Kerala & Tamil Nadu Tour: Best 12-Day Itinerary from Cochin to Chennai - Overview

Embark on a mesmerizing 12-day journey through South India, exploring Kerala’s tranquil backwaters, lush hill stations, and wildlife sanctuaries, before discovering Tamil Nadu’s ancient temples, colonial towns, and cultural treasures. From the serene backwaters of Alleppey to the grandeur of Meenakshi Temple and the beaches of Pondicherry, this tour blends natural beauty, heritage, and spirituality.

Kerala & Tamil Nadu Tour: Best 12-Day Itinerary from Cochin to Chennai - Highlights

Cruise the serene backwaters of Alleppey aboard a traditional Kerala houseboat.
Witness Kathakali and Kalaripayattu performances showcasing Kerala’s cultural arts.
Explore tea plantations and lush green hills in the charming town of Munnar.
Visit iconic temples in Madurai, Thanjavur, Chidambaram, and Mahabalipuram.
Discover the French colonial charm and beaches of Pondicherry before reaching Chennai.

Kerala & Tamil Nadu Tour: Best 12-Day Itinerary from Cochin to Chennai

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Embark on an unforgettable 12-day journey through South India, exploring the rich cultural tapestry and natural beauty of Kerala and Tamil Nadu. Begin in Cochin with its colonial charm and traditional Kathakali performances, then drift through Alleppey’s peaceful backwaters on a houseboat. Encounter wildlife and spices in Thekkady, and soak in the cool hills and tea plantations of Munnar. Continue to Tamil Nadu to witness the architectural grandeur of Madurai, Thanjavur, and Kanchipuram’s ancient temples. Stroll through the French Quarter of Pondicherry and relax by the beach before concluding in the vibrant city of Chennai. This itinerary offers a perfect blend of nature, heritage, and spiritual experiences, ideal for culture-loving travellers.

Day 01 :

Arrive in Cochin

Arrive at Cochin International Airport, where our representative will greet you and assist with hotel transfer. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Kathakali dance performance, a classical art form of Kerala known for its colorful makeup and expressive storytelling.
Overnight: Cochin

Day 02 :

Cochin – Alleppey

After breakfast, embark on a guided tour of Fort Cochin, exploring:

St. Francis Church
Jewish Synagogue
Mattancherry Dutch Palace
Chinese Fishing Nets

Later, drive to Alleppey to board your private houseboat for a scenic cruise through Kerala’s famous backwaters. Enjoy the peaceful surroundings and a freshly cooked local dinner onboard.
Overnight: Houseboat in Alleppey

Day 03 :

Alleppey – Thekkady

After breakfast, disembark from the houseboat and drive to Thekkady, located in the lush Western Ghats. In the evening, witness a captivating Kalaripayattu martial arts show and another performance of Kathakali.
Overnight: Thekkady

Day 04 :

Thekkady

Explore Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary with a boat ride on Periyar Lake, where you may spot elephants, deer, and birdlife. Later, visit a local spice plantation and learn about Kerala’s fragrant spice heritage.
Overnight: Thekkady

Day 05 :

Thekkady – Munnar

Drive to Munnar, a beautiful hill station known for its tea gardens, via Ramakkalmedu, home to:

Wind farms
Frog Rock
Turtle Rock
Kuravan & Kurathi twin statues

Enjoy the scenic route and arrive in Munnar by evening.
Overnight: Munnar

Day 06 :

Munnar

Explore the lush landscapes and attractions of Munnar:

Pothamedu Viewpoint
Mattupetty Dam
Rajamala Hills
Eravikulam National Park (home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr)
Mattupetty Dairy Farm
Echo Point
Tea Museum to learn about tea production in the region
Overnight: Munnar

Day 07 :

Munnar – Madurai

Travel to Madurai, one of Tamil Nadu’s oldest cities. In the afternoon, visit:

Meenakshi Amman Temple, a masterpiece of Dravidian architecture
Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace
Evening at leisure in this spiritual and cultural hub
Overnight: Madurai

Day 08 :

Madurai – Trichy – Thanjavur

Drive to Thanjavur, stopping en route in Trichy (Tiruchirappalli) to explore:

Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple at Srirangam
Rock Fort Temple

Continue to Thanjavur to visit:

Brihadeeswara Temple (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
Thanjavur Palace and its art-filled museum
Overnight: Thanjavur

Day 09 :

Thanjavur – Darasuram – Chidambaram – Pondicherry

Depart for Pondicherry, stopping at:

Darasuram’s Airavatesvara Temple (UNESCO site)
Gangaikondacholapuram Temple
Chidambaram Nataraja Temple

Arrive in Pondicherry, the former French colonial town with a laid-back coastal vibe.
Overnight: Pondicherry

Day 10 :

Pondicherry

Explore the highlights of Pondicherry:

Auroville, the experimental spiritual township
Pondicherry Museum
Walk through the French Quarters with their charming colonial architecture
Relax by the beach in the evening
Overnight: Pondicherry

Day 11 :

Pondicherry – Mahabalipuram – Kanchipuram – Chennai

Drive to Chennai, stopping at:

Mahabalipuram to see the Shore Temple, Arjuna’s Penance, and Five Rathas
Kanchipuram, renowned for its ancient temples and silk weaving

Continue to Chennai for a brief city tour if time permits.
Overnight: Chennai

Day 12 :

Chennai – Departure

Explore key attractions in Chennai such as Marina Beach, San Thome Cathedral, or Kapaleeshwarar Temple, depending on your flight schedule. Later, transfer to the airport for your departure with unforgettable memories of South India.