Welcome to Enchanting Journeys

Namaste & welcome to incredible Republic of India - one of the friendliest countries on earth, combining glorious architecture with a warm-hearted welcome.

With its sumptuous mix of traditions, spiritual beliefs, festivals, architecture & landscapes, your memories of India will blaze bright long after you have left its shores.

Arrive in the dynamic & vibrant city Mumbai, the financial capita, one of the most cosmopolitan cities today.

After you exit in the Arrival Hall at Terminal? - Mumbai Chattrapati Shivaji Airport, subsequent to Immigration & Customs, you will be met by The Journeys representative who will ensure your comfort & transfer you to the hotel, help you settle in and provide you with some useful tips for exploring the area as well as discuss the program for the next day.

Arrive at the hotel & Check-in.

*Check-in time is 02.00 pm. For earlier arrivals in the morning, we will request the hotel for a complimentary early Check-in but cannot be guaranteed unless reserved & paid for ‘immediate occupancy’.

Mumbai is one of the world’s greatest megalopolises with its chaotic charm & juxtapositions found on every street, Steeped in history yet overflowing with modern life, colourful, cacophonous Mumbai pulsates with the relentless rhythms of humanity like few other cities on Earth.

Ancient Civilisations| vast Landscapes |expectedly Unexpected |Soul Warming

Mumbai, formerly known as Bombay, India's economic, cultural & cosmopolitan capital, is big - the most populous city in the country. If Mumbai is your introduction to India, prepare yourself. The city isn’t a threatening place but its furious energy, limited (but improving) public transport & punishing pollution make it challenging for visitors.

Located on the northern portion of India's western coastline, the Konkan coast, Mumbai is the major port, financial center and cultural producer among Indian cities. It’s full of dreamers & hard-labourers, starlets & gangsters, stray dogs & exotic birds, artists & servants, fisher folk & Crorepatis (millionaires), and lots & lots of people.  

As such, it is responsible for the plurality of India's trade functions and tax revenue. Dreams of Mumbai's economic opportunity continue to draw countless migrants to the city: it is known for some of the largest informal housing settlements in Asia & some of the starkest income disparities in the world. It draws its population from every corner of India and, increasingly, the world. However, unlike most major Indian cities, Mumbai's urbanism - its exponential urban growth & population density - is a relatively recent phenomenon.

It has India’s most prolific film industry, some of Asia’s biggest slums (as well as the world’s most expensive home – just $1 billon + worth only, housing 4 people) & the largest tropical forest in an urban zone. Mumbai is India’s financial powerhouse, fashion epicentre & a pulse point of religious tension. Bollywood, the film industry in Mumbai produces over 400 films a year & is therefore, the largest movie industry in the world. The actors enjoy their god-like statuses & dwell in exclusive mansions on Malabar Hill.

The heart of the city contains some of the grandest colonial-era architecture on the planet, but explore a little more & you will uncover unique Bazaars, hidden Temples & Parks, hipster enclaves & India’s premier restaurants & nightlife. There are many Museums & Art galleries too.

Its most recognizable monument is the Gateway to India, built to commemorate the visit of King George V & Queen Mary in 1911. From there you can catch a boat to the Elephanta Island, a UNESCO World Heritage site where you can see rock-cut temples & caves dating back to the 6^th century.

Balance of the day at leisure for independent exploration or optional activities (we would be happy to offer suggestions & make arrangements).

Morning, meet the Tour-guide in the Lobby at 09:00 am & embark on a 4 hour sightseeing of the city.

Visit the Marine Drive, Mumbai’s most popular seaside promenade & see Kamla Nehru Park & Hanging Gardens on the slopes of the Malabar hills, offering a nice view of the marine lines & the Chowpatty beach.

See the Jain temple & Mani Bhawan where Mahatma Gandhi used to stay. Mani Bhawan or Gandhi Memorial used to be the Mumbai residence of Mahatma Gandhi & it is from this famous House No. 19, called Mani Bhawan, that Gandhiji was arrested in 1932. This 2 storied building houses a reference library with over 2000 books, a photo feature on the Mahatma's life, some memorabilia, an old Gandhiji's charkha & a film and recording archive.

Drive past the Flora Fountain, the colourful Crawford Market & Victoria Terminus train station to stop at Mahalaxmi Railway station, the best vantage point to see Mumbai‘s 140-year old, open-air laundromat called Dhobi Ghat.

Home to around 7,000 Dhobi (Washermen)) & their families, the Dhobi Ghat has seen this occupation passed down from one generation to the next. In this biggest human-powered washing machine, they clock 20 hours a day to flog, scrub, dye & bleach the dirt out of thousands of kilograms of soiled Mumbai clothes & linen in 1026 open-air troughs.

It is estimated that each day half a million pieces of clothing are sent there from hotels, hospitals & homes. At first, Dhobi Ghat presents a chaotic scene. . However, a closer look brings out the order in the chaos. Lines & lines of washed clothes are hung out to dry in a manner that optimizes both time & space. The labor-intensive process has a system in place that takes care of washing, sorting & ironing.

A code is written at the back of each garment that allows the correct piece of laundry to get back to its owner. This system is amazingly efficient & one of the main reasons of the Ghat’s popularity. Though one can see some modern machinery lining the washing stations, most of the laundry is still done by hand. The clothes are first sorted and then soaked in soapy water. After this step, dhobis beat the clothes on the flogging stone. The stalls where the dhobis work date back to British Rule.  Rarely stopping for a break, the Dhobis wash each piece of clothing in a similar way in the morning before wringing & setting them out to dry in the early afternoons.

You will continue driving through or stopping briefly at a couple of landmarks. 

Marine Drive - a stroll down the Marine Drive is definitely one of the best way to discover Mumbai. This winding stretch of road extends from Nariman Point to Malabar Hills. It’s also called as Queen’s Necklace because of its curvy shape & many street lights with skyscrapers on one side and Arabian sea on other.

Juhu - nicknamed as the uptown paradise, is a place that attracts a large number of visitors throughout the year. Juhu beach is attractively studded with five star hotels offering the customers a splendid view of the coast. The beach remains overcrowded on weekends & general beach activities like camel rides, pony rides, acrobats, performing monkeys & entertainers keep people enthralled all the time.

Kamla Nehru Park, located at the top of Malabar Hills overlooking the Marine Drive, houses "Old Woman's Shoes" - a concentration of wonderfully cut hazes & roomy walkaways.

Hanging Gardens were built during the early 1880s over Mumbai's main reservoir at the top of the Malabar Hills. It was built on this location to cover water from contaminating activities of Towers of Silence which is nearby. The garden provides lovely sunset views over the Arabian Sea.

The sightseeing concludes & you return to the hotel or you can continue exploring (& return to the hotel on your own).

Balance of the day is at leisure or perhaps opt for one of the many options available (we will be happy to offer suggestions & make arrangements).

We suggest visiting the Gateway of India & Prince of Wales Museum.

Gateway of India was built to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary for the Delhi Durbar in 1911 when Delhi became capital of India. Situated at the Apollo Bunder, the gateway holds greater historical significance. The monument is complete with four turrets and intricate latticework carved into the yellow basalt stone.

Prince of Wales Museum was built in the year 1914 and is surrounded by beautiful landscapes forming an ideal getaway. The museum houses art, sculpture, rare coins, and old firearms and a priceless collection of miniature paintings. This museum is regarded as one of the best Museums in the country.

Early morning, you will be picked up for the transfer to Terminal? - Mumbai Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport to board your flight for Bangalore.  

Arrive at the `Garden City’ of Bengaluru (most people still use the original name - Bangalore) loved for its pleasant weather,

After you exit in the Arrival Hall at Terminal? - Bengaluru Kempegowda International Airport, you will be welcomed by The Journeys representative who will ensure your comfort & transfer you to the hotel, help you settle in and provide you with some useful tips for exploring the area as well as discuss the program for the next day.

Reach the hotel & Check-in.

*Check-in time is 02.00 pm. For earlier arrivals in the morning, we will request the hotel for a complimentary early Check-in but cannot be guaranteed unless reserved & paid for ‘immediate occupancy’.

A stunning introduction to southern India Karnataka is a prosperous, compelling state / province loaded with a winning blend of urban cool, glittering palaces, national parks, ancient ruins, beaches, yoga centres & legendary travellers' hang-outs.

At its nerve centre is the capital, Bengaluru, referred to as India’s `Silicon Valley’, home to some of the most high-tech industries in India. 

Being one of the most attractive cities in India blessed with a salubrious climate, many beautiful gardens, parks, natural lakes, avenues, architectural landmarks, shopping malls, it was / is famous as the `Garden City’, which was once a summer resort of the British Raj

One of Asia’s fastest growing cosmopolitan city known for its nightlife, its creature comforts are a godsend to the weary traveller who has done the hard yards, & it is a great city for mixing with locals in craft-beer joints, restaurant / pub or quirky independent cafes. It offers something for everyone - music & dance concerts (Western & Indian), dramas, exhibitions, carnivals, conferences & more. Go disco-hopping or pub-crawling, shop till your feet give away or relax in the swankiest restaurants or with your favourite movie stars-in the movie hall or simply tee off to glory.

The past decade or so has seen a mad surge of development, coupled with traffic congestion and rising pollution levels. But the central district (dating back to the British Raj years) remains little changed & the landmark corporate headquarters & business parks of the city's booming IT industry are mostly in the outer suburbs.

Later in the afternoon at 02.00 pm, meet the Tour-guide in the Lobby & proceed for a tour of the city.

Visit the Lal Bagh Botanical Gardens - the gardens are said to be laid out by King Haidar Ali & his son Tipu Sultan as a summer garden in the 18^th century, has numerous flowers, hundred year old trees from many countries & the lotus Pond. There are over 1800 species of tropical, subtropical & medicinal plants & a Floral Clock. The Glass House holds temporary exhibitions.

Then on to Dodda Basavana Gudi (the Bull Temple). Built in the Dravidian style & located inside a park called Bugle Rock, the architecture of this ancient temple does make for an amazing view. Dedicated to the Nandi, the bull, a sacred Hindu demi-god which is Lord Shiva’s ride, this temple attracts thousands of devotees from all over who come to seek blessings of the Lord.

The massive statue of Nandi which has been carved out a single polished granite rock is about 4.5m in height & 6m long and is said to be older than the temple itself. The statue has a small iron Plate which has been placed on its head & devotees believe that the Plate has been placed so as to prevent the statue from growing further.

According to the prevailing legend, there was a Bull that used to damage all the fields of groundnuts & peanuts which were grown in the nearby area. To appease that bull, this temple was built & it is believed that once the temple was built, that bull stopped destroying the crops. To mark this day, Basavangudi farmers celebrate & organize a Groundnut Fair with lots of enthusiasm.

Then, drive to see Vidhan Soudha. Built in 1956, the building houses the State Legislature & the Secretariat of Karnataka. One of the most popular attractions in the lively & colourful Bengaluru, it proudly boasts the title of being the largest state legislative building in the country.

With its impressive facades & portals of pure sandal wood, it is constructed in a style sometimes described as Mysore Neo-Dravidian & incorporates elements of Indo-Saracenic & Dravidian styles. Popularly known as the 'Taj Mahal of South India', it is counted as one of the most magnificent buildings in the city & is sure to impress the onlooker with its sophisticated poise & glorified grandiose. With 4 entrances in all 4 directions & 4 floors above the ground level & one below it, we surely don't doubt the title. The entire Monument is illuminated on Sundays & public holidays.

Finally visit the one of the oldest City Museum in the country that was opened in 1886. It has 18 galleries including Neolithic finds from the Chandravalli excavations & from the Indus Valley, especially Mohenjodaro antiquities. Also antique jewelry, textiles, coins, art, miniature paintings & geological artifacts. 

Return to the hotel.

Balance of the day at leisure for independent exploration or optional activities (we would be happy to offer suggestions & make arrangements).

Morning, depart for Mysore.

Heading out of town you will encounter the evergreen rolling hills of Kodagu, dotted with spice & coffee plantations, before stopping at the tiny village of Somnathpur, on the banks of River Kaveri, home to one of the best preserved & the only complete magnificent 13^th century soapstone Chennakeshava Temple dedicated to God Keshava who is an incarnation of the widely worshipped Lord Krishna.

A classic example of the famous Hoysala architecture, it is one of the 1500 Temples built by the Hoysala Empire kings in different parts of their kingdom & is said to be the climax development in the unique Hoysala temple style. The Somnathpur temple is the last one standing from the original collection & the small but exquisite Temple features excellent ceilings which show the distinctive features of the late Hoysala style.

A monumental beauty, the architectural design of this UNESCO World Heritage List nominated Vaishnav Hindu Temple is dedicated to might & beauty of Lord Krishna attracting people from all over the world who often come here for prayers & meditations. Unfortunately, this temple is no longer used as a place of worship because the idols have been broken & desecrated by the invading armies.

Witness the magnificent artistic & engineering achievements of the era, seek the Lord's blessing & admire the delicate carvings & sculptures, whose beauty remains unequal.

Continue driving to Mysuru (Mysore), 20 minutes away.

On arrival, Check-in at the hotel & relax.

With a royal heritage that stretches back to the 13^th century, Mysore, the former capital of the princely state is the 2^nd largest city in the province of Karnataka & is one of South India's most enchanting cities, famed for its glittering royal heritage & magnificent monuments & buildings. It is a beautiful city of stately palaces, gardens, parks & museums, diverse zoos, engraved temples, flowers & sandalwood.

The Kingdom of Mysore was ruled by the Wodeyar dynasty, except for a brief period in the late 18^th century when Hyder Ali & Tipu Sultan were in power. Patrons of art & culture, the Maharajas of Mysore - the Wodeyars, contributed significantly to the cultural growth of the city.

Historic Mysuru is also rich in tradition, with a deeply atmospheric centuries-old Devaraja bazaar district replete with spices, silk & sandalwood stores & incense stalls. It also lends its name to the Mysore style of painting, the sweet dish Mysore Pak, the Mysore Peta (a traditional silk turban) & the garment known as the Mysore silk saree.

Also known for the festivities that take place during the Dasara festival when the city receives a large number of tourists. It was also the location of the first private radio station in India. Mysore houses Mysore University, which has produced several notable authors, particularly in the field of Kannada literature. Ashtanga yoga is another drawcard & there are several acclaimed schools that attract visitors from across the globe.

Later in the afternoon, proceed for a 4 hour guided tour of Mysore & vicinity.

The heritage corridor of Mysore & the old city of Srirangapatnam is full of many attractions that give visitors a glimpse of Karnataka’s rich legacy of art & culture.

First stop, enroute to Chamundi Hill, will be the giant Nandi Monolith - a huge bull sculpture measuring 15 feet in height & 24 feet in width, carved from a massive single black granite boulder during the 1659 - 1673 reign of Dodda Devaraja Wadiyar

Nandi the Bull lives at the foot of Chamundi Hill, the same area that is home to the Sri Chamundeshwari Temple. In Hindu mythology, Nandi the Bull serves as the vehicle of Lord Shiva, the icon of destruction. Though Nandi is found adorning Shiva temples, this is one of the few standalone statues. It is no surprise, then, that near the bull statue is a tiny cave-like shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva where worshippers flock in the early morning hours.

Drive on to Chamundi Hill which features an ancient well maintained Sri Chamundeswari Temple dedicated to Goddess Chamundeshwari.(Durga) offering devotees a haven in which to worship the namesake Goddess. The entrance gateway is a lofty, carved-stone structure ascending over 100 feet above worshippers’ heads & the Temple, towering nearly 3,500 feet above the summit of Chamundi Hill, is located directly inside. You can catch spectacular, one-of-a-kind views of Mysore city from here.

According to popular legends, many years ago, a buffalo demon named Mahishasura was wreaking havoc in heaven & earth.  He had been gifted a boon by Brahma that he could be killed by no man. For this reason, Mahishasura was slowly winning every battle he started. The Gods found a loophole to Brahma’s boon & goddess Durga was given divine powers to make her stronger than Mahishasura. With her new powers & a lion as her vehicle, she fought Mahishasura atop a hill for 10 days & finally killed him.

In her honor, the hill was named as Chamundi Hill & the day is celebrated throughout India as Dasara symbolizing the victory of good over evil. Durga also became the guardian deity of the ruling dynasty of Wodeyars.

Next stop will be the opulent 1857 UNESCO World Heritage listed Mysore Amba Vilas Palace, a blend of Indo-Saracenic style in grand proportions incorporating Hindu, Islamic, Gothic & Rajput styles, home to the ruling Wodeyar maharajas,

One of the largest palaces in the country, it caught fire in 1897 & was painstakingly resurrected & restored to its glittering glory in 1912 by an English architect & now boasts, like before, a dazzling array of domes, stained-glass windows, arches & colonnades of carved pillars, shiny marble mosaic floors, carved wooden doors & lavish paintings & one of the world’s greatest art treasures from the Edwardian Raj era.

There is no dearth of ornate religious architecture in Mysore & after seeing your share of temples whilst here, you may visit St. Philomena’s Church.

At a dizzying 175 feet above ground, the spires of this Cathedral can be seen from just about any corner of Mysore’s city center. Constructed in 1956, it is also one of India’s oldest & largest Churches designed in the neo-Gothic style of Germany’s Cologne Cathedral.

Visitors come here for the spiritual experience as much as the aesthetic one & to be inspired by the stained-glass windows depicting the most important Biblical events.

End the sightseeing with a stroll around the beautifully landscaped 75 acres Brindavan Gardens, part of a larger area of plantations & gardens in Krishnaraja Sagar Dam complex and & one of the essential places to visit in Mysore.

Brindavan Garden is one of those places you can lounge around at all day long, because each hour of the day will offer a new lens through which to see the beauty of the garden. During the early morning, it is a mating ground for beautiful birds of every size; in the afternoon, it is a family-friendly picnic area alive with noise & laughter; in the evening, it is a lovely place for couples to spark romance; finally, late at night, it is lit up with colorful LED lights inside the fountains.

The work on laying out this Garden was started in the year 1927 & completed in 1932 as a result of the efforts of Sir Mirza Ismail, who was the Dewan of the erstwhile Mysore princely state & the design was inspired by the famous Mughal gardens of yore. The Gardens are divided into 4 main areas – the Main Gate, North Brindavan, South Brindavan & the Children’s Garden. Based on the same style as the India Gate, the main gate area opens up to Rose Gardens on either side.

The South Brindavan is the area near the famous Cauvery Statue & attractions here include the large water fountains on the Kaveramma Circle. Cypress & other flowering plants grow on the sloping terraces & the lit fountains are a main attraction in the evenings. The South Brindavan also features a Glass House with ornamental plants (which can also be purchased).

The 3 terraced Gardens feature many attractions. Water fountains adorn the finely manicured grounds of this sprawling area & some of the main flora found across the Gardens includes beautiful Ficus trees & flowering plants like celosia, marigolds & bougainvilleas.

The larger area around the Gardens is a haven for plant lovers & professional horticulturists. A large fruit orchard next door, spreads over & it is a great place to learn about horticulture & fruit growing and employs the most modern models of farming. There are more farms in the vicinity & there is also cacti garden which can be visited. One can find the latest growing techniques being demonstrated & different breeds of a wide variety of fruits, flowers & other plants in these large plantations.

One of the striking features of the Gardens is the works of a Topiary. The intricately trimmed shrubs take the shape of animals & provide many photo ops for excited visitors, about 2 million of whom visit the gardens every year. Visitors can take walks under the shade of the pergolas, passageways covered by creeper plants & rest under one of the many gazebos that speckle the area.

One of the biggest attractions of the Brindavan Garden is the musical fountain, a choreographed play of water bursts synchronised with tunes of songs. Many come to view these fountains at night, where they are displayed in their full glory. There many popular fountains in the Brindavan Gardens. Some of them are the Cross-channel fountains, the umbrella fountain, the pyramid fountain & the inverted basket fountain.

Return to the hotel (on your own)

Balance of the day at leisure for independent exploration or optional activities (we would be happy to offer suggestions & make arrangements).

Morning, depart for green Udhagamandalam better known, as Ooty, the most popular hill station in the South.

On arrival before noon, Check-in at the hotel.

*Check-in time is 02.00 pm. For earlier arrivals in the morning, we will request the hotel for a complimentary early Check-in but cannot be guaranteed unless reserved & paid for ‘immediate occupancy’.

Nature has been generous with this region, which is by far the most beautiful in the state of Tamil Nadu. Picturesque Ooty called the Queen of Hill Stations, has a landscape marked by rolling hills covered with dense vegetation, plateaus covered with tea gardens & eucalyptus trees. Apart from coffee & tea plantations, trees like conifers, eucalptus, pine & wattle dot the hillside.

Memorably nicknamed ‘Snooty Ooty’, curiously enough this slice of paradise remained unknown to the great southern dynasties & it took the British to discover it in the early 1800s when they made it accessible by constructing the first railway line in the area & making it the summer capital of the Madras Presidency. They were, however, not the first inhabitants of this land as a tribe called Todas had been living there long before the British came, claiming that the Nilgiris had been their home since time immemorial.

Development ploughed through a few decades ago, but old Ooty survives in patches – you just have to walk further out to find it. 'Queen of Hill Stations', mixes Indian bustle & Hindu temples with beautiful gardens, an international school & charming Raj-era bungalows (which provide its most atmospheric accommodation). It may be a bit hectic, especially its messy centre, but it doesn't take long to escape into quieter, greener areas where tall pines rise above what could almost be English country lanes. It has been declared as one of the 14 'hotspots' of the world because of its unique bio-diversity. Nilgiri presents a truly breath taking kaleidoscope of visual treats & soul stirring experience.

Balance of the day at leisure for independent exploration or optional activities (we would be happy to offer suggestions & make arrangements).

Full day is at leisure for independent exploration or optional activities (we would be happy to offer suggestions & make arrangements).

Very early morning, get ready to cross over to another South Indian province to reach Cochin, driving through lush picture perfect rural landscape.

Kerala, nicknamed ‘God’s Own Country’ is South India's most serenely beautiful state. This slender coastal strip with almost 600km of glorious Arabian Sea coast & beaches, is defined by its layered landscape - a languid network of glistening backwaters and the spice & tea-covered hills of the Western Ghats, dotted with fiercely protected Wildlife Reserves home to wild elephants, exotic birds & the odd tiger. Just setting foot on this swathe of soul-soothing, palm-shaded green will slow your subcontinental stride to a blissed-out amble.

Kerala is a world away from the frenzy of the rest of India, its long, fascinating backstory illuminated by historically evocative cities like Cochin (Kochi) & Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum). Besides the famous backwaters, elegant houseboats, Ayurvedic treatments & delicately spiced, taste-bud-tingling cuisine & vibrant traditions such as Kathakali, theyyam (a trance-induced ritual), temple festivals & snake-boat races frequently bring even the smallest villages to life.

Arrive in Cochin by afternoon & Check-in at the hotel.

Set on a magnificent estuary, serene Kochi, popularly known as the “Queen of Arabian Sea”, has been drawing traders, explorers & travellers to its shores for over 600 years.

Nowhere else in India could you find such an intriguing potpourri of various Indian & international communities : giant Chinese fishing nets, a 450-year-old synagogue, ancient mosques, Portuguese & Dutch-era houses & the crumbling remains of the British Raj. Highly influenced by historical trading partners, Portuguese, Dutch, Arab, Chinese & Japanese, it was controlled by many empires over the centuries. And being ruled by the Portuguese, Dutch & British has resulted in a unique mix & match of traditional as well Western architecture & lifestyle - an unlikely blend of medieval Portugal & Holland & an England  grafted onto the tropical Malabar Coast.

But despite being ruled by so many different domains, it still maintains its cultural identity & is fiercely proud of it. Kochi is the seat of the Latin church of Kerala & has many Catholic churches & followers. It is a delightful place to explore & is also an important centre for Keralan arts (traditional & contemporary) and a standout place to see Kathakali & Kalarippayat.

Mainland Ernakulam is Kochi's hectic transport & cosmopolitan hub, while the historical towns of Fort Cochin & Mattancherry, though well-touristed, remain wonderfully atmospheric. Other islands, including Willingdon & Vypeen, are linked by ferries & bridges.

Later in the afternoon, you will be met by The Journeys Rep who will accompany you to Cochin Cultural Centre to enjoy a unique 2 hour performance of traditional Kathakali Dance form of Kerala and the impressive facial expressions, hand gestures & dance moves will leave you spellbound.

It is one of the most complex & highly stylized Indian art forms. Basically a dance drama, noted for its heavy & attractive larger-than-life make up, elaborate costumes, detailed body movements synchronized movements, synchronized eye-hand movements & thematic presentation of stories performed by men only. It’s popularity traditionally in ancient times, was confined to palace dance halls, the courtyards of Nair noble households & temple festivals.

Before the performance you will have the opportunity to see the preparation & dressing of the artists, which is an experience in itself. You can watch the elaborate make-up session for an hour (usually these take up to 3 hours!) followed by an introductory lesson (15 minutes) when each facial & hand movement is explained (welcome, anger, love, envy, joy).

Return to the hotel.

Evening at leisure or for optional activities (we would be happy to offer suggestions & make the arrangements).

Morning, meet the Tour-guide at 09.00 am & proceed for a 4 hour sightseeing tour of the city.

You will walk & drive across the Cochin Harbour to Fort Cochin, stopping by at the Dutch Mattancherry Palace, built by the Portuguese and known for its murals depicting scenes from the Ramayana & the Mahabharata, and portraits of Cochin's erstwhile rulers and the dresses & palanquins used by them.

Proceed to Old Cochin & the quarter known as Jew Town near to the Mattancherry Palace temple, on the land donated to the Malabari Yehudenor "Yehuden Mappila" community by the  Maharaja of Kochi, to visit the oldest active Paradeshi Jewish Synagogue in India & Commonwealth of Nations, built in 1568; it was destroyed by the Portuguese & rebuilt by the Dutch a century later with Chinese willow-patterned tiles & gold crowns and with ancient scrolls & a large number of copper plates inscribed in the Hebrew script.

Visit one of the oldest European churches in the country, Saint Francis Church, built by the Portuguese in 1503, an amalgamation of outside influences on local architecture. The Church has great historical significance as a mute witness to the European colonial struggle in the subcontinent & is well-known for its beautiful architecture & ambience. Admire the whitewashed exterior of the Santa Cruz Basilica & its beautifully painted ceiling. On his third visit to India, the great Portuguese explorer Vasco Da Gama fell ill & died and he is buried here.

But the unofficial emblems of Kerala’s backwaters, & perhaps the most photographed, are the half-dozen giant cantilevered symbolic Chinese Fishing Nets on Fort Cochin's northeastern shore, known locally as cheena vala, near the harbour's entrance.

The famous Chinese Fishing Nets are a legacy of traders from the AD 1400 court of Kublai Khan. These spiderlike nets for fishing are 10 metre tall & 20 metre wide contraptions fixed on land, resting on teak or bamboo poles & requiring five or six people to operate their counterweights at high tide.

Modern fishing techniques are making these labour-intensive methods less & less profitable, with nets like these slowly disappearing from Kerala's coastline. Smaller fishing nets are dotted around the shores of Vembanad & Ashtamudi lakes; some of the best are just east of Cherai Beach on Vypeen Island.

Final stop will be the private Kerala Folklore Museum - a cultural hub to promote & preserve the culture and heritage of South India. It was started & still being managed by a local philanthropist couple Mrs & Mr. George Thaliath, with the aim to preserve the culture, heritage & folk art education for future generations.

This wooden Temple of Art was developed with the help of 62 skilled traditional carpenters working for over 7 years, culling the wood & artifacts from 25 ancient heritage structures and compiling into a single building. The displays show works from traditional architecture to ancient sculptures, wood work, terracotta, Indian bronzes, stone work, paintings, ancient jewelry, utensils, agricultural equipment, coins & all other ethnic artifacts connected with the rural & tribal life of South India. The Museum aims to provide art education to the young generation as well as providing opportunity to the tourists from around the globe to experience the unseen Kerala under one roof. It is a ‘must see’ place for tourist as well as students & researchers of Anthropology.

The sightseeing concludes & you are transferred back to the hotel,

Balance of the day is at leisure or perhaps opt for one of the many options available (we will be happy to offer suggestions & make arrangements).

Morning, proceed on a drive downhill towards the backwaters of Kumarakom, en-route stopping at a working Rubber estate to see rubber tapping technique.

Reach Kumarakom & Check-in.

Situated in the Kottayam district of Kerala, Kumarakom, or the 'Venice of the East' is an unhurried backwater village with a smattering of dazzling top-end resorts & a renowned bird sanctuary.

The name Kumarakom was derived from the deity of its oldest temple Kumaran. Kumaran's Akam or place became Kumarakom. It was part of Vadakkancore kingdom. But in 1750 Marthanda Varma the King of Travacore conquered and annexed it to Travancore. The first Christian Church was built here in the year 1769 in the land granted by the King of Travancore.

The landscape is a veritable paradise consisting of a cluster of island villages in & around the large "Vembanad Kayal", Kerala’s heartland of lush lagoons, palm fringed lakes & paddy fields, inter-linked with hundreds of winding canals with the typical low slung country boats that carry everything from people to fish, rice & coconuts to the milkman & newspaper boy, local politicians & priests to wedding parties. . A large number of coconut trees line the horizon to add the perfect tropical touch to the landscape.

The Backwater houses a variety of species of both fauna & flora. They are rich with marine life namely the exclusive 'Kumarakom Karimeen' (pearl spotted fish), Konju (tiger prawns), Njandu (crabs), Chemeen (prawns) & many more. 

Kumarakom is also well known throughout the world for its wide variety of houseboats. Apart from these, there are elegant special Snake Boats, which take part in the boat races around Onam time. More than 1000 oarsmen in boats of different sizes & shapes participate in this famous annual event. Even though Snake Boats participate in this race, the importance given here is for iruttukuthi, in which about 50 oarsmen row in a single boat. The annual Kumarakom boat-race is conducted in the big canal in the centre near the market.

After a brief rest, accompanied by the Tour-guide, proceed for an excursion to Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary (also known as Vembanad Bird Sanctuary) spread out over 14 hectares in the Kerala Backwaters,

The Sanctuary is a favourite haunt of a variety of domestic & migratory birds during their respective migratory seasons & among the most popular bird watching spots in the country. Developed in a Rubber plantation as a bird sanctuary by Englishman George Alfred Baker, the Sanctuary was formerly known as Baker’s Estate. The Kerala Tourism Development Corporation currently manages the Sanctuary & has opened an Interpretation Centre inside.

Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, an Ornithologist's paradise, is a favourite haunt of migratory birds that flock in thousands, ranging from places like the Himalayas to even from as far as Siberia. One comes across numerous rare avian species in these parts. People get to see Waterfowl, Cuckoo, Owl, Water Duck, Siberian Cranes, Parrots, Garganey Teal, Larks, Flycatchers, Wood Beetles. Indian Darter, Little Cormorant, different species of Egrets, Herons, White Ibis & several species of Kingfishers, Osprey, Marsh Harrier, Steppey Eagle.

In addition, you can get thrilled of the native kingfishers ablaze in psychedelic colours, experience a walk under rookeries of egrets & night herons or lone golden-backed woodpeckers & even delight in the acrobatics of the paradise fly-catchers.

May to July is the breeding season for local species such as the Indian Shag, Pond Herons, Egrets & Darters, White Ibis & several species of Kingfishers.

Boating trips in the lagoons passing through quant little villages around the sanctuary are extremely relaxing. Bird lovers can also take a boat trip to the nearby Kaipuzha Muttu, Pathiramanal, Narakathara, Thollayiram Kayal and Poothapandi Kayal to watch local & migrant birdlife which could easily be more than a hundred species.

Return to hotel. 

Evening is free to relax or for optional activities (we would be happy to offer suggestions & make the arrangements).

The adventurous could indulge in water sports such as windsailing & water-skiing. You could even take a canoe out into the quite lakes & armed with a fishing rod, catch your own supper. Make sure you do not miss out on Karimeen & fresh toddy, the favourite fresh water food & the local wine

Morning, Check-out & drive a short distance to Alappuzha. 

On arrival, board your private Rice Boat for cruising along the canals & backwaters.

Alappuzha - most still call it Alleppey - is the hub of Kerala's backwaters, home to a vast network of waterways, over a thousand houseboats & an important coir industry.

Alleppey is one of the most important tourist centers in the state, with a large network of inland canals earning it the sobriquet "Venice of the east". These large network of canals provide Alleppey with its lifeline & it was one of the busiest centers of trade in the past with one of the best known ports along the Malabar coast. Even today it retains its charm as the centre for Coir carpet industries and prawn farming.

Alleppey is an ideal headquarters for backwater tourism as well as for visits to the lovely church filled town of Kottayam, and the town of Aranmula, famous for its historic Aranmula Snake Boat Race which is an annual event. It is excitement all around as snake - boats, each manned by over a hundred oarsmen, cut through the waters like wind. The event is a tremendous success with tourists & the local population alike.

Wandering around the small but chaotic city centre, with its modest grid of canals, you would be hard-pressed to agree with the 'Venice of the East' tag, & sadly, at research time a hulking new highway flyover was marring the beauty of Alleppey's popular beach.

But head out towards the Backwaters & Alleppey becomes graceful & greenery-fringed, disappearing into a watery world of villages, punted canoes, toddy shops & of course, Houseboats. Floating along & gazing over paddy fields of succulent green, curvaceous rice barges & village life along the banks is one of Kerala’s most mesmerisingly beautiful & relaxing experiences.

In time, proceed to the Jetty on the East side of Vembanad Lake to board the private Rice Boat for a totally different experience cruising along the canals in the Backwaters. The boat travels until sunset when it then anchors for the night.

These houseboats or ‘Kettuvalloms’ are luxurious boats with well-appointed bedrooms & en-suite bathrooms. You can sunbathe on the deck or observe the palm fringed landscape from your cabins.

It took great skill & meticulousness to construct these Houseboats by tying huge planks of jack wood together, without the use of a single nail. It usually has one or two bath rooms, an open lounge, deck, kitchenette & a crew comprising oarsmen, a cook & guide. These boats offer a panoramic view of one of the most picturesque aspects of God's Own Country.

Your house-boat has a private balcony with comfortable chairs. The rooms are fully furnished with attached bathrooms. The boat has a fully equipped kitchen and an experienced cook to prepare authentic Kerala cuisine with seafood specialties and fresh vegetables. This is your chance to pick up some fabulous cooking tips!

The backwaters of Kerala form the lifeblood of beautiful Kerala and played a main role in the economy of the state. Rice Boats and small ships used to ply in these waters, carrying coconut, rubber, rice and spices to various trading centers of Kerala. Even today, these waterways link remote villages and island with the main land .It is an incredibly different experience to cruise in the backwaters in country boats, absorbing the beauty of the villages.

The boat cruise along the backwaters of Alleppey gives one first-hand experience of the life style; toddy tapping, fishing for small fry, Coir-making, prawn farming etc., which remains more or less unchanged over the years. These cruise boats offer a panoramic view of one of the most picturesque aspects of God's Own Country, travelling through palm-fringed backwaters, where you can see local villages located on the side of the canals.

After you are settled in & have enjoyed a calming sweet coconut, the Boat will take a round in the Vembanad Lake before entering the Canal system of what is called, the Kuttanad - the erstwhile rice bowl of Southern India. There is a vast arrangement of geometric rice paddies called Blocks that connect the ancient backwaters to the Lake & sea.

The Boat will stop at one or more of the canal-side fish markets to stock up on some fresh fish for the journey, which gives you a chance to suggest your preferences to add to the menu. You can embellish the Menu with lobster, if available in the market.

Travelling through palm-fringed backwaters, you can see local villages located on the side of the canals

The Boat will cruise for short distances & stop periodically to give you the opportunity to get off & walk around the villages.

Stop by and visit the village bazaars that are flooded with coir products, coconuts and other village produce. You can also interact with the local population see their lifestyle. Although practically surrounded by water, they still manage to keep cows, pigs, chickens and ducks and cultivate small vegetable gardens, prawns & fish.

The Boat will moor beside a paddy field for lunch. .

Lunch is actually a rich affair with quite a few dishes that include meat, fish & vegetable dishes, all cooked Kerala style. You will smell the aroma of grilling & frying from the galley at the rear as you cruise.

After lunch, the Boatman raises sail again as you start exploring the canals & byways of this unusual ecosystem. Without roads, all life in the Backwaters takes place on the stage of the canal bank - whether it is washing clothes & children, gossiping or buying fish & stuff from the itinerant boatmen.

You may hear their distinctive cries as they paddle down the canals. Each type of Salesman has a different cry. Later in the afternoon, you will see the children in school uniforms, returning from their schools Alappuzha, on the water ferries. As you travel through the backwaters you will see a wide variety of birds - both wild & domestic - duck farming is popular here & you will encounter flocks of over 1000 birds quacking along the canals.

The water of the Backwater is the reason why this area is so ecologically unique & interesting: the level is below high tide line so the waters are fed from two distinct sources - the sea & the rivers from the mountains and this makes the water slightly brackish & home to species that have evolved to survive this environment.

You will obviously not see below the surface the variety of aquatic life - fish, mussels, clams & prawns. But from the amount of fishing activity that you will see during the day & night - it will be obvious that they are there & in some abundance, too.

If you want to, you may dive in to the waters to come back up with mussels. CNN sends the likes of Anthony Bourdain to sample the mussels harvested here. The trick is to cook it well unlike the gourmet dishes of curing & flash cooking. Despite this, the masalas (spices) added bring out top quality mussel dishes that are quite a revelation. Experience the whole process from fishing to cooking & enjoying a Keralan mussel delicacy.

As the sun starts to set, the Boatmen will find their regular moorings & anchor for the night (usually around 6.00 pm). The Backwater houseboats all moor at the same time to free the waters for the night time Fishermen, who now paddle past quietly on their way to set nets or fish with lights.

This is your chance to enjoy a Sundowner (non-alcoholic) & take in the late afternoon activities of the local society. While you are relaxing in the bows, watching the world go by, the crew will be cooking dinner for you. 

This would be a good time to set out along the banks to discover the world of the Backwaters (one of the crew will be happy to show you around & ensure you notice the minute details of your surroundings which you will remember after you return).

Evening, enjoy a candlelit dinner on board and the night you spend on the Houseboat will long be remembered as the highlight of your South India experience.

Eat spiced & baked rice cakes on board the floating rice barge, fish for fresh catch and have the cook onboard cook a traditional delicacy for you, lie down on the deck and count the glittering stars that garland a clear moon with crickets making pleasant sounds as your barge floats along the unending network of Kerala backwaters.

After dinner, the lights are often dimmed t enable you to simply enjoy the peace & calm of the night.

Spend the evening lying on the day bed in the bows puffing on a cigarette or a cigar. When sleep hits, retire to your cool cabin & fall asleep with the gentle rocking of the boat.

 Enjoy Breakfast on board & disembark around 07.30 am.

Proceed to the car waiting to transfer you to Periyar ‘Land of the Spices’ Columbus was seeking when he stumbled on the New World; Kerala’s Malabar Coast is famous for its fabulous spice crops.

Savour the scenic uphill drive, passing through a panorama dotted with plantations of rubber, cardamom, cocoa, green pepper & areca nut.

Check-in at the hotel on arrival.

Thekkady is a town near the Kerala-Tamil Nadu border & encompasses Periyar National Park, India’s largest Tiger Reserve. Kumily is another adjacent town, with hotels, restaurants & Kashmiri emporiums. Confusingly, when referring to the Reserve, people use Thekkady, Kumily & Periyar interchangeably.

Close by is the village of Pattumalay (Pattumalay literally means hills draped in silk) known for its lofty peaks, little streams, tea plantations & tea factories. One of the major attractions of this region is a famous pilgrim center - the Velankanni Matha Church built entirely from granite, situated atop a hill.

Pattumalay is also home to one of the biggest names in the tea production sector - Harrisons Malayalam limited. The Tea Factory here is a major producer of Orthodox tea. The Pattumalay Estate was established in 1931 & the Tea Factory is the oldest Orthodox factory with a capacity of 16000 kg per day.

Afternoon, meet the Tour-guide & proceed to the neighbouring Pepper Plantation to observe traditional plantation techniques walking amidst the rows of vines creeping upwards. This has been the center of the spice trade for centuries. Thekkady is considered a haven for natural spices such as black pepper, cardamom, cinnamon, nutmeg, nutmace, ginger & clove. The spices which make such a difference to foods worldwide, is sold domestically & exported

Return to the hotel.

Balance of the day free to relax or for optional activities (we would be happy to offer suggestions & make the arrangements).

With 16 wildlife sanctuaries and 5 national parks nestled along the Western Ghats; Kerala is an excellent wildlife destination. The Western Ghats – geologically older than the Himalayas – is one of the world’s most significantly bio diverse regions & has been given World Heritage Site status by UNESCO.

South India’s most popular wildlife reserve, Periyar, encompasses 777 sq km, including a 26 sq km artificial lake created by the British in 1895. This vast expanse - which became Kerala's first Tiger Reserve in 1978  

The greatest attractions of Periyar are the herds of about 2000 wild elephants, deer, bison wild boar, gaur, sambar, lion-tailed macaques, Nilgiri langurs & 35 to 40 hard-to-spot tigers that come down to drink in the lake. Periyar also happens to be the habitat of the elusive Nilgiri Tahr, which is rarely to be seen.

The birdlife comprises of Darters, Cormorants, Kingfishers, the great Malabar Hornbill and racket-tailed Drongoes. The reptilian population boasts Of Monitor Lizards that can be spotted basking in the sun, on the rocks along the lakeshore. Visitors who trek into the Park often see Pythons & sometimes even a King Cobra.

Periyar Tiger Reserve, one of the 27 tiger reserves in India, is an example of nature’s bounty, with great scenic charm, rich bio diversity & providing veritable visitor satisfaction. Set high in the ranges of the Western Ghats, in God’s Own Country, Kerala, the Tiger Reserve has a picturesque lake at the heart of the sanctuary amidst dense evergreen, semi-evergreen, moist deciduous forests & savanna grass lands. Formed with the building of a dam in 1895, this reservoir meanders around the contours of the wooded hills, providing a permanent source of water for the local wildlife.

Though it is a Tiger Reserve, tourists come here to view the huge herds of elephants in the act of ablution & playfulness by the Periyar Lake.

Visitors can enjoy a scenic lake cruise & bamboo rafting in the catchment area of Mullaiperiyar Dam & hiking (& also a night trek with a tribal villager or an ex-poacher) in the midst of the wilderness.  Popular for its good eating joints, you can also enjoy its vast stretches of spice gardens & various adventure sports.

The early morning ride in the boat within the Sanctuary is an extremely awesome experience & visitors may spot wild elephants, bisons, wild boars, various kinds of birds, etc.

Another area is Chellar Kovil with a lot of picturesque waterfalls & cascades. Mangala Devi Temple, located at an altitude of 1337m opens only on the Chitra Pournami Festival

Early morning, meet the Tour-guide & drive to Periyar National Park along the Cardamom & Pandalam hills of the Western Ghats.

From the entrance gate, embark on a Walk, accompanied by a Naturalist, for about an hour, on a trail through the park towards Periyar Lake.

Later on the bank of the lake, board a bamboo raft & cruise for about 2 hours through many delights of the sanctuary.

Although it is unusual to see many animals from the boats, it still provides a unique opportunity to observe these animals in their natural surroundings. You might spot a family of Elephants, Wild Boars, and Sambar Deer by the water's edge.

On the way back to the hotel, you can avail the opportunity to visit a neighbouring Pepper plantation to see traditional plantation techniques, walking amidst the rows of vines creeping upwards.

Balance of the day free to relax or for optional activities (we would be happy to offer suggestions & make the arrangements).

Check-out in the morning & depart for Madurai in the province of Tamil Nadu.

Tamil Nadu is the homeland of one of humanity’s living classical civilisations, stretching back uninterrupted for two millennia & very much alive today in the Tamils' language, dance, poetry & forms of Hinduism.

Some of the Temples here are among India's finest, from the sculpted stonework at Thanjavur (Tanjore) to the sprawling halls at Madurai. Across the state, pulsing urban centres rise like concrete islands amid a landscape of palm and banana plantations, rice fields & rugged sandstone scarps. Among them you will find renowned yoga & meditation retreats, ancient forts & French-colonial-turned-bohemian B & Bs. It is all packed into a state that remains proudly distinct from the rest of India, while also being among the most welcoming.

Arrive in Madurai by noon & Check-in at the hotel.

Chennai may be the capital of Tamil Nadu, but its 2^nd largest city of Madurai claims its soul. Situated on the banks of river Vaigai, the Temple city of Madurai is Tamil-born & Tamil-rooted, was an important cultural & commercial center as early as 550 AD when it traded with ancient Rome.

Madurai's glory reached its peak, during the reign of the Cholas & then the great 13^th century Pandya kings, long before Chennai was even dreamed of. One of the oldest cities in India with a rich cultural heritage inherited from the more than 2500 years old, great Tamil era, the city is also mentioned in the ancient 3^rd century BC Greek diplomat Megasthenes travelogue ‘Indica’ who praised this temple city.

Tourists, Indian & foreign, come here for the celebrated Meenakshi Amman Temple, a dazzling mazelike structure ranking among India's greatest temples. It derives its name from the divine nectar (Madhu) that was showered from the locks of Lord Shiva according to a popular legend.

Madurai, perhaps appropriately given its age, captures many of India’s glaring dichotomies: a centre dominated by a medieval temple & an economy increasingly driven by IT, all overlaid with the hustle, energy & excitement of a big Indian city. Today, Madurai is a well-known producer of some of the finest textiles in India & some of the best harvests of jasmine flowers.

Later in the afternoon, accompanied by the Tour-guide, proceed to see Sri Meenakshi Temple - a riotously baroque example of Dravidian architecture, covered in bright carvings of Hindu gods & one of India's most outstanding Hindu pilgrimage centres.

The colourful abode of goddess Meenakshi, Meenakshi Amman Temple, also known as Minakshi-Sundareshwara Temple, is one of the oldest & most important temples in India. It is not so much a 17^th century temple as a 6 hectare complex with 12 tall colorful Gopurams (gateway towers), encrusted with a staggering array of brightly coloured carvings of gods, goddesses, demons & heroes. The Gopurams are known for stuccowork & the 48.8 meter high southern Gopuram is the tallest.

Generally considered to be the peak of South Indian temple architecture, as vital to this region's aesthetic heritage as the Taj Mahal to North India, Meenakshi Temple, was nominated as one of the wonders of the world, but couldn’t make it into the list of ‘Seven Wonders of the World’. However, the Temple is definitely one of the ‘Wonders of India’.

According to legend, the beautiful Meenakshi (a version of Parvati) was born with 3 breasts & this prophecy: her superfluous breast would melt away when she met her husband. This happened when she met Shiva & took her place as his consort.

Meenakshi ruled over the ancient city of Madurai & also went on to capture the neighboring kingdoms. Legend has it that she even captured Indralok, the abode of Lord Indra & was on her way to capture Kailash, the abode of Lord Shiva, as well. When Shiva appeared before her, Meenakshi’s 3^rd breast disappeared & she knew that she had met her better half. Shiva & Meenakshi returned to Madurai where their wedding took place. It is said that the wedding was attended by all the gods & goddesses. Since Parvati herself had assumed the form of Meenakshi, Lord Vishnu, Parvati’s brother, handed her over to Lord Shiva.

Even today, the grand Wedding Ceremony processions & ceremonies are celebrated annually in April over a period of 10 days, as ‘Chithirai Thiruvizha’ (or ‘Tirukalyanam’) & attracts more than a million devotees.

Before or after entering the temple, look around the Pudhu Mandapa. The main temple entrance is through the eastern (oldest) Gopuram. First, on the right, you will come to the Thousand Pillared Hall, now housing the fascinating Temple Art Museum. Moving on into the Temple, you will reach a Nandi shrine surrounded by more beautifully carved columns.

Second stop will be the nearby Gandhi Memorial Museum dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi’s life & work, which is housed in the 300 year-old Tamukkam Palace, a gracious Indo-Saracenic style building famous for the stuccowork on its domes & arches, belonging to Rani Mangammal of Nayak Dynasty, which was gifted by the Tamil Nadu State Government to the All India Gandhi Smarak Nidhi for the purpose of housing the Museum.

Inaugurated by Jawaharlal Nehru on 15 April 1959, the Museum contains a ‘Visual Biography of Bapuji’ & features photos, paintings, sculptures, manuscripts, quotations and some of the selected photostat copies of many of the letters written by him.

Among the exhibits at the Museum is part of the blood-stained garment worn by Gandhiji when he was assassinated by Nathuram Godse. Other exhibits in the Museum include an original letter written personally by Gandhi to Shri Narayanan Sathsangi of Devakottai. A congratulatory message sent by Gandhi to freedom fighter & poet Subramania Bharati is also preserved in this Museum. Yet another interesting letter is the one, written by the Mahatma to Adolf Hitler addressing him as ‘Dear Friend’.

It also has an exhibition of South Indian village industries, handicrafts & a huge open-air theatre.

Return to the hotel.

Balance of the day at leisure (we will be happy to offer suggestions & make arrangements).

In time, you will be transferred to the Madurai Airport for your short flight to Chennai, South India’s largest city.

Arrive in Chennai popularly regarded as the Gateway to the South & playing its role is as keeper of South Indian artistic, religious & culinary traditions.

After you exit in the Arrival Hall at Terminal? - Chennai International Airport, you will be welcomed by a Journeys representative who will ensure your comfort & see you off on a 4 hour guided sightseeing tour of the city, straight from the Airport.

Chennai (formerly Madras) popularly regarded as the Gateway to the South, is the capital city of Tamil Nadu. The 400 sq km conglomerate of urban villages & diverse neighbourhoods making up Tamil Nadu's capital will pleasantly surprise you. Its role is as keeper of South Indian artistic, religious & culinary traditions.

The city grew up around the English settlement of Fort St. George & gradually absorbed the surrounding towns and villages. However, despite the strong British influence, Chennai has retained its traditional Tamil heritage and effectively blended it to create a unique synthesis of cultures. Retaining much of its traditional charm, this 350 year old city provides many a fascinating vignettes of southern heritage. In Chennai, you would find a modern metropolis with a clear skyline, long sandy beaches, parks and historic landmarks. It is a fascinating city with its ancient temples & unique culture and a marvelous tradition of music & dance. It is a city where the landscape of the past lives easily with recent history.

Among Chennai’s greatest assets are its people, infectiously enthusiastic about their hometown; they won’t hit you with a lot of hustle & hassle. Recent years have thrown in a new layer of cosmopolitan glamour: luxe hotels, sparkling boutiques, quirky cafes, smart contemporary restaurants & a sprinkling of swanky bars & clubs but the best part of Chennai remains its old soul.

With its sweltering southern heat, roaring traffic & lack of outstanding sights, Chennai has often been seen as the dowdier sibling among India’s four biggest cities. But it is well worth poking around the museums, exploring the temples, savouring deliciously authentic South Indian delicacies or taking a sunset saunter along Marina Beach.

You will visit the first Government-sponsored Museum in the country that opened here in 1851. Its collection of Bronzes and Buddhist antiques is among the best. Especially impressive are the Arms gallery, its pre-historic collection, its philatelic collection, its antique jewellery & the musical instruments collection.

Stop by at the National Art Gallery,

The colonial architecture of Indo-Saracenic style along with an opulent exhibition of ancient art make National Art Gallery a revered tourist attraction in Chennai.

Established in 1906 as Victoria Memorial Hall, the Galleries here are categorized into 4 segments - Decorative Art Gallery, Ravi Varma Painting, Thanjavur Painting & Indian Traditional Art Gallery.

The Painting section also comprises of paintings from Thanjavur, Rajasthan, Deccan & Kangra along with few miniature paintings delineating the battle sights. Apart from paintings, this must-visit Museum also exhibits other attractions like historical artefacts, religious statues & sculptures for tourists to explore.

Marvel at the resplendent ancient handicrafts dating back from 10^th & 11^th centuries. Also on display, there are also various images of Lord Rama & his wife Sita along with some periodic books & manuscripts.

Continue on to Fort St George constructed by the British East India Company in 1953. It has the fort has undergone many facelifts & inside the vast perimeter walls (the ramparts are 18th-century replacements) is now a precinct housing Tamil Nadu's Legislative Assembly & Secretariat, and a smattering of older buildings.

The Fort Museum has displays on Chennai's origins & the fort, interesting military memorabilia & artwork from colonial times. The 1^st floor portrait gallery of colonial-era VIPs includes a very assured-looking Robert Clive (Clive of India).

Also within the Fort is St Mary's Church, completed in 1680, India's oldest surviving British church, surrounded by even earlier gravestones; Clive was married here. To its right (west) is the neoclassical former Admiralty House (Clive's House).

Thousands of temples with lofty towers dot the skyline of the southern state of Tamil Nadu in India. These temples are torchbearers of the glorious heritage of the Tamil speaking region & are repositories of the magnificent art forms that have evolved over several centuries.

Last stop will be Kapaleeshwarar Temple in Mylapore, one of Chennai's most characterful & traditional neighbourhoods which predated colonial Madras by several centuries. Mylapore is believed to have been built after the Portuguese destroyed the seaside original in 1566.

Built in the traditional Dravidian style, the Temple displays the main architectural elements of many a Tamil Nadu temple - a rainbow-coloured Gopuram, several pillared Mandapas (pavilions) & a huge water tank - & is dedicated to the state's most popular deity, Shiva.

Legend tells that in an angry fit Shiva turned his consort Parvati into a peacock & commanded her to worship him here to regain her normal form. Parvati supposedly did so at a spot just outside the northeast corner of the temple's central block, where a shrine commemorates the event. Hence the name Mylapore literally means 'town of peacocks'. The story is depicted at the west end of the inner courtyard, on the exterior of the main sanctum. The Temple's colourful Brahmotsavam festival (March / April) sees the deities paraded around Mylapore's streets.

If time permits, you also visit ISKCON (International Society for Krishna Consciousness) Temple that is dedicated to the popular Hindu God Krishna where the main attraction are the large & colorful statues of some of the Hindu Gods & Goddesses. The Temple has 5 floors with 3 teakwood altars in the main temple hall.  

The tour concludes & you drive back to the hotel, passing along Marina Beach.

After the tour, you will be transferred to the hotel.

Check-in & relax.

Balance of the day free to relax or for optional activities (we would be happy to offer suggestions & make the arrangements).

Today, embark on a full day 10 hour excursion to see 2 of the finest examples of ancient South Indian architecture - Kanchipuram & Mahabalipuram.

Reach the Temple town of Kanchipuram. 

Kanchipuram, also known as Kanchi, is an ancient city & along with Chennai & Mahabalipuram, it forms the famous Golden Triangle of the Coromandel Coast. Considered a holy pilgrimage site by Hindus, it is home to about a thousand ancient temples both big & small.

This spectacular temple city is one of the 7 sacred cities of India & was, successively, capital of the kingdoms of the Pallavas, Cholas & rajas of Vijayanagar during the 6^th to 8^th centuries. Today a typically hectic modern Indian town, it is famous for its numerous important & vibrant temples (& their colourful festivals), some dating from Pallava, Chola or Vijayanagar times. Kanchipuram is also famous because of the wonderful craftsmanship of the Kanchi weavers, the makers of what is perhaps the finest silk fabric recognized for its gorgeous silk sarees all over the world, woven on hand looms by thousands of families in the town & nearby villages

Some of the famous Temples here are Kanchi Kamakshi, Ekambareshwar, Ulaganaatha Perumal, Kailasnath

The Temples & Gopurams are exquisite reminders of the beauty of Dravidian architecture, from the freshness & simplicity of the Pallavas' vast 7^th century complex with intricate sandstone carvings at Kailasanatha Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, through to the Vijayanagar Empire's 16^th century Ekambareshwara Temple spread over 9 hectares with a 59m high gopuram, a 1000 pillared hall & a sacred mango tree thought to be 3500 years old, in the courtyard. Ulagalanda Perumal Temple houses a huge statue of Lord Vishnu.

Spend an hour here, before driving on to Mahabalipuram founded by & named after Pallava King Narasimhavarman I, who was also known as Mahabali in the 7^th century AD.

A world apart from Chennai’s hustle & bustle the 8^th century, Mamallapuram was the major seaport of the ancient Pallava kingdom based at Kanchipuram. What makes Mahabalipuram so culturally resonant are the influences it absorbs & disseminates.  

This unspoiled seaside village on the Bay of Bengal has miles of beaches, fine Indian seafood, exceptional art & intricately carved stone temples. The Pallava dynasty made this lovely seaside village their 2^nd capital, known for its excellent architecture & sculptures. Chinese coins & Roman coins of Theodosius I in the 4^th century CE have been found at Mahabalipuram revealing the port as an active hub of global trade in the late classical period.  The contemporary town plan was established by the British Raj in 1827.

In addition to ancient archaeological wonders, salty air & coastal beauty, there is also the traveller hub of Othavadai & Othavadai Cross Sts, where restaurants serve pasta, pizza & pancakes & shops sell Tibetan trinkets. The town's buzzing, growing surf scene is another attraction.

Along with economic prosperity, Pallavas created the great stone monuments here, many carved out of the living rock.

Famous for its vast beach, monoliths, stone carvings, beautiful rock-cut monuments & temples, it draws architects, history enthusiasts & travellers from around the world.

The Temples of Mahabalipuram, portraying events described in the Mahabharata, were built largely during the reigns of King Narasimhavarman & his successor Rajasimhavarman and show the movement from rock-cut architecture to structural building.

Visit the 5 Rathas. Carved from single pieces of rock, the 5 Rathas are low-laying monoliths that huddle in more ancient subtlety than grandeur. Each temple is dedicated to a Hindu god & named for one of the Pandavas, the 5 hero-brothers of the epic Mahabharata, plus their common wife, Draupadi.

See the famed Shore Temple comprises 3 ornate granite shrines. There are 7^th - 8^th century Mandapas (pavilions), Rathas or shrines shaped as temple chariots are hewn from the granite rock face.

The seafront Shore Temple dedicated to Shiva, Durga, Vishnu, Krishna & others, features the largest bas-relief in the world called Arjuna's Penance (100 ft. long & 45 ft. high). The carved scene depicts Arjuna, a mythical Indian hero, doing penance to the Lord Shiva. Surrounding Arjuna is a multitude of images, including snakes coiled in battle, jesters with drums & elephants in procession. 

There are many other like the giant open-air rock relief the Descent of the Ganges carved out of granite. Krishna’s Butter Ball is a massive boulder balanced on a small hill near the Ganesha Ratha stone temple.

A wander around the town’s magnificent UNESCO World Heritage listed temples & carvings inflames the imagination, especially at sunset.

Drive back to the hotel in Chennai & reach the hotel by evening.

Balance of the day free to relax or for optional activities (we would be happy to offer suggestions & make the arrangements).

Alas, this wonderful experience comes to an end. Time to say good-bye to incredible India  & go home. But, we sure hope that you may want to discover a bit more of this multi-ethnic kaleidoscope that 1.2 billion people call home, on your next visit.

Check-out of the hotel by 12:00 noon (if the departure time is later in the evening, you are allowed to use the hotel facilities and leave the luggage at the Bell Desk). 

In time, you will be met by a Journeys Rep, who will ensure your comfort & transfer you to Terminal? - Chennai International Airport for the flight back home.  B

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