The charming seaside town of Puducherry (Pondicherry) is a former French colony settled...
Read more >Fly from London (regional connections available) to Chennai (Madras) with British Airways. (N)
Day 2: ChennaiOn arrival transfer to the Taj Connemara for 1 night (early check in available). At the beginning of the British Raj, Chennai was the busiest and wealthiest port in India, so after some time at leisure at the hotel, explore a city where ancient temples and monuments sit alongside colonial architecture, creating a striking contrast. End the day on the Marina beach stretch, where you can watch fishermen riding the waves on their catamarans and locals enjoying the esplanade. (B)
Day 3: Mahabalipuram • PuducherryVisit Mylapore, a suburb of Chennai and one of the oldest towns in Tamil Nadu. Explore the bustling alleyways and see the jewellers, silk merchants and flower vendors in bazaars providing a colourful backdrop to the Shiva temple, which towers impressively over the town. Continue to Puducherry (Pondicherry), visiting the exquisite rock-cut shore temples at Mahabalipuram en route. Arrive in the charming seaside town and check in to the Palais de Mahe (or similar) for a 2-night stay in the heart of the French quarter. (B)
Day 4: PuducherryThis morning visit a nearby rural village, organised by the Mohanam Cultural Centre, which aims to preserve the culture of the region through a series of heritage workshops. Watch and take part in traditional crafts such as stone carving, ceramics and terracotta work. Afternoon guided walk through Puducherry, stop by the Aurobindo ashram, stroll to the lively Tamil quarters and experience Hindu faith at the Ganesh temple in the evening. (B)
Day 5: Chidambaram • KumbakonamWitness the daily rituals at Chidambaram Temple and the art of Kalamkari, which uses plant-based dyes to create intricate artwork, before driving through scenic countryside to Kumbakonam for 2 nights at the Mantra Koodam. In the early evening, try your hand at pottery and enjoy an interactive culinary demonstration, led by expert chefs. (B, D)
Day 6: KumbakonamDiscover the crafts and culture of Tamil Nadu. Observe master foundrymen produce extraordinarily detailed bronze cast statues; see the process of ‘pattu’ silk weaving, using wooden handlooms. Try producing your own ‘kolams’, colourful patterns that are displayed outside homes. You will also visit one of the largest vegetable markets in Asia and the Darasuram Temple, renowned for its delicate stone sculptures. The Vedic School dates back 140 years and is a worthwhile visit. Afternoon at leisure or cycle into the countryside. (B, D)
Day 7: Tanjore • ChettinadDrive to Chettinad, stopping at the Brihadeeswarar temple en route. The temple is known for its frescoes which, despite being over 1,000 years old, have retained their colour and character. Continue to the art gallery and Saraswathi Mahal library at the Tanjore Palace, before arriving in Chettinad for an overnight stay at Chidambara Vilas (or similar). Chettinad cuisine is known for its simple presentation but rich and flavoursome dishes; this evening, enjoy a superb culinary experience at your hotel. (B, L, D)
Day 8: MaduraiThis morning visit Chettinad’s bustling village market, where locals pick up their everyday supplies. Continue to the city of Madras, for an overnight stay at the Heritage Madurai. The frenetic centre of the city’s activity is the main temple, the mighty Meenakshi Sundareswarar, which you will visit this evening for the illustrious night ceremony. (B)
Day 9: MunnarTravel to the hill country around Munnar for an overnight stay at Fragrant Nature. After lunch in a tea planter’s bungalow, visit the Suryanelli tea factory to enjoy a guided tour, tea tasting and a gentle stroll through the tea plantation. (B, L, D)
Day 10: KumarakomMorning at leisure or visit the Srishti Welfare Centre, which trains disabled children in making some amazing handmade products. Travel to Kumarakom for 2 nights at the Aveda Kumarakom (Poolside Premium Cottage). Upgrade to a Lakefront Luxury Villa with plunge pool from £95pp for 2 nights. (B, D)
Day 11: KumarakomDay at leisure to enjoy the beautiful surrounds or explore village life in the backwaters. (B, D)
Day 12: KochiThis morning board a traditional kettuvallam (converted rice boat) for a gentle cruise through the backwaters, passing verdant coconut groves and paddy fields. After disembarking, drive to the enchanting city of Kochi, filled with a melody of Dutch, Portuguese and British architectural influences serving as a reminder of the strategic importance this port town once held on the former spice route. This evening, watch a Kathakali dance performance where stories are told with elaborate hand gestures, facial expressions and choreographed movements, with colourful masks and costumes. Stay 2 nights at Eighth Bastion (or similar). (B)
Day 13: KochiMorning sightseeing tour of Kochi including the Chinese fishing nets and the 16th-century St Francis Church. Explore hidden Kochi including Jew Town and dhobi wallah, a washhouse where a sea of white hotel sheets and clothing are slathered on the washing stones. Afternoon at leisure to further explore the streets and their array of local markets. (B)
Day 14: Fly to London via MumbaiFly to London via Mumbai with British Airways. (B)
Meal basis:As per itinerary – B: Breakfast, L: Lunch, D: Dinner, N: No meals.
Important information Superior tour:This tour is based in 4- and 5-star accommodation.
Private & tailor-made travel:This itinerary can be taken privately on a date that suits you, for which guideline prices are shown. Alternatively, it can be tailored to your exact requirements. Please call to speak with a Cox & Kings consultant or enquire online.
Vivanta by Taj - Connemara is Chennai’s (Madras') oldest 5-star hotel. This heritage property is located in the heart of the business district and combines old world charm with excellent facilities, including the largest swimming pool in the city. The hotel's dining options include a 24-hour coffee shop serving a wide variety of cuisines, a continental grill restaurant and an ethnic open-air restaurant serving Chettinad cuisine from Tamil Nadu. The hotel will be closed for renovations from 15 May 2016 to 31 March 2017.
A quaint hotel in the heart of Puducherry's old French quarter, Palais du Mahé is only minutes away from the area's famous promenade, historic temples, famous cathedrals and colourful boutiques. With high ceilings, deep verandas, bright tangerine pillars and ochre colonnades, this heritage-style mansion features 18 spacious rooms that elegantly echo the distinctive Indo-French architecture, decorated with simple, period-style furniture sourced either locally or crafted by artisans from the region. While traditionally these mansions feature a large courtyard, this has been replaced with an inviting pool. Facilities at this delightful hotel include a floor dedicated to Ayurvedic massages and treatments and a rooftop restaurant serving Indian and Continental cuisine. The hotel is managed by the CGH group, renowned for seamless service and friendly, enthusiastic staff.
Tucked away in the peaceful village of Veppathru, close to the temple town of Kumbakonam, the Mantra Koodam offers elegant cottages and bungalows surrounded by a serene verdant garden. There is an array of activities on offer at the property ranging from nature and birdwatching walks to cycling and village tours. The restaurant serves delicious vegetarian dishes using locally grown and sourced ingredients. Features: 26 cottages, restaurant, bar, swimming pool, spa. Room amenities: Air conditioning, television, desk.
Looking out to a panoramic view of Lake Vembanad and set in 4 hectares of gardens, the Kumarakom Lake Resort is a haven of peace and tranquillity. The resort comprises 52 double-bedded air-conditioned traditional cottages. Each cottage, painstakingly relocated and restored ‘Illums' (Keralan homesteads), provide a relaxed and informal Keralan atmosphere. The resort offers a wide range of Ayurvedic treatments.
Heritage Madurai (previously Heritance Madurai) is a seamless blend of traditional elegance and modern comfort. Set among 17 acres of lush green gardens, Heritage Madurai has 35 villas. The original Madurai Coats Club from the time of the British Raj, this property has not lost its British flavour. After extensive refurbishment it was completely restored in keeping with the traditional architecture of the town. The rooms are spacious, tastefully furnished and designed to meet the demands of discerning travellers. All the 35 villas come with plunge pools and resemble traditional village houses. The 18th-century columns and antique doors from the Chettinad district give the hotel a distinctive character. There are two restaurants serving Indian and continental delicacies, a bar and a swimming pool designed to replicate a temple tank.
Located in the hills of Munnar and offering panoramic views of valleys, villages and mountains, Fragrant Nature is an excellent choice for those wanting luxurious comfort in a remote location. All the rooms are tastefully designed with traditional décor and have their own fireplaces to keep you warm in the chill of the mountains. Features: 41 rooms, Wi-Fi, restaurant, fitness centre, spa, rooms with mountain views. Room amenities: Television, minibar, safe, hairdryer, ceiling-fan, desk.
Originally built during the late 19th century by the Chettiyars of the Karaikudi region, Chidambara Vilas is a mansion that has been converted into a hotel. Sympathetically restored over a period of 3 years, the hotel retains many of its original features including the period furniture, pillared columns exquisitely carved out of Burma teak and the Belgian Chandeliers. Each of the 25 spacious rooms is comfortably furnished and carefully combines old-world charm with the essential requirements of modern-day traveller. The rooms are decorated individually and no two are the same size. The hotel's facilities include a main dining area that serves traditional Chettinad cuisine. The interactive kitchen set next to this dining area offers guests the opportunity to learn about traditional Chettinad cuisine. There is also a fine dining restaurant with an ambience that takes you back to colonial days. The fine dining restaurant serves Chettinad delicacies prepared according to guests preference. ...
CMK2021
| Status | Tour Code | Tour Name | Departure-Return date | Original Price | Special Offer(£) | Single Supplement | depdate | returndate | Click to Book | cpntav | MaxGrpSize | IsSuperOffer | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Unavailable | CMK2021 | Treasures of Southern India | 17 Jan 2021 - 30 Jan 2021 | £2,495 | £0 | £995 | 1/17/2021 12:00:00 AM | 1/30/2021 12:00:00 AM | Tour Cancelled | Unavailable | 0 | Unavailable | |
| Unavailable | CMK2021 | Treasures of Southern India | 24 Jan 2021 - 6 Feb 2021 | £2,595 | £0 | £1,125 | 1/24/2021 12:00:00 AM | 2/6/2021 12:00:00 AM | Tour Cancelled | Unavailable | 0 | Unavailable | |
| Unavailable | CMK2021 | Treasures of Southern India | 7 Feb 2021 - 20 Feb 2021 | £2,695 | £0 | £1,125 | 2/7/2021 12:00:00 AM | 2/20/2021 12:00:00 AM | Tour Cancelled | Unavailable | 0 | Unavailable | |
| Available | CMK2021 | Treasures of Southern India | 21 Feb 2021 - 6 Mar 2021 | £2,495 | £0 | £1,125 | 2/21/2021 12:00:00 AM | 3/6/2021 12:00:00 AM | Reserve | Available | 0 | Available | |
| Available | CMK2021 | Treasures of Southern India | 7 Mar 2021 - 20 Mar 2021 | £2,295 | £0 | £995 | 3/7/2021 12:00:00 AM | 3/20/2021 12:00:00 AM | Reserve | Available | 0 | Available | |
| Available | CMK2021 | Treasures of Southern India | 24 Oct 2021 - 6 Nov 2021 | £2,695 | £0 | £0 | 10/24/2021 12:00:00 AM | 11/6/2021 12:00:00 AM | Reserve | Available | 0 | Available | |
| Unavailable | CMK2021 | Treasures of Southern India | 31 Oct 2021 - 13 Nov 2021 | £2,695 | £0 | £1,065 | 10/31/2021 12:00:00 AM | 11/13/2021 12:00:00 AM | Tour Cancelled | Unavailable | 0 | Unavailable | |
| Available | CMK2021 | Treasures of Southern India | 7 Nov 2021 - 20 Nov 2021 | £2,695 | £0 | £1,065 | 11/7/2021 12:00:00 AM | 11/20/2021 12:00:00 AM | Reserve | Available | 0 | Available | |
| Available | CMK2021 | Treasures of Southern India | 14 Nov 2021 - 27 Nov 2021 | £2,695 | £0 | £0 | 11/14/2021 12:00:00 AM | 11/27/2021 12:00:00 AM | Reserve | Available | 0 | Available | |
| Available | CMK2021 | Treasures of Southern India | 21 Nov 2021 - 4 Dec 2021 | £2,695 | £0 | £1,065 | 11/21/2021 12:00:00 AM | 12/4/2021 12:00:00 AM | Reserve | Available | 0 | Available |
Flexible Prices & Itineraries
For a quote based on alternative accommodation standards or flight options, or to tailor this
itinerary, please call 020 7873 5000
or
send an email enquiry
Please call 020 7873 5000 for more information or to make a booking.
Prices above are per person in pounds sterling (£), based on two people sharing a twin-room. The prices which were valid at the time of publication, may be subject to change, particularly as a result of variable flight costs. You will be informed of any such changes prior to booking.
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