Classic South India - From Temples to Backwaters

Overview

Explore the ancient temples of Mahabalipuram, Madurai and Kanchipuram, enjoy the unique culture of Pondicherry, learn about the history and art of Thanjavur, savor the beauty of the Kerala backwaters and discover local handicrafts in this comprehensive heritage tour of South India. Discover the exquisite carvings and architecture of the World Heritage Site-listed temples of Mahabalipuram and explore the temple city of Madurai, home to the famous Meenakshi Temple. Visit Auroville, take a walking tour of the French Quarter and relax on the beach in Pondicherry. Take in the beauty of Kerala with a houseboat ride over the backwaters and walk through the pristine wilderness of the Periyar National Park. You also get a glimpse of the culture and life of the region with visits to artisan workshops, local food experiences, market walks and village expeditions. This tour is a mix of history, culture and experiences, making it your perfect gateway to South India.

Tour Highlights

  • Explore ancient rock-carved temples of Mahabalipuram dating back to 6th and 9th Century.
  • Discover ancient city of Thanjavur famous for Tanjore and Kalamkari paintings.
  • Explore Chettinad with a guided tour of Karaikudi village.
  • Tour the temple city of Madurai home to famous Meenakshi Temple.
  • Visit Auroville and the French Quarter of Pondicherry.
  • Enjoy houseboat cruise in Kerala backwaters.
  • Walk through spice plantations.
  • Visit Fort Kochi - an amalgam of Old Portuguese, British and Dutch colonial architecture.

Self-Guided option available

Enjoy the freedom of creating your unique holiday at your own pace with Active India and discover a side of India you never knew existed. Our collection of self-guided tours is incredibly flexible, economical, enjoyable and showcases the natural beauty and vast range of experiences available throughout this incredible country. Explore places at your own leisure, chat with locals, savor local cuisine, and take a break whenever it suits you. Our drivers ensure you stay on track, and additionally 24/7 emergency support is provided.
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Essential Information

Base Price Includes

  • Daily buffet breakfasts included at given hotels.
  • Overnight on Houseboat Cruise with all meals onboard at Alleppey
  • Cycles for activity at mentioned cities with standby mechanic & spare parts
  • Accommodation in 4* star or similar hotels on double/ twin sharing basis.
  • All transfers and sightseeing by a Private vehicle, as given in the itinerary.
  • Services of a Guest Friendly, experienced & Skilled Chauffer
  • Services of a local (stationed) Guide during sightseeing at cities as per the program.
  • Representative for assistance upon Arrival and Departure at Major cities.
  • 24/7 assistance by "Active India" support team.

Base Price Does Not Include

  • Any applicable government taxes.
  • Any International/ Domestic airfare.
  • Any Travel insurance OR Visa Charges
  • Any meal other than Breakfast - unless specified
  • Any Monument Entrance fee and National Parks entry Cost.
  • Any Supplement Cost for festival period, long weekend or peak season dates.
  • Any service or activity charges other than those included in the inclusions List.
  • Any Expenses of personal nature like Staff Tips, Laundry, phone calls, table drinks, excess baggage charges etc.
  • Any camera Charges - Still or Video or any other expanses which are not mentioned in above inclusion list.
  • Unforseen expenses that demand changes in the itinerary like natural calamities, changes in weather, road blockages, flight/train cancellations and any medical emergency or evacuations.

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Our range of tailor-made itineraries offers you the ultimate flexibility to create a truly customised India holiday experience. From dates and duration to type of accommodation, adventures and activities to all the finer details, customise your holiday, your way.

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Our experienced holiday planners will carefully listen to all your preferences and use their local knowledge and award-winning expertise in helping you create an enjoyable and perfectly personalised India holiday experience that is in your budget and personal style.

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Planning a family event or a group/team activity? We can help! From end-to-end planning and reservations to accommodation, activities and transfers, you can count on our award-winning expertise for an authentic, safe and enjoyable holiday experience for everyone.

Create your perfect holiday, your way. Our tailor made itineraries give you the flexibility to build your own unique holiday experience, maximising opportunities to really experience a destination on your own terms. Our experienced holiday planners will listen to your preferences and use their award-winning knowledge and expertise to advise you of the best options that fit your budget and requirements.

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Latest Reviews

Excellent trip and service - would highly recommend. Hotels and food options were first class and guides and drivers very helpful and reliable.

My wife and I had an unforgettable 8-day stay in India, and we’d like to thank everyone who helped make it so special. First, a big thank you to Ravi, who did a fantastic job organizing everything from start to finish. Our journey began on a high note when we arrived at our hotel in New Delhi and were surprised to find traditional outfits waiting for us—ones we would later wear during the Holi festival in Jaipur. Celebrating Holi was an absolute highlight—throwing colored powder, dancing to traditional music, and being surrounded by so much joy and energy was an experience we’ll never forget. We felt safe and well taken care of the entire time, thanks to our driver Arvind. We were also fortunate to have knowledgeable and passionate guides in each city—Varun in Delhi, Manish in Agra, and Vinod in Jaipur. Each of them brought the history and culture of these incredible places to life in their own unique way. Of course, seeing the Taj Mahal was a dream come true, but another deeply memorable moment was visiting Gurudwara Sis Ganj Sahib, where we had the opportunity to help serve free meals to visitors. It was a humbling and rewarding experience that left a lasting impact on both of us. India welcomed us with warmth, color, and kindness. We return home with full hearts and unforgettable memories.

We can never put into words how happy we are with our holiday in India. We began planning the trip 2 years in advance, and Ravi and his team worked tirelessly and patiently with us until the itinerary was perfect. The hotels we selected together exceeded our expectations, and thanks to Active India's requests, we received several upgrades. From the moment we exited the airport, until being dropped back off, we were treated like esteemed VIP guests. We had the "BEST" local experienced guides in every town. And our drivers managed to keep us calm and cool while dodging cows, goats, motorcycles, potholes, and crazy traffic. Driving in India is an experience all unto itself! Our holiday included a lot of rural time. We were in forests and jungles tracking tigers and leopards. We visited small off the grid villages to meet locals and learn about their customs. And we visited many temples and sites miles away from the hustling cities. This made our trip feel less chaotic, as spending only time in cities will not allow you to chill and recharge. Active India made sure we balanced history, food, culture, nature, spirituality, and fun fun fun. Our photos clearly show this. We cannot thank Ravi and his wonderful team of professionals enough, they made this a trip of a lifetime. Thank you India for welcoming us with open arms, kindness, and sharing all of your treasures with us. We leave India knowing so much more about you, the West has gotten the messaging all wrong. We look forward to visiting your beautiful country again! Steven and Stephane.

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