Grand South India Tour

Why Take a Grand South India Tour?

South India is renowned for:

• Ancient Dravidian temples and architecture
• Pristine beaches and lush hill stations
• Traditional art, music, and cuisine
• Backwaters, spice plantations, and tea estates
• UNESCO World Heritage Sites and vibrant festivals

A Grand South India tour ties together coastal cities, mountain towns, and historic centers, all in one immersive experience.

Ideal Duration and Route

Recommended Duration: 12–18 Days
Suggested Route (Customizable):
Chennai → Mahabalipuram → Pondicherry → Thanjavur → Madurai → Thekkady → Munnar → Alleppey → Kochi → Wayanad → Mysore → Bangalore

Sample 14-Day Grand South India Tour Itinerary

Day 1–2: Chennai & Mahabalipuram (Tamil Nadu)

• Explore colonial landmarks and Marina Beach in Chennai
• Visit UNESCO World Heritage temples in Mahabalipuram
• Enjoy traditional Tamil cuisine

Day 3: Pondicherry

• Stroll through the French Quarter
• Aurobindo Ashram & Auroville visit
• Relax at Paradise Beach

Day 4–5: Thanjavur & Trichy

• Brihadeeswara Temple (UNESCO Site)
• Srirangam Temple, Rockfort Temple
• Experience classical music and dance

Day 6–7: Madurai

• • Meenakshi Amman Temple evening Aarti
  • Gandhi Museum
  • Explore vibrant local markets

Day 8: Thekkady (Kerala)

• • • Spice plantation tour
    • Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary boat ride
    • Attend a Kalaripayattu martial arts show

Day 9–10: Munnar

• • • Tea garden visits and scenic viewpoints
    • Eravikulam National Park
    • Optional: Jeep safari or trekking

Day 11: Alleppey Backwaters

• • • Houseboat stay with traditional Kerala meals
    • Watch paddy fields, canals, and village life float by

Day 12: Kochi

• • • Fort Kochi walking tour
    • Kathakali dance show
    • Jewish Synagogue, Chinese fishing nets

Day 13: Wayanad (Optional Stop)

• • • Edakkal Caves, Banasura Sagar Dam
    • Scenic drives and tribal heritage museums

Day 14: Mysore & Bangalore (Karnataka)

• • • • Mysore Palace, Chamundi Hills
      • Drive to Bangalore or connect to flight/train

Top Destinations Covered in Grand South India Tour

Destination	Highlights
Chennai	Marina Beach, Kapaleeshwarar Temple, museums
Mahabalipuram	Shore Temple, Arjuna’s Penance, rock carvings
Pondicherry	French architecture, spiritual retreats
Thanjavur	Great Living Chola Temples, art and culture
Madurai	Meenakshi Temple, South Indian traditions
Thekkady	Wildlife, spices, nature walks
Munnar	Tea estates, hills, waterfalls
Alleppey	Houseboats, backwaters, village life
Kochi	Forts, museums, art galleries, street food
Wayanad	Forests, caves, wildlife
Mysore	Royal heritage and silk markets
Bangalore	Urban stop with gardens and nightlife

Types of Grand South India Tour Packages

Private Guided Tours

• • Ideal for families or couples
  • Fully customizable itinerary
  • Dedicated vehicle, guide, and driver

Group Tours

• • • Budget-friendly shared experience
    • Fixed departure dates
    • Local expert guides and planned schedules

Luxury Tours

• • • 4- or 5-star accommodations
    • Heritage stays and boutique resorts
    • Premium travel services (spa, wellness, gourmet dining)

Cultural & Temple Tours

• • • Focused on UNESCO sites, temple architecture, and festivals
    • Includes cultural performances and heritage walks

Inclusions in Grand South India Tour Packages

• • • Hotel stays with breakfast (and dinner in select packages)
    • Private car/driver or group transportation
    • Sightseeing entrance fees
    • English-speaking guide
    • Houseboat in Alleppey with meals
    • Cultural shows (Kathakali, Bharatnatyam, etc.)
    • Internal transfers (train, flight add-ons if needed)

Best Time to Take a Grand South India Tour

Season	Months	Best For
Winter	Oct – Mar	Most pleasant for full circuit
Summer	Apr – June	Visit hill stations like Munnar
Monsoon	July – Sept	Lush green beauty in Kerala, Wayanad

Tip: December and January are peak months — book early!

What to Pack for the Tour

• Light cotton clothing + a few warm layers for hill stations
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Umbrella or raincoat (if traveling during monsoon)
• Sunscreen, hat, sunglasses
• Traditional attire (optional) for temple visits
• Camera and power bank

Travel Tips for a Smooth Experience

• Dress modestly, especially for temple visits (no shorts/sleeveless tops)
• Carry cash for small vendors — ATMs may be sparse in rural areas
• Respect local customs — especially in religious sites
• Try local food, but eat at recommended spots to avoid tummy troubles
• Stay hydrated and avoid midday heat in hotter cities

Final Thoughts on the Grand South India Tour

A Grand South India tour brings together everything the southern states of India have to offer — spirituality, serenity, history, and hospitality. It’s an ideal itinerary for those who wish to see the depth and diversity of India beyond the north.

Whether you’re gliding through the Kerala backwaters, standing in awe at towering temple gopurams, or sipping filter coffee in a colonial town, this journey captures South India’s soul like no other.

Explore our handpicked Grand South India tour packages and begin your unforgettable journey through the cultural heart of the south.