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
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- Meenakshi Amman Temple evening Aarti
- Gandhi Museum
- Explore vibrant local markets
Day 8: Thekkady (Kerala)
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- Spice plantation tour
- Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary boat ride
- Attend a Kalaripayattu martial arts show
Day 9–10: Munnar
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- Tea garden visits and scenic viewpoints
- Eravikulam National Park
- Optional: Jeep safari or trekking
Day 11: Alleppey Backwaters
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- Houseboat stay with traditional Kerala meals
- Watch paddy fields, canals, and village life float by
Day 12: Kochi
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- Fort Kochi walking tour
- Kathakali dance show
- Jewish Synagogue, Chinese fishing nets
Day 13: Wayanad (Optional Stop)
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- Edakkal Caves, Banasura Sagar Dam
- Scenic drives and tribal heritage museums
Day 14: Mysore & Bangalore (Karnataka)
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- 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
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- Ideal for families or couples
- Fully customizable itinerary
- Dedicated vehicle, guide, and driver
Group Tours
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- Budget-friendly shared experience
- Fixed departure dates
- Local expert guides and planned schedules
Luxury Tours
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- 4- or 5-star accommodations
- Heritage stays and boutique resorts
- Premium travel services (spa, wellness, gourmet dining)
Cultural & Temple Tours
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- Focused on UNESCO sites, temple architecture, and festivals
- Includes cultural performances and heritage walks
Inclusions in Grand South India Tour Packages
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- 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.
