The delicate scent of spices, the sound of temple bells, exotic flora and fauna, and idyllic sandy beaches all characterise Tamil Nadu and Kerala. This journey travels through hill stations, tropical backwaters and temple-laden towns while staying in some of the region’s very best hotels.

14 Days & 12 Nights

Day 1: Fly to Chennai

Fly from London (regional connections available) to Chennai (Madras), via Dubai with Emirates. (N)

Day 2: Chennai

On arrival transfer to the Hyatt Regency (or similar) for 1 night (early check in available). Time at leisure before an afternoon tour of the city followed by free time at Marina beach. (B)

Day 3: Mahabalipuram • Puducherry

Morning walking tour of Mylapore, a town that predates Chennai by 2,000 years. Continue to Puducherry (Pondicherry), visiting the world heritage-listed shore temples at Mahabalipuram en route. Stay 2 nights at the Palais de Mahe (or similar) located in the heart of the French quarter. (B)

Day 4: Puducherry

This morning visit a local rural village, organised by Mohanam Cultural Centre. Watch the villagers involved in traditional crafts such as stone carving, ceramics and terracotta work. Afternoon guided walk through Puducherry, the location for the award-winning film Life of Pi. (B)

Day 5: Kumbakonam

Drive through scenic countryside to Kumbakonam for 2 nights at Mantra Koodam. (B, D)

Day 6: Kumbakonam

Morning visit to the handloom weavers in Darasuram, the Darasuram temple and a bronze casting workshop. Afternoon at leisure. (B, D)

Day 7: Chettinad

En route to Chettinad, visit the Brihadeeswarar temple and its beautiful frescoes. Later, visit the art gallery and fascinating Saraswathi Mahal library at Tanjore Palace. On arrival in Chettinad enjoy an evening culinary experience followed by a traditional dinner. Overnight stay at Chidambara Vilas (or similar). (B, L, D)

Day 8: Madurai

This morning explore the village market. Travel to Madurai. Evening visit to the illuminated Meenakshi temple and Hall of a Thousand Pillars for the night ceremony. Overnight stay at the Heritage Madurai. (B)

Day 9: Munnar

Travel to the hill country around Munnar for an overnight stay at Fragrant Nature (or similar). (B, D)

Day 10: Kumarakom

Morning guided walk through a working tea plantation at Kannan Devan Tea Museum (or similar). Travel to Kumarakom for 2 nights at the Kumarakom Lake Resort, set within gardens and with panoramic views of Lake Vembanad. (B, D)

Day 11: Kumarakom

Day at leisure to enjoy the beautiful surrounds. (B, D)

Day 12: Kochi

This morning, cruise aboard a shikara (wooden boat) through the backwaters before driving to Kochi (Cochin). Evening traditional Kathakali dance performance. Stay 2 nights at Eighth Bastion (or similar). (B)

Day 13: Kochi

Morning sightseeing tour of Kochi’s highlights including Mattancherry Palace, the Chinese fishing nets and the 16th-century St Francis Church. Then explore hidden Kochi including Jew Town, which showcases a number of dying arts such as exquisite French lace embroidery. Continue to dhobi wallah, a wash house where a sea of white hotel sheets and clothing are slathered on the washing stones. Finish with a stop at Kochi’s foremost art gallery-cum-cafe,
Kashi. Afternoon at leisure to further explore the labyrinthine streets and their array of local markets. (B)

Day 14: Fly to London via Dubai

Fly to London via Dubai with Emirates. (B)