Way down in Tamil Nadu, our journey begins in the tropical metropolis of Chennai, before we wind our way across the mountainous border into Kerala.

On this unique adventure we relish the culinary delights of Chettinad; have spiritual experiences in auspicious temple towns; ride bikes through the former French enclave of Pondicherry; do yoga with Ayurvedic masters; trek the lush forests of the Western Ghats and sail through the quiet lagoons of Alleppey.

This is not the India everyone expects, so if you want to explore another side of this magical country, the South India Tour is for you.

Maison Perumal, Pondicherry

Mantra Koodam, Kumbakonam

Marari Beach Resort, Alleppey

itinerary

Day 1 / Chennai – Arrival & Indulgence
Arrive in Chennai and settle into the historic Taj Connemara. In the evening, hop into tuk-tuks for your first taste of India over a lively local dinner. Unwind at the hotel or enjoy a quiet evening soaking in its timeless charm.

Day 2 / Chennai to Pondicherry – Auroville & the French Connection
We journey south, stopping at Auroville to visit the golden Matrimandir and share a community lunch. By evening, we arrive in Pondicherry, where French architecture meets Tamil warmth. Tonight’s dinner blends bold spices and colonial flair.

Day 3 / Pondicherry – A Tale of Two Cultures
Explore the city’s Tamil and French quarters—from bustling markets to quiet ashrams and tree-lined boulevards. The afternoon is free for shopping or café hopping, before we gather for dinner in the charming French Quarter.

Day 4 / Pondicherry to Kumbakonam – Village Life & Traditions
After breakfast, we head inland to temple-rich Kumbakonam. In the afternoon, enjoy a relaxed countryside bike ride past rice paddies and shrines. We end the day with a quiet dinner at our heritage retreat.

Day 5 / Kumbakonam to Chettinad – Palatial Mansions
On our way to Chettinad, we visit the famous Thanjavur temple. After a relaxed lunch and time by the pool, we explore the village’s historic mansions before sitting down to a home-cooked Chettinad feast.

Day 6 / Chettinad – A Feast for the Senses
Discover the region’s rich crafts—from tile-making to sari weaving and palace visits. Enjoy a traditional banana leaf lunch and visit antique shops before a cooking demonstration and dinner under the open sky.

Day 7 / Chettinad to Madurai – Into Tamil Nadu’s Heart
Travel to Madurai and visit a local tailor for custom-made garments. In the evening, explore the Meenakshi Temple during its moving evening rituals, full of sound, colour, and devotion.

Day 8 / Madurai – A Celebration of Tradition
Begin the day with a walk through morning Madurai, watching the city wake up. Enjoy the afternoon at your leisure—by the pool or with a spa treatment—before a relaxed dinner at the hotel.

Day 9 / Madurai to Thekkady – Into the Spice Hills
Head into Kerala’s cool spice-scented hills. After checking into our forest lodge, explore the spice markets or enjoy the peace of your cabin. Dinner is served in an open-air setting under the stars.

Day 10 / Thekkady to Alleppey – A Morning in the Wild
Stroll through a nearby spice plantation in the morning before heading to the coast. Enjoy time to relax by the sea, then savour a seafood dinner at a beachfront restaurant.

Day 11 / Alleppey – A Day on the Backwaters
Drift through Kerala’s tranquil backwaters, watching daily life unfold along the canals. Spend your afternoon unwinding—by the pool, in a hammock, or at the spa—before a sunset drink and dinner by the beach.

Day 12 / Alleppey to Kochi – A Grand Finale
Arrive in Fort Kochi and spend the afternoon browsing shops, art, and cafés. In the evening, we gather for a farewell dinner in the candlelit gardens of our heritage hotel.

Day 13 / Kochi to Home – Until We Meet Again
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your onward flight, bringing home memories of colour, culture, and connection from your journey through South India.

PRICE

$5950AUD Per Person, Twin Share
Private Room Supplement is + $2000AUD

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.
  • The occasional tuk tuk
  • 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 Private Room Supplement of $2000AUD and have your own heavenly room during the tour.

3. Come solo and be paired up with another solo traveller. NOTE: If you would like to share with another solo traveller please get in touch with us before you book as this option is strictly subject to availability.

cancellation policy

Bookings accepted only after a non-refundable deposit of $950AUD 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