Cochin
Highlights:Fort Kochi Harbor, Matancherry & Pardesi Synagogue, St. Francis Church, Kochi-Muziris Biennale
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Itinerary Details
Day 1 – 1
International Arrival
Chennai
Chennai is the gateway to South India, yet the actual city is only about 350 years old, beginning as a small fishing village before it expanded into India’s first major English settlement of Madras under British colonial rule. Today it boasts a booming automobile industry, and is a major center for music and the arts, with several specialist festivals held here each year. The Marina is considered the second longest urban beach. Despite its coastal setting, Chennai is considered the world’s hottest city.
Day 1 – 3
Your chauffeur will drive you from Chennai to Mamallapuram in a private vehicle (Duration: 1 hr)
2 Nights
Mamallapuram
Mamallapuram was once a bustling seaport that provided shelter to illustrious travelers like Ptolemy and Periplus in the first century! Today, the city’s claim to fame lies in its ancient Pallava heritage, evident in Mamallapuram’s exquisite collection of temples, caves, rathas (chariots) and monuments. A designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Shore Temples of Mamallapuram find mention in ancient documents such as Marco Polo’s travelogues from the 14th century. Coupled with its unspoiled sunny beaches, casuarina trees and local handicrafts sold on the streets, Mamallapuram is not to be missed!
Included activities
Highlights of Mamallapuram
Unearth several UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Tour the stunning two-towered 8th century Shore Temples, dedicated to Lord Shiva and built in the typical architectural style of the Pallava dynasty, who ruled South India for three centuries. With the temple’s oceanic backdrop, this is especially beautiful at sunrise and sunset. Explore Arjuna’s Penance, a gigantic 7th century relief carving, depicting the legend of the holy River Ganges,or the Anantasayana Panel, which shows a reclining Vishnu, and Varaha Cave. Head to the Pancha Pandava Rathas (Five Rathas or chariots). These 7th century architectural monuments were hidden under sand until 200 years ago and are intricately carved out of a single large rock. Observe the mysteriously balancing rock of Krishna’s Butterball. Unwind with a leisurely amble along the town’s sandy shores.
Hotel options
Radisson Blu Resort Temple Bay – Opt 1
Room
Chalet Garden View
Meals
Breakfast
Style
Beach Resort
InterContinental Chennai Mahabalipuram Resort – Opt 2
Room
Resort Classic
Meals
Breakfast
Style
Beach Resort
Day 3 – 4
Your chauffeur will drive you from Mamallapuram to Pondicherry in a private vehicle (Duration: 2.5 hrs)
1 Night
Pondicherry
Pondicherry offers a slice of France in South India! Once a sleepy fishing village, the trading town was a French settlement since the 17th century until the Indian Independence. Today, the city bears several traces of its French colonial influence, from the lovely Promenade and street signs on narrow cobbled lanes, to the colonial buildings of the Old Town and French schools. Discover the famous spiritual community of Sri Aurobindo Ashram on the rue de la Marine, established by the eponymous Indian philosopher along with his collaborator Mirra Alfassa. Just a few km out of town lies the ‘experimental township’ of Auroville, which was designed to promote harmony and shelter people from anywhere in the world!
Included activities
Highlights of Pondicherry
Revel in the fusion Indo-French culture of this quaint French town, best explored by foot. Amble leisurely through cobbled streets to discover stunning boutique shops brimming with handmade, contemporary crafts, and a proud café culture, tucked within grand colonial and Tamilian buildings. In the Tamilian side of town, you can visit the living Manakula Vinayagar Temple. Wander through the famous Aurobindo Ashram, a spiritual community that follow the teachings of Sri Aurobindo, and the resting place of The Mother, Sri Aurobindo’s spiritual collaborator. Venture to the town’s outskirts and visit Auroville, a universal community that is heavily involved in sustainable and alternative living projects. Kindly note that Auroville is closed every Sunday afternoon.
Day Trip to Chidambaram & Gangaikondacholapuram
Enjoy temple tours and historical ruins! Discover some of the most beautiful temples of South India enroute Thanjavur .Visit Chidambaram Thillai Nataraja Temple, which was built by the Chola dynasty to honour the Hindu god Shiva in the form of Nataraja – the Lord of Dance. Travel to Gangaikonda Cholapuram, the city of the Chola who allegedly conquered River Gange, and was once the beautiful capital of this powerful kingdom. Explore the magnificent three storey high Gangaikonda Cholapuram Temple, which is surrounded by a massive fort-like wall and affords plenty of amazing photo opportunities. Footwear is not permitted within the temple.
Hotel options
Les Hibiscus – Opt 1
Room
Standard Rooms
Meals
Breakfast
Style
Boutique
Palais De Mahe – Opt 2
Room
Deluxe Room
Meals
Breakfast
Style
Boutique
Day 4 – 5
Your chauffeur will drive you from Pondicherry to Kumbakonam in a private vehicle. Enroute you will visit Chidambaram (Duration without stops: 4.5 hrs)
1 Night
Kumbakonam
Kumbakonam: Temple town Kumbakonam is one of the oldest towns in Tamilnadu and is famous for its Mahamaham festival celebrated once in 12 years and is the temple city of South India. It is famous for brass vessels, cultivation of Betel leaves and the superb Chola temples nearby.
Included activities
Highlights of Thanjavur
Delight in the traditions and talents of Thanjavur, beginning with the famous UNESCO World Heritage Site of Brihadeeswarar Temple, a thousand year old temple dedicated to Hindu God Shiva and home to India’s largest lingam (a phallic symbol of fertility). Venture onwards to another temple in Shiva’s honour, the Panchanatheesvarar Temple. Kindly note that footwear is not permitted within the temples. Visit the home of an artisan within his community and watch how he handcrafts the incredible brass sculptures that the city is famous for. Learn how the intricate and foiled famous Tanjore paintings are crafted.
Hotel options
Mantra Koodam – Opt 1
Room
Mantra Koodam
Meals
Breakfast
Style
Resort
Mantra Koodam – Opt 2
Room
Mantra Illam
Meals
Breakfast
Style
Resort
Day 5 – 7
Your chauffeur will drive you from Kumbakonam to Chettinad in a private vehicle. Enroute you will visit Thanjavur (Duration without stops: 6 hrs)
2 Nights
Chettinad
Chettinad is renowned across India for its unique spectacular combination of flavorful cuisine, yet few venture to this sleepy, tranquil village. In its former glory days, Chettinad was a booming community of decadence. The Nagarathar (Nattukottai Chettiar), a group of successful merchants, built their palaces and mansions here about one hundred years ago. Today, most of these majestic ancestral homes are crumbling away with their rubies intact, yet the lavish spirit lives on within the vivid culture, and artisanal traditions of textiles and woodcraft. If you are seeking an authentic experience in India, this is truly the hidden gem.
Included activities
Highlights of Chettinad
Discover the traditions of South India. Explore the crumbling mansions – replete with rubies – of former Chettinad traders and visit ones of these traditional homes to learn more about daily life and the customs and rituals that are such an important part of Tamil heritage. Spend time at the Kamban Mani Mandapam, where the famous poet Mahakavi Chakravarthy Kamban spent several hours writing poetry each day. Visit the library and art gallery at Kaviarsar Kannadhasan Mani Mandapam, which was built to honour another revered poet – Shri Kannadhasan. Travel onwards to the famous tile factory in Athangudi, where your guide will explain how the renowned handmade terracotta tiles of Chettinad are crafted and readied. You can also visit a unique handloom workshop, which preserve the uniquely Chettinadu check-patterned sari fabric.
Hotel options
The Bangala – Opt 1
Room
Heritage Room
Meals
Breakfast
Style
Guest house
Visalam – Opt 2
Room
Chettinad Room
Meals
Breakfast
Style
Heritage
Day 7 – 8
Your chauffeur will drive you from Chettinad to Madurai in a private vehicle (Duration: 2 hrs)
1 Night
Madurai
Madurai, the city of incense and chiming cymbals, is one of the oldest in India! Dubbed the “Athens of the East’, the historical city was reputedly visited by learned men from Rome and Greece, including Megasthenes in the 3rd century BC! Cozily nestled amidst the towering mountains, this is an energetic city of contrasts where Hindu Gods and a growing IT industry go hand in hand. Discover the famous labyrinthe-like Meenakshi Temple, one of the greatest examples of Dravidian architecture that millions flock to every year. Apart from its international sports championships, and beautiful jasmine blooms, Madurai is well known for its numerous festivals, including the Rath Yatra, where a holy chariot is pulled across the city by hundreds of devotees!
Included activities
Highlights of Madurai
Discover the the magic of Madurai! Begin your full day tour at the heart of the ancient yet bustling city, where the awe-inspiring thousand pillared Meenakshi Amman Temple stands tall. Continue onwards to the grand Koodal Alagar Temple – a stellar example of 17th century architecture dedicated to the Hindu god Vishnu. Located nearby is the Thirumalai Nayak Mahal that once served as the royal residence of the famous Nayaka dynasty. Madurai’s busy flower and vegetable markets provide rich insight into everyday life of Tamilians. Afterwards, direct your steps towards the Gandhi Museum, which was established after famous leader of Indian Independence, Mahatma Gandhi, was assassinated. (Full Day, Private Activity & Transfer; Fitness Level: Easy. Mobile phones and photography not allowed inside Meenakshi temple)
Hotel options
Courtyard by Marriott Madurai – Opt 1
Room
Deluxe Room
Meals
Breakfast
Style
International
The Gateway Hotel Pasumalai Madurai – Opt 2
Room
Premium Room Garden View
Meals
Breakfast
Style
International
Day 8 – 10
Your chauffeur will drive you from Madurai to Munnar in a private vehicle (Duration: 5 hrs)
2 Nights
Munnar
Munnar offers a haven of peace and tranquility within the verdant hills of Kerala. The town lies at the confluence of the Muthirapuzha, Nallathanni and Kundaly mountain streams, about 5200 ft above sea level. The picturesque potential of the lofty Western Ghats first came into prominence as one of the favored summer resorts of British colonialists. Verdant tea plantations, rolling valleys and the veil of mist that hangs about the area, offer a mystical experience far from the maddening crowds. Enjoy trekking through the nature trails or just laze about at a picturesque spot under the wispy clouds.
Included activities
Tea Delights of Lockhart
Explore the Lockhart Tea Museum situated at Devikulam, a scenic hill station and national park on the outskirts of Munnar in southern India. Drive along meandering country roads flanked by lush tea plantations and wooded hills. In a while you will reach the expansive Lockhart Estate established in the late 1800s as one of High Range’s earliest tea plantations. Accompanied by an in-house expert, tour the working tea factory, following the staff in action at every stage. Learn about orthodox tea, and its entire production process from tea leaf picking to your teacup. Understand the various health benefits of tea and its many uses. Visit the tea museum to know more about the history of tea in the region. Discover a collection of vintage equipment related to tea manufacture, and browse old photographs that trace the evolution of the town itself. Visit the adjoining nursery and garden where you can observe life behind the scenes. Finally, enjoy a tea tasting session while appreciating the fantastic scenery around! (Half Day; Duration: 1 hr; Private Activity & Transfer; Fitness level: Easy, tea tasting possible during Nov -Mar)
Munnar History Tour
Take a trip down memory lane as you gain insight into Munnar’s history. As you walk through its winding streets, learn about the princely states that used to rule the region, colonial influences, the planting of teas, and the advent of tourism. At Top Station, soak in panoramic vistas of the tea estate surroundings and unique flora of the forested hills. See the remains of the ropeway that was used for the transportation of tea chests. Set out for the Headwords Dam built across the Mattupetty river, which powers the first established hydroelectric project in Kerala. Visit the well-preserved, century-old church with stained glass features and gothic-style architecture as well as Lodge Heather. Finally, stopping at the World War memorial at the town entrance, learn about how the end of the war was celebrated with bonfires across the hills of Munnar. (Duration: 2 hrs ; Private Activity & Transfer; Pick-up & Drop-off at hotel in Munnar; Fitness level: Moderate).
Hotel options
The Tall Trees – Opt 1
Room
Cinnamon Cottage
Meals
Breakfast
Style
Resort
Spice Tree Munnar – Opt 2
Room
Classic Room With Jacuzzi
Meals
Breakfast
Style
Resort
Day 10 – 12
Your chauffeur will drive you from Munnar to Cochin in a private vehicle (Duration: 5.5 hrs)
2 Nights
Cochin
Kochi, formerly Cochin, is considered the Queen of the Arabian Sea as it was one of the first European settlements in India, due its ideal positioning for trading. Kochi has always been at the heart of the Indian spice trade.The Portuguese first colonised Kochi in the 16th century, before the city was conquered by the Dutch in the 17th century and the British in the 19th century. The city’s architecture has been shaped by its colonial rulers, yet today it remains a vibrant and busy commercial center with a multicultural atmosphere and a cosmopolitan heart. As well as showcasing Kerala’s traditional dance and martial art forms throughout the year, Cochin plays host to several annual celebrations, including the Cochin Carnival every December, and the colorful contemporary art festival, Kochi-Muziris Biennale.
Included activities
Highlights of Cochin (Half Day)
Cochin is an engaging city to explore, from the absorbing views of Fort Kochi harbor with its huge Chinese fishing nets, to ancient mosques, Portuguese architecture, and the crumbling remnants of the British Raj. Explore Mattancherry, where you can observe murals and antiquities at the Dutch Palace and Cemetery. Indulge your senses browsing traditional spice and antique markets. Encounter the fascinating 400 year old, fully-functioning Parsi Synagogue in the Jewish quarter. Visit the original grave of Vasco da Gama in St. Francis Church, used before his remains were returned to Portugal. Discover Hill Palace, the state’s largest archaeological museum, which is located in the regal and artistic suburbs of Tripunithura. (Duration: 4 hrs; Private Activity & Transfer; Fitness level: Easy; Please note that the Dutch Palace is closed on Fridays, the Jewish Synagogue is closed on Friday afternoons and Saturdays and the Hill Palace Musuem is closed on Mondays.Dutch Palace has 14 steep stairs).
Personalized Cooking Experience at Neema’s Kitchen
Learn the techniques of cooking a meal typical to Kerala on this immersive tour. Get picked up from your hotel and drive to the residence of a local chef. Kerala cuisine is distinguished by its use of fresh seafood and staples such as coconut and rice. Don your apron and familiarize yourself with the many steps that go into making each dish. Glean interesting tidbits about the role of food in the local culture as you work with fresh, locally sourced ingredients such as tapioca and ginger. Learn about the importance of spices such as black pepper, cloves and cinnamon in Kerala cuisine. At the end of the session, sit down at the table for a leisurely lunch featuring the flavorful creations you learned to make. Get dropped off at your hotel, with the recipes of all the dishes you learned to prepare. (Duration: half day; Time: 1030 /1530 hrs; Private activity & transfers; Meals included: lunch or dinner; Please inform us of any food allergies in advance Fitness level: easy; Best time to travel: Oct-Mar)
Hotel options
Eighth Bastion – Opt 1
Room
Bastion Room
Meals
Breakfast
Style
Boutique
Malabar House – Opt 2
Room
Deluxe
Meals
Breakfast
Style
Boutique
Day 12 – 13
Your chauffeur will drive you from Cochin to Backwaters , Alleppey/Kumarakom in a private vehicle (Duration: 1.5 hrs)
1 Night
Backwaters of Kerala
Kerala’s famous backwaters are a labyrinthine network of tree-fringed lagoons, idyllic lakes, and river systems, running parallel to the Arabian Sea along the Malabar coast. Quaint towns and charming villages dot the banks of these interconnected canals. This unique ecosystem is home to a diverse variety of flora and fauna. The heart of Kerala’s backwaters is the vast Vembanad lake and the intimate Ashtamudi lake. The region is replete with inviting and serene homestays, resorts, and houseboats offering diverse experiences that provide a glimpse of life on these waterways. Cruising down the tranquil backwaters aboard traditional kettuvallams or houseboats is a quintessential Kerala experience, especially enhanced by local seafood and meat preparations and complemented by the region’s iconic palm wine. For a window into the state’s culture, visit the region during the colorful annual boat races which feature up to a 100 rowers rowing in unison in 100-feet long snake boats.
Included activities
Overnight Houseboat Experience
Cruise Kerala’s backwaters and stay overnight in a traditional kettuvallam, a boat made from coconut rope and wooden planks. This unique and exotic barge experience provides all the comforts of a hotel, with furnished bedrooms, a modern shower and toilet room, a living area and a shaded balcony for relaxing on as you enjoy uninterrupted views of rural Kerala. There is also a kitchen where the boat’s crew will rustle you up deliciously fresh meals and snacks, served traditionally on banana leaves. The skipper (captain), might moor up and take you to visit a backwater village, where you can meet local people and observe ancestral homes and places of worship. After a relaxing day, drop anchor and rest your head to the gentle sounds of the swishing lake waters.
Hotel options
Lakes And Lagoons – Opt 1
Room
A/C Deluxe One Room
Meals
Full Board
Style
Houseboat
Spice Coast Cruise – Opt 2
Room
One Cabin House Boat
Meals
Full Board
Style
Houseboat
Day 13 – 16
Your chauffeur will drive you from Backwaters , Alleppey/Kumarakom to Mararikulam, Alleppey in a private vehicle (Duration: 30 mins)
3 Nights
Mararikulam
Mararikulam located a short drive from the town of Alleppey, epitomizes the tropical dream with its pristine white sands and crystal clear waters. Named after the small, sleepy hamlet of Mararikulam that lies nearby, this still-undiscovered beach is slowly finding its rightful place in the limelight. Rated as one of the world’s best hammock beaches by National Geographic, this beach is perfect for basking in the sun without a care in the world. Wake up to the sight of fishing boats head out to sea in search of the day’s catch. Known for its beautiful sunsets, the beach comes alive in the evening as locals come to enjoy the lovely sights. Enjoy the tranquility of the swaying palms and the soothing sound of the waves crashing when you spend a few days at one of the pretty resorts that dot the area.
Hotel options
Amritara A Beach Symphony – Opt 1
Room
Garden View Villa
Meals
Breakfast
Style
Beach Resort
Marari Beach Resort – Opt 2
Room
Garden Villa
Meals
Breakfast
Style
Beach Resort
Day 16 – 16
Drive from Mararikulam to Cochin Airport (75 km, 2 hrs)
Cochin
Kochi, formerly Cochin, is considered the Queen of the Arabian Sea as it was one of the first European settlements in India, due its ideal positioning for trading. Kochi has always been at the heart of the Indian spice trade.The Portuguese first colonised Kochi in the 16th century, before the city was conquered by the Dutch in the 17th century and the British in the 19th century. The city’s architecture has been shaped by its colonial rulers, yet today it remains a vibrant and busy commercial center with a multicultural atmosphere and a cosmopolitan heart. As well as showcasing Kerala’s traditional dance and martial art forms throughout the year, Cochin plays host to several annual celebrations, including the Cochin Carnival every December, and the colorful contemporary art festival, Kochi-Muziris Biennale.
International Departure
Embark on a 16-day odyssey to explore the cultural and natural treasures of Southern India, where history, art, and serenity blend harmoniously. Start your journey in Chennai, paying homage to Gandhi Memorial and reveling in the grace of Kala Kshetra Dance School. Unwind at the breathtaking Marina Beach before venturing to the ancient town of Mamallapuram.
Next, admire the French elegance of Pondicherry’s colonial buildings and find solace at the serene Aurobindo Ashram. More history awaits you at Kumbakonam. While here, you will get to visit the UNESCO-listed Brihadeeswarar Temple and the lovely Panchanatheesvarar Temple in Thanjavur.
Immerse yourself in Chettinad’s opulence with grand Chettinad Palaces and antique shops. Explore the magnificent Meenakshi Temple and Gandhi Museum, before retiring to rejuvenate at one of our hand-picked hotels. Cruise the serene backwaters of Kerala, experiencing life aboard a houseboat. Conclude your journey in Cochin, revisiting historic landmarks and experiencing the vibrant Kochi-Muziris Biennale (every December).
Price & Inclusions
Option 1
From$4,090 USD/ person
Option 2
From$4,690 USD/ person
Prices are in USD and exclude international flights. This trip price is based on low season rates for accommodation and other applicable services, and may change depending on availability, currency fluctuations and number of people traveling together. For high season prices, please contact us with your exact travel dates and preferences.
Price Includes
Accommodation and meals, as specified in the itinerary
Activities and excursions, as specified in the itinerary
Transportation services, as specified in the itinerary
Your Trip Coordination Team: Dedicated support throughout your journey, with a primary, personal point of contact. Plus, in case of emergencies while you’re traveling, our trip coordination team are available 24/7 by phone
Not Included
Entrance fees and meals, unless mentioned in the itinerary description
Tips and personal expenses
Visa and tourism fees
Travel, health, and cancellation insurance
International airfare
What Our Guests Say
This trip was my gift to my wife for her birthday. I had traveled to India numerous times for business and wanted her to see this interesting and beautiful land. This was our 7th trip with Enchanting and I knew they would put together a journey that would explore the most important sights in the time which we allowed. We spent 2 weeks in the North of India and 2 weeks in the South. I was hesitant to do some much traveling by car but India has really improved their highways and the car trips where enjoyable. Our drivers were excellent. They knew the lay of the land and how to navigate the hectic Indian traffic. I am a retired international airline pilot and I will tell you that the hotels we stayed in are some of the finest in the world.
Rating 5/5
Everett Beasley
USA
This was our 14th trip with Enchanting. Each trip is always very well coordinated with never any worries about transportation, reservations or tickets etc…. The guides are always very knowledgable, helpful and kind. The drivers are always very prompt and courteous. The trip coordinators are in constant contact for any needs or concerns throughout the journey. I always answer the survey after our trips and know that Enchanting takes the answers very seriously. Thanks to the staff at Enchanting for many happy memories!
Rating 5/5
Julie Goodwin
USA
I have been using Enchanting Travels from their very beginning and I will continue to use them in the future. Although I use them mainly for India, they did arrange a very nice trip to Vienna when I went there to attend a wedding. They are reliable, efficient, trustworthy and knowledgeable and just plain excellent.
Rating 5/5
Marianne Oort-Lissy
Netherlands
A level of service that was second to none. We have no hesitation in recommending Enchanting Travels!
Rating 5/5
Jeremy Lewis
UK
I would definitely use Enchanting travel again. By planning your holiday well before you go. It is worth spending time doing this, and listen to the advice you are given You can relax during your holiday.
Rating 5/5
Erica McDonagh
Australia
Kamesh, who was the airport greeter, did an excellent job getting both us and our son from the airport to and into the hotel and situated for the trip. ALSO I don’t know if Prathima or Shivangi were responsible, but one or both of them arranged for us to get tickets to a dance performance Dec 16 at the Yagnaraman centre for performing arts at Sri Krishna Gana Sabha Trust — I was delighted. We wanted to see dance and had been unable to find information on this. Very grateful that we were able to attend. Let me also emphasize how excellent both Prathima and Shivangi were. Prathima with amazing patience and knowledge planned the trip. She was totally responsive — but also resolutely and gently made sure her experience guided our plan. And Shivangi was always there, fixing what needed to be fixed on occasion and always providing a friendly and encouraging voice. I felt we learned a lot about history, about Tamil culture and about Hinduism (that last especially on this and the next part of the trip and from our guides). Auroville is something else again and fascinating in its own different way.
Journey into ‘God’s Own Country’ on this 14-day tour that is packed with exciting activities and diverse cultural experiences. Cochin, a bustling seaside city, is a melting pot of culture and cuisine. Learn about the city’s past as an important trading port and its Dutch, Portuguese and British influences. Head to the pleasant hill station…
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