The Grand South of India

Kerala, India 21 Days - 20 Nights Group: According To Need
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Trip Description

This journey unfolds across the deep south of India, tracing centuries of history, sacred architecture, and landscapes that shift gently from coast to mountains, forest to river, and stone temples to open sea. It is a complete immersion into the soul of southern India, shaped by powerful dynasties whose legacy still lives in sculpted temples, living rituals, and everyday life. From the carved sanctuaries of Tamil Nadu to the tea-covered hills of Kerala, from tranquil backwaters to dramatic archaeological sites, this route offers one of the most complete and rewarding experiences in South India. Along the way, you wander through historic towns, travel scenic mountain roads, cruise quiet canals, walk through plantations, and rest on golden beaches. Each region reveals its own rhythm, cuisine, and atmosphere, creating a journey that feels both expansive and deeply personal.

DAY 1 – Arrival in Chennai and transfer to Mahabalipuram

Upon arrival at Chennai International Airport, you are welcomed and transferred south along the coast to Mahabalipuram. This small seaside town, once a sacred place of worship, is today a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its remarkable stone carvings and ancient temples. In the soft coastal light, you explore the village and its monuments, including the famous Shore Temple overlooking the Bay of Bengal. Overnight in Mahabalipuram.

DAY 2 – Mahabalipuram to Pondicherry via Kanchipuram

After breakfast, the journey continues inland to Kanchipuram, one of India’s seven sacred cities and once the capital of the Pallava dynasty. Known as the city of a thousand temples, Kanchipuram is explored at a relaxed pace. In the late afternoon, you continue to Pondicherry, the former French trading post. Overnight in Pondicherry.

DAY 3 – Walking exploration of Pondicherry and visit to Auroville

The morning is devoted to discovering Pondicherry on foot. Accompanied by a local guide, you wander through quiet streets, colonial buildings, and seaside promenades. In the afternoon, you visit Auroville, the experimental township founded in 1968, whose atmosphere is unlike anywhere else in India. The golden meditation sphere stands as a symbol of reflection and unity. Overnight in Pondicherry.

DAY 4 – Pondicherry to Thanjavur

After breakfast, you continue exploring Pondicherry before driving south toward Thanjavur. En route, there is the option to explore the mangroves of Pichavaram by boat. Upon arrival in Thanjavur, you visit the magnificent Brihadeeswarar Temple. Overnight in Thanjavur.

DAY 5 – Thanjavur to Madurai

Travel to Madurai, one of the oldest living cities in India. In the late afternoon, visit the Sri Meenakshi Temple as evening rituals begin. Overnight in Madurai.

DAY 6 – Madurai to Munnar

Drive into the hills of Kerala toward Munnar, passing forests, waterfalls, and tea plantations. Explore tea and coffee estates on arrival. Overnight in Munnar.

DAY 7 – Munnar at leisure

A relaxed day to enjoy Munnar, including spice markets and optional plantation visits. Overnight in Munnar.

DAY 8 – Munnar to Cochin

Descending from the hills, you reach the coastal city of Cochin. Known for its long history of trade, Cochin reflects centuries of cultural exchange. You explore the historic harbor area, famous for its Chinese fishing nets, visit the Santa Cruz Basilica, St. Francis Church, and the beautifully decorated Paradesi Synagogue. Overnight in Cochin.

DAY 9 – Cochin to Alleppey, backwaters cruise

After breakfast, drive to Alleppey and board a traditional houseboat for an overnight cruise through Kerala’s backwaters. Palm-lined canals, village life, and freshly prepared meals create a peaceful rhythm on the water. Overnight on the houseboat.

DAY 10 – Alleppey to Bangalore

After breakfast on board, return to Cochin and fly to Bangalore. The rest of the day is free. Overnight in Bangalore.

DAY 11 – Bangalore to Mysore

Travel south to Mysore and visit the grand Mysore Palace. In the afternoon, explore the colorful flower market. Overnight in Mysore.

DAY 12 – Mysore and surroundings

Visit Srirangapatnam and Somnathpur, showcasing outstanding Hoysala temple architecture. Overnight in Mysore.

DAY 13 – Mysore to Coorg

Drive into the lush hills of Coorg, visiting the Tibetan settlement of Bylakuppe en route. Overnight in Coorg.

DAY 14 – Coorg to Hassan

Continue to Hassan, the base for exploring refined Hoysala temples. Overnight in Hassan.

DAY 15 – Temples of the Hoysala dynasty

Visit Belur, Halebid, and Sravanabelagola, masterpieces of South Indian temple art. Overnight in Hassan.

DAY 16 – Hassan to Hampi

A longer drive brings you to Hampi, an extraordinary archaeological landscape of the Vijayanagara Empire. Overnight in Hampi.

DAY 17 – Exploring Hampi

Explore Hampi’s temples, markets, and royal structures. Early visits may include witnessing temple elephant rituals. Overnight in Hampi.

DAY 18 – Hampi to Badami

Travel to Badami to explore rock-cut cave temples and nearby UNESCO sites Aihole and Pattadakal. Overnight in Badami.

DAY 19 – Badami to Goa

Travel west to Goa, known for its beaches and Portuguese heritage. Overnight in Goa.

DAY 20 – Goa at leisure

A full day to rest, swim, or explore Goa’s beaches and historic quarters at your own pace.

DAY 21 – Departure from Goa

Depending on your flight schedule, you are transferred to Goa Airport for your onward journey.

Accommodation plays an important role in shaping your experience of India. From historic palaces and elegant heritage residences to charming boutique hotels and peaceful jungle lodges, the country offers an extraordinary variety of places to stay.

SkyZeg Hotel Selection
At SkyZeg, we carefully select hotels that combine comfort, character, and a strong sense of place. Each property is chosen for its atmosphere, service quality, and location, ensuring that your stay complements the journey you are taking through the country.

🏛 Heritage Palaces

Many hotels in India are former royal residences and restored palaces that showcase the country’s regal history and architectural elegance.

🏨 Boutique & City Hotels

In major cities, we often select well located boutique or modern hotels that allow easy access to historic neighborhoods, cultural landmarks, and local experiences.

🌿 Nature & Retreat Lodges

In more remote regions, accommodation may include peaceful jungle lodges, scenic countryside retreats, and resorts surrounded by nature.

Many hotels across India reflect the country’s rich architectural traditions. Former royal residences, colonial era mansions, and restored heritage homes have been transformed into elegant hotels where hospitality remains deeply rooted in tradition.

✔ Accommodation Details
All accommodations included in your itinerary are personally reviewed and selected for their reliability, comfort, and service standards. Rooms are usually arranged on a double occupancy basis, with daily breakfast included.

Your final hotel selection will be shared in your detailed travel proposal, allowing you to review each property before confirming your journey.

✨ Personalized Stay
If you prefer a particular style of accommodation — such as luxury heritage hotels, boutique retreats, or modern five-star properties — our team will be happy to tailor the selection according to your preferences.

Each SkyZeg journey is thoughtfully designed around your travel plans, preferred hotels, and the experiences you would like to include. Once your itinerary is prepared, our team will share a detailed proposal outlining all services and pricing.

Below is a general overview of what is typically included and not included in the trip cost.

✔ Included in the Price
  • 24/7 assistance from our travel experts throughout your journey, with support available before and during your trip.
  • Local SIM card to help you stay connected with your driver and our travel team during your stay.
  • English-speaking local guide for guided visits included in your itinerary.
  • Private vehicle with professional driver for transfers and sightseeing according to your program, generally available up to eight hours per day.
  • Comfortable air-conditioned vehicles equipped with safety equipment, including petrol, road taxes, parking, vehicle insurance, and driver accommodation and meals.
  • Domestic flights within India where mentioned in the itinerary (subject to airline availability and schedules).
  • Hotel accommodation listed in your itinerary, usually based on double occupancy.
  • Daily breakfast at the hotel.
  • Government taxes and service charges applicable at the time of booking.
✖ Not Included in the Price
  • Visa fees and banking charges
  • International flights and airport taxes
  • Additional baggage charges according to airline policies
  • Tips and gratuities for guides, drivers, and service staff
  • Meals not mentioned in the itinerary
  • Drinks and personal expenses including shopping or optional activities
  • Entrance fees for temples, monuments, and museums mentioned in the itinerary (usually paid directly on site)
  • Travel insurance or repatriation assistance including medical or travel disruption costs
  • Any service not specifically listed under “Included in the Price.”

🌤 Best Time to Travel

India’s climate varies greatly depending on region and altitude. In general, the most comfortable time to travel across much of the country is between October and March, when temperatures are pleasant and rainfall is limited.

Northern regions and desert landscapes enjoy cool mornings and warm afternoons during this period, making it ideal for cultural journeys and city exploration.

Coastal areas and the southern part of the country remain warm throughout the year but are especially enjoyable during winter when humidity is lower.

The monsoon season (June – September) brings lush green landscapes, though rainfall can affect travel plans in some regions.

Mountain regions follow a different rhythm depending on altitude, with some areas best visited in spring and autumn.

🚗 Getting Around

India is vast and diverse, and travel between regions often involves a mix of transportation methods.

Domestic flights connect major cities efficiently, while private vehicles are commonly used for exploring cultural routes and countryside landscapes.

Train journeys remain an iconic way to experience India and offer insight into everyday life across the country.

Road travel may take longer than expected due to traffic and varied terrain, so itineraries are often planned with comfortable travel times and regular breaks.

💰 Currency and Payments

The official currency is the Indian Rupee (INR).

ATMs are widely available in cities and larger towns, and major credit cards are accepted in many hotels, restaurants, and shops.

When traveling outside major urban areas, carrying some cash for local markets and smaller purchases is recommended.

Currency exchange services are easily available at airports, banks, and authorized exchange offices.

🌐 Language and Communication

India is home to many languages and dialects. Hindi is widely spoken in many regions, while English is commonly used in tourism, business, and major cities.

Mobile networks are widely available and most hotels provide internet access.

Local prepaid SIM cards can easily be purchased for longer stays.

🍲 Food and Dining

Indian cuisine reflects the country’s incredible diversity, with each region offering distinct flavors and culinary traditions.

Travelers can enjoy everything from vibrant street food culture to refined regional dining experiences.

It is recommended to drink bottled or filtered water and enjoy freshly prepared meals from reputable restaurants or hotels.

Vegetarian options are widely available, and most restaurants are happy to adjust spice levels upon request.

🧣 Clothing and Cultural Etiquette

India is culturally diverse and welcoming to visitors. In major cities, both Western and traditional clothing are common.

In religious sites and traditional areas, modest dress is appreciated.

Carrying a light scarf or shawl can be useful when visiting temples or protecting from sun and dust.

Comfortable walking shoes are recommended as many historic sites are best explored on foot.

🏥 Health and Practical Advice

Most popular travel regions in India are considered safe for international visitors.

Basic precautions such as drinking clean water, using mosquito repellent in tropical areas, and having travel insurance are recommended.

Medical facilities in major cities are generally of good quality, and pharmacies are widely available.

🛡 Safety

India welcomes millions of visitors each year and is known for its strong tradition of hospitality.

As with travel anywhere in the world, simple precautions help ensure a smooth journey.

Keeping valuables secure, staying aware in busy areas, and following local guidance are easy ways to travel comfortably.

Start Planning Your Journey
Departure Month

January 2026

Duration

21 Days / 20 Nights

Group Size

According To Need

Location

Kerala, India

€0/-

Per Person
Included in Your Trip:
  • All necessary arrangements
  • Support throughout your journey
  • Essential travel services
  • Assistance for smooth planning
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Each destination has its own charm and story. We've selected not only the best places to visit but also hand-picked hotels to ensure your comfort. We also offer options based on your budget and travel style.