old port city that attracted Europeans to Malabar region - will welcome you. After arrival, grasp the legacy of Kozhikode as well as Malabar by visiting the ʻPazhassiraja Museumʼ - a favorite abode of art lovers and historians alike. Also visit the adjoining Art Gallery where you can view some of the world famous painting of Keralaʼs artist legends like Raja Ravi Varma. As evening approaches go for sightseeing the popular landmark of Kozhikode - the beach.

Traces of colonial touch can be seen in the beachʼs time-stained piers and lighthouse. Overnight stay at the hotel in Kozhikode.

Day 9: Kozhikode - Guruvayur Depart Kozhikode and drive to the most celebrated pilgrim town in Kerala, Guruvayur. Before exploring the township, take a visit to the nearby ʻPunnathur Kottaʼ - one of the

largest Elephant sanctuaries in the world where 60+ jumbos thrive. The sight of these majestic creatures in their natural self will certainly awake the animal-lover in you. Later, set out to experience the holistic ambience of Guruvayur. Hindus can oﬀer worship at the Sree Krishna Temple (which ranks amongst the holiest Vaishnavite shrines in India) and the Lord Shiva Temple at Mammiyur. Overnight stay in the serene environs of the hotel at Guruvayur.

Day 10: Guruvayur - Munnar From the divine ambience of Guruvayur divert your travel to the thrill of high ranges. Drive to Munnar, the ʻNumero Uno Hill Station in Keralaʼ. As the journey progress through the steep roads, you can have occasional halts to enjoy some splendid waterfalls on the way side...

exotic plants. Go trekking inside the park and rekindle your adventurous self. After charging up the self, visit the pleasant Dam Reservoir area at Mattupetty. Here you may avail boating facilities too. Later, visit ʻEcho Pointʼ - a spot where, as its name implies, you can hear multiple echoes of own sound. This is also an ideal location for nature walks. After enjoying Echo Point, go to ʻKundalaʼ - the location of an artiﬁcial dam & catchment area; set in a fantasy ﬁlmy style. As night falls, return to your lodgings at Munnar and stay overnight.

Day 12: Munnar - Thekkady This morning, depart from Munnar to another natural beauty spot, Thekkady - abode of Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, a major wildlife reserve in the country. After arriving at the destination, soon set out to visit that wild hub. Enriched with variety ﬂora & fauna, Periyar Sanctuary attracts a large number of nature lovers every year as

ﬁrst, ʻCheeyappara waterfallʼ (a refreshing seven stepped cascade) and then, the ʻValara waterfallʼ (a cascade about 1000 meters high, neighbored by lush jungles). Continue your thrilling high range ride with such eye-feasts... On reaching Munnar, check in to your Hotel / Resort and get tuned to the new chilling atmosphere. Later on, subject to time & availability, you can pay a visit to the famous ʻTea Museumʼ in Munnar Town - the only Museum of its kind; which illustrates the timeworn method of Tea production! Then opt for a little shopping at own convenience. Finally get back to your lodgings for overnight stay.

Day 11: Munnar This day is devoted to sightseeing in & around the mesmeric Munnar. Start with a visit to the Eravikulam national park (Rajamala National

Park), which is located about 15 km away from Munnar. This park is home to ʻNilgiri Tahrʼ (endangered mountain goat) and ʻAtlas Mothʼ (one of the worldʼs biggest moths) plus, plenty of

down in this ﬂoating luxury and get immersed in the gentle rhymes of backwaters. Watch the green paddies dotted with coconut trees, groups of ducks enjoying the waters, village folks engaged in their ages-old routines... grasp the spirit of rural Kerala that still thrives unaltered in these regions. Spice up your cruise with delicious Kerala cuisines along the way. Overnight stay in the houseboat comforts.

Day 14: Alappuzha - Marari After relishing the charm of backwaters, now itʼs time to feel the thrill of Keralaʼs seashore. In the morning, check out from the houseboat and drive to ʻMarariʼ - a calm & pleasant beach location in the neighborhood of Alappuzha. Spend this day all along at the gentle beach...

Get immersed in the thrills of sunbathing and swimming. After the dayʼs beach relaxation stay overnight at the hotel / resort in Marari.

Day 15: Departure it is ideal for watching animals in their natural habitat. Here you can either opt for a boating in the beautiful lake, or engage in other exciting activities like soft trekking, spice plantation visit, shopping spice items... Overnight stay at the hotel in Thekkady.

Day 13: Thekkady - Alappuzha

Today is the climax day... Time to bid farewell to Kerala and your couple-of-weeks tour. Leave Marari and drive to Kochi Airport / Railway Station, as per the departure schedule. A farewell with full of excitements!

Route Map

By afternoon check in to a houseboat at Alappuzha. As the overnight cruise begins, settle

CHENNAI, MAHABALIPURAM PONDICHERRY, THANJAVUR, TRICHY, MADURAI, KANYAKUMARI, KOVALAM, ALAPPUZHA, KOCHI

14 Nights / 15 Days Highlights

Chennai (The ʻGateway to South Indiaʼ ‒ a metropolis with rich traditional background) Mahabalipuram (An ancient port city studded with elegant monuments - a World Heritage Site) Pondicherry (ʻIndiaʼs Little Franceʼ - former French colony, which still retains its colonial ﬂavor) Thanjavur (The ʻGranary of South Indiaʼ - a grand old city and the hub of classical arts & music) Trichy (An important city in Tamil Nadu in terms of pilgrimage, education & industry) Madurai (The ʻCultural Capital of Tamil Naduʼ, one of the antique & prestigious cities in India) Kanyakumari (Southernmost tip of Indian subcontinent - perfect for watching sunrise & sunset) Kovalam (An internationally reputed Beach haven) Alappuzha (ʻThe Venice of the Eastʼ - Keralaʼs backwater tourism hub) Kochi (Keralaʼs ﬁnancial capital - a city that combines modernity with ancient elegance)

DRAVIDIAN

Day 1:

Chennai

Arrival at Chennai, the bustling metropolis in Southern India... After experiencing a heartening welcome, check in to the Hotel and get ready for

a full day metro tour. Drive around the metro-city and get to know some of its famous landmarks. Visit the Fort St. George (the British built fortress,

ʻDescent of the Gangesʼ (another giant open-air bas relief, depicting a famous scene from Hindu mythology), ʻVaraha Cave Templeʼ (a rock-cuttemple with ﬁne carvings), ʻShore Templeʼ (a very old shrine with entry from the seashore)... As the daylight paves way for nightfall, get in to your lodgings... settle down in its soothing environs. Overnight stay at Mahabalipuram.

Day 4:

Mahabalipuram - Pondicherry

In addition to its deep rooted Dravidian traits, Tamil Nadu also exhibits marks of the Colonial era and the most remarkable testimony to this is ʻPondicherryʼ alias ʻPuducherryʼ. Depart Mahabalipuram to Pondicherry (a French Colony which still retains its colonial charm). Watch the big beach at Marina - regarded as worldʼs 2nd longest seashore. Later on travel to a little outer from the metro area... towards the sacred hill St. Thomas Mount. It was from here that St. Thomas, the apostle of Christ, carried out his missionary activities till he attained ʻmartyrdomʼ in 72 AD. Observe his deeds through the sculptures and relics at the old European-styled Church on the hilltop. You can ﬁnd how harmoniously the traditional Tamil culture and modern British culture are blended. As night falls, return to your Hotel for overnight stay.

Day 2:

Chennai - Mahabalipuram

Now itʼs time for an insight into the priceless Dravidian culture & heritage... For that proceed to Mahabalipuram (a centuries-old port city, abode of priceless heritage monuments). On reaching Mahabalipuram check in to your hotel. Spend the rest of the day at leisure. Overnight stay at Mahabalipuram.

Day 3:

reaching Thanjavur, set out for a day long sightseeing... start with a masterpiece of Chola-styled architecture - the big temple ʻBrihandeswaraʼ (1000+ years old shrine built by the esteemed Chola emperor Rajaraja I). Apart from its architectural

intricacies and sculptures, what makes Brihandeswara temple unique is the high temple tower that is taller than the sanctum sanctorum - a feature not seen in other typical Tamil / Dravidian temples. Later, visit the nearby water tank ʻShivagangaʼ, a popular hangout place. As time permits, have a quick get-around in other notable sights like, ʻThanjavur Palaceʼ, ʻRoyal Museumʼ & ʻArt Galleryʼ. Afterwards do some shopping - buy unique

Thanjavur specials, such as, the Thalayatti Bomai (head-nodding doll). Late evening, return to your hotel at Thanjavur for overnight stay. for centuries before merging with India) - more of a journey from Dravidian times to Colonial times! After reaching the destination, set out for a city sightseeing... though the French left Pondicherry about half-a-century ago, you can see that the city still bears a remarkable colonial inﬂuence. In fact, it consists of two major sections such as, the French ʻWhite townʼ and the Indian ʻBlack Townʼ. Experience French ambience in Pondicherryʻs numerous heritage buildings and monuments

Day 6:

Thanjavur - Trichy

Today leave Thanjavur to Trichy alias ʻTiruchirapalliʼ - a major city in Tamil Nadu. On arrival, check in to your hotel at Trichy and get refreshed. Soon proceed for Trichy sightseeing. Begin with the most important landmark in the city - the ʻRock Fort Ucchi Pillayar Templeʼ (a combination of two shrines located atop a high rock - one shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva and

Mahabalipuram

Set out for Mahabalipuram sightseeing today... View some splendid specimens of Dravidian architecture & art forms - testimonies of former Pallava Kings, who were great patrons of arts / crafts - such as, ʻPancha Rathasʼ (ʻFive Chariotsʼ viz., Le Café, Dupleix Statue, Governorʼs Palace, Romain Rolland Library, Puducherry Museum... watch the well-laid out European-styled avenues. Overnight stay at Pondicherry.

Day 5:

Pondicherry - Thanjavur

In the morning leave the colonial ambience and get back to the typical Tamil culture... Travel from Pondicherry to ʻThanjavurʼ, the legendary city immortalized by Chola royal dynasty. On

other to Lord Ganesh, known as ʻPillayarʼ in Tamil). In these shrines, which are regarded as one of the oldest in the world, you can see inspiring rock architectures bearing ancient traits. Afterwards visit Trichyʼs most elegant Christian monument, the St. Johnʼs Church - a colonial styled church that dates back to almost two centuries. Experience the vintage air that engulfs the Church. Also visit the neighboring cemetery... all these will remind you about some fairy tale scenes. As night falls, return to your hotel at Trichy and stay overnight.

Day 7:

Trichy - Madurai

Begin todayʼs sightseeing on a high note with a visit to the largest functioning temple complex in the world - ʻThe Ranganathaswamy Templeʼ. Located at Srirangam near Trichy, this over-

miss its most striking feature - the ʻRajagopuramʼ - built by the Vijayanagara Emperors this is the tallest temple tower in Asia! Later depart Trichy and drive to another signiﬁcant Dravidian city - Madurai, one of the oldest & continuously inhabited cities in the world. After reaching Madurai, check into your hotel and wash oﬀ your journey marks. If time permits take a quick look-around the surrounding city area. Overnight stay at Madurai.

Day 8:

Madurai

Spend the morning at leisure, readying for Madurai sightseeing... Start with visiting one of Indiaʼs greatest cultural & architectural landmarks - the ʻMeenakshi Sundareswar Templeʼ (dedicated to Meenakshi - Goddess Parvathy). whelmingly massive shrine is regarded as one among the holiest Vaishnavite (followers of Lord Vishnu) Temples in India. Watch in awe the fascinating architecture and sculptural beauty of this gigantic shrine. Also visit the ʻThousand Pillar Hallʼ (actually 953 intricately carved stone pillars)

in the temple complex. Though Ranganatha swamy Temple complex is very vast, you wonʼt

Watch the looming temple towers, each studded with carvings of Gods, Goddesses, mythological ﬁgures and even depictions from fairy tales. Explore the sprawling temple complex... Visit the awe inspiring ʻThousand Pillar Hallʼ (in fact 985 now). Then see the ʻmusical pillarsʼ - each one, when struck, produces a diﬀerent musical note!

the ʻThirumalai Nayakar Palaceʼ (a splendid palace of the former Madurai King, who made this city a memorable one). Get a brief outlook this ageless cityʼs royal legacy. At nightfall, get back to your lodgings at Madurai for overnight stay.

Day 9:

Madurai - Kanyakumari

Now take a tour to the southernmost tip of Indian subcontinent - ʻKanyakumariʼ. Bid farewell to the legendary city of Madurai and proceed southwards... On arrival at Kanyakumari, you will be greeted with spellbinding views of ʻVivekananda Rockʼ and ʻThiruvalluvar Statueʼ (two most notable landmarks here) from the seashore. Take a

Day 11:

Kovalam

This day is entirely for enjoying Kovalamʼs seashores. An internationally acclaimed Beach Tourism centre, Kovalam is blessed with three lovely crescent-shaped seashores namely, ʻSamudra Beachʼ (which is the main beach), ʻHowah Beachʼ and ʻLighthouse Beachʼ. Spent the day engaged

in various beach activities like sunbathing, swimming, etc. Overnight stay at Kovalam.

Day 12: boat and visit the landmarks... These rocks, with an air of holiness and chill of waves sprinkling all over, totally uplift the self. Late evening, view the sunset at the beach... At ﬁrst it may not sound something unusual to anyone. But, after watching the Sun slowly dipping in the seawaters at this location, you will

Kovalam

One more day to experience Kovalam completely... Continue your beach recreations. Enjoy the big splashes in the rejuvenating sea breezes. As per your choice avail options like Ayurveda Massage, Yoga, etc. After fully satisfying with beach entertainments, stay overnight at the hotel / resort in Kovalam.

Day 13:

Day 14:

Alappuzha - Kochi

After relishing the charm of backwaters, check out from the houseboat this morning and drive to ʻKochiʼ, Keralaʼs no: 1 port city. After reaching Kochi check in to your hotel... relax for some time.

Soon set out for a city sightseeing tour. Kochi is a place that eﬀectively combines its modern luxuries together with the medieval colonial charm. You will justify this fact after experiencing both - right from the main city center to suburban locations like Mattancherry and Fort Kochi. The Chinese ﬁshing nets, St. Francis Church & Anglo Indian Bungalows at Fort Kochi and, the Dutch Palace, Jewish Street & Synagogue at Mattancherry bring back memories of the stylish colonial era... while the busy M G Road and Marine Drive thrives ahead in modernity. After the city tour, return to your hotel at Kochi for overnight stay.

Kovalam - Alappuzha

From beaches to backwaters... Proceed to Alappuzha from Kovalam. With plenty of waterways, canals & backwater lagoons, Alappuzha is aptly

swear this can be hardly seen in anywhere else. Kanyakumariʼs unique geographical location enables both sunset & sunrise views at the same beach. So plan accordingly to observe the phenomenon. Overnight stay at Kanyakumari.

Day 10:

Kanyakumari - Kovalam

First make sure to view the spectacular sunrise at Kanyakumari. Then after breakfast checkout from the Hotel and drive to the most famous beach haven in Kerala, Kovalam. Check in to your hotel / resort at Kovalam on arrival. Take own time to get absorbed in the pleasant surroundings. Overnight stay at Kovalam.

dubbed in the world tourism map as ʻthe Venice of the Eastʼ - also the hub of Keralaʼs backwater tourism. By afternoon check in to a houseboat at Alappuzha. As the overnight cruise begins, settle down in this ﬂoating luxury and get immersed in the gentle rhymes of backwaters. Watch the green paddies dotted with coconut trees, groups of ducks enjoying the waters, village folks engaged in their ages-old routines... grasp

Day 15:

Kochi (departure)

The tour concludes today... check out from the hotel and proceed to Kochi Airport for departure.

Route Map

the spirit of rural Kerala that still thrives unaltered in these regions. Spice up your cruise with delicious Kerala cuisines along the way. Overnight stay in the houseboat comforts.

DELHI, MANDAWA BIKANER, JAISALMER, JODHPUR, RANAKPUR, UDAIPUR, PUSHKAR, JAIPUR, AGRA

15 Nights / 16 Days Highlights

Delhi (Indiaʼs de-facto capital in terms of both history and legacy) Mandawa (a humble town known for its fascinating mansions and fort) Bikaner (a desert city with red sandstone forts, stunning mansions and golden sand dunes) Jaisalmer (Rajasthanʼs golden city, located at the heart of Thar Desert - best known for its camels and sand dunes) Jodhpur (another distinguished desert city - often dubbed as Sun City or Blue City) Ranakpur (a quite village - one of the most important pilgrimage sites of Jainism) Udaipur (the City of attractive lakes) Pushkar (famous for its Camel fair, also an important religious place for Hindus ) Jaipur (the Pink City of gorgeous, lavish mansions - typical symbol of the Rajput heritage) Agra (former power centre of the Mughal era - moreover the land of Taj Mahal - worldʼs most famous monument of love)

ajputs & ajasthan

Day 1:

Delhi

Day 3:

Delhi - Mandawa

Arrival at New Delhi Airport - the starting point of your fascinating Rajasthan tour... Upon arrival, proceed for check-in to your hotel at New Delhi - the legendary state capital of India. Take own time to settle down in the new environs. Subject to time, go for sightseeing New Delhiʼs nearby attractions. Overnight stay at the hotel in New Delhi

Day 5:

Bikaner - Jaisalmer

Depart from Bikaner to a ʻgolden cityʼ at the heart of Thar Desert - Jaisalmer. Due to its strategic location on the camel trade routes, Jaisalmer was as an important trading centre right from ancient times. On reaching Jaisalmer, transfer to your hotel and spend the day at leisure. Overnight stay at Jaisalmer.

Day 2:

Delhi

Start this day with Delhi sightseeing... Visit some of Delhiʼs precious landmarks, such as, the mighty ʻRed Fortʼ (a masterpiece of the Mughal architecture), ʻJuma Masjidʼ (the largest Mosque in India), ʻRajghatʼ (Memorial of ʻMahatma Gandhiʼ, regarded as the ʻFather of Indiaʼ), ʻIndia Gateʼ (a war memorial raised in honor of the Indian soldiers)... from India Gate you can view the grand ʻParliament Houseʼ (headquarters of Indian democratic system).

Continue your sightseeing with Delhiʼs other time tested famed monuments like; the ʻHumayunʼs Tombʼ (the Mausoleum of Mughal Emperor Humayun - a trendsetter of Indo Islamic architectural style that reached its peak at Taj Mahal), the ʻQutub Minarʼ (worldʼs tallest brick minaret - the ﬁrst monument built after the Islamic conquest of Delhi), ʻJantar Mantarʼ (an 18th century masonry observatory), ʻLakshmi Narayan Templeʼ (an epitome of modern Indian temple architecture), etc. After your Delhi-stint, come back to hotel and stay overnight.

Day 4:

Mandawa - Bikaner

Depart from Mandawa this morning and travel to Bikaner, the fascinating desert city of Raja sthan. On arrival, check-in to your hotel at Bikaner and take a break. Later set out for sightseeing Bikaner... Visit Bikanerʼs prime fortress - the ʻJuna garh Fortʼ. Inside the fort, see its eye-catching constituents like the ʻKaran Mahalʼ (public audience hall), ʻAnup Mahalʼ and the ʻFort Museumʼ. Afterwards, subject to time, visit Bikanerʼs other noted monuments like, the ʻLaxmi Niwas Palaceʼ and ʻLalgarh Palaceʼ. With ample eye feasts of Bikanerʼs striking red sandstone forts, palaces / havelis and golden sand dunes, return to your hotel. Overnight stay at Bikaner.

Day 6:

Jaisalmer

A full day for sightseeing Jaisalmer... Start with a visit to the massive ʻJaisalmer Fortʼ ‒ its sandstone walls turn to a magical honey gold color at sunset ! Visit ʻPatwon Ki Haveliʼ ‒ the largest and most magniﬁcent of Jaisalmerʼs havelis (mansions). Then, trace Jaisalmerʼs ancient ʻJain heritageʼ by visiting some prominent Jain Temples (many adorn this desert city).

Later, experience the ultimate speciality of Jaisalmer by opting for a Jeep / Camel Safari thru the golden coloured sand dunes. Find yourself amidst the seas of sands... much like the ʻLawrence of Arabiaʼ style! (subject to time and resource, the lucky ones can avail the typical desertʼs ʻtent-stayʼ). Overnight stay at Jaisalmer.

Day 7:

Jaisalmer - Jodhpur

Day 9:

Jodhpur - Ranakpur

Today morning, leave Jaisalmer and drive to another distinct desert city of Rajasthan - ʻJodhpurʼ, place nicknames as ʻSun Cityʼ / ʻBlue Cityʼ, owing to its unique climatic conditions and skyline. At Jodhpur, visit its notable attractions, such as, the ʻUmaid Bhavan Palace and Museumʼ (arguably the ﬁnest of many such mansions / havelis in the area), the ʻUmaid Gardensʼ (a vast garden with lush lawns & ﬂowers)... Overnight stay at your hotel in Jodhpur.

Jodhpur

One more day for exploring Jodhpurʼs assets... Visit the ʻMehrangarh Fortʼ (the most magnificent fort in Jodhpur - stationed on a hilltop). See the numerous attractions confined within the fortress like; palaces, galleries, temples and the fort a museum. Then visit the ʻJaswant Thadaʼ ‒ a royal cenotaph made up of white marble ‒ located close to the Mehrangarh fort complex. Later, spend your evening time by shopping (optional) ‒ get to know the typical items reflecting legendary Rajputana culture. Continue your overnight stay at Jodhpur.

Ranakpur - Udaipur

From Ranakpur proceed to Udaipur ‒ the ʻCity of lovely lakesʼ in Rajasthan (also, the historic capital of erstwhile Rajput Kingdom of Mewar). On arrival check in to your hotel. Later visit Udaipurʼs attractive ʻCity Palace complexʼ (a massive series

This day depart from Jodhpur and drive to ʻRanakpurʼ village - one amongst the 5 most important pilgrimage sites of Jainism. Visit the marble temple, an architecturally wonderful Jain Shrine in Ranakpur. The temple complex built in milk-white marble has a complicated series of 29 halls supported by a forest of 1444 pillars! After experiencing the air of holiness, stay overnight at the hotel in Ranakpur.

Day 8:

Day 10:

of elegant palaces, built at diﬀerent times of Rajput rule). At night retire to your hotel. Overnight stay at Udaipur.

Day 11:

Udaipur

A day-long sightseeing of the ʻLake Cityʼ ‒ Udaipur... Visit ʻSahelion ki Bariʼ (gardens beaut iﬁed with lotus pools, marble pavilions and elephant-shaped fountains). Then, take a boat ride in the plush ʻLake of Picholaʼ ‒ a lake with two cute islands, ʻJag Niwasʼ and ʻJag Mandirʼ. At the middle of the lake you can view the ʻLake Palaceʼ ‒ a sight that will remind of pictures from fairy tales! After relishing the ʻcity of lakesʼ for the day, get back to your hotel for overnight stay.

Day 12:

Udaipur - Pushkar

Bid farewell to Udaipur and proceed to ʻPushkarʼ... An important religious place for Hindus, Pushkar is also famous for its Camel fair alias ʻPushkar Fairʼ. En route visit ʻAjmerʼ, which is one of Indiaʼs most important Muslim pilgrimage centers. Visit Ajmerʼs fascinating shrine of Khwaja Muin-ud-din Chishti (subject to time & convenience). Then continue your drive to Pushkar. On reaching the destination famous for the Lord Brahma Temple check in to the hotel. Spend rest of the time at leisure. Overnight stay at Pushkar.

Day 13:

Pushkar - Jaipur

Proceed for sightseeing of Pushkar this morning... Visit its most famous shrine - ʻLord Brahma Templeʼ, only very few shrines of this deity exist in the world. Then visit ʻSavitri Templeʼ (overlooking a lake, this temple can be reached after one hour long trekking), and Papa Mochani Temple. Later on depart from Pushkar and travel to Jaipur - Rajasthanʼs capital city. On reaching Jaipur, after a short relax, set out for sightseeing. Visit the elegant mansion, ʻCity Palaceʼ ‒ an eye catching

fusion of Rajputana and Mughal Architecture. Next, visit the ʻJantar Mantarʼ ‒ the largest Stone Astronomical Observatory in the World! Then proceed to view a classic testimony of the Raj putana architecture, the ʻHawa Mahalʼ (meaning ʻPalace of Windsʼ) ‒ a pyramid shaped facade with ﬁve stories & decorated with hundreds of pink sandstone windows. Then, as time permits, do some shopping at Jaipur and ﬁnd out the innumerable special items that the city is known for. At night return to your hotel at Jaipur for overnight stay.

Day 14 : Jaipur - Agra Today morning visit Jaipurʼs time tested elegance - the ʻAmber Fortʼ (former capital of Rajput Kings), an imposing Fort city atop steeply hills. On the top of this majestic fort, you will be greeted with a spellbinding view of surrounding mountains and the Maotha Lake below. Inside the fortress, explore the beauty of the MugalHindu architectural combination in several spots like, the ʻGanesh Polʼ, ʻMaharaja Palaceʼ, ʻDiwan-iAmʼ & ʻDiwan-E-Khasʼ, ʻJai Mandirʼ, ʻSheesh Mahalʼ - a hall, full of tiny inlaid mirrors, and the adjoining ʻShila Devi Templeʼ. For descending the steeply hills from Amber Fort, you can opt for an exciting Elephant ride.

Later, depart Jaipur for ʻFatehpur Sikriʼ (oncecapital of the Mugal Kingdom, which was

abandoned later). At Fatehpur Sikri, you can ʻvirtuallyʼ travel back to a bygone era, by sightseeing plentiful monuments and red sandstone palaces. After an hourʼs drive from Fatehpur Sikri, you will reach ʻAgraʼ - an ancient city plus erstwhile capital of the Mugals. On reaching Agra, check in to the hotel and be at leisure. Overnight stay at Agra.

Day 15: Agra - Delhi Start this day with a visit to the worldʼs most famous monument of love - the ﬁnest specimen of Mughal architecture - ʻTaj Mahalʼ. Feast your eyes with this marvel of a monument - even now, only few could match it in terms of beauty & architectural brilliance. (Taj Mahal will be closed on Fridays for the public, except for those who go for afternoon prayers in the mosque next to the monument) After the Taj-stint, visit the splendid ʻAgra Fortʼ - a massively walled palatial city - look alike of the celebrated ʻRed Fortʼ at Delhi. Later leave Agra

and proceed to Delhi. After reaching Indiaʼs celebrated capital, check in to the hotel. Relax and subject to time plus convenience opt for some shopping ‒ souvenirs to cherish your trip. Overnight stay at Delhi.

Day 16: Delhi (departure) Conclusion of your mega Rajasthan tour... Check out from your hotel and proceed to Delhi Airport for a departure - farewell with pleasant memories.

Route Map

HYDERABAD, BIJAPUR BADAMI, HOSPET, HASSAN MADIKERI, NAGARHOLE MYSORE, BANGLORE

16 Nights / 17 Days Highlights

Hyderabad (The City of Pearls - a delightful mix of North and South Indian cultures) Bijapur (Former Deccan Sultanate capital with a trove of elegant monuments) Badami (Site of world renowned heritage temples & monuments) Hospet (Gateway to the famous medieval-era Vijayanagara Empire site) Hassan (Nicknamed as Scotland of India, a base to world famous temple sites - Belur and Halebid) Madikeri (A beautiful hill station town in Deccan peninsula) Nagarhole (A major wildlife reserve in Karnataka with abundance of forest life) Mysore (Power centre of former Mysore Kingdom that still retains its royal legacy) Bangalore (Indiaʼs Garden City & Silicon Valley)

DECCAN HUNT Treasure

Day 1: Hyderabad

Day 3: Hyderabad - Bijapur

Arrival at ʻHyderabadʼ, capital city of Andhra Pradesh state where you tour takes oﬀ. Located around the center of the Indian peninsula, at the cross road of North and South India, Hyderabad exhibits a typical culture - more of a mix of

Now travel back to the eventful past of the medieval-era Deccan... Depart from Hyderabad and drive to ʻBijapurʼ via ʻGulbargaʼ - the strongholds of Islamic Sultanates that ﬂourished in Deccan region during the Middle Ages. At Gulbarga, visit the imposing ʻGulbarga Fortʼ. Once a key-post of the Bahmani Sultanate, this exempliﬁes the earliest Islamic architecture. You can see this deteriorating-but-massive fortress encompasses many age old structures ranging from Mosque, palace courtyards, towers, stables... to guns & ammunition dumps. Later continue the drive to Bijapur... On reaching the destination, check-in to the hotel and relax. Overnight stay at Bijapur.

Hindu and Muslim traditions. After a warm welcome, proceed to your hotel at Hyderabad. After check in, settle down in the comforts of your lodgings... rest of the day is at leisure. Overnight stay at Hyderabad.

Day 2: Hyderabad A full day for sightseeing the city of Hyderabad... A city boasting of history & tradition in abundance, the sightseeing consists mainly of Old City and New City. Begin visiting Old Cityʼs prime spots like; the ʻCharminarʼ (the iconic landmark of Hyderabad - this ʻfour minarets structureʼ dated back to the old Sultanate days), ʻLaad Bazaarʼ (famous bangles & pearls market befitting Hyderabadʼs reputation as ʻcity of pearlsʼ), ʻMecca Masjidʼ (a legendary centuries-old worship centre), ʻGolconda Fortʼ (the oldest existing structure in Hyderabad former stronghold of Golconda Sultans, the famous Kohinoor diamond was supposed to be extracted from here), and ʻSalar Jung Museumʼ (exhibiting a collection of over 40000 artifacts from all over the world, including articles from medieval & modern Islamic era). Later go sightseeing the New Cityʼs attractions namely the ʻBirla Mandirʼ (a magnificent Hindu temple entirely built in white marble), the ʻHussain Sagar Lakeʼ (an artificial lake that separates the twin cities Hyderabad and Secunderabad, built during the Qutb Shah Sultanate era). Enjoy a boat ride in this lake. At the centre of the lake you can see a towering statue of Lord Buddha. After the day-long city tour; return to your hotel to relax. Overnight stay at the hotel in Hyderabad.

Day 4: Bijapur - Badami Set out for Bijapur sightseeing this morning... Dotted with old mosques, mausoleums, palaces & fortiﬁcations... this former capital of Bijapur Sultanate stand as a mute witness of the splendid royal era. Visit Bijapurʼs most noted landmark - the ʻGol Gumbazʼ, mausoleum of Muhammad Adil Shah, a ruler from the Adil Shahi dynasty that ruled Bijapur for centuries. What makes this mammoth tomb stand out

village beautified with timeworn elegant temple structures throughout. A look-around at Aihole; and you will learn that it is one of the cradles of ancient temple architecture. From Aihole proceed to the nearby ʻPattadakalʼ, another capital royal of the Chalukya Kings. This place gives a perfect illustration of Chalukyan architectural style; which was a wonderful blend of Southern (Dravidian) and Northern (Indo-Aryan) temple architectural styles. In fact Pattadakal may be the only place where both North & South Indian-styled temples share the same landscape. Here there are ten temples - four built in Dravidian style, another four in Indo-Aryan style, one in mixed style and one Jain shrine. All temples perfectly illustrate themes from Hindu mythology. With enhanced know-how of timeless architectural legacy, continue your journey to Badami. Upon reaching, get in to your lodgings at Badami and stay overnight.

Day5: Badami-Hospet Today morning make a visit to Badamiʼs world renowned heritage site - Cave temple complex. Here you can see four rock-cut caves, Cave 1 (dedicated to Lord Shiva, with a magnificent statue of Nataraja - the lord in dancing posture), Cave 2 (dedicated to Lord Vishnu), Cave 3 (the biggest of the lot with depictions of Lord Vishnuʼs various incarnations) and Cave 4 (dedicated to Jainism; with statues of ʻJain Tirthankarasʼ - Propagators of Jain faith). After the tryst with ancient and medieval worship centers, bid adieu to Badami and drive to ʻHospetʼ, the gateway to South Indiaʼs glorious past - ʻEmpire of Vijayanagaraʼ. Upon reaching the destination city check in to your hotel. Be at leisure for the rest of the day. Overnight stay in Hospet.

is its central dome. Unsupported by any pillar, this is regarded as the third largest surviving one of its kind; in the world. See the astonishing whispering-gallery, where even the faintest sound is echoed about eleven times! After the mausoleum visit, proceed to the great ʻJuma Masjidʼ, which is considered as one among the ﬁnest in India. After enough visual delights at Bijapur, bid adieu & drive to ʻBadamiʼ, another erstwhile royal capital famous for its cave temples. On the way drop in at ʻAiholeʼ, the ﬁrst capital of the legendary Chalukya Empire that once covered large parts of southern and central India. As time has taken its toll, Aihole now is a calm

Day 6: Hospet Begin sightseeing of a never-before place that occupies a permanent slot in both Indian & world history... ʻVijayanagaraʼ - the once- majestic capital of ʻVijayanagara Empireʼ, an empire that once covered the entire South India and rated amongst the mightiest and wealthiest empires of its era! Now in ruins; this postroyal city was regarded as the most splendid city in the world of its time. This was a place that once brimmed with abundant wealth and international traders... a time when even gold & diamonds were sold on waysides here! There was never-before-or-after a place in the world which was brimming with activities on once day and reduced to ruins on the next! That was the result of the infamous Battle of Talikota (in 1565) which ended the last great Hindu Empire in South India. The aftermath was about six months of continuous merciless looting & plundering - perhaps most ruthless of its kind - that left city of Vijayanagara in shambles. What now stands is ʻHampiʼ, the original centre of Vijayanagara city.

Day 7: Hospet - Hassan

Now itʼs time to chill up your tour with hill station delights... Depart from Hassan & its legendary neighbors to ʻMadikeriʼ - a high range town best known for its scenic locations and coﬀee / coco plantations; all supplemented by an enjoyable weather.

Today, depart Hospet and travel to ʻHassanʼ known as the ʻPoor Manʼs Ootyʼ for its scenic locations also the base of some fabulous heritage sites (Belur, Halebid). En route visit ʻShravana belagolaʼ one of the holiest Jain pilgrimage sites; renowned for its colossal monolithic statue of Jain saint Gomateshwara. Created around 983 AD, the statue, standing at a height of 18 meters, is regarded the tallest monolithic statue in the world. Then proceed to Hassan... on arrival check in to your hotel for overnight stay.

Day 8: Hassan From Hassan, start a tour to a pair of breathtakingly beautiful temple towns - Belur & Halebid - that are second to one anywhere else in architectural brilliance. Popularly known as Southern Banaras (Dakshina Varanasi), ʻBelurʼ was the former capital of Hoysala Kings who were great patrons of temples. Visit the most stunning trademark of Belur, the ʻChennakeshava Templeʼ. This star shaped temple will leave its onlookers spell-bound with sublime structural beauty. Its peculiar structure, vastly contrasting from other traditional Dravidian temples, together with fantastically carved temple-walls will always keep the visitors glued to this place!

Explore the ruins of Hampi which mainly consists of two parts - ʻRoyal Centreʼ and ʻSacred Centreʼ. In Royal Centre, as its name implies, see the remains of splendid royal monuments notably the ʻLotus Mahalʼ, ʻQueenʼs Bathʼ, ʻRoyal Elephant Stablesʼ, etc. In Sacred Centre visit legendary temples that includes the ʻVirupaksha Templeʼ (the biggest shrine here that towers proudly over the Hampi leftovers), ʻVittala Templeʼ (another major pilgrimage center in Hampi), ʻThe Kingʼs Balanceʼ (a tall granitepillared structure formerly used as a balance), ʻLakshmi Narasimhaʼ (a massive rock cut idol of Lord Narasimha), ʻSule Bazaarʼ (which was once an international trade center), ʻAchyuta raya Templeʼ (one more serene temple neighbored by a hill)... With many questions about how such a wealthy state capital was reduced to ruins within no time; return to your hotel at Hospet for overnight stay.

Day 9: Hassan - Madikeri

With a refreshed mindset, proceed to ʻHalebidʼ - another erstwhile capital of the Hoysalas. At Halebid visit other superb testimonials of Hoysala temple architecture such as the Hoysaleshwara Temple and the Kedareshwara Temple. After seeing all these magniﬁcent monuments you will surely wonder; is there any such temples in the world outclass these classy ones in Belur & Halebid? Afterwards visit ʻBasadi Halliʼ where you will ﬁnd a number of serene Jain monasteries. Understand that Jainism was a dominant region in ancient India. As night falls, return to your lodgings at Hassan for overnight stay.

On arrival, check in to your lodgings at Madikeri... take own time to get accustomed to the new chilly surroundings. Spend the rest of the day at leisure. Overnight stay at the hotel in Madikeri.

Day 10: Madikeri Devote this day for exploring Madikeri hill station and nearby attractions. First set out to visit the ʻAbbey Fallsʼ, a waterfall located in a remote greenish terrain. After the energizing waterfall experience, set out to a location of a diﬀerent kind... towards ʻKushal Nagarʼ via ʻNisargadhamaʼ. At Kushal Nagar, visit the Namdrolling Monastery (Tibetan Golden temple). This place will remind you of a miniature Tibet. In the Namdroling Monastery, it will feel like another world, the holistic world of Buddhist Lamas. Near the Monastery you can also purchase some unique Tibetan souvenirs. On return from Kushal Nagar, halt for another excursion at ʻCauvery Nisargadhamaʼ, a pristine island full of lush bamboo forest surrounded by River Cauvery. Here you can avail various options to relish the full beauty of this place like; a boat ride around the isle or an elephant ride thru the bamboo forest. As the day ends, get back to your hotel at Madikeri for overnight stay.

Day 11: Madikeri Another day for enjoying Madikeriʼs crude charm to the maximum. Start with visiting a time-stained landmark, the ʻMadikeri Fortʼ. This monument throws light to the bygone royal times where fortresses were key protection posts. Later go for plantations visit... Refresh yourself with the chilly environment in the g green coated coﬀee / coco plantations.

Last but not least; visit one beauty spot at Madikeri, the ʻRaja Seatʼ - a small hill which oﬀers nice panoramic view of the town and the surrounding mist coated mountains & plantations. This place is named so because the then local ruler (ʻRajaʼ in local) used to enjoy the scenery from here! After an ideal picnic return to your hotel by nightfall. Overnight stay at Madikeri.

Day 14: Nagarhole - Mysore

very, Krishnarajasagar Dam is an important irrigation project in South India. Roam around the Brindavan Gardens, a beautifully laid out terrace garden enriched with fountains, terraces, cascading water-channels, trees, green lawns and ﬂower beds. Donʼt miss its prime attraction - the ʻmusical & dancing fountainʼ. Watch how the beauty is technically mingled with nature! At night, return to your hotel in Mysore for overnight stay

Day 16: Mysore - Bangalore From royal times to modern times... From Mysore, drive to Bangalore - Karnatakaʼs capital as well as a vibrant city. En route, visit another post-royal place - ʻSrirangapattanaʼ (Capital of former Mysore King, Tipu Sultan). Visit its famed monuments like, Tipuʼs Fort and Palace. See the spot where the Sultan was killed during the fatal battle between Mysore and the British in 1799 (which paved way for the British dominance in South India).

Day 12: Madikeri - Nagarhole More into the thrills of wild beauties... Say farewell to the cool hilly Madikeri and drive to ʻNagarholeʼ, one of the best wildlife parks in India. Richly covered with forests and beautiﬁed with valleys, streams & waterfalls, Nagarhole shelters numerous species of wildlife especially Tigers, Indian Bisons, Elephants, Asian wild dogs... in

From the wildlife terrains to a former royal abode. Depart from Nagarhole to ʻMysoreʼ capital of erstwhile Mysore Kingdom that bears strong traces of royal era. On arrival, check in & settle down in the Hotel at Mysore. In the evening, as time permits, make a visit to one of the oldest & grandest churches in city - St. Philomenaʼs Church, a perfect example of gothic style of architecture in India. Overnight stay at Mysore.

Day 15: Mysore addition to many endangered birds. After reaching Nagarhole start a preliminary exploration of the wildlife habitat by taking a Jeep Safari. Spend the rest of the day immersed in the silent crude greenish environs. Overnight stay at Nagarhole.

Day 13: Nagarhole Another day in the lap of mother nature... try out diﬀerent means to uncover the hidden charm of Nagarhole viz., a delightful cruise thru the adjoining Kabini River, then an elephant ride to watch the wild species form a ʻhighʼ angle, plus do bird-watching at the Korapur forest region, etc. Immerse yourself completely in the pure natural habitat - views of the distant misty Brahmagiri hills at the backdrop, soothing gurgling of the streams and waterfalls, twittering of the birds, all together will recharge you completely. At nightfall get back to your lodgings at Nagarhole and stay overnight.

This day is fully devoted to sightseeing the legendary post-royal city of Mysore. Start off your trip with a visit to the Mysore Palace - once the official residence of the Wodeyar Kings, erstwhile rulers of Mysore Kingdom. Watch the magnificent architectural brilliance of the palace, where you can find a blend of various noted construction styles in medieval India era,

moreover a typical Indo-Saracenic style. Then, visit the nearby Art Gallery - which is also a former palace converted into art gallery. Considered among the best of its kind in India, here you can view the painting & murals that showcase the legacy of Mysore Royal family, as well as, famous paintings of various artists across the world. Later set out to visit a major attraction in the outskirts of Mysore - the Brindavan Gardens and Krishnarajasagar Dam. Built across the river Cau-

Carry on your journey to Bangalore... On arrival, check in to your hotel and settle down to wash oﬀ your journey hangover. Soon set out to a quick city sightseeing tour... Visit Bangaloreʼs prime spots of attraction like the imposing ʻVidhana Soudhaʼ buildings, the majestic ʻBangalore Palaceʼ, the shady ʻCubbon Parkʼ, etc. At nightfall return to your Hotel at Bangalore for overnight stay.

Day 17: Bangalore (departure) Time for departure... Check out from the hotel and proceed to Airport to catch your return ﬂight - a memorable trip concludes.

Route Map

KOVALAM, ALAPPUZHA KUMARAKOM, THEKKADY KOCHI, OOTY, MYSORE HASSAN, HOSPET BADAMI, BIJAPUR GOA

21 Nights / 22 Days Highlights

Kovalam (An international Beach haven) Alappuzha (The Venice of the East Keralaʼs backwater tourism hub) Kumarakom (Another major centre for Kerala backwater tourism, plus, abode of Bird Sanctuary) Thekkady

(Location

Periyar

Wildlife Sanctuary - an adventurerʼs spot) Kochi (Keralaʼs ﬁnancial capital - a city that combines modernity with ancient elegance) Ooty (An internationally renowned hill station) Mysore (Power centre of former Mysore Kingdom that still retains its royal legacy) Hassan (Nicknamed as the Scotland of India, a base to world famous temple sites - Belur and Halebid) Hospet (Gateway to the famous medieval-era Vijayanagara Empire site) Badami (Site of world renowned heritage temples & monuments) Bijapur (Former Deccan Sultanate capital with a trove of elegant monuments) Goa (Location of heritage architecture and heavenly beaches)

explore the

South

Day 1:

Kovalam

Arrival at Trivandrum, Keralaʼs capital where your South Indian exploration begins... From Trivandrum proceed to one of the ﬁnest beach havens in the world - Kovalam. Check in to your hotel / resort at Kovalam on arrival and get ready for a beach day. Kovalam is blessed with three lovely crescent-shaped seashores, namely ʻSamudra Beachʼ (which is the main beach), ʻHowah Beachʼ and ʻLighthouse Beachʼ. Spent the entire

Day 3:

Alappuzha - Kumarakom

Today morning transfer to the Resort at Kumarakom from the houseboat... Afterwards,

take a short tour of the village - exploring its natural landscapes. Visit the ʻKumarakom Bird Sanctuaryʼ (famous for local and migratory birds). In the

soon set out to visit that wild hub. Enriched with variety ﬂora & fauna, Periyar Sanctuary attracts a large number of nature lovers every year as it is ideal for watching animals in their natural habitat. Here you can either opt for a boating in the beautiful lake, or engage in other exciting activities like

soft trekking, spice plantation visit, shopping spice items... Overnight stay at the hotel in Thekkady.

Day 6: day engaged in various beach activities - sunbathing, swimming, enjoying the big splashes in the rejuvenating sea breeze.... After a satisfying beach stint, return to your hotel / resort for overnight stay.

Day 2:

Thekkady - Kochi

Add a touch of modernity as a welcome variety in your tour program. Leave Thekkady

Kovalam - Alappuzha

Now itʼs time to experience a typical Kerala specialty - the backwater cruise. Drive to Alappuzha

evening return to your Resort and stay overnight.

Day 4:

Kumarakom

Spend a full day engrossed in the lavish comforts of the Kumarakom Resort... According to your choice, avail Resortʼs special services that include ʻAyurveda Massageʼ, ʻYogaʼ, ʻMeditationʼ,

and drive to ʻKochiʼ, Keralaʼs no: 1 port city. In a drive that takes a few hours enjoy Keralaʼs green covered landscape that dot the way. After reaching Kochi check in to your hotel & relax. Spend the rest of the day at leisure. Overnight stay at the hotel in Kochi.

Day 7: from Kovalam. With plenty of waterways, canals & backwater lagoons, Alappuzha is rightfully dubbed in the world tourism map as ʻthe Venice of the Eastʼ - also the hub of Keralaʼs backwater tourism. By afternoon check in to a houseboat at Alappuzha. As the overnight cruise begins, settle down in this ﬂoating luxury and get immersed in the gentle rhymes of backwaters. Watch the green paddies dotted with coconut trees, groups of ducks enjoying the waters, village folks engaged in their ages-old routines... grasp the spirit of rural Kerala that still thrives unaltered in these regions. Spice up your cruise with delicious Kerala cuisines along the way. Overnight stay in the houseboat comforts.

Kochi

Today set out for a city sightseeing tour. Kochi is a place that eﬀectively combines its modern luxuries together with the medieval colonial charm. You will justify this fact after experiencing both - right from the main city center to suburban locations like Mattancherry and Fort Kochi. The Chinese ﬁshing nets, St. Francis Church and etc. Get yourself thoroughly rejuvenated. Overnight stay at Kumarakom Resort.

Day 5:

Kumarakom - Thekkady

From one beauty spot to another... Depart Kumarakom for ʻThekkadyʼ - abode of Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, a major wildlife reserve in the country. After arriving at the destination,

Anglo Indian Bungalows at Fort Kochi and, the Dutch Palace, Jewish Street & Synagogue at Mattancherry bring back memories of the stylish colonial era... while the busy M G Road and Marine Drive thrives ahead in modernity. After a thorough city tour return to your hotel at Kochi for overnight stay.

Day 8:

Then, visit the nearby Art Gallery - which is also a former palace converted into art gallery. Considered among the best of its kind in India, here you can view the painting & murals that showcase the legacy of Mysore Royal family, as well as, famous paintings of various artists across the world. Later set out to visit a major attraction in the outskirts of Mysore - the Brindavan Gardens

Kochi - Coimbatore

Time for experiencing the thrill of hilly regions... Say bye to Kochi for an excursion to a well known hill station in the world - ʻOotyʼ. First take a drive to ʻCoimbatoreʼ, a major industrial city in Tamil Nadu as well as a transit-destination to Ooty. On reaching Coimbatore, check in to your lodgings, take own time to freshen-up and settle down. Overnight stay at Coimbatore.

Day 9:

Coimbatore - Ooty

In the morning depart from Coimbatore to the ʻQueen of Hill Stations in Southʼ. The drive to Ooty is itself refreshing with several challenging hair-pin curves on the way. Upon reaching, check in to the Hotel at Ooty and take own time to settle in the coolish environs. As time permits, heartwarming views of plantations, streams and waterfalls brings you to the city of Mysore. On arrival, settle down in the Hotel at Mysore. In the evening, as time permits, make a visit to one of the oldest & grandest churches in the city - St. Philomenaʼs Church, a perfect example of gothic style of architecture in India. Overnight stay at Mysore.

Day 12: just roam around in the town area and do some shopping - as at times you cannot restrict buying some cute things typically unique to this place. Overnight stay in the comforts of the Hotel at Ooty.

Day 10:

and Krishnarajasagar Dam. Built across the river Cauvery, Krishnarajasagar Dam is an important irrigation project in South India. Roam around the Brindavan Gardens, a beautifully laid out

Mysore

A full day for sightseeing the legendary city of Mysore... Start oﬀ your trip with a visit to the Mysore Palace - once the oﬃcial residence of

Ooty

A full day especially for Ooty sightseeing... Set out to experience the hill stationʼs prized attractions like, the Ooty Lake (where you can avail boating options or horse riding along the

banks), Botanical Gardens (where you can ﬁnd some of the treasured plants & ﬂowers in the world), Dodabetta Peak (the highest point in Ooty, where you can experience a spellbinding view of the misty mountains & valleys), Echo Rock (a rock that naturally took the shape of a lamb; also known as Lambʼs Rock)... After plenty of refreshments return to your Hotel in late evening for overnight stay.

Day 11:

Ooty - Mysore

Today depart from Ootyʼs chills to ʻMysoreʼ, a city of post-royal charm. An exciting ride with

terrace garden enriched with fountains, terraces, cascading water-channels, trees, green lawns and ﬂower beds. Donʼt miss its prime attraction - the ʻmusical & dancing fountainʼ. Watch how the beauty is technically mingled with nature! At night, return to your hotel in Mysore for overnight stay.

Day 13:

Mysore - Hassan

After experiencing Mysoreʼs legacy, itʼs time to get more insight into the glorious times of bygone royal dynasties that once held sway in Deccan. Depart Mysore and travel to ʻHassanʼ, known as the ʻPoor Manʼs Ootyʼ for its scenic locations also the base of some fabulous heritage sites (Belur, Halebid). En route visit the historic place, ʻSrirangapattanaʼ (Capital of former Mysore King, Tipu Sultan). Visit its famed monuments like,

Tipuʼs Fort and Palace. See the spot where the Sultan was killed during the fatal battle between Mysore and the British (which paved way for the British dominance in South India). Continue your journey... Next halt at ʻShravanabelagolaʼ one of the holiest Jain pilgrimage sites;

renowned for its colossal monolithic statue of Jain saint Gomateshwara. Created around 983 AD, the statue, standing at a height of 18 meters, is regarded the tallest monolithic statue in the world. Then proceed to Hassan... on arrival check in to your hotel for overnight stay.

Day 14:

Hassan - Hospet

From Hassan, start a tour to a pair of breathtakingly beautiful temple towns - Belur & Halebid - that are second to none anywhere else in archi tectural brilliance. Popularly known as Southern Banaras (Dakshina Varanasi), ʻBelurʼ was the former capital of Hoysala Kings who were great

patrons of temples. Visit the most stunning trademark of Belur, the ʻChennakeshava Templeʼ. This star shaped temple will leave its onlookers spell-bound with sublime structural beauty. Its peculiar structure, vastly contrasting from other traditional Dravidian temples, together with fantastically carved temple-walls will always keep the visitors glued to this place! With a refreshed mindset, proceed to ʻHalebidʼ - another erstwhile capital of the Hoysalas. At Halebid visit other superb testimonials of Hoysala temple architecture such as the

world history... ʻVijayanagaraʼ - the once-majestic capital of ʻVijayanagara Empireʼ, an empire that once covered the entire South India and rated amongst the mightiest and wealthiest empires of its era! Now in ruins; this post-royal city was regarded as the most splendid city in the world of its time. This was a place that once brimmed with abundant wealth and international traders...

a time when even gold & diamonds were sold on waysides here! There was never-before-orafter a place in the world which was brimming with activities on once day and reduced to ruins on the next! That was the result of the infamous Battle of Talikota (in 1565) which ended the last great Hindu Empire in South India. The aftermath was about six months of continuous merciless looting & plundering - perhaps most ruthless of its kind - that left city of Vijayanagara in shambles. What now stands is ʻHampiʼ, the original centre of Vijayanagara city. Explore the ruins of Hampi which mainly consists of two parts - ʻRoyal Centreʼ and ʻSacred Centreʼ. In Royal Centre, as its name implies, see the remains of splendid royal monuments

Hoysaleshwara Temple and the Kedareshwara Temple. After seeing all these magniﬁcent monuments you will surely wonder; is there any such temples in the world outclass these classy ones in Belur & Halebid? Later, visit ʻBasadi Halliʼ where

you will ﬁnd a number of serene Jain monasteries. Understand that Jainism was a dominant region in ancient India. After the tryst with ancient & medieval worship centers, bid adieu to Hassan and drive to ʻHospetʼ, the gateway to South Indiaʼs glorious past - ʻEmpire of Vijayanagaraʼ. Upon reaching the destination city check in to your hotel. Be at leisure for the rest of the day. Overnight stay in Hospet.

Day 15:

notably the ʻLotus Mahalʼ, ʻQueenʼs Bathʼ, ʻRoyal Elephant Stablesʼ, etc. In Sacred Centre visit legendary temples that includes the ʻVirupaksha Templeʼ (the biggest shrine here that towers proudly over the Hampi leftovers), ʻVittala Templeʼ (another major pilgrimage center in Hampi), ʻThe Kingʼs Balanceʼ (a tall granite-pillared structure formerly used as a balance), ʻLakshmi Narasimhaʼ (a massive rock cut idol of Lord Narasimha), ʻSule Bazaarʼ (which was once an international trade center), ʻAchyutaraya Templeʼ (one more serene temple neighbored by a hill)... With many questions about how such a wealthy state capital was reduced to ruins within no time; return to your hotel at Hospet for overnight stay.

Hospet

Begin sightseeing of a never-before place that occupies a permanent slot in both Indian &

Day 16:

Hospet - Badami

Day 17:

Depart from the glories of bygone Vijayanagara... from Hospet drive to ʻBadamiʼ, another erstwhile royal capital famous for its cave temples. On

the way drop in at ʻAiholeʼ, the ﬁrst capital of the legendary Chalukya Empire that once covered large parts of southern and central India. As time has taken its toll, Aihole now is a calm village beautiﬁed with timeworn elegant temple structures throughout. A look-around at Aihole; and you will learn that it is one of the cradles of ancient temple architecture.

From Aihole proceed to the nearby ʻPattadakalʼ, another capital royal of the Chalukya Kings. This

Badami

Today morning make a visit to Badamiʼs world renowned heritage site - Cave temple complex.

place gives a perfect illustration of Chalukyan architectural style; which was a wonderful blend of Southern (Dravidian) and Northern (Indo-Aryan) temple architectural styles. In fact Pattadakal may be the only place where both North & South Indian-styled temples share the same landscape. Here there are ten temples - four

built in Dravidian style, another four in Indo-Aryan style, one in mixed style and one Jain shrine. All temples perfectly illustrate themes from Hindu mythology. With enhanced know-how of timeless architectural legacy, continue your journey to Badami. Upon reaching, get in to your lodgings at Badami and stay overnight.

Here you can see four rock-cut caves, Cave 1 (dedicated to Lord Shiva, with a magnificent statue of Nataraja - the lord in dancing posture), Cave 2 (dedicated to Lord Vishnu), Cave 3 (the

biggest of the lot with depictions of Lord Vishnuʼs various incarnations) and Cave 4 (dedicated to Jainism; with statues of ʻJain Tirthankarasʼ - Propagators of Jain faith). After learning thoroughly about earlier Hindu empiresʼ legacies; return to your lodgings. Overnight stay at Badami.

Day 18:

Badami - Bijapur

Now uncover one more eventful chapter in the medieval-era Deccan... Depart from Badami to ʻBijapurʼ. Dotted with old mosques, mausoleums, palaces and fortiﬁcations, this former capital of Bijapur Sultanate stand as a mute witness of the splendid royal era. On reaching Bijapur, visit its most noted landmark - the ʻGol Gumbazʼ, mausoleum of Muhamad

ʻCathedral at Old Goaʼ (regarded as the largest church in Asia... contains the biggest Golden Bell in the world), ʻChurch of St. Francis of Assisiʼ (another

Day 21:

testimony of colonial style; with elegantly carved interiors) and the nearby ʻArchaeological Museumʼ (formerly the Churchʼs convent, now showcases various colonial artifacts, portraits, etc). As daylight fades away, get in to your lodgings at Goa for overnight stay. Adil Shah, a ruler from the Adil Shahi dynasty that ruled Bijapur for centuries. What makes this mammoth tomb stand out is its central dome. Unsupported by any pillar, this is regarded as the third largest surviving one of its kind; in the world. See the astonishing whispering-gallery, where even the faintest sound is echoed about eleven times! After the mausoleum visit, proceed to the great ʻJuma Masjidʼ, which is considered

(nearest beach to the Goan capital, regarded as the most visited beach in North Goa) and, ʻDona Paula Beachʼ (an international beach destination with an aura of romance & myths. Its Dona Paula Sculpture boasts a number of interesting legends). After the full day beach-stint, return to your hotel and stay overnight.

Day 20:

Goa

For today and tomorrow enjoy Goaʼs most famous assets - beaches. Blessed with over a hundred kilometers of seashores, Goaʼs beaches are internationally acclaimed for beauty & entertainments. Start with North Goaʼs splendid seashores that consist of, ʻCalangute Beachʼ (most

20 kms of virgin white sand bead dotted with palms), ʻBenaulim Beachʼ (another tranquil beach in the neighborhood, famous for locally-made handicrafts and traditional rosewood furniture). As night falls retire to you lodgings for overnight stay.

Day 22:

as one among the ﬁnest in India. After enough visual delights at Bijapur, return to your hotel and relax. Overnight stay at Bijapur.

Day 19:

Goa

Now itʼs the turn of beach paradises in South Goa... Visit the renowned beaches here, namely ʻPalolem Beachʼ (a beach with fascinating white sand & blue bay combination - also famous for its ʻSilent Noiseʼ parties), ʻAgonda Beachʼ (a 3 kms long lonely seashore fringed with palms ideal for peace & tranquility), ʻColva Beachʼ (most prominent beach in the South Goa with about

popular beach in this area with people ﬂocking here all the time), ʻAnjuna Beachʼ (a beach beauty is known for its breeze-catching palms, soft sand bead plus peculiar rocky formations), ʻVagator

Goa (departure)

Time to conclude your mega southern exploration... Check out from your lodgings and proceed to Goa Airport to catch your return ﬂight - a return with full of happiness.

Bijapur - Goa

It is transition time - from Bijapur to Goa - to be precise, from Sultanate times to Colonial times, Indian peninsula houses such vast varieties of cultural & heritage. Take a drive to ʻGoaʼ - former Portuguese colony for more than 400 years, now a tiny Indian state with plenty of beautiful beaches, famed monuments and rich biodiversity. After a long but enjoyable ride you will find amongst the ages-old colonial charm. Still retaining remarkable Portuguese influence, Goa offers an entirely different visual treat compared to other regions in the country. Start your Goa sightseeing with its most famous heritage monuments,

Beachʼ (a secluded, crescent shaped seashore the most photographed one in Goa), ʻArambol

Beachʼ (known its soft yellow clay with healing powers and reputed Yoga, Meditation, Tai Chi centres - a foreignersʼ haven), ʻMiramar Beachʼ

Route Map 73

Inclusions and Exclusions Golden Oldies A Kerala Special

Kerala exclusives INCLUSIONS : • 06 Nights accommodation in double room on twin sharing basis on BB plan. • All transfers and sightseeing as per the itinerary in A/c medium car. • One time normal boating at Periyar Lake, Kathakali ticket, Half day guided tour of Cochin. • Entrance charges. • 1 Surprise gift from Elatrip.com. • 1 Mineral bottle of water per day per person. • Traditional welcome. • Arrival & departure assistance. • All currently applicable taxes (any Govt. or State taxes subsequently introduced will be extra.)

EXCLUSIONS : • Expenses of personal nature such as hard/soft drinks, still/video camera fees at monuments, laundry, phone/fax, tips & gratuities and travel insurance. • Flight tickets. • Any increase in fuel costs. • Any other item not mentioned in the above clause “inclusions”. • Xʼmas and New Year eve supplement.

INCLUSIONS : • 06 nightsʼ accommodation in double room on twin sharing basis on BB plan. • Overnight Houseboat cruise with all meals. • All transfers and sightseeing as per the itinerary in A/c medium car. • Service of local English speaking guide wherever applicable. • One time normal boating at Periyar Lake. • Entrance charges. • Kathakali ticket. • 1 Surprise gift from Elatrip.com • 1 Mineral bottle of water per day per person • Traditional welcome • Arrival & departure assistance. • All currently applicable taxes (any Govt. or State taxes subsequently introduced will be extra.)

INCLUSIONS : • 7 nights accommodation in double room on twin sharing basis on BB plan. • All transfers, sightseeing and excursions as per the itinerary in A/c medium car. • Service of a local English speaking guide wherever applicable. • Elephant ride at Amber Fort. • Entrance tickets. • 1 Surprise gift from Elatrip.com. • 1 Mineral bottle of water per day per person. • Traditional welcome. • Arrival & departure assistance. • All currently applicable taxes (any Govt. or State taxes subsequently introduced will be extra.)

EXCLUSIONS: EXCLUSIONS: • Expenses of personal nature such as hard/soft drinks, still/video camera fees at monuments, laundry, phone/fax, tips & gratuities and travel insurance. • Flight tickets. • Any increase in fuel costs. • Any other item not mentioned in the above clause “inclusions”. • Xʼmas and New Year eve supplement

• Expenses of personal nature such as hard/soft drinks, still/video camera fees at monuments, laundry, phone/fax, tips & gratuities and travel insurance. • Flight tickets. • Any increase in fuel costs. • Any other item not mentioned in the above clause “inclusions”. • Xʼmas and New Year ear eve ve supplement.

God’s Own Wonders

Malabar Specials

Deccan delights

INCLUSIONS :

• 06 nightsʼ accommodation in double room on twin sharing basis on BB plan. • Overnight Houseboat cruise with all meals. • All transfers and sightseeing as per the itinerary in A/c medium car. • Service of local English speaking guide wherever applicable. • One time normal boating at Periyar Lake. • Entrance charges, Kathakali ticket. • 1 Surprise gift from Elatrip.com. • 1 Mineral bottle of water per day per person. • Traditional welcome. • Arrival & departure assistance. • All currently applicable taxes (any Govt. or State taxes subsequently introduced will be extra).

• 09 nightsʼ accommodation in double room on twin sharing basis on BB plan. • All transfers, sightseeing and excursions as per the itinerary in A/c medium car. • Service of a local English speaking guide wherever applicable. • Entrance tickets. • 1 Surprise gift from Elatrip.com. • 1 Mineral bottle of water per day per person. • Traditional welcome. • Arrival & departure assistance. All currently applicable taxes (any Govt. or State taxes subsequently introduced will be extra.)

EXCLUSIONS : EXCLUSIONS :

• Expenses of personal nature such as hard/soft

drinks, still/video camera fees at monuments, laundry, phone/fax, tips & gratuities and travel insurance. • Flight tickets. • Any increase in fuel costs. • Any other item not mentioned in the above clause “inclusions”. • Xʼmas and New Year eve supplement.

INCLUSIONS : • 07 nights accommodation in double room on twin sharing basis on BB plan. • All transfers, sightseeing and excursions as per the itinerary in A/c medium car. • Service of a local English speaking guide wherever applicable. • Entrance tickets. • 1 Surprise gift from Elatrip.com. • 1 Mineral bottle of water per day per person. • Traditional welcome. • Arrival & departure assistance. • All currently applicable taxes (any Govt. or State taxes subsequently introduced will be extra.)

North Indian Delights

Silky Colors

Splendors of South

INCLUSIONS : • 11 nights accommodation in double room on twin sharing basis on BB plan. • All transfers, sightseeing and excursions as per the itinerary in A/c medium car. • Service of a local English speaking guide wherever applicable. • Entrance tickets. • 1 Surprise gift from Elatrip.com. • 1 Mineral bottle of water per day per person. • Traditional welcome. • Arrival & departure assistance. • All currently applicable taxes (any Govt. or State taxes subsequently introduced will be extra).

INCLUSIONS : INCLUSIONS : • 10 nights accommodation in double room on twin sharing on BB basis. • All transfers, sightseeing and excursions as per the itinerary in A/c medium car. • Service of a local English speaking guide wherever applicable. • Arrival & departure assistance. • Elephant ride at Amber Fort. Entrance tickets. • 1 Surprise gift from Elatrip.com. • 1 Mineral bottle of water per day per person. • Traditional welcome . • All currently applicable taxes (any Govt. or State taxes subsequently introduced will be extra.)

• 11 nights accommodation in double room on twin sharing basis on BB plan. • All transfers, sightseeing and excursions as per the itinerary in A/c medium car. • Service of a local English speaking guide wherever applicable. • Toy train ticket. • Entrance tickets. • 1 Surprise gift from Elatrip.com • 1 Mineral bottle of water per day per person • Traditional welcome • Arrival & departure assistance. • All currently applicable taxes (any Govt. or State taxes subsequently introduced will be extra.)

EXCLUSIONS : EXCLUSIONS : • Expenses of personal nature such as hard/soft drinks, still/video camera fees at monuments, laundry, phone/fax, tips & gratuities and travel insurance. • Flight tickets. • Any increase in fuel costs. • Any other item not mentioned in the above clause “inclusions”. • Xʼmas and New Year eve supplement.

Flashback to Dravidian Culture

Into the Land of Dravidians

Endless Fantasies INCLUSIONS :

INCLUSIONS :

• 12 nights accommodation in double room on twin sharing basis on BB plan. • Overnight Houseboat cruise on FB plan. • All transfers, sightseeing and excursions as per the itinerary in A/c medium car. • Service of a local English speaking guide wherever applicable. • One time normal boating at Periyar. • Kathakali ticket. • Entrance tickets. • 1 Surprise gift from Elatrip.com. • 1 Mineral bottle of water per day per person. • Traditional welcome. • Arrival & departure assistance. • All currently applicable taxes (any Govt. or State taxes subsequently introduced will be extra.)

EXCLUSIONS : EXCLUSIONS :

INCLUSIONS : • 12 nights accommodation in double room on twin sharing basis on BB plan. • Overnight houseboat cruise on FB plan. • All transfers, sightseeing and excursions as per the itinerary in A/c medium car. • Service of a local English speaking guide wherever applicable. • Onetime boating at Thekkady. • Entrance tickets. • 1 Surprise gift from Elatrip.com • 1 Mineral bottle of water per day per person • Traditional welcome • Arrival & departure assistance. • All currently applicable taxes (any Govt. or State taxes subsequently introduced will be extra.)

South Indian Bonanza

Southern Symphonies

Southern Glories

INCLUSIONS : • 13 nightsʼ accommodation in double room on twin sharing basis on Bed and Breakfast plan. • All transfers, sightseeing and excursions as per the itinerary in A/c medium car. • Service of a local English speaking guide wherever applicable. • Toy train ticket. • Entrance tickets. • Arrival & departure assistance. • 1 Surprise Gift from Elatrip.com • Daily Mineral water • All currently applicable taxes (any Govt. or State taxes subsequently introduced will be extra.)

INCLUSIONS : INCLUSIONS : • 13 nights accommodation in double room on twin sharing basis on BB plan. • All transfers, sightseeing and excursions as per the itinerary in A/c medium car. • Service of a local English speaking guide wherever applicable. • Entrance tickets. • 1 Surprise gift from Elatrip.com • 1 Mineral bottle of water per day per person • Traditional welcome • Arrival & departure assistance. • All currently applicable taxes (any Govt. or State taxes subsequently introduced will be extra.)

• 14 nights accommodation in double room on twin sharing basis on BB plan. • All transfers, sightseeing and excursions as per the itinerary in A/c medium car. • Overnight Houseboat cruise on FB plan. • Service of a local English speaking guide wherever applicable. • Entrance tickets. • 1 Surprise gift from Elatrip.com. • 1 Mineral bottle of water per day per person. • Traditional welcome . • Arrival & departure assistance. • All currently applicable taxes (any Govt. or State taxes subsequently introduced will be extra).

EXCLUSIONS : EXCLUSIONS : • Expenses of personal nature such as hard/soft drinks, still/video camera fees at monuments, laundry, phone/fax, tips & gratuities and travel insurance. • Flight tickets. • Any increase in fuel costs. • Any other item not mentioned in the above clause “inclusions”. • Xʼmas and New Year eve supplement

Dravidian Ride INCLUSIONS : • 13 nights accommodation in double room on twin sharing basis on BB plan. • Overnight houseboat cruise on FB plan. • All transfers, sightseeing and excursions as per the itinerary in A/c medium car. • Service of a local English speaking guide wherever applicable. • Kathakali ticket. • Entrance tickets. • 1 Surprise gift from Elatrip.com • 1 Mineral bottle of water per day per person • Traditional welcome • Arrival & departure assistance. • All currently applicable taxes (any Govt. or State taxes subsequently introduced will be extra.)

• Boating at Pichola Lake. • Entrance tickets. • 1 Surprise gift from Elatrip.com • 1 Mineral bottle of water per day per person • Traditional welcome • Arrival & departure assistance. • All currently applicable taxes (any Govt. or State taxes subsequently introduced will be extra.)

laundry, phone/fax, tips & gratuities and travel insurance. • Flight tickets. • Any increase in fuel costs. • Any other item not mentioned in the above clause “inclusions”. • Xʼmas and New Year eve supplement.

EXCLUSIONS : • Expenses of a personal nature such as hard/soft drinks, still/video camera fees at monuments, laundry, phone/fax, tips & gratuities and travel insurance. • Flight tickets. • Any increase in fuel costs. • Any other item not mentioned in the above clause “inclusions”. • Xʼmas and New Year eve supplement.

Explore the South INCLUSIONS : • 20 nights accommodation in double room on twin sharing basis on BB plan. • Overnight Houseboat cruise on FB plan. • All transfers, sightseeing and excursions as per the itinerary in A/c medium car. • Service of a local English speaking guide wherever applicable. • One time normal boating at Periyar. • Kathakali ticket. • Toy train ticket. • Entrance tickets. • 1 Surprise gift from Elatrip.com • 1 Mineral bottle of water per day per person • Traditional welcome • Arrival & departure assistance. • All currently applicable taxes (any Govt. or State taxes subsequently introduced will be extra.)

EXCLUSIONS :

Deccan Treasure Hunt INCLUSIONS :

Rajputs and Rajastan INCLUSIONS : • 15 nights accommodation in double room on twin sharing basis on BB plan. • All transfers, sightseeing and excursions as per the itinerary in A/c medium car. • Service of a local English speaking guide wherever applicable. • Camel ride at Mandawa & Jaisalmer. • Elephant ride at Amber Fort.

• 16 nightsʼ accommodation in double room on twin sharing basis on BB plan. • All transfers, sightseeing and excursions as per the itinerary in A/c medium car. • Service of a local English speaking guide wherever applicable. • Entrance tickets. • 1 Surprise gift from Elatrip.com • 1 Mineral bottle of water per day per person • Traditional welcome • Arrival & departure assistance. All currently applicable taxes (any Govt. or State taxes subsequently introduced will be extra.)

EXCLUSIONS : • Expenses of personal nature such as hard/soft drinks, still/video camera fees at monuments,

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