Experience the South India Wonders with Excel India Tours

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Kerala & Madurai Highlights – 8 Days.

Rs.1,45,000 / 2 people

USD 1,500 for 2 people

Discover the best of Kerala and Tamil Nadu on this well-crafted 8-day journey combining culture, nature, wildlife, backwaters, beaches, and temple heritage. From the colonial charm of Fort Kochi to the misty hills of Munnar, serene backwaters of Alleppey, and the spiritual city of Madurai, this tour offers a perfect South Indian experience.

Kochi – Alappuzha – Munnar – Thekkady – Madurai
7 Nights / 8 Days

Day 1: Arrival in Kochi – Fort Kochi Cultural Experience
Arrive in Kochi and settle into the hotel. Later, explore the historic heritage area of Fort Kochi, including the Chinese Fishing Nets, St. Francis Church, the historic streets and colonial buildings. Continue to Mattancherry and Jewish Town, with visits to the Dutch Palace and Jewish Synagogue.
Overnight: Kochi

Day 2: Kochi to Alappuzha – Kerala Backwaters & Houseboat Experience
After breakfast, drive from Kochi to Alappuzha, the gateway to Kerala's famous backwaters. Board a traditional private houseboat and cruise through tranquil canals, lagoons, paddy fields and village landscapes. Enjoy a traditional Kerala lunch on board while watching everyday life along the waterways.
Overnight: Houseboat, Alappuzha

Day 3: Alappuzha to Munnar – From Backwaters to the Western Ghats
Disembark after breakfast and drive towards Munnar. The scenery gradually changes from coconut-lined backwaters and rice fields to forests, waterfalls, spice plantations and rolling tea-covered hills. Stop at suitable viewpoints and waterfalls en route.
Overnight: Munnar

Day 4: Munnar – Tea & Mountain Experience
Explore the beautiful Munnar hills, including tea plantations, scenic viewpoints and local villages. Visit Mattupetty Dam and Echo Point, with an optional visit to Eravikulam National Park, subject to park opening and availability. The day is kept relaxed to allow time to enjoy Munnar's mountain scenery.
Overnight: Munnar

Day 5: Munnar to Thekkady – Spice Country & Periyar
Drive from Munnar to Thekkady through spectacular mountain and forest landscapes. On arrival, visit a spice plantation to learn about Kerala's cardamom, pepper, cinnamon and other spices. Depending on interest and time, enjoy an optional cultural or nature activity.
Overnight: Thekkady

Day 6: Thekkady – Periyar Wildlife & Nature Experience
Spend the day exploring the natural surroundings of Thekkady and Periyar National Park. An optional boat cruise on Periyar Lake offers opportunities to observe birds and wildlife along the forested shores. Alternatively, choose a guided nature walk or another gentle wildlife experience.
Overnight: Thekkady

Day 7: Thekkady to Madurai – From Kerala to Tamil Nadu
After breakfast, drive from Thekkady to Madurai, crossing from Kerala into Tamil Nadu. The journey offers a fascinating change in landscape, culture and architecture. On arrival, check into the hotel and relax. If time permits, take an evening walk through the city or visit the area around the temple.
Overnight: Madurai

Day 8: Madurai Sightseeing & Departure
Begin the day with a visit to the magnificent Meenakshi Amman Temple, one of South India's most celebrated temple complexes. Explore the surrounding historic streets and local markets before transferring to Madurai Airport or railway station for onward travel.

Kochi → Alappuzha → Munnar → Thekkady → Madurai

Tour Price

Rs. 1,45,000 for 2 people

Approximately USD 1,500 for 2 people

Price Includes

Private air-conditioned vehicle with professional driver for the entire tour

Transportation from Kochi through Alappuzha, Munnar and Thekkady to Madurai

7 nights accommodation for 2 people in good-quality 2 or 3-star hotels

1-night traditional private houseboat stay in Alappuzha

Breakfast at hotels

Traditional Kerala lunch on the houseboat

All sightseeing and excursions mentioned in the itinerary

Driver's allowances, fuel, tolls, parking and interstate taxes

Price Excludes

International or domestic flights/trains

Entrance fees to monuments, museums, national parks and other attractions

Periyar Lake boat tickets or other optional activities

Personal expenses, drinks and laundry

Lunches and dinners except the houseboat lunch

Travel insurance

Any services not specifically mentioned under inclusions

Suggested selling price: Rs. 1,45,000 / USD 1,500 for 2 people.

Ideal for couples seeking a balanced mix of culture, nature, and relaxation.

Kerala & Tamilnadu - South Indian Wonderlan ( 12 Days ) 

Price ₹ 2,90,000 / 2 people

USD 3050 /2  people.

Discover the cultural richness, spiritual heritage, and natural beauty of South India on this unforgettable 12-day Kerala and Tamil Nadu tour. Carefully curated by Excel India Tours, this journey takes you from the historic port city of Kochi and the misty hills of Munnar to Kerala’s tranquil backwaters, followed by the legendary temple towns, heritage cities, and coastal charm of Tamil Nadu. Ideal for couples and cultural travelers seeking an authentic South Indian experience.

Detailed Itinerary

DAY 1 – ARRIVAL IN KOCHI & FORT KOCHI HERITAGE

Arrive at Cochin International Airport and transfer to your hotel.

After some time to relax, begin exploring historic Fort Kochi. Visit the famous Chinese Fishing Nets, St. Francis Church and Santa Cruz Basilica. Continue to Mattancherry to see the historic Dutch Palace and explore the atmospheric lanes of Jewish Town and the old spice quarter.

The evening is free to relax or explore Fort Kochi independently.

Overnight: Kochi

DAY 2 – KOCHI TO MUNNAR | SCENIC WESTERN GHATS

After breakfast, drive to Munnar, travelling through the spectacular landscapes of the Western Ghats.

The journey takes you through forests, spice-growing areas, waterfalls and winding mountain roads. Stop at suitable viewpoints and waterfalls along the way, depending on weather and road conditions.

Arrive in Munnar and check in to your hotel. The evening is free to relax and enjoy the mountain surroundings.

Overnight: Munnar.

DAY 3 – MUNNAR | TEA GARDENS & MOUNTAIN LANDSCAPES

Enjoy a full day exploring Munnar and its beautiful tea-growing region.

Visit the tea plantations and scenic viewpoints before continuing to Mattupetty Dam, Echo Point and Kundala Lake.

Visit Eravikulam National Park, subject to seasonal opening and availability. The park is renowned for its mountain scenery and the endangered Nilgiri tahr.

Return to the hotel in the late afternoon.

Overnight: Munnar.

DAY 4 – MUNNAR TO ALAPPUZHA | KERALA BACKWATER HOUSEBOAT

After breakfast, descend from the mountains and travel towards Alappuzha, Kerala's famous backwater destination.

On arrival, board a traditional private Kerala houseboat.

Cruise through tranquil canals and waterways surrounded by coconut palms, paddy fields and traditional villages. Enjoy a freshly prepared traditional Kerala lunch on board.

Continue cruising through the afternoon and enjoy the peaceful scenery as the boat moves through the heart of the backwaters.

Overnight: Traditional Kerala houseboat

Meals: Lunch, dinner and breakfast.

DAY 5 – ALAPPUZHA TO MADURAI | FROM BACKWATERS TO TEMPLE CITY

After breakfast, disembark from the houseboat and proceed to Madurai in Tamil Nadu.

The journey provides a fascinating change of scenery, from Kerala's lush tropical landscape to the drier plains of Tamil Nadu.

Arrive in Madurai and check in to your hotel.

If time permits, take a relaxed evening walk around the historic centre and experience the vibrant atmosphere surrounding the Meenakshi Temple.

Overnight: Madurai.

DAY 6 – MADURAI | MEENAKSHI TEMPLE & ROYAL HERITAGE

After breakfast, explore Madurai, one of South India's oldest living cities.

Visit the magnificent Meenakshi Amman Temple, famous for its towering gopurams, intricate sculptures and colourful religious traditions.

Continue to Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace, an impressive example of 17th-century Indo-Saracenic architecture.

Later, explore the traditional bazaars and streets around the temple complex.

The evening is free to relax.

Overnight: Madurai.

DAY 7 – MADURAI TO KARAIKUDY | CHEttINAD HERITAGE

After breakfast, depart for Karaikudy in the historic Chettinad region.

Chettinad is famous for its enormous traditional mansions, distinctive architecture, antique interiors and renowned cuisine.

Explore the heritage streets and visit a restored Chettinad mansion. Depending on availability, experience some of the region's traditional culinary heritage.

The afternoon is intentionally kept relaxed so that the character of the region can be enjoyed without rushing.

Overnight: Karaikudy.

DAY 8 – KARAIKUDY TO THANJAVUR & TRICHY | GREAT LIVING CHOLA TEMPLES

After breakfast, depart Karaikudy for Thanjavur (Tanjore).

Visit the magnificent Brihadeeswarar Temple, one of India's greatest examples of Chola architecture and part of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Great Living Chola Temples.

Allow sufficient time to appreciate the enormous vimana, sculptures and architectural details.

Depending on available time, visit the Thanjavur Royal Palace complex and other nearby heritage attractions.

Continue to Trichy in the late afternoon and check in to your hotel.

Overnight: Trichy.

DAY 9 – TRICHY TO CHIDAMBARAM | SRI RANGAM & TEMPLE HERITAGE

After breakfast, visit Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple at Srirangam, one of India's largest and most important functioning Hindu temple complexes.

Continue to Jambukeswarar Temple at Tiruvanaikaval, another important temple associated with the Pancha Bhoota tradition.

After lunch, continue towards Chidambaram.

Visit the magnificent Nataraja Temple, one of the most important Shaivite temples in South India and renowned for its association with Lord Shiva's cosmic dance.

Overnight: Chidambaram.

DAY 10 – CHIDAMBARAM TO THIRUVANNAMALAI | SACRED TAMIL NADU

After breakfast, depart for Thiruvannamalai.

Visit the spectacular Arunachaleswarar Temple, one of Tamil Nadu's most important Shiva temples and one of the traditional Pancha Bhoota temples representing the element of fire.

Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of this important pilgrimage centre.

The remainder of the day is free for relaxation.

Overnight: Thiruvannamalai.

DAY 11 – THIRUVANNAMALAI TO PONDICHERRY | FRENCH HERITAGE

After breakfast, drive to Pondicherry.

Explore the historic French Quarter with its colonial architecture, quiet streets and heritage buildings.

Visit the seafront promenade and enjoy the distinctive blend of French and Tamil culture that gives Pondicherry its unique character.

The evening is free to relax, explore the French Quarter or enjoy the promenade.

Overnight: Pondicherry.

DAY 12 – PONDICHERRY TO MAMALLAPURAM & CHENNAI | UNESCO HERITAGE & DEPARTURE

After breakfast, depart for Mamallapuram (Mahabalipuram).

Explore the remarkable UNESCO World Heritage monuments, including the Shore Temple, Pancha Rathas and the famous rock relief known as Arjuna's Penance / Descent of the Ganges.

Continue to Chennai and transfer to Chennai International Airport for your onward flight.

TOUR ENDS IN CHENNAI

• Fort Kochi heritage walk
• Tea gardens & viewpoints of Munnar
• Alappuzha backwaters houseboat cruise
• Meenakshi Temple, Madurai
• Chettinad heritage homes, Karaikudy
• UNESCO temples of Tanjore & Mamallapuram
• Sacred pilgrimage towns & French Quarter of Pondicherr 

For this 12-day / 11-night South India tour for 2 people, the proposed price of USD 3050 (approximately ₹2,90,000) provided accommodation is 2/3-star and the vehicle is a private A/C car.

• Accommodation for 2 people in 2 or 3-star hotels
• One night stay on a traditional Alappuzha houseboat
• Daily breakfast at hotels & lunch on houseboat
• Private air-conditioned vehicle with English-speaking driver.
• Professional guide for the entire tour,  
• All sightseeing as per itinerary
• Fuel, parking, tolls, and driver allowances

• Airfare / train tickets
• Monument entrance fees & camera fee 
• Personal expenses (laundry, tips, beverages, etc.) 
• Travel insurance
• Anything not mentioned under “Inclusions

• Customized private tours across South India
• Trusted local expertise with personalized service
• Transparent pricing & flexible itineraries
• 24/7 on-tour support
   

Kerala & Tamilnadu the south Indian wonderland ( 15 Days )

Rs. 3 55 000 /2 people

USD 3,700 for 2 people.

15-Day South India Heritage & Kerala Journey

Kochi → Alappuzha → Munnar → Thekkady → Madurai → Karaikudy → Tanjore → Trichy → Chidambaram → Pondicherry → Thiruvannamalai → Mamallapuram → Chennai

Day 1 – Arrival in Kochi & Fort Kochi Heritage

Arrive in Kochi and settle into the hotel. Later, enjoy a relaxed introduction to Kochi's multicultural heritage.

Visit the Chinese Fishing Nets, St. Francis Church, Santa Cruz Basilica, and the historic streets of Fort Kochi. Continue to Mattancherry and Jewish Town, with visits to the Dutch Palace and Jewish Synagogue, subject to opening hours.

Overnight: Kochi.

Day 2 – Kochi to Alappuzha – Kerala Backwaters

After breakfast, drive to Alappuzha, approximately 1½–2 hours.

Board a private traditional Kerala houseboat and begin a leisurely cruise through the backwaters. Enjoy the changing scenery of coconut palms, paddy fields, canals and villages.

A freshly prepared traditional Kerala lunch will be served on board.

Overnight: Houseboat, Alappuzha.

Day 3 – Alappuzha to Munnar – From Backwaters to Tea Country.

After breakfast, disembark from the houseboat and begin the scenic drive towards Munnar.

En route, enjoy the changing landscape from Kerala's coastal plains to the Western Ghats. Stop at waterfalls, viewpoints and, where suitable, a spice plantation.

Arrive in Munnar in the afternoon and relax at the hotel.

Overnight: Munnar

Day 4 – Munnar – Tea Plantations & Mountain Scenery

A relaxed full day exploring Munnar.

Visit the extensive tea plantations, scenic viewpoints, Mattupetty Dam and Echo Point. If conditions and availability permit, visit Eravikulam National Park.

There will also be time to enjoy the mountain scenery rather than filling the day with too many attractions.

Overnight: Munnar.

Day 5 – Munnar to Thekkady – Spice & Wildlife Country.

Drive from Munnar to Thekkady through beautiful mountain and forest scenery.

On arrival, visit a spice plantation to learn about Kerala's famous cardamom, pepper, cinnamon and other spices.

The evening can be kept free for relaxation or an optional cultural performance.

Overnight: Thekkady.

Day 6 – Thekkady – Periyar Nature Experience.

Spend a relaxed day in the Thekkady area.

An optional Periyar Lake boat cruise offers an opportunity to observe birds and wildlife from the water. Alternatively, guests can choose a guided nature experience or simply enjoy the surroundings of the resort.

The emphasis is on experiencing Kerala's forest environment without rushing.

Overnight: Thekkady.

Day 7 – Thekkady to Madurai – Kerala to Tamil Nadu.

After breakfast, drive to Madurai, crossing the Western Ghats from Kerala into Tamil Nadu.

The journey itself provides an interesting contrast between Kerala's lush mountains and the drier landscapes of Tamil Nadu.

Arrive in Madurai and check in. Evening at leisure.

Overnight: Madurai.

Day 8 – Madurai – Temple City Experience.

Begin with the magnificent Meenakshi Amman Temple, one of the great living temple complexes of South India.

Explore the historic streets and local markets around the temple. Depending on interest, visit the Thirumalai Nayak Palace and other important heritage sites.

Keep the evening relaxed, with an optional opportunity to experience the atmosphere around the temple.

Overnight: Madurai.

Day 9 – Madurai to Karaikudy – Chettinad Heritage.

Travel towards Karaikudy, the heart of the historic Chettinad region.

Explore the fascinating Chettinad mansions, known for their elaborate architecture, courtyards, woodwork and imported decorative materials.

Visit a traditional village or artisan area if time permits. A traditional Chettinad meal can also be arranged.

Overnight: Karaikudy.

Day 10 – Karaikudy to Tanjore – Chola Heritage.

Continue towards Thanjavur (Tanjore).

Visit the magnificent Brihadeeswara Temple, the masterpiece of Chola architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Explore the Thanjavur Palace complex and, depending on interest, the Royal Museum or Art Gallery.

Overnight: Tanjore.

Day 11 – Tanjore to Trichy – Srirangam & Rock Fort.

Drive to Trichy (Tiruchirappalli).

Visit Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple at Srirangam, one of India's most important Vaishnavite temple complexes.

Later, explore the Rock Fort Temple area and enjoy views over the city.

Overnight: Trichy.

Day 12 – Trichy to Chidambaram & Pondicherry.

Begin the journey towards the east coast.

Visit Chidambaram Nataraja Temple, an important centre of Shaivite tradition and classical temple architecture.

Continue to Pondicherry and check into the hotel.

Evening at leisure along the seafront.

Overnight: Pondicherry.

Day 13 – Pondicherry & Thiruvannamalai.

Enjoy a relaxed morning exploring Pondicherry's historic French Quarter, colonial streets, churches, boutiques and the seaside promenade.

Later, drive to Thiruvannamalai, one of Tamil Nadu's important spiritual centres.

Visit Arunachaleswarar Temple and experience the atmosphere of the town.

Overnight: Thiruvannamalai.

Day 14 – Thiruvannamalai to Mamallapuram.

After breakfast, travel towards the Coromandel Coast and Mamallapuram (Mahabalipuram).

Explore the UNESCO World Heritage monuments, including the Shore Temple, Pancha Rathas, Arjuna's Penance and other remarkable rock-cut monuments.

The afternoon can be kept free to relax at the seaside.

Overnight: Mamallapuram.

Day 15 – Mamallapuram to Chennai & Departure.

After breakfast, drive to Chennai.

Depending on the departure time, enjoy a short Chennai city orientation, with options such as Marina Beach, Kapaleeshwarar Temple, Fort St. George or other suitable attractions.

Transfer to Chennai Airport for onward departure.

Tour ends in Chennai.

Route at a Glance.

Kochi → Alappuzha → Munnar → Thekkady → Madurai → Karaikudy → Tanjore → Trichy → Chidambaram → Pondicherry → Thiruvannamalai → Mamallapuram → Chennai

Why we Recommend 15 Days.

The lesser days itinerary is possible on paper, but it is not a relaxed tour. With 15 days:

Kochi: 1 night

Alappuzha: 1 night houseboat

Munnar: 2 nights

Thekkady: 2 nights

Madurai: 2 nights

Karaikudy: 1 night

Tanjore: 1 night

Trichy: 1 night

Pondicherry: 1 night

Thiruvannamalai: 1 night

Mamallapuram: 1 night

This gives the tour a much better rhythm: Kerala's heritage and backwaters → mountains and spices → wildlife → Tamil Nadu's temples and Chettinad heritage → French colonial Pondicherry → spiritual Tamil Nadu → Pallava monuments → Chennai.

For travellers around 50–70 years old, we would particularly recommend this 15-day version rather than compressing it into lesser days. It provides enough time for sightseeing while leaving some afternoons and evenings free for rest.

Cost of tour for 2 People   ₹3,70,000   Approx.USD 3,900 for 2 people, depending on the exchange rate at the time of booking.

Package Price: ₹3,70,000 for 2 People

Includes:

15 days / 14 nights

Private air-conditioned vehicle throughout the tour

Experienced private guide.

13 nights in good-quality 2 or 3-star hotels

1-night traditional private houseboat in Alappuzha

Breakfast at hotels

Houseboat meals

All sightseeing as per itinerary

Entrance fees to the principal attractions included in the programme

Driver's allowance

Fuel, tolls, parking and interstate taxes.

Excludes:

Flights and train tickets

Lunch and dinner except where specifically mentioned

Personal expenses

Camera/video charges where applicable

Optional activities such as Periyar boating

Travel insurance

Any activities not mentioned in the itinerary.

One important pricing suggestion

Because this is a 15-day private tour with a full-time guide, we would not quote below ₹3.40 lakh. The guide alone is ₹1,27,500, which is a substantial component of the package.

Tour Price: ₹3,70,000 for 2 people

Approximately USD 3,900 for 2 people
 

A perfect South India itinerary combining Kerala’s natural beauty with Tamil Nadu’s rich spiritual and cultural heritage.

5 Nights / 6 Days | Kochi (2N) – Munnar (2N) – Alappuzha (1N)

₹140,000 / 2 people

USD 1500/- 2 people  
Experience the essence of Kerala with this carefully crafted 6-day Kerala holiday package covering historic Kochi, the misty hill station of Munnar, and the serene backwaters of Alappuzha. Designed for couples, families, and first-time visitors, this tour blends culture, nature, wildlife, and relaxation into one unforgettable journey.

Day 1: Arrival in Kochi – Fort Kochi Sightseeing
Arrive at Cochin International Airport and transfer to your hotel. Explore Fort Kochi, visiting the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets, St. Francis Church, Santa Cruz Basilica, and Mattancherry Palace.
Optional: Evening Kathakali dance performance.
Overnight: Kochi

Day 2: Kochi Heritage & Cultural Tour
Discover Kochi’s rich multicultural past with visits to the Jewish Synagogue, Jew Town, and traditional spice markets. Experience the colonial charm of this historic port city.
Overnight: Kochi

Day 3: Kochi to Munnar – Scenic Hill Station Drive
Drive to Munnar, one of the most popular hill stations in Kerala. Enjoy waterfalls, spice plantations, and lush green landscapes en route. Check in and relax amid tea gardens.
Overnight: Munnar

Day 4: Munnar Sightseeing – Tea Gardens & Nature
Full-day sightseeing in Munnar including Eravikulam National Park (subject to availability), Tea Museum, Mattupetty Dam, Echo Point, and Kundala Lake. Enjoy panoramic views of rolling tea estates and misty valleys.
Overnight: Munnar

Day 5: Munnar to Alappuzha – Kerala Backwaters Houseboat Cruise
Proceed to Alappuzha and board a traditional Kerala houseboat. Cruise through palm-lined canals and village waterways while enjoying freshly prepared meals on board.
Overnight: Houseboat, Alappuzha

Day 6: Alappuzha to Kochi – Departure
Disembark after breakfast and transfer to Kochi for your onward journey, ending your memorable Kerala tour with beautiful backwater and hill station memories.

USD 1,500 for 2 people
(Approximately INR 1,40,000 for 2 people)

• Accommodation for 2 people in 2 or 3-star hotel
• One night stay on a traditional Alappuzha houseboat
• Daily breakfast at hotels & all meals on the houseboat
• Private air-conditioned vehicle with English-speaking driver.
• Licensed English-speaking guide throughout the tour 
• All sightseeing as per itinerary
• Fuel, tolls, parking, and driver allowance 

• Airfare / train tickets
• Monument entrance fees & camera charge.
• Optional activities (Kathakali show, boating, etc. 
• Personal expenses such as laundry, tips, beverag
• Travel insurance 
• Anything not mentioned under “Inclusions”

• Fort Kochi heritage & colonial architecture
• Munnar tea plantations & wildlife experiences
• Scenic Kerala hill station drive.
• Traditional Alappuzha backwaters houseboat cruis
• Authentic Kerala village life

October to March is ideal for Kerala sightseeing tours, offering pleasant weather across Kochi, Munnar, and Alappuzha.

• Trusted local tour operator in Kerala
• Personalized & customizable Kerala holiday packages
• Private tours with experienced drivers & guides
• Transparent pricing and on-tour support