Southern Sojourn: 17 Days South India With Car & Driver Tour

South India’s cultural tapestry comes alive in the "Southern Sojourn: 17 Days South India With Car & Driver Tour." This immersive journey takes travelers on an exploration of Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Karnataka, showcasing the region’s UNESCO-listed sites, ancient temples, and heritage towns. With private transport and round-the-clock assistance, guests can explore the stunning Meenakshi Temple, the serene Alleppey backwaters, and the lush landscapes of Ooty. At just ₹16,339 per person, this all-inclusive tour promises an unforgettable experience, leaving one to wonder what other treasures South India holds.

Key Points

• 17-day comprehensive car and driver tour covering the highlights of Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Karnataka in South India.
• Tour priced at ₹16,339 per person and includes private transportation, fuel, tolls, and 24/7 assistance.
• Visits UNESCO World Heritage sites, ancient temples, heritage towns, and natural wonders like Periyar wildlife sanctuary and Alleppey backwaters.
• Explores cultural heritage and local cuisine in destinations like Trichy, Tanjore, Chettinad, Cochin, and Mysore.
• Offers a blend of history, nature, and local traditions throughout the journey.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The Southern Sojourn is a 17-day car and driver tour that explores the cultural and natural wonders of South India.

Priced from ₹16,339 per person, this comprehensive package covers highlights across Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Karnataka. Guests will visit UNESCO sites, ancient temples, heritage towns, and scenic landscapes while indulging in local cuisine.

The tour starts and ends in Chennai, offering two pickup options. With private transportation, fuel, tolls, and 24/7 assistance included, this all-inclusive experience promises an immersive journey through South India’s captivating destinations.

Itinerary Summary

Over the course of 17 days, the Southern Sojourn tour covers a comprehensive itinerary spanning Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Karnataka.

Travelers will start in Chennai, visiting Mahabalipuram’s heritage sites, then explore Trichy, Tanjore, and Chettinad before reaching Madurai.

The journey continues to Periyar’s wildlife sanctuary, the beaches of Varkala, and the famed Alleppey backwaters.

Next, they’ll discover Cochin and the hill station of Ooty.

The tour concludes with visits to Mysore and Bengaluru, including the iconic Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple.

Throughout, the tour provides opportunities to immerse in local culture, cuisine, and natural landscapes.

Chennai to Mahabalipuram

Arriving in Chennai, the tour commences with a guided city exploration. Visitors discover the city’s vibrant streets, rich heritage, and cultural landmarks.

They then journey to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Mahabalipuram, home to the awe-inspiring Shore Temple and the mystical Five Rathas.

After taking in the architectural wonders, travelers enjoy leisure time in Mahabalipuram before driving to the historic city of Trichy.

This initial leg of the journey allows guests to enjoy the captivating sights and sounds of South India, setting the stage for the extraordinary experiences that lie ahead.

Trichy to Madurai

From Trichy, travelers continue their journey, exploring the region’s rich cultural heritage. In Trichy, they visit the Srirangam Temple, a massive Vishnu temple complex, and the Rockfort Temple, perched atop a 273-foot-high rock. Proceeding to Tanjore, they marvel at the Brihadeeswarar Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the impressive Thanjavur Palace. Transitioning to Chettinad, they discover the area’s opulent mansions and indulge in the renowned local cuisine. The tour then leads them to Madurai, where the highlight is the Meenakshi Temple, a stunning example of Dravidian architecture, and the Gandhi Museum, which chronicles the life of the iconic leader.

Destination	Key Attractions
Trichy	Srirangam Temple, Rockfort Temple
Tanjore	Brihadeeswarar Temple, Thanjavur Palace
Chettinad	Opulent mansions, Local cuisine
Madurai	Meenakshi Temple, Gandhi Museum

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Periyar to Varkala and Alleppey

The scenic drive from Madurai leads travelers to the lush Periyar region, home to a renowned wildlife sanctuary.

Here, visitors can:

1. Explore the Periyar Tiger Reserve and its diverse flora and fauna, including elephants, tigers, and a variety of birds.
2. Take a boat ride on the serene Periyar Lake, offering a unique perspective of the surrounding forest.
3. Visit a spice plantation to learn about the region’s thriving spice trade and sample the fragrant local produce.

From Periyar, the journey continues to the coastal town of Varkala, known for its picturesque cliffs and the Janardanaswamy Temple.

The tour then culminates with a houseboat stay in the enchanting backwaters of Alleppey.

Cochin and Ooty

After exploring the backwaters of Alleppey, travelers make their way to the historic city of Cochin.

In Cochin, they’ll visit the iconic Fort Cochin and witness the unique Chinese fishing nets.

The tour then takes them to the hill station of Ooty, known for its picturesque Botanical Gardens and the renowned Tea Factory.

Visitors can stroll through the lush tea plantations, learn about the tea-making process, and savor the finest Nilgiri teas.

The journey through Cochin and Ooty provides a refreshing contrast to the earlier temple visits and cultural experiences, offering a blend of history, nature, and local traditions.

Mysore to Bengaluru

Concluding the tour, the group makes its way from Ooty to Mysore, a city renowned for its grand Mysore Palace and the serene Chamundi Hills.

They’ll visit these iconic landmarks, marveling at the ornate architecture and captivating history.

From Mysore, the journey continues to Bengaluru, where they’ll make a stop at the Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple before departing.

The tour offers three memorable experiences in this leg:

1. Admiring the intricate details and sheer grandeur of the Mysore Palace.
2. Ascending Chamundi Hills for panoramic views of the city and its surroundings.
3. Exploring the sacred Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple, a fitting end to the Southern Sojourn.

Inclusions and Exclusions

This tour includes private transportation with a professional driver, as well as fuel and tolls covered.

Travelers also receive 24-hour assistance and local advice from the driver. However, accommodation, meals, entrance fees, and personal expenses aren’t included in the tour price.

Travel insurance and guide services can be arranged at an additional cost.

It’s important to note that certain items aren’t allowed, such as weapons, smoking in the vehicle, alcohol, and fireworks.

Cultural etiquette must be observed, like removing shoes at religious sites and dressing modestly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Tour?

The tour details do not specify a maximum group size. It’s likely an individual or private tour, as the inclusions mention a private transportation with a professional driver. The exact group size is not provided.

Are There Any Restrictions on Luggage?

The tour does not specify any restrictions on luggage. However, travelers are advised to pack light and bring only essential items, as the vehicle’s storage space may be limited. Reasonable luggage is allowed, but excessive luggage is not recommended.

Can I Make Changes to the Itinerary During the Tour?

Yes, travelers can make changes to the itinerary during the tour. However, changes may be subject to availability and additional fees. It’s best to discuss any desired changes with the tour provider in advance.

Do I Need to Book Accommodation in Advance?

While accommodation is not included, the tour operator can assist with booking hotels and homestays. It’s recommended to book accommodations in advance to secure preferred lodging during the tour.

How Do I Communicate With the Driver During the Tour?

The driver is typically fluent in English and can communicate directly with the tour participants. Travelers can ask the driver for recommendations, clarifications, or any assistance they need throughout the tour.

Recap

The "Southern Sojourn: 17 Days South India With Car & Driver Tour" offers an immersive experience through the cultural and natural wonders of South India. Covering UNESCO sites, ancient temples, and heritage towns, the tour provides a comprehensive exploration of the region’s rich heritage. With private transport, 24/7 assistance, and an all-inclusive package, the tour ensures an unforgettable journey for travelers seeking to discover the diverse and captivating landscapes of Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Karnataka.

You can check if your dates are available here: