This morning, leave the bustling city behind as you journey along the picturesque East Coast Road to the charming fishing town of Mamallapuram. Explore the stunning 8th-century Shore Temple and its intricately carved mandapams (pillared pavilions), where locals come to honor the deity Shiva. In the afternoon, continue your drive to Puducherry, a former French colony that still exudes European charm. Stroll through its leafy boulevards, lined with colonial-era houses and stylish boutiques. Upon arrival, enjoy a free evening to explore at your own pace. Puducherry’s diverse culinary scene blends Indian and French flavors—be sure to ask your leader for recommendations on the best dining spots.

Enjoy a leisurely morning before setting off on a guided walking tour with your leader to explore Puducherry’s rich history and unique blend of cultures. Visit local temples and wander through the charming French Quarter, where mustard-colored buildings adorned with vibrant bougainvillea line the streets. As you walk, your leader will share fascinating stories of revolutionaries, generals, and kings who once roamed this area. Stop by the pastel pink Church of Notre Dame, a striking reminder of the city’s French colonial past—evident even in the police uniforms. Along the way, take a break at a café in White Town to sample some local snacks. The evening is yours to continue exploring at your own pace.

Today, journey to the vibrant city of Madurai, making plenty of chai stops along the way. Arriving in the late afternoon, take a short orientation walk with your leader to familiarize yourself with one of India’s oldest and most culturally rich cities. Once you’ve settled in, embark on a guided tour of Madurai’s famous Tamil cuisine. The city is a haven for food lovers, brimming with street food stalls and family-run eateries serving up regional specialties. Your leader will introduce you to hidden culinary gems, offering dishes beyond the usual tourist menus. Sample flavorful mutton dosa or a rich fish gravy while learning about centuries-old recipes and the passionate chefs who keep these traditions alive. End the evening on a sweet note with Jigarthanda, Madurai’s signature dessert—a delightful blend of condensed milk, almond gum, and ice cream, perfect for cooling off after a flavorful feast.

Continue your journey through Madurai today with a guided exploration led by your knowledgeable leader. Wander through the bustling Tailor’s Market and local bazaars, soaking in the city’s vibrant energy, before visiting the magnificent Sri Meenakshi Temple. Still an active place of worship, this ancient temple is a labyrinth of lamp-lit corridors leading to shrines where traditional rituals unfold.

Next, delve into history at the National Gandhi Museum, which chronicles the life and legacy of Mahatma Gandhi, the leader of India’s independence movement. Then, admire the grandeur of Thirumalai Nayak Palace, a stunning 17th-century architectural marvel built by King Tirumala Nayaka.

This evening, enjoy an immersive cultural experience as you join a local family for a traditional home-cooked dinner. Engage in warm conversations about daily life and traditions while savoring flavorful Tamil dishes such as chettinad chicken, egg paratha, and vegetable korma.

Journey to the charming countryside town of Thekkady today, passing through lush landscapes dotted with pineapple and rubber plantations. Nestled in the highlands of the Western Ghats, Thekkady serves as the gateway to the renowned Periyar National Park and Tiger Reserve.

En route, stop at a spice plantation where a local expert will introduce you to the vibrant world of Indian spices. Breathe in the rich aromas, learn about their culinary and medicinal uses, and taste the flavors that define India’s celebrated cuisine. Then, put your newfound knowledge to good use as you enjoy a delicious lunch infused with spices fresh from the plantation.

The evening is yours to unwind in Thekkady. Stroll through local markets filled with fragrant spices and organic teas, or take a moment to relax by the palm-fringed pool at your resort.

Start your morning with a guided nature walk through the renowned Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. With the help of an expert guide, keep an eye out for tiger tracks, spotted deer, Indian elephants, and gaur—the world’s largest species of buffalo. You’re most likely to encounter the lively Bonnet macaques and the striking Malabar giant squirrel, a species native to India.

The afternoon is yours to relax at your own pace. Consider indulging in a rejuvenating Ayurvedic massage or exploring the local markets for aromatic spices and handcrafted goods.

In the evening, experience the exhilarating art of kalarippayattu at the Kadathanadan Kalari Centre. Originating in Kerala, this dynamic martial art is considered one of the oldest in the world. Watching the skilled fighters perform gravity-defying leaps and powerful strikes is sure to be a thrilling highlight of your journey.

This morning, journey north to Munnar, a former British hill station nestled in a picturesque valley. Sitting at 1,525 meters above sea level, the cooler climate offers a refreshing change from the lowlands.

Upon arrival, set out on a tea plantation tour, where a resident expert will walk you through the fascinating tea-making process. Wander along narrow pathways as you observe workers carefully selecting the finest tea leaves, then learn how these leaves are transformed into the world’s most beloved beverage. Of course, no visit would be complete without sampling a variety of fresh, locally grown teas.

If time and availability permit, you may also get the chance to visit the Tea Museum, which offers deeper insights into the region’s tea-growing heritage.

In the evening, unwind at your resort, soaking in the peaceful surroundings of Munnar’s lush, rolling hills.

Start your day with a guided walk through the lush, misty hills of Munnar, where rolling tea plantations and verdant valleys create a picture-perfect landscape. Keep your camera ready to capture the breathtaking views as the morning fog slowly lifts, revealing the serene beauty of the region.

In the afternoon, travel to the scenic Mattupetty Dam, a picturesque spot known for its man-made lake and stunning valley views. If you're feeling adventurous, you have the option to take a motorboat ride across the calm waters, offering a unique perspective of the surrounding hills.

After taking in the tranquil scenery, return to Munnar for a relaxed evening at leisure. You may choose to explore the local markets, unwind at your resort, or simply enjoy the cool mountain air.

This morning, set out for the serene backwaters of Kerala and arrive in Alleppey, a charming town known for its palm-fringed canals and vibrant 'snake boat' races held each August. Once a thriving trading hub, Alleppey’s waterways were once bustling with kettuvallams—large wooden boats used for transporting rice and spices.

Today, these traditional vessels have been transformed into luxurious houseboats, offering an unforgettable way to experience Kerala’s tranquil backwaters. Your Feature Stay tonight is aboard one of these beautifully converted boats, where bamboo roofs, coir mat flooring, and coconut wood beds showcase the region’s rich craftsmanship. Equipped with modern comforts, including private bedrooms, western-style bathrooms, and an open deck, your floating retreat provides the perfect setting to unwind.

As you glide through the peaceful lagoons, soak in the sights of lush greenery, small villages, and local life unfolding along the banks. Enjoy a delicious onboard meal prepared with fresh local ingredients, then settle in for an evening of pure relaxation, drifting through Kerala’s dreamlike waters.

Start your day with a tranquil morning on the Kerala backwaters, soaking in the peaceful surroundings before setting off for Kochi in the afternoon. Formerly known as Cochin, this vibrant city is spread across several islands and reflects a rich blend of Portuguese, Dutch, Chinese, and British influences.

Upon arrival, join your leader for an orientation walk, where you’ll see how these diverse cultures have shaped Kochi’s architecture, cuisine, and daily life. Wander past colonial-era buildings, bustling spice markets, and charming streets that tell the story of the city’s layered history.

Later, take some time to explore at your own pace—perhaps stop by Princess Street for a relaxing coffee break at one of its atmospheric cafés.

In the evening, experience the captivating art of Kathakali at a live dance performance. This traditional dance-drama of Kerala is a mesmerizing fusion of expressive storytelling, elaborate costumes, intricate facial makeup, and dramatic movements. Training in this art form takes years of rigorous practice, making it one of India’s most extraordinary theatrical traditions. Watching the grace and power of Kathakali dancers in action is sure to be a highlight of your time in Kochi.

Today, dive into the vibrant culture of Kochi as you explore its antique shops and bustling spice bazaars, where your leader will help you master the art of bargaining like a local. Stroll through the historic Fort Kochi area and pause to admire the iconic Chinese fishing nets, one of the city's most photographed landmarks. Then, step back in time with a visit to the Mattancherry Palace, originally built by the Portuguese in the 16th century and later renovated by the Dutch, earning it the nickname "Dutch Palace." Inside, marvel at its intricately painted murals depicting scenes from Indian mythology.

Continue to the Paradesi Synagogue, the oldest active Jewish synagogue in India, where you'll find exquisite hand-painted tiles, Belgian chandeliers, and ancient Torah scrolls that reflect the city's diverse heritage.

In the early evening, meet with an Ayurvedic doctor, a practitioner of ancient holistic healing, to gain insight into techniques that promote balance and well-being. Learn about Satvik Bhojan, the Ayurvedic dietary philosophy, which emphasizes purity, balance, and natural ingredients. Wrap up the day with an interactive cooking demonstration, where you'll prepare and enjoy a nourishing dinner based on these traditional principles.

Your adventure wraps up after breakfast this morning. If you're looking to extend your stay in India, contact your booking agent in advance to arrange extra accommodation or necessary transfers. Safe travels!