16 Day Southern India, A Spiritual Culture
From
$1789
Land Only
$3069*
Air & Land
Featured Hotels
(Hotels may vary based on departure day of the week)
Monday Departure | ||
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Grand Chennai By GRT Hotels | Chennai | |
Radisson Blu Resort Temple Bay Mamallapuram | Mahabalipuram | |
Shenbaga Hotel | Pondicherry | |
Sangam Hotel | Thanjavur | |
Courtyard by Marriott Madurai | Madurai | |
Cardamom County | Idukki | |
Forte Kochi | Kochi |
Thursday Departure | ||
---|---|---|
Grand Chennai By GRT Hotels | Chennai | |
Radisson Blu Resort Temple Bay Mamallapuram | Mahabalipuram | |
Shenbaga Hotel | Pondicherry | |
Sangam Hotel | Thanjavur | |
Courtyard by Marriott Madurai | Madurai | |
Cardamom County | Idukki | |
Forte Kochi | Kochi |
Click a Date to Book Online
Click a Date to Book Online
Book By Mar 31, 2021 & Save!
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Not Included:
Optional tours and gratuities.
Additional Information:
Land only prices do not include arrival/departure transfers.
Passengers traveling abroad require a passport valid for six months beyond their travel dates. All travelers are responsible to check if a visa is required for all countries on their itinerary. For visa information, check our Visas page.
Is This Trip Right for You?
Package Includes
- Small groups of maximum 22 travelers guaranteed
- Flights New York-Chennai, Kochi-New York
Other departure cities available. Please click on date of departure for selection and prices - Airline taxes & fuel surcharges
- 14 nights accommodations
- 2 nights Chennai
- 2 nights Mahabalipuram
- 1 night Pondicherry
- 2 nights Thanjavur
- 2 nights Madurai
- 2 nights Periyar National Park
- 3 nights Kochi
- Hotel taxes, fees & service charges
- Hotel porterage
- All transfers included only with airfare purchase on package arrival & departure dates†
- 30 meals: 14 breakfasts, 9 lunches, 7 dinners with wine♦
- Sightseeing per itinerary in modern air-conditioned vehicles
- Services of English-speaking tour manager throughout
- Comprehensive, guided sightseeing and entrance fees per itinerary
- Comfortable wireless earphones for enhanced touring
- Active itinerary with unique cultural features
♦Due to regional laws, hotels and restaurants will not serve alcoholic beverages on the first day of the month and certain holidays. On these days, no wine or beer will be included with dinner
Tour Highlights
Thanks to our small group size, we can get to the heart of our destination, visit places that other tours miss, and get to know the locals.
- Visit the UNESCO site of Mahabalipuram, an ancient archaeological wonder rising on a rocky outcrop
- In Kanchipuram, "City of a Thousand Temples," tour the Ekambareswarar and Kailasanathar Temples
- Exclusive visit to a traditional silk weaving factory - meet with artists and learn how to drape and wear a sari
- Journey to enchanting Pondicherry, a former French settlement that retains its carefree French atmosphere
- At serene Auroville, visit the Meditation Center inspired by the teachings of the Indian yogi Sri Aurobindo
- Witness pilgrims immersing themselves in a ritual bath at Amma Mandapam on the banks of the river
- Tour the spectacular Maratha Palace with its priceless collections of Chola bronzes and stone carvings
- View the impressive UNESCO listed Lord Brihadeeswarar Temple, a magnificent architectural achievement
- In vibrant Madurai on the banks of the Vaigai River, view the 1000-year old Meenakshi Temple
- Visit the Gandhi Museum dedicated to this remarkable man lovingly called the "Father of the Nation"
- Spend two nights at Periyar National Park, the best-known sanctuary in South India, home to Bengal tigers
- Attend a colorful Kathakali Dance performance that combines storytelling with music and physical strength
- Visit the Paradesi Synagogue in Kochi the oldest existing Jewish synagogue in India
- Specially arranged cooking class in Kochi reveals some of the secrets of Indian cuisine
- In Alleppey, board a houseboat that cruises along the intricate network of canals, lakes, lagoons and rivers
Is This Trip Right for You?
This is an active trip. Our small group covers a lot of ground each day, and we spend three to four hours on our feet during tours and four to seven hours driving between cities. Some of our tours require walking over uneven surfaces or up and down steep slopes. We have many early mornings. This tour is not recommended for people who have difficulty walking. Air pollution is a problem in many of India's major cities. Please see the CDC website and/or consult with your healthcare provider for specific recommendations. The use of a bandana or light scarf may help screen out some of the pollutants in the air. A variety of airfare options are available for this program, including some low-cost fares which may exclude complimentary checked luggage and advance seat assignments. Please read each offering to ensure you choose the option that best fits your wishes. During this tour, you may come into proximity of wild animals whose actions can be unpredictable. Certain inherent risks are involved which should be considered at your own discretion. This is a Small Group program. For more information, click here.

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455 Maryland Drive
Ft. Washington, PA 19034 USA
1-215-653-7150
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Discovery Tours itineraries may contain suggestions for activities for your leisure time; these suggestions do not constitute a recommendation nor an endorsement of any specific service provider and the decision to participate in any such activities should be made independently.






This first class hotel is located a short drive away from the Periyar National Park and Tiger Reserve.
Hotel Details
- Tours purchased while travelling may cost an extra 10% or more
- Tours often sell out. Avoid disappointment
- Save your cash. Credit card processing may not be possible locally
- Travel insurance only covers services purchased prior to departure
- Book Online or call to book these tours up to 1 week before your departure
- The day the optionals operate varies by the day of the week
Take an early morning walk through the narrow alleys of Madurai, the oldest city in South India, to get an up-close glimpse of everyday life. Discovering the morning rituals and daily activities in this ancient temple town is a fascinating and memorable experience. Witness people milking cows, cooking, and women cleaning and decorating their doorsteps with beautifully detailed Kolams (drawings) to welcome guests. Visit the local markets as they open, drink your morning tea in the twenty-four hour tea shop and enjoy sampling local snacks, including a Vada (savory doughnut). For a unique perspective into the local economy, interact with street vendors, visit the fruit and flower markets, and see a roadside hair salon.
Approximate tour duration is 2 hours.
Day #10 | 01 Oct 2020 - 30 Sep 2022 | $30.00 |

Tonight, treat yourself to a Kalaripayattu martial art show. The martial art form of Kerala, dating back to almost 2000 years, is regarded as the oldest of its kind in the world. It derives its name from two words, 'kalari' which means combat arena and 'payattu' which means practice. Following preparation with an oil massage, the performers will execute the art, using weapons such as bow and arrow, swords, spears, and maces. Afterwards for dinner, travel to Spice Village, set in 15 acres of spice gardens and resembling a traditional tribal community. At the restaurant, enjoy the timelessness of the place with its antique rosewood furniture and old-world atmosphere. Savor delicious South Indian cuisine flavored by local spices, prepared with fresh ingredients from the organic farm on site.
Approximate tour duration is 3 hours.
Day #11 | 01 Oct 2021 - 30 Sep 2022 | $38.00 |

Take an early morning walk through the narrow alleys of Madurai, the oldest city in South India, to get an up-close glimpse of everyday life. Discovering the morning rituals and daily activities in this ancient temple town is a fascinating and memorable experience. Witness people milking cows, cooking, and women cleaning and decorating their doorsteps with beautifully detailed Kolams (drawings) to welcome guests. Visit the local markets as they open, drink your morning tea in the twenty-four hour tea shop and enjoy sampling local snacks, including a Vada (savory doughnut). For a unique perspective into the local economy, interact with street vendors, visit the fruit and flower markets, and see a roadside hair salon.
Approximate tour duration is 2 hours.
Day #10 | 01 Oct 2020 - 30 Sep 2022 | $30.00 |

Tonight, treat yourself to a Kalaripayattu martial art show. The martial art form of Kerala, dating back to almost 2000 years, is regarded as the oldest of its kind in the world. It derives its name from two words, 'kalari' which means combat arena and 'payattu' which means practice. Following preparation with an oil massage, the performers will execute the art, using weapons such as bow and arrow, swords, spears, and maces. Afterwards for dinner, travel to Spice Village, set in 15 acres of spice gardens and resembling a traditional tribal community. At the restaurant, enjoy the timelessness of the place with its antique rosewood furniture and old-world atmosphere. Savor delicious South Indian cuisine flavored by local spices, prepared with fresh ingredients from the organic farm on site.
Approximate tour duration is 3 hours.
Day #11 | 01 Oct 2020 - 30 Sep 2021 | $38.00 |
01 Oct 2021 - 30 Sep 2022 | $38.00 |


The trip was fabulous. Went off without a hitch. I’ve been on several Gate 1 tours and I’d rate Raj as the best guide I’ve encountered. His energy, enthusiasm and flexibility made the trip a pleasure.
Kathleen M. Hopkinton, NH
The trip was great! The guide was very professional and the driver and assistant were all very helpful. India is amazing. Thanks to Gate 1 !
Hsiao-Ju C. Dural, Australia
My trip was wonderful! Jay was a great tour leader and gave such breath and scope to the experience. India is an incredible country to explore and the Small Group Spiritual Tour of Southern India was a perfect introduction to this vast and complex country. I don’t think my senses have ever been so stimulated. I look forward to booking another tour to explore the northern part of the country and Nepal.
Myra A. Newton, MA
It was great! Sri Lanka and her people welcomed us with open arms. Our tour guide, Heshan, along with our driver, Susantha, and his assistant, Thilina, were all excellent. Well done!!!
Joanne J. Los Angeles, California
It was a great trip.. really enjoyed our group, our leader, Srini, and the sights and the Indian people. They were so friendly and always wanted to have their pictures taken with us. And they didn’t mind if we took pictures of them. The temples were unbelievable, and the stops we made along the way, on driving days, were great. Visited rubber farm, coconut fiber rope family business, batik making, spice garden, cashew roasting, paper making factory,... I could go on and on.. waiting for a good sale to book another trip in 2021..
Michele K. St. Charles, IL
Amazing....Radhika was an exceptional tour leader. Great accommodations and food throughout the trip. Good weather and well traveled people to make this a great experience.
Susie M. Phoenix, AZ
The trip was great! Our expectations were exceeded! Our tour managers, Aparna in India, Neraj in Nepal, and Sangay in Bhutan were fabulous. All did an extraordinary job and are very well informed. This was our second trip with Gate 1. We would recommend Gate 1 to anyone!
Charles L. Fresno, CA
Trip was great. Our guide Avash was also great. One of the best tour managers' we have ever had. Really made the trip amazing.
William H. Sheridan, WY
I had an amazing trip in India. Rajesh ( Raj ) the tour guide was exceptional, knowledgeable, and fun. He was very patient, and professional with the group. He made the tour interesting and enjoyable. Siva the bus driver was fantastic, we all felt very safe with him. Bala the assistant was so helpful, making sure all of our needs were met with a smile every day. The hotels were first rate, and the food was delicious. This was my first trip with Gate 1, and I could not have imagined a better experience. With warm regards from a happy, and satisfied traveler. Can’t wait for my next trip with Gate 1.
Raynell C. Dunedin, FL
The trip was wonderful. Our tour manager Shyam was excellent. His caring, knowledge of the country and attention to detail enhanced a wonderful experience.
Betty G. Fair Lawn, NJ
It was great. I enjoyed it very much. I would recommend to anyone who is going to travel abroad for a two-week vacation. Our tourist guide was very knowledgeable and energetic. I dare to say one of the best among all the best guides in Gate 1 family.
Branda K. Edmonton, Alberta
We had a great time, Bhutan was a wonderful experience. Our tour director, Leki, was well organized with regard our daily schedule of activities and seat rotation. It was an interesting and educational tour.
Susanna M. Alexandria, VA
It was the best trip I ever took, only the Patagonia trip was comparable! Bhutan is such a special place and I have only superlatives to say about it, the whole world should see it! Gate 1 did a great job with the itinerary, the pace, the hotels; very smart how the hikes were placed in the program and how we had the time to acclimatize; the tour directors, both Anup and Sangay were awesome (which I have to say, is always the case with Gate 1). Looking forward to our next adventure with Discovery!
Anca T. Maplewood, MN
Seeing the Taj Mahal has been on my bucket list for years. My gate one tour manager Sandeep, made India come alive for me. He provided history of the area and many stories at each site we visited which made you feel more connected. He set the stage for our visit to the Taj Mahal with the moving story of its construction. Experiencing the Taj Mahal was magical and something I will never forget thanks to Sandeep. This trip was just a taste of India but made me want to see more of the country. Thank you Gate one and Sandeep for a magical week in India.
Patricia P. Hitchcock, TX
It was a great trip. Southern India was fantastic, with such a small, intimate group, great accommodations, and fabulous guide, all went brilliantly.
Cedric R. Fredericksburg, VA
Terrific, as usual! We’re now in double digits with traveling with Gate 1! Shyam, our guide, was superb. He conveyed his love of country, gave a good explanation of each day’s activities, and made sure everyone in the group was satisfied. He’s a gem. Also, his helper, Rohan, was great, and the driver did a terrific job. We were very pleased with the hotel selections and the itinerary. We have 2 more tours scheduled with Gate 1 this year. Keep up the good work!
Ronald R. Chicago, IL
One of the best trips of my entire life! Thank you for everything Gate 1, a truly lovely experience.
Dan H. Chicago, IL
Our trip was wonderful! We loved Sri Lanka. Our guide Shyam was the best. He handled everything, and made the trip very informative and fun. Gate 1 is a great company. We’ll be back!
Gail E. Sacramento, CA
As usual, Gate 1 did not disappoint. Sri Lanka was fabulous... with an abundance of friendly people, fabulous landscape and micro climates. It was rich in history and spirituality (Budha and Hindu temples everywhere) make this island very interesting to discover. I would be interested in expanding my exploration into the Northern part of Sri Lanka sometime in the future. I need to find out where in the world I will travel to in 2020...
Tamara R. Citrus Heights, CA
We had a great time in Sri Lanka! We enjoyed all the activities and learned a lot about the history and culture of the country. We look forward to our next Gate 1 trip in March.
Elizabeth H. Kingwood, TX
It was a fantastic trip. Heshan our guide was knowledgeable and nice. Fantastic food and wonderful country.
Douwe D. Flagstaff Hill, Australia
We had a very nice holiday in Sri Lanka. This was our first trip with Gate 1 and we are 100% satisfied with the superior standard of hotels you chose for us. The itinerary was varied and interesting, changing between nature and culture. Our guide, Heshan, was excellent, very helpful and very knowledgeable about the history, flora and fauna. The coach was always clean and fresh flowers were put on our seats daily. The couch driver and the assistant were excellent, and worked well as a team to get us safely through the chaotic traffic in Sri Lanka cities. Overall, very memorable and positive experience. We will definitely use your company in the future and recommend you to our friends.
Jessica L. Queensland, Australia
We had a great trip. Everything went perfect. The guides were excellent. Some of the best we’ve experienced. Don’t let them get away. Transportation, hotels and food were all great!
Richard M. Bettendorf, IA
It was a great trip. Our guide was very knowledgeable about everything which was appreciated. The accommodations and food were fantastic. The sights were wonderful. A fantastic trip in every possible way!
David O. Florence, MA
Simply wonderful. Nepal is bustling with activity, with smells, with life! Most enjoyable were the walkabouts through Bhaktapur, and Tharu village in Chitwan National Park which allowed us to chat with the locals and have a closeup look at the way they live. The dinner, home visits and the conversations about life in Nepal were priceless. Bhutan is more than amazing! It’s pristine environment and culturally rich history is fascinating. I loved the dress-up in traditional Bhutanese dres. The hike to Tiger’s Nest, is wonderfully rewarding ... At first sight, Tiger’s Nest was blanketed with clouds, but as the clouds lifted it was breathtaking and hastened our steps. Thanks to our guides Rajesh (Nepal), and Dawa (Bhutan) and our drivers who did a stellar job in ensuring everything went smoothly!
Joy T. Sandys, BM
I have traveled on small group tours quite often, but this surpassed all expectations. Our guide in India was outstanding and the group I traveled with have all said they would travel again with her. I will certainly be booking through Gate 1 again.
Robert G. Vermont South, Australia