INDIA

South India
Houseboating in Kerala

TOUR DATES : JANUARY THROUGH MARCH &
OCTOBER THROUGH DECEMBER

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Southern Serenity

Since ancient times, India has been coveted by many military forces. From Alexander the Great to the modern British, India was invaded for its riches, jewels, and mystique. Surprisingly, South India remained relatively untouched by invasions from the North, preserving the true ancient Indian Dravidian culture.

As you travel through various cities, you will explore unique and breathtaking architecture, sculpture, ancient culture, and legacies left behind by the Pallava, Chola, and Pandya dynasties, providing insight into pure India. Conclude your tour with a few days experiencing the tranquil, leisurely pace on the backwaters of the Queen of the Arabian Sea—Cochin—or at one of the many Ayurvedic spas.

PRIVATE JOURNEY DATES:

JANUARY – MARCH
OCTOBER – DECEMBER

2 TRAVELERS

FROM $8,195 Per Person

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INCLUSIONS & EXCLUSIONS

Land Price Includes:

All accommodations based on double or twin occupancy
Meals as listed in itinerary;
All ground transportation in India using private air-conditioned vehicles;
All entry fees at all temples, museums and monuments on
sightseeing excursions;
All arrival/departure airport/hotel transfers;
Bottled water throughout the trip and soft drinks during meals;
Cruising on a private houseboat with all meals and shore excursions;
Kathakali dance performance in Cochin;
Bilingual Nomadic Expeditions guide throughout your stay.

Land Price Does Not Include:

International airfare and en route stopovers to and from India;
Internal India airfare, Chennai to Trichy (cost listed separately);
Excess baggage charges;
Tips/gratuity to guides, drivers, bell boys, etc.;
Items of a personal nature, such as alcoholic beverages, laundry, phone calls, etc.;
Excess baggage charges;
Comprehensive medical and trip insurance;
Other items not specifically mentioned as included.

Itinerary

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Day 1

Arrival in Chennai

Upon arrival in Chennai, you’ll be met by a Nomadic Expeditions representative and transferred to your hotel. The remainder of the day is at your leisure to explore this ancient city, formerly known as Madras, which was a vital port on the Bay of Bengal for the powerful 7th-century Pallava Dynasty.

Days 2-3

Mahabalipuram and Kanchipuram

Drive to Mahabalipuram, a UNESCO World Heritage site known as the “City of the Seven Pagodas.” Visit the Shore Temple, Pancha Rathas (Five Stone Chariots), and the main cluster of temples and rock sculptures, including the intricate Bhagirathi’s Penance bas-relief. The next day, visit Kanchipuram, one of the oldest South Indian cities and a jewel for the Chola and Pallava Kingdoms. Explore beautiful temples and spend time with the famous Kanchi silk weavers.

Days 4-5

French Colonial Charm to Ancient Temples

Drive to Pondicherry, a former French colony with a unique blend of European and Dravidian influences. The next day, continue to Tanjore to admire the magnificent Brihadisvara Temple, a prime example of Chola temple architecture dedicated to Shiva. Visit local bronze craftsmen to learn about the traditional “wax mold” casting of bronze workmanship.

Days 6-7

Discover South India’s Temples

Drive to Tiruchirappalli (Trichy) and hike up the spectacular Rock Fort, a massive rocky outcrop with a Shiva temple and panoramic views. Continue to the ancient temple town of Madurai. Explore the awe-inspiring Meenakshi Sundareshvara Temple complex, one of the most important temples in the South, and visit the Thirumalai Nayaka Palace. Take a cycle rickshaw ride through the bustling bazaar and witness the evening Aarti ceremony at the temple.

Day 8

Thekkady and Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary

Drive into the Nilgiri Hills to Thekkady, gateway to Periyar National Park and Tiger Reserve. After checking into your hotel, visit the spice plantations that once attracted traders from around the world.

Days 9-10

Periyar Wildlife and Kerala Houseboating

Explore Periyar National Park by boat, spotting elephants, tigers, leopards, and diverse birdlife. After breakfast, drive to Kumarakom Lake and board your deluxe houseboat, a traditional kettuvallom, to cruise the backwater canals of the Arabian Sea. Spend the next day relaxing on board, stopping to explore small villages, temples, and churches along the way.

Days 11-12

Discovering Cochin, the “Venice of the East”

Continue cruising the canals before driving to Cochin, nicknamed the “Venice of the East.” Explore the city on foot, visiting the Church of St. Francis, Santa Cruz Basilica, and charming shops and restaurants in Fort Kochi. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Kathakali dance performance and meet the performers.

Day 13

Departure

Transfer to the airport for your flight home.

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