Accredited.
29 DAY SOUTH INDIA & GOA GRAND TOUR-LUXURY
Tour Notes
- This is a fully guided private tour (Your own air-conditioned vehicle, service of a private driver and English speaking private local guides).
- The tour can be fully customised according to your requirements (Your choice of accommodation, attractions etc).
- You can start the tour at a preferred date.
- This tour is same as "29 DAY SOUTH INDIA & GOA GRAND TOUR-CLASSIC" except for the accommodation offered.
- In the below itinerary, Total Transfer Time for each day reflects the transfer time between destinations & transfer time between attractions (This does not include waiting time at the airports). Transfer time can vary based on many facts hence this is a guideline only.
- In the below itinerary, Total Time Spent on Attractions/Activities for each day reflects the time spent on all attractions/activities (Time spent on attractions/activities can vary based on individual preference hence this is a guideline only)
Tour Highlights
- Capital of Tamil Nadu-Chennai
- Vellore Fort
- Shore Temple and Arjuna Penance in Mahabalipuram
- Vibrant city of Pondicherry
- Meenakshi Temple in Madurai
- Periyar National Park
- Houseboat in Allepey
- Historical Fort Kochi
- Kozhikode where Vasco da Gama Landed
- Bandipur National Park
- Mysore Palace
- Hampi and Vijayanagar Empire
- Goa beach
Itinerary
Welcome to Chennai, the bustling capital of Tamil Nadu. Upon arrival at the Chennai airport, our representative will meet and greet you with a warm welcome. He will escort you to the vehicle where you will also meet your chauffeur. Our representative will next assist you with the check-in to your hotel. Spend the rest of the day at leisure OR experience shopping at the "Express Avenue Shopping Mall".
Accommodation: Hyatt Regency Chennai (5 star)
Total Transfer Time: 1.5 hours
Total Time Spent on Attractions/Activities: N/A
- Please note due to the length of the tour (29 days), the tour may be split between 2 chauffeurs.
Start your morning with a scrumptious breakfast and sample some of the mouth watering South Indian food on offer. After breakfast check-out of the hotel and visit "Fort St George" which is the first Fort built by the British in India in 1640. It houses the famous St Mary’s Church (an ancient Anglican Church), a museum (contains antiques and artifacts from British Rule) and Wellesley House (paintings of the Fort Governor.) It has recently become home to the administrative offices of Tamil Nadu Government and the Legislative Assembly. Upon completion, we will leave the busy city of Chennai and take an easy drive up to Vellore. On arrival, visit the beautiful Sri Lakshmi Narayani Temple coated in gold and located on 100 acres of spiritual land. The temple was constructed by Sri Sakthi Amma recently in 2007. It is said that Sri Sakthi amma designed this temple through the concept of the construction she received from her divine Vision. Next proceed to your hotel and spend the evening at leisure.
Accommodation: Regency Vellore by GRT Hotels (3 star)
Total Transfer Time: 3.5 hours
Total Time Spent on Attractions/Activities: 1 hour
- There is limited accommodation in Vellore
Wake up to another exciting day and explore the "Vellore Fort", one of the fine examples of military architecture in South India. It is spread over an area of more than 500 meters, situated at an altitude of 220m. Located right in the center of the city, it has a giant moat at its entrance. On completion, proceed back to your hotel and spend the rest of day at leisure.
Accommodation: Regency Vellore by GRT Hotels (3 star)
Total Transfer Time: N/A
Total Time Spent on Attractions/Activities: 1 hour
- There is limited accommodation in Vellore
A busy day is ahead as we drive to the vibrant city of Pondicherry. En-route, visit the UNESCO Heritage sites Shore Temple and Arjuna Penance in Mahabalipuram to witness some amazing architecture. Thereafter proceed to Pondicherry. Upon arrival, we will also visit "Auroville" office and register (Please note registration is required the day before you visit "Auroville"). As the sunsets, take a leisurely walk along the promenade beach. There are plenty of quality restaurants where you may enjoy a memorable dinner (Own expense).
Accommodation: Palais De Mahe (Boutique)
Total Transfer Time: 6.5 hours
Total Time Spent on Attractions/Activities: 1 hour
After breakfast, we will visit "Auroville", an experimental township in Viluppuram district founded in 1968 by Mirra Alfassa and designed by architect Roger Anger. Upon completion, head back to the hotel and relax. Later in the afternoon, visit the "Cluny Embroidery Centre" where you will get to witness the art of embroidery. Next, we will explore the city of Pondicherry (Tour of Pondicherry).
Accommodation: Palais De Mahe (Boutique)
Total Transfer Time: 1 hour
Total Time Spent on Attractions/Activities: 3.5 hours
After a relaxed breakfast proceed to Trichy, which is the fourth largest city in Tamil Nadu. Trichy is located south West of Pondicherry which is about a 4 hour drive. On arrival, we will visit the famous Rock Fort Temple and the Kallani Dam. Upon completion head back to hotel and enjoy the rest of the evening at leisure.
Accommodation: Sangam Hotel (3 star)
Total Transfer Time: 4 hours
Total Time Spent on Attractions/Activities: 2.5 hours
- There is limited accommodation in Trichy
Today we depart Trichy and proceed to Madurai. Upon arrival in Madurai visit the Gandhi Museum, a tribute to the freedom fighter of India. Madurai is a food capital and we will explore this city on foot. During the tour, you will get to sample some of the most fresh and unique cuisine Tamil Nadu has to offer.
Accommodation: Courtyard by Marriott (5 star)
Total Transfer Time: 3 hours
Total Time Spent on Attractions/Activities: 3 hours
- Gandhi Museum is closed on Sundays
After a leisurely breakfast, visit the Fruit and Vegetable Market to witness and experience the daily shopping of the local people. Take your time, do some bargaining and have fun there. Next, we will next visit the Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace which was built in the 17th century King Tirumala Nayaka, a king of Madurai's Nayaka dynasty who ruled Madurai from 1623–59. Marvel the architecture of this amazing palace as you listen to the history and the lifestyle of the ancient kings. Return back to your hotel and spend the afternoon at leisure. Later in the evening, let's pay a visit to "The Meenakshi Temple", one of the most sacred and historical temples for the Hindus. Meenakshi Temple dates back as far as 2,500 years! The temple complex covers 14 acres, and has 4,500 pillars and 14 towers. Admire the amazing architecture of this masterpiece and take home memories of a lifetime.
Accommodation: Courtyard by Marriott (5 star)
Total Transfer Time: 1 hour
Total Time Spent on Attractions/Activities: 3 hours
We hope you have enjoyed the time in STATE of Tamil Nadu. Today, we will travel to the STATE of Kerala, also known as God's own country. We will head to Thekkady which is home to the "Periyar National Park". On arrival in Thekkady, check-into your hotel and refresh before embarking on a leisurely boat ride at the national park where you may witness Elephants, Bison's, Deer and a variety of bird species. Upon completion of the boat ride, head back to the hotel and spend the evening at leisure.
Accommodation: Poetree Sarovar Portico (4 star)
Total Transfer Time: 3.5 hours
Total Time Spent on Attractions/Activities: 2 hours
- Boat ride will be shared with other participants however you will be allocated the service of a private guide (Please note you can only witness animals from a distance)
- No vehicles are allowed to go inside the Periyar National Park
- Poetree Sarovar Portico serve beer and wine only (No hard liquor)
Wake up early in the morning to explore the Periyar National Park on foot. This 2.5 hour trek will be an experience to remember which will be guided by the local tribal people. The trail often passes through evergreen and moist deciduous forests interspersed with marshy grasslands. Feel the nature, hear her whispers and smell the flowers as you explore this 4km journey on foot. After completion head back to the hotel, refresh and relax. You may experience an Ayurvedic massage to sooth yourself (own expense).
Accommodation: Poetree Sarovar Portico (4 star)
Total Transfer Time: 30 min
Total Time Spent on Attractions/Activities: 3 hours
- Trekking will be done as a part of a group with a shared guide (Max group size 6 pax)
- Poetree Sarovar Portico serve beer and wine only (No hard liquor)
Today we depart Thekkady and head to Allepey for the most breathtaking journey through the backwaters in a traditional house boat. Witness the daily lifestyles of the local people and the passing by Kettuvalams (Traditional Houseboat). You will have plenty of opportunities for memorable photo shoots. Whilst you sit back and relax, your chef will cook and offer you a delicious lunch. Enjoy the unique Kerala cuisine as you cruise through the amazing backwaters! As the sunsets, soak in the beautiful vistas and experience a sunset dinner especially prepared for you. Spend the night on board in your comfortable room.
Accommodation: Spice Coast
Total Transfer Time: 4 hours
Total Time Spent on Attractions/Activities: Overnight
- You can take the main luggage in the house boat
Wake up to another amazing day in Kerala and enjoy a hearty breakfast made by your own chef. After a leisurely ride, you will disembark from your boat and head to fascinating Fort Kochi where you will stay the next 2 days. Check-in to your hotel and spend the rest of day at leisure OR take a stroll through the many streets and explore this iconic place at your own time. You may also pay a visit to "The Lulu Mall", which is the largest shopping mall in India.
Accommodation: Fragant Nature (4 star)
Total Transfer Time: 1.5 hours
Total Time Spent on Attractions/Activities: Morning
It's time for your guided tour of the historical Kochi and Matancherry. You will travel by a rickshaw between the towns of Kochi and Matancherry. Called the "Queen of the Arabian Sea", Kochi was an important spice trading centre on the west coast of India from the 14th century onward, and maintained a trade network with Arab merchants from the pre-Islamic era. Occupied by the Portuguese in 1503, Kochi was the first of the European colonies in colonial India. It remained the main seat of Portuguese India until 1530, when Goa was chosen instead. The city was later occupied by the Dutch and the British, with the Kingdom of Cochin becoming a princely state.
Accommodation: Fragant Nature (4 star)
Total Transfer Time: 30 min
Total Time Spent on Attractions/Activities: 4.5 hours
After an early breakfast, we will head to Thrissur located 3 hours north of Kochi, known for sacred sites and colourful festivals. Visit the Shakthan Thampuran Palace and the famous Vadakummnathan Temple. After completion of your tour, head back to the hotel and relax.
Accommodation: Hyatt Regency (4 star)
Total Transfer Time: 3 hours
Total Time Spent on Attractions/Activities: 1 hour
- Shakthan Thampuran Palace is closed on Mondays
Today we will travel further north and arrive in Kozhikode (Pronounced as Korikode) or was known as Calicut. It was a significant spice trade center and is close to Kappad Beach, where Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama landed in 1498. On arrival, have a stroll through the Sweet Mart Street and try some of the unique food on offer. If you have a sweet tooth, you have come to the right place. Pay a visit to the Mishkal Mosque that is over 650 years old. Built by the Arab ship owner and merchant Nakhooda Mishkal in the 14th century has 47 doors, 24 pillars with detailed carving. Later in the evening visit Beypore Jetty to watch the stunning sunset
Accommodation: The Gateway Hotel (3 star)
Total Transfer Time: 3.5 hours
Total Time Spent on Attractions/Activities: 2.5 hours
- There is limited accommodation in Kozhikode
After a leisurely breakfast, we will visit the STATE of Karnataka, where Bandipur national park is located. The drive will take about 6 hours due to terrain. Upon arrival, check-into the hotel and spend the rest of day at leisure.
Accommodation: The Serai Bandipur (5 star)
Total Transfer Time: 6 hours
Total Time Spent on Attractions/Activities: N/A
Wake up at dawn to experience an early morning safari. It is a refreshing way to start the day. On completion of the safari head back to hotel for a quick breakfast. Later in the afternoon, we will embark on another safari and further witness the nature and wild. Why not pamper your self with a relaxing massage (Own expense)!
Accommodation: The Serai Bandipur (5 star)
Total Transfer Time: N/A
Total Time Spent on Attractions/Activities: 6 hours
- Safaris are done in shared canters and shared jeeps and need to be pre-booked (Generally speaking Jeeps are hard to reserve as they get booked well ahead). Service of a shared guide for the safari
- A private jeep hire can cost around USD700
Today we will leave Bandipur and head for a short drive to explore the beautiful city of Mysore. On arrival, visit the Chamundeshwari Temple and the Devaraja Market that dates back to the 18th century. At the completion of the day, proceed to your hotel and relax.
Accommodation: Radisson Blu Plaza (5 star)
Total Transfer Time: 2 hours
Total Time Spent on Attractions/Activities: 1.5 hours
After a leisurely breakfast, we will visit the Government weaving factory and the Folklore Museum before heading to the majestic Mysore Palace. Mysore Palace is an incredibly breathtaking example that showcase the Indo - Saracenic style of architecture. Also known as the Amba Vilas Palace, it is the former palace of the royal family of Mysore and is still their official residence. Mysore Palace was built in the year 1912 for the 24th Ruler of the Wodeyar Dynasty and is counted among one of the biggest palaces in the country.
Accommodation: Radisson Blu Plaza (5 star)
Total Transfer Time: 1 hour
Total Time Spent on Attractions/Activities: 2 hours
- Government silk weaving factory is closed on government holidays
This morning, we will take a leisurely drive to Bangalore, the garden city and the IT hub of India (In order to break the long journey from Mysore to Hampi, we will have an overnight stopover in Bangalore). Upon arrival, visit the Majestic Tipu Sultan's Palace that is a perfect example of the Indo-Islamic architecture. Spend the rest of day at leisure.
Accommodation: JW Marriott, Vittal Mallya Road (5 star)
Total Transfer Time: 3.5 hours
Total Time Spent on Attractions/Activities: N/A
After a relaxing breakfast, we will proceed to Hampi. The journey will take around 6.5 hours where you will have plenty of breaks before arriving in the late afternoon. Pamper yourself with a relaxing massage and relax by the pool.
Accommodation: Evolve Back Resort (5 star)
Total Transfer Time: 6.5 hours
Total Time Spent on Attractions/Activities: N/A
Let's explore something unique by visiting this UNESCO heritage site. Hampi was the capital of the Vijayanagar empire around 1500 AD, and by some accounts, the second largest city in the world at that time. Surrounded by 500 ancient monuments, beautiful temples, bustling street markets, bastions, treasury building and captivating remains of Vijayanagar Empire, it is a must visit.
Accommodation: Evolve Back Resort (5 star)
Total Transfer Time: N/A
Today we leave Hampi and proceed to Hubli for 1 night break before continuing on the next day to visit the world famous Goa Beach. On arrival in Hubli, check-in to your hotel and spend at leisure.
Accommodation: Kyriad Prestige Hubli (3 star)
Total Transfer Time: 5 hours
Total Time Spent on Attractions/Activities: N/A
- There is limited accommodation in Hubli
It's time for a beach break as we head to Goa. After around 4.5 hours drive, we will arrive in this beautiful city which was once a Portuguese colony. Unwind, relax and enjoy this paradise over the next few days.
Accommodation: Taj Holiday Village Resort and Spa (5 star)
Total Transfer Time: 4.5 hours
Total Time Spent on Attractions/Activities: N/A
Spend the full day at leisure
Accommodation: Taj Holiday Village Resort and Spa (5 star)
Total Transfer Time: N/A
Total Time Spent on Attractions/Activities: N/A
- Chauffeur will be available at your disposal if you wish to explore the area
Spend the full day at leisure
Accommodation: Taj Holiday Village Resort and Spa (5 star)
Total Transfer Time: N/A
Total Time Spent on Attractions/Activities: N/A
- Chauffeur will be available at your disposal if you wish to explore the area
Spend the full day at leisure
Accommodation: Taj Holiday Village Resort and Spa (5 star)
Total Transfer Time: N/A
Total Time Spent on Attractions/Activities: N/A
- Chauffeur will be available at your disposal if you wish to explore the area
Spend the full day at leisure
Accommodation: Taj Holiday Village Resort and Spa (5 star)
Total Transfer Time: N/A
Total Time Spent on Attractions/Activities: N/A
- Chauffeur will be available at your disposal if you wish to explore the area
We hope you have enjoyed the time in this beautiful part of India. Head to the Goa airport, where our airport representative will assist you with luggage. Leave us with a warm good bye.
Total Transfer Time: 1.5 hours
Total Time Spent on Attractions/Activities: N/A
Inclusions
- 28 night accommodation including breakfast (Full board on house boat and in Bandipur)
- Airport transfers
- Hire of an air conditioned vehicle including fuel and the service of a private driver (Basic English speaking skills) throughout the tour
- Service of English speaking private local guides
- Applicable fee into attractions/activities (Fort St George, Sri Lakshmi Narayani Golden Temple, Vellore Fort, Arjuna’s Penance, Shore Temple-Mahabalipuram, Auroville, Cluny embroidery centre, Tour of Pondicherry, Rock fort temple, Kallani Dam, Gandhi Musuem, Food Trail in Madurai, Fruit and vegetable market, Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace, Meenakshi Temple, Boat ride at Periya national park, Periya national park Trek-3 hours, Tour of Kochi, Rickshaw ride, Tour of Matancherry, Shakthan Thampuran Palace, Vadakummnathan temple, Vintage Vauxhall Velox Car Club, Sweet Mart Street, Mishkal Palli mosque, Beypore Jetty, Bandipur national park safari (2 Safaris), Chamundeshwari Temple, Devaraja market, Government silk weaving factory, Folkfore musuem, Mysore palace, Ancient temples of the Vijaynagar Empire)
- All applicable taxes
Exclusions
- International Airfares
- Domestic Airfares
- Lunch and dinner (Apart from during stay at the house boat)
- Expenses of a personal nature
- All other expenses not under inclusions
Pricing
- Above prices are valid for travel until 30/09/2024
- Above prices are based on per person sharing double or twin room
- Peak period supplements may apply (Please Inquire)