Southern Enchantment


8 days/7 nights

South India has become a popular destination for travelers seeking a blend of Indian traditions and a tropical climate. The temples and architecture, juxtaposed with palm trees and multicolored shores, make it a desirable locale.

Highlights

Temples, shrines and sculptures of Mahabalipuram

Kanyakumari, the southernmost tip of India's mainland

Kovalam beaches

Itinerary Details: 8 days/7 nights

Day 1: Chennai Arrival

Namaste. Welcome to India! Arrive at Chennai International airport. You will be met by our representative and transferred to your hotel.

Chennai, formerly known as Madras, is the capital of Tamil Nadu, the exotic state famous for its temple architecture. It is the fourth largest city in India and the base of South India's classical music and dance performances. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 2: Chennai

After breakfast, enjoy a morning excursion to Mahabalipuram, once the capital of the Pallava Kings. Visit the sights of Mahabalipuram: the Shore Temple, one of the oldest temples in South India that houses the shrines of both Shiva and Vishu; Arjuna's Penance, the largest relief sculpture in the world; and the Mandapams, the finely carved cave temples. In the afternoon, take a city tour of Chennai: Fort St. George, Saint Thomas Church, Marina Beach and Kapaleeswarar Temple. Overnight in Chennai.

Day 3: Chennai—Trivandrum

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to Trivandrum. Upon arrival, check into the hotel and proceed on an afternoon tour of Trivandrum. Trivandrum is the capital of Kerala and was notably called the "Evergreen City of India" by Mahatma Gandhi. Visit the Palace Museum, Napier Museum, and Padmanabhaswamy Temple. Overnight in Trivandrum.

Day 4: Trivandrum—Kanyakumari--Kovalam

After breakfast, drive to Kanyakumari. Kanyakumari is located at the southern-most tip of India's mainland. The multicolored sands meet with the Bay of Bengal, Indian Ocean and Arabian Sea. The sunrises and sunsets are considered the most spectacular in the world on the Kanyakumari shores. Visit the sights of the town: Kanyakumari Temple, dedicated to the Goddess Parvati; Gandhi Manupam, constructed where Mahatma Gandhi's ashes were kept until immersed in the sea; and Vivekananda Memorial, a memorial to Swami Vivekananda that stands 500 meters from the mainland. Later, drive to Kovalam and check into your hotel. Overnight in Kovalam.

Days 5-6: Kovalam

2 days at leisure for independent activities in Kovalam. Kovalam is an evergreen beach resort that is called the Paradise of the South. Its enchanting strips of golden sand are laced with the rich greenery of coconut palms. This beach paradise offers spectacular aqua blue coves, Ayurvedic massage parlors, yoga centers, water sport facilities and fantastic shopping. May we recommend dinner on the moonlit shores, sampling fresh seafood and lobster.

Day 7: Kovalam—Chennai

After breakfast, transfer to Trivandrum airport for your flight to Chennai. Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel. Overnight in Chennai.

Day 8: Departure

Day at leisure to explore Chennai or rest before your journey home. We recommend taking time to visit the vibrant marketplaces and bazaars for a truly authentic experience! In the evening, transfer to the airport for your onward flight. Bon Voyage!

Inclusions

  • Hotel accommodations with daily breakfast
  • Economy air ticketing from Chennai – Trivandrum – Chennai
  • A/C vehicle and driver, as per the itinerary
  • Comprehensive touring with an English speaking guide
  • Entrance fees to the monuments
  • Airport transfers with assistance
  • Road/interstate taxes, fuel surcharges, and parking fees

Exclusions

  • International Airfare
  • Any items of a personal nature
  • Additional meals
  • Gratuities
  • Visa Fees

Supplemental Information

  • A visa is required to visit India. 
  • To protect your travel investment, Sodha Travel strongly recommends Travel Insurance.
  • Visit our FAQ page for additional information on traveling to India.

Southern Enchantment Map