Southern India is a lush, tropical dream infused with ancient traditions, vibrant flavours, and soul-stirring landscapes. From Chennai’s coastal energy to misty mountains, sacred temples, and Kerala’s golden beaches, this journey reveals an India of quiet charm and deep spirituality.

Temple bells echo in the morning mist, spice-laden markets burst with colour, and life moves to the rhythm of the waves. Ride through villages on two wheels, taste the fiery finesse of Chettinad cuisine, trek through Periyar’s emerald forests, and glide along Alleppey’s tranquil backwaters.

Beyond exploration, this journey is about connection—with the places, the people, and fellow travellers. Trunk tours attract kindred spirits, and lifelong friendships often begin here. Between adventures, moments of rest allow you to soak in the beauty, reflect, and simply be.

If you’re seeking India beyond the bustle of the north, the South India Tour awaits.

Palais De Mahe, Pondicherry

Mantra Koodam, Kumbakonam

The Bangala, Chettinad

itinerary

Day 1 / Chennai
Arrive in Chennai and settle into the historic Taj Connemara. In the evening, head out by tuk-tuk to visit a Hindu temple before getting acquainted over a lively welcome dinner.

Day 2 / Chennai to Pondicherry
Journey south along the coast, stopping at Auroville to visit the golden Matrimandir and enjoy a leisurely lunch. By evening, arrive in Pondicherry, where French elegance meets Tamil warmth, and gather for a delicious Creole-inspired dinner.

Day 3 / Pondicherry
Explore Pondicherry’s Tamil and French quarters, from vibrant markets and temples to leafy boulevards and peaceful ashrams. The afternoon is free for boutique shopping and café hopping before dinner in the atmospheric French Quarter.

Day 4 / Pondicherry to Kumbakonam
Travel inland to temple-rich Kumbakonam and settle into a peaceful heritage retreat. After lunch and time by the pool, cycle through the surrounding villages before a relaxed dinner at the hotel.

Day 5 / Kumbakonam to Chettinad
En route to Chettinad, visit the magnificent Brihadeeswarar Temple in Thanjavur. Arrive in Chettinad to explore grand historic mansions before a home-cooked feast celebrating the region’s bold flavours.

Day 6 / Chettinad
Discover Chettinad’s rich craft traditions, from tile-making and sari weaving to palatial heritage homes. After a traditional banana leaf lunch and antique shopping, enjoy a cooking demonstration followed by dinner at the hotel.

Day 7 / Chettinad to Madurai
Travel to the vibrant city of Madurai and settle into a beautiful heritage hotel. Enjoy a relaxed evening and dinner at the hotel.

Day 8 / Madurai to Thekkady
Experience the magic of Meenakshi Temple in the early morning, followed by a walk through Madurai as the city wakes. After breakfast, journey into Kerala’s cool, spice-scented hills and settle into your forest lodge in Thekkady. The afternoon is free to relax or explore the local spice markets before dinner under the stars.

Day 9 / Thekkady
Set off on a private boat safari through Periyar National Park, where elephants, birdlife and buffalo may appear along the water’s edge. In the afternoon, explore a nearby spice plantation before another relaxed evening at the lodge.

Day 10 / Thekkady to Alleppey
Travel to Alleppey, a serene landscape of backwaters and lagoons. Settle into your beautiful resort and enjoy a leisurely afternoon before dinner at the hotel.

Day 11 / Alleppey
Enjoy a morning cruise through the tranquil backwaters, passing village life and abundant birdlife. Return for breakfast and a full day to unwind by the pool or indulge in an Ayurvedic massage before dinner under the stars.

Day 12 / Alleppey to Kochi
Travel to Fort Kochi and spend the afternoon exploring its charming streets, boutiques and cafés. In the evening, gather for a farewell dinner in the gardens of your heritage hotel.

Day 13 / Kochi
Begin the day with a gentle guided walk through Fort Kochi before breakfast. Afterwards, transfer to the airport, carrying home memories of colour, culture and connection.

PRICE

Tour price: $7950AUD Per Person, Twin Share
Single Supplement: $2500AUD

PLEASE NOTE: All prices are in Australian Dollars

what’s included

what’s not included

  • International airfare.
  • Meals other than specified above.
  • Medical & travel insurance.
  • Indian Visa.
  • Any other services not covered above.
  • Personal expense such as laundry, beverages, telephone calls etc.

room options

Price is based on twin share accommodation. Please see room options below –

1. Bring a travel buddy and share a room.

2. Pay the Single Supplement of $2500AUD and have your own private room during the tour.

Please note: We don’t offer room matching for solo travellers. If you’d like the twin share price, you’ll need to book with a travel companion.

cancellation policy

Bookings accepted only after a non-refundable deposit of $1500AUD is paid and confirmation of payment is issued to the traveller with a copy of the Terms and Conditions of Travel.

The balance of payment must be paid no later than 60 days before departure, failing which Trunk India may treat the booking as cancelled by the traveller.

All cancellations by the traveller must be received in writing and will take effect from the date received by Trunk India, in which event, the following cancellation charges will apply;

Up to 61 days – loss of deposit.

Between 60 and 30 days 50% of entire booking cost.

Between 29 days and departure date – 100% of entire booking cost.

Please ensure that you have travel insurance to cover you against any unforeseen circumstances which may arise after full payment is made.

Secure your place, and Join us on the trip of a lifetime.

Click 'BOOK THIS TOUR' to secure your spot with a deposit. Once paid, TRUNK will contact you directly to finalise your room sharing details.

FOR More information and to see an in-depth itinerary