Overview
Itinerary
Fly to Chennai, transferring to your hotel on arrival. Depending on your time of arrival, the rest of the day is yours to start soaking up the local culture. (D)
Start today with an exploration of the ancient temples and intricately adorned monuments, providing insight into the architectural wonders of Kanchipuram and the coastal allure of Mahabalipuram. (B/L/D)
After breakfast, you will transfer to Chennai Station, where you will step aboard the Trichy-bound Tejas Express. Sit back and enjoy the picturesque landscapes while you head south. On arrival you will transfer to Tanjore for the night. (B/L/D)
Drive to Madurai, with an intriguing detour through Chettinad to learn about tile-making and to wander through the local market. Enjoy a hands-on cooking lesson, savouring the flavours of Chettinad cuisine, which culminates in a delightful lunch experience. Upon reaching Madurai, the evening unfolds as you experience an Arti Ceremony at Minakshi Temple, a spiritual and cultural spectacle. (B/L/D)
A day of exploration that starts with a sightseeing tour of Madurai. Discover Thirumalai Nayaka Palace, a historical gem resonating with the splendour of a bygone era before engaging in a delightful Food Trail Tour, to relish the diverse and flavourful culinary delights that Madurai is known for. (B/L/D)
Following breakfast, you'll transfer to the railway station to board the PJ TVC Express bound for Trivandrum. Upon reaching Trivandrum, immerse yourself in the spiritual ambiance of the city with a visit to the iconic Sri Padmanabhaswamy Temple, a site of profound cultural and religious significance. (B/L/D)
Enjoy a day trip to Kanyakumari, where you will marvel at the convergence of the Arabian Sea, the Indian Ocean, and the Bay of Bengal. Discover the Vivekananda Rock Memorial and the Thiruvalluvar Statue, iconic landmarks adorning the southernmost tip of the Indian subcontinent, before returning to Trivandrum. (B/L/D)
After breakfast take a drive to Alleppey, where you will board a traditional houseboat, locally referred to as a Kettuvallam. Cruise through the captivating backwaters, enveloped by verdant scenery and swaying palm trees. The soothing rhythm of the tranquil waters provide an ideal backdrop for an overnight stay. (B/L/D)
Disembark and to Cochin, a city rich in history and culture. Enjoy a city tour that explores significant landmarks, historical sites, and lively local markets. In the evening, delve into the realm of Kathakali, an ancient dance form merging intricate facial expressions, graceful motions, and vibrant attire. (B/L/D)
After breakfast transfer to the rain station to board the SBC Intercity Express heading to Coimbatore. Upon reaching Coimbatore you will continue by coach to Ooty where you will check in at your hotel. (B/L/D)
Following breakfast, commence a picturesque and iconic voyage from Ooty to Coonoor, on the infamous toy Train. Meandering through the enchanting Nilgiri Hills, the journey unfolds breath taking views of landscapes, tea plantations, and quaint villages. Take the time to discover the Botanical Gardens in Coonoor before returning to Ooty. (B/L/D)
Return to the railway station in Coimbatore to catch the SBC Intercity Express headed for Bangalore. Upon reaching Bangalore, transfer to your hotel before dinner. (B/L/D)
Start the day with a city tour of Bangalore, immersing yourself in the modernity and tradition that characterizes this lively city. Explore prominent landmarks, cultural sites and attractions that showcase the city's rich heritage and essence. (B/L/D)
Transfer to the airport for your onward flight, arriving back to Australia a day later. (B)
Trip Inclusions
- Explore the ancient city of Kanchipuram
- Witness the Arti ceremony at Minakshi Temple
- Discover culinary delights in Madurai's vibrant streets
- Cruise in a traditional houseboat through Kerala's backwaters
- Enjoy a picturesque Toy Train ride through the Nilgri region
- Visit key landmarks and cultural sites in Bangalore
- International flights
- All domestic transportation
- All meals
- 4 star accommodation
- Touring with guides and entrance fees
- Visa fees for AU passport holders
- 13 Breakfasts, 12 Lunches, 13 Dinners
- Residency Hotel, Chennai, India (4 star): The Residency Hotel is a short distance to the city's corporate and shopping areas. The en-suite rooms feature modern amenities including, TV and and tea/coffee facilities. A breakfast buffet is served daily in the Spice Bar, which also offers lunch and dinner, with guests also having the option to order a la carte from the Chin Chin restaurant.
- Hotel Sangam, Tanjore, India (3 star): Perfectly located within walking distance to the Brihadeeshwara, Bangaru Kamakshi and Thiruvanajozhi Temples, the Sangam hotel offers guests an ideal stay during their adventures in Tanjore. The hotel is home to a range of facilities, including a multi-cuisine restaurant, vibrant bar and swimming pool. Each room is equipped with air conditioning, Wi-Fi as well as a minibar and tea/ coffee making services, completed with modern furnishing.
- Heritage Madurai, Madurai (4 star): Perfectly located within the heart of the city, Heritage Madurai is the embodiment of historic charm. As a guest at the Heritage Madurai, you will be in close proximity to the Madurai Meenakshi Amman Temple, Gandhi Memorial Museum plus much more. Your room is laced in modern yet traditional influences and features Wi-Fi, a minibar, tea and coffee maker as well as air conditioning.
- Uday Suites, Trivandrum (4 star): Immerse yourself in serene ambience and lush greenery at the Uday Suites Hotel, that provides a resort-like setting amidst a vibrant city. In close proximity to a number of Temples and popular attractions such as the Shri Chitra Art Gallery, the hotel offers plenty of amenities, including an outdoor swimming pool, spa & wellness facilities and games & recreation area.
- AC Deluxe Houseboat , Allepy, India (4 star): Located in Allepy, the traditional 80 feet long crafts have been adapted into luxuriously furnished houseboats. Each houseboat is beautifully decorated with coir mattress on the floor. Modern comforts include a spacious living/dining area and sun deck, with an airy passage and neat kitchen. Clean towels and blankets are also provided.
- The Casino Hotel, Cochin, India (4 star): Located within the historic Willingdon island of Kochi, The Casino Hotel is just a 10-minute drive from the vibrant city centre. The 4* hotel boasts cosmopolitan yet traditional finishes and is home to fine dining, rejuvenating wellness therapies and a salt mineral water swimming pool. Rooms here are spacious, allowing for a comfortable stay, equipped air conditioning, minibar and flatscreen TV.
- Fortune Resort Sullivan Court, Ooty, India (3 star): Located within the scenic surroundings of Ooty, the 4* Fortune Resort Sullivan Court is a modern-day tribute to the founder of the city, John Sullivan. The resort is just 1km from the city centre and provides a wide selection of facilities to guests, including restaurants, serving flavours of India as well as cuisines from around the world, as well as a contemporary bar, spa and gym. Rooms are beautifully furnished and equipped with a minibar, coffee and tea maker as well as air conditioning and flatscreen TV.
- Adarsh Hamilton Hotel, Bangalore, India (4 star): Situated in a quiet neighbourhood off Richmond Circle in the heart of Bangalore's Central Business District, Adarsh Hamilton Hotel offers luxurious en-suite rooms featuring modern amenities including, TV, tea/coffee facilities and a safety deposit box. Superb facilities include a restaurant, free Wi-Fi and fitness centre.
- Itinerary and inclusions are subject to change
- Flight Inclusive rates only: These include airline fuel surcharge and taxes. Correct as of 10 January 2024. Please note supplements may apply if lead in economy rates are not available.
- Customary tipping amount of approximately US$150pp (AU$224pp) is paid locally in India.
- Depending on airline schedules, you may depart and/or arrive on Day 2. Extra nights' accommodation (pre or post tour) or stopovers may be required at an additional cost.
- Flight Inclusive rates only: Based on departures from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide & Perth. Departures from other cities and flight upgrades available on request.
Everything is taken care of including your flights, accommodation, sightseeing and entrance fees listed on your itinerary and all your meals. Read more
Wendy Wu include return international economy-class flights from Australia as part of their fully inclusive tours. Upgrades are available too! Read more
On all of our tours you will be escorted by a dedicated National Escort, tasked with the responsibility to keep you safe, happy, entertained and inspired. Read more
Brochure
Wendy Wu India (2024-25)
Availability
Prices include air taxes and fuel surcharges, this amount is correct at time of brochure release and subject to change. Note air supplement may apply depending on airline availability and departure city. The majority of departures above will proceed or are guaranteed to depart (based on a minimum of 10 passengers). We will outline the status of your departure date in your quote along with all applicable discounts and specials.
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Wendy Wu. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from Wendy Wu. These should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.
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