Luxury South India Temple & Backwaters Tour
Chennai — Mahabalipuram — Pondicherry — Thanjavur — Madurai — Kumarakom — Alleppey — Cochin | 8 Nights / 9 Days
Embark on an extraordinary journey through the cultural heart of South India with our Luxury South India Temple & Backwaters Tour. This exclusive 9-day private itinerary blends ancient temple architecture, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, French colonial charm, serene Kerala backwaters, and luxurious hospitality into one unforgettable travel experience.
From the vibrant city of Chennai and the magnificent stone temples of Mahabalipuram to the spiritual atmosphere of Madurai and the tranquil waters of Kumarakom and Alleppey, every destination has been carefully selected to showcase the finest cultural and natural treasures of South India.
Travel in a private chauffeur-driven luxury vehicle, stay at handpicked five-star hotels and premium resorts, cruise aboard a luxury houseboat through Kerala’s famous backwaters, and discover centuries of history through expert-guided sightseeing. Whether you’re a culture enthusiast, spiritual traveler, honeymoon couple, or luxury explorer, this thoughtfully designed journey offers an elegant and immersive South Indian experience.
Tour Overview
The Luxury South India Temple & Backwaters Tour combines South India’s most celebrated temples, heritage towns, and scenic backwaters into one seamless luxury holiday. Experience magnificent Dravidian architecture, explore UNESCO-listed monuments, wander through colonial streets, enjoy authentic regional cuisine, and unwind in world-class luxury resorts.
Throughout the journey, you’ll enjoy personalized service, flexible sightseeing, premium accommodations, and carefully curated experiences that balance cultural discovery with relaxation.
Tour Highlights
- Explore Chennai’s cultural landmarks.
- Visit the UNESCO-listed Shore Temple and Five Rathas in Mahabalipuram.
- Discover the French colonial heritage of Pondicherry.
- Explore the magnificent Brihadeeswarar Temple in Thanjavur.
- Visit the iconic Meenakshi Amman Temple in Madurai.
- Cruise through Kerala’s peaceful backwaters aboard a luxury houseboat.
- Stay in luxury lakeside resorts and heritage hotels.
- Enjoy authentic South Indian cuisine and cultural performances.
- Travel in a private chauffeur-driven luxury vehicle.
- Experience personalized sightseeing with expert local guides.
Tour Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Chennai
Welcome to South India.
Upon arrival at Chennai International Airport, you’ll be greeted by our representative and transferred to your luxury hotel.
Spend the remainder of the day relaxing or exploring nearby attractions before enjoying a welcome dinner featuring authentic South Indian cuisine.
Overnight Stay: Chennai
Day 2: Chennai to Mahabalipuram
After breakfast, travel along the scenic East Coast Road to Mahabalipuram, one of India’s most important UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Visit the magnificent Shore Temple, admire the ancient Five Rathas, and explore the impressive Arjuna’s Penance, one of the world’s largest rock-cut relief sculptures.
Later, relax at your luxury beachfront resort overlooking the Bay of Bengal.
Overnight Stay: Mahabalipuram
Day 3: Mahabalipuram to Pondicherry
After breakfast, continue to the charming coastal town of Pondicherry.
Explore the picturesque French Quarter, colorful colonial streets, seaside promenade, boutique cafés, and local art galleries before visiting Auroville, an internationally renowned experimental township promoting peace and sustainable living.
Enjoy the evening at leisure in your luxury boutique hotel.
Overnight Stay: Pondicherry
Day 4: Pondicherry to Thanjavur
Today, journey to Thanjavur (Tanjore), the cultural capital of Tamil Nadu.
Visit the magnificent Brihadeeswarar Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of India’s greatest architectural masterpieces built by the Chola dynasty.
Continue exploring Thanjavur’s royal palace complex and museum before checking into your luxury hotel.
Overnight Stay: Thanjavur
Day 5: Thanjavur to Madurai
After breakfast, travel to the ancient temple city of Madurai.
Upon arrival, visit the world-famous Meenakshi Amman Temple, admired for its towering gopurams, intricate sculptures, and vibrant spiritual atmosphere.
Spend the evening exploring Madurai’s lively local markets before returning to your luxury hotel.
Overnight Stay: Madurai
Day 6: Madurai to Kumarakom
After breakfast, leave the temple city of Madurai and journey towards the tranquil backwaters of Kumarakom, one of Kerala’s most scenic destinations.
Upon arrival, check into your luxury lakeside resort surrounded by swaying coconut palms and peaceful waterways.
Spend the afternoon at leisure enjoying the resort’s world-class facilities. Indulge in an optional Ayurveda wellness treatment, relax by the infinity pool, or take a leisurely walk through beautifully landscaped gardens overlooking Vembanad Lake.
As the sun begins to set, admire the breathtaking views across the backwaters before enjoying an elegant dinner featuring authentic Kerala cuisine.
Overnight Stay: Kumarakom
Day 7: Luxury Houseboat Cruise & Alleppey Backwaters
Wake up to the peaceful sounds of Kerala’s famous backwaters.
Today, enjoy one of South India’s most iconic luxury experiences—a private luxury houseboat cruise through the enchanting waterways of Alleppey.
Board your beautifully appointed houseboat featuring elegant interiors, spacious bedrooms, private lounge areas, and an open sun deck.
Cruise through narrow canals, emerald paddy fields, coconut groves, and charming villages while observing local life along the backwaters. Watch fishermen at work, traditional wooden boats gliding through the canals, and children waving from village banks.
A freshly prepared Kerala lunch will be served onboard using locally sourced ingredients and regional spices.
After a leisurely afternoon on the water, return to your luxury resort or continue towards Cochin depending on your preferred itinerary.
Overnight Stay: Kumarakom / Cochin
Day 8: Explore Cochin
After breakfast, travel to the historic port city of Cochin (Kochi).
Begin your guided sightseeing tour in Fort Kochi, where colonial architecture, charming streets, and boutique cafés create a unique atmosphere.
Visit the famous Chinese Fishing Nets, the historic Mattancherry Palace (Dutch Palace), the Paradesi Synagogue, and Jew Town, one of the oldest Jewish settlements in India.
Spend the afternoon browsing local art galleries, antique shops, spice markets, and handcrafted souvenir stores.
In the evening, you may choose to watch a traditional Kathakali dance performance, showcasing Kerala’s classical storytelling tradition through elaborate costumes and expressive performances.
Return to your luxury hotel for your final night in South India.
Overnight Stay: Cochin
Day 9: Departure
After breakfast, your private chauffeur will transfer you to Cochin International Airport for your onward journey.
Depart with unforgettable memories of magnificent temples, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, colonial towns, luxury resorts, peaceful backwaters, and the warm hospitality of South India.
Tour Enquiry
Contact information
- +91 981 120 7934
- info@lewisnclarktours.com
- H 44, BSI Business Park, Sector 63, Noida, Uttar Pradesh 201301, INDIA
Included
- Luxury accommodation in handpicked five-star hotels and boutique heritage resorts
- Daily breakfast
- Private chauffeur-driven luxury vehicle
- Professional English-
- speaking local guides
- Airport transfers
- Guided sightseeing as per itinerary
- Private luxury houseboat cruise
- UNESCO World Heritage monument visits
- Cultural heritage experiences
- Bottled water during sightseeing
- All applicable taxes
Not Included
- International and domestic airfare
- Visa charges
- Travel insurance
- Lunches and dinners (unless specified)
- Personal expenses
- Camera fees at monuments
- Optional Ayurveda treatments
- Optional cultural performances
- Tips and gratuities
Why Choose This Luxury Tour?
South India offers an extraordinary combination of spirituality, history, architecture, and natural beauty. This itinerary has been thoughtfully crafted for travelers seeking a deeper cultural experience without compromising on luxury and comfort.
Unlike conventional sightseeing tours, this journey allows you to experience South India at a relaxed pace. Explore ancient temples, stroll through colonial neighborhoods, enjoy peaceful backwater cruises, and stay in elegant luxury resorts while every detail is handled by our experienced team.
Whether you are celebrating a honeymoon, family holiday, or special occasion, this itinerary delivers a memorable blend of heritage and relaxation.
Luxury Experiences Included
- Private chauffeur-driven luxury vehicle
- Personal English-speaking local guides
- Luxury five-star hotels and heritage resorts
- Private luxury houseboat cruise
- UNESCO World Heritage sightseeing
- Heritage walks
- Cultural performances
- Fine dining recommendations
- Optional Ayurveda wellness experiences
- Flexible sightseeing schedule
- Personalized itinerary planning
Luxury Hotels & Accommodation
Every property featured on this journey has been carefully selected for its outstanding hospitality, elegant design, and convenient location near South India’s major attractions.
Chennai
Recommended Hotels
- ITC Grand Chola
- Taj Coromandel
- The Leela Palace Chennai
Enjoy sophisticated luxury, exceptional dining, and world-class service in one of South India’s most vibrant cities.
Mahabalipuram
Recommended Hotels
- InterContinental Chennai Mahabalipuram Resort
- Radisson Blu Temple Bay Resort
Relax beside the Bay of Bengal while enjoying luxurious beachfront accommodations and premium wellness facilities.
Pondicherry
Recommended Hotels
- Palais de Mahe
- La Villa
- The Promenade
Experience elegant French colonial architecture combined with boutique luxury and personalized hospitality.
Madurai
Recommended Hotels
- Heritage Madurai
- The Gateway Hotel Pasumalai
- Courtyard by Marriott Madurai
These carefully selected hotels provide an ideal base for exploring Madurai’s rich spiritual and cultural heritage.
Kumarakom
Recommended Hotels
- Kumarakom Lake Resort
- Taj Kumarakom Resort & Spa
- Coconut Lagoon
Unwind beside Kerala’s tranquil backwaters while enjoying luxurious villas, exceptional cuisine, and breathtaking lake views.
Accommodation Note: Hotels are subject to availability. Equivalent luxury hotels of a similar standard may be provided while maintaining the same premium experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many days are ideal for this tour?
A 9 Days / 8 Nights itinerary offers the perfect balance of temple exploration, cultural experiences, luxury accommodation, and relaxing backwater cruises.
Is this a private luxury tour?
Yes. This is a fully private tour that includes a dedicated chauffeur, expert local guides, luxury hotels, and a flexible itinerary tailored to your interests.
Does the tour include a luxury houseboat cruise?
Yes. A private luxury houseboat cruise through Kerala’s famous backwaters is one of the signature experiences included in this itinerary.
Which temples are covered during the tour?
The tour includes visits to the Shore Temple in Mahabalipuram, the Brihadeeswarar Temple in Thanjavur, and the iconic Meenakshi Amman Temple in Madurai, along with other important cultural landmarks.
Can the itinerary be customized?
Absolutely. Hotels, sightseeing, wellness experiences, transportation, and the duration of the journey can all be personalized to suit your travel preferences.
What type of transportation is included?
The tour includes a private luxury air-conditioned vehicle with a professional chauffeur, ensuring a comfortable and seamless travel experience throughout Rajasthan.
Will I have an English-speaking tour guide?
Yes. Professional English-speaking local guides are provided in each city. Guides in other languages can also be arranged upon request.
Book Your Luxury South India Temple & Backwaters Tour
Experience the timeless beauty of South India on a journey that blends ancient temple architecture, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, colonial charm, and Kerala's peaceful backwaters. Cruise aboard a luxury houseboat, stay in elegant five-star resorts, and immerse yourself in the traditions, cuisine, and hospitality that make South India truly unforgettable. Contact Lewis n Clark Tours today to create your personalized Luxury South India Temple & Backwaters Tour and enjoy a holiday crafted around your travel style.
