Southern India – Tamil Nadu and Kerala

South India is a fascinating and vibrant mix of stunning monuments, world-renowned temples, scenic forests and golden beaches, and the perfect all round destination for culture, amazing cuisine, wonderful weather and its warm people.

Tamil Nadu

Sanjay recently visited Tamil Nadu and Kerala, and shared his experience with us.

The Itinerary

Sanjay’s trip began with 2 nights in Chennai, which is located on the Bay of Bengal in Eastern India, and which is also the capital of the state of Tamil Nadu. From here he went on to Rameshwaram, for one night. Rameshwaram is known for the Ramanathaswamy Temple, a Hindu pilgrimage site with ornate corridors, huge sculpted pillars and sacred water tanks, so perfect for those who enjoy visiting the distinctive temples in and around India.

Madurai was his next stop for one night, and is the second city in the Tamil Nadu region. It is also perfect for temple sightseers as it is home to the Meenakshi Temple, which is a contemporary version of the Taj Mahal in Agra, and the intricately-adorned fifteen-domed Thirumalai Nayaka Palace, both must sees.

Periyar National Park, home to elephants and tigers, was next on the itinerary, and is South India’s most popular wildlife sanctuary. It encompasses an amazing area of 777 sq km. It occupies a prime location, set on the attractive man-made Periyar Lake, and attracts over 300,000 visitors a year.

Periyar Lake

For the ultimate in relaxation, Kumarakom, which is located around the shores of Vembanad Lake, was Sanjays penultimate stop for 2 night. It is known for its Ayurveda Spa resorts and is the most beautiful and picturesque backwater destination of Kerala, famous for its rubber plantations and its 15th century ancient churches.

Backwaters

Sanjay’s wonderful trip concluded in Kovalam, which is world-famous for its beaches, which are amongst the most pristine in India. The leisure options at this beach are plenty and diverse, with lots of activities available ranging from catamaran cruising to surfing.

Accommodation

During Sanjay’s travels around Tamil Nadu and Kerala, he stayed at the Crowne Plaza in Chennai, Intercontinental in Mahabalipuram, Hyatt Place in Rameswaram, Taj Gateway in Madurai, Spice village in Periyar, Coconut Lagoon in  Kumarakom and Niraamaya Surya Samudra in Kovalam.

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Highlights from the trip

Sanjay’s highlights during his trip included visiting the spice farms near Periyar as well as the stunning backwaters near Kumarakom. He also enjoyed visiting Kanyakumari, also known as the “God’s own district”. From all the various cities he visited on his itinerary, his favourite was Kumarakom and its backwaters. 

Sanjay’s advice for anyone thinking of visiting Southern India

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Travel light when on this type of itinerary as you can easily arrange for your clothes to be laundered at any of the hotels you stay at. The journeys between the cities can sometimes be long so be prepared for that.

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If you are thinking of visiting South India, we have a Glimpses of Kerala Itinerary and a Kerala Experience Itinerary which are ideal. We can tailor-make these to your own specifications with a choice of alternative accommodation, and duration.

For more details on our Itineraries or to discuss a bespoke Itinerary call Simply India Holidays by Somak on 0208 423 3000 or email

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and we will be delighted to help you plan your  trip to Incredible India.