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Essence of Idyllic South India

9 days
•
From Kochi (Cochin) to Chennai (Madras)
4.8 (13 reviews)
From
$2,119
40% off
US $1,271 per person

Price based on Cheapest Room

Price based on Shared Room

Price based on Private Single Room

Price based on Private Double Room

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2026

Jan
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Mar
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2027

Jan
Feb
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May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
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2028

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
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Dec
1 Adult2 Adults, 1 Child2 Children

Who is travelling?

AdultsAges 18 or above

2

ChildrenUnder 18

0
Pay only 25% today. The rest is due 65 days before departure. Learn more

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Plan your adventure:
Ancient Wonders
Walk among ruins, temples, and timeless landmarks
Partially Guided
Independent travel, featuring selected guided excursions
Low Intensity
Travelers can expect some light physical activities
Guided in English
All Ages Welcome
Image of a map showing the route of the tour

Itinerary

  1. Intro

    Introduction

  2. Day 1

    Kochi

    Kochi
    Start point
    Kochi, Kerala, India (provide us with a pick up address in Kochi )
    Meals
    Breakfast
    Accommodation
    Hotel 3*

    Included Activities

    • Visit Dutch Palace
    • Visit Jewish Synagogue
    • Visit Church of St. Thomas in Fort Cochi
    • Walk in the fishing port
    • Kathakali show - classical dance form with elaborate makeup and costumes

    Optional Activities

    • Dinner at charming seafood restaurants
    Landmarks
    Dutch Palace
    Jewish Synagogue
    Church of St. Thomas
    Itinerary Image 1Itinerary Image 2Itinerary Image 3
  3. Day 2

    Alleppey

    Alleppey
    Meals
    Breakfast, Lunch (Houseboat chef's dishes), Snack, Dinner (Houseboat chef's dishes)
    Accommodation
    Houseboat

    Included Activities

    • Deluxe houseboat cruise through Kerala backwaters
    • Meals prepared by houseboat chef
    Landmarks
    Kerala Backwaters
    Itinerary Image 1Itinerary Image 2Itinerary Image 3
  4. Day 3

    Munnar

    Munnar
    Meals
    Breakfast
    Accommodation
    Hotel 3*

    Included Activities

    • Visit tea plantation
    • Visit Tata tea museum
    • Kalaripayattu martial arts show

    Optional Activities

    • Walking tea plantation trip - 50 USD per person
    Landmarks
    Tea Plantation
    Mattupetty Dam
    Pothamedu Viewpoint
    Itinerary Image 1Itinerary Image 2Itinerary Image 3
  5. Day 4

    Periyar

    Periyar
    Meals
    Breakfast
    Accommodation
    Hotel 3*

    Included Activities

    • Boat ride on Lake Periyar to spot wild elephants

    Optional Activities

    • Local sightseeing of spice plantation
    Landmarks
    Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary
    Lake Periyar
  6. Day 5

    Madurai

    Madurai
    Meals
    Breakfast
    Accommodation
    Hotel 3*

    Included Activities

    • Visit Meenakshi Temple

    Optional Activities

    • Visit Tirumalaha Nayak Palace
    Landmarks
    Meenakshi Temple
    Tirumalaha Nayak Palace
  7. Day 6

    Tanjore

    Tanjore
    Meals
    Breakfast
    Accommodation
    Hotel 3*

    Included Activities

    • Visit UNESCO-listed temples in Tanjore
    • Visit Tanjore Palace Complex with exhibitions and library
    Landmarks
    Tanjore Temple
    Tanjore Palace Complex
    Itinerary Image 1Itinerary Image 2Itinerary Image 3
  8. Day 7

    Pondicherry

    Pondicherry
    Meals
    Breakfast
    Accommodation
    Hotel 3*

    Included Activities

    • Visit Sri Aurobindo ashram
    • Visit temple of god Ganesha
    Landmarks
    Sri Aurobindo Ashram
    Ganesha Temple
  9. Day 8

    Mahabalipuram

    Mahabalipuram
    Meals
    Breakfast
    Accommodation
    Hotel 3*

    Included Activities

    • Visit seven pagodas of Mahabalipuram
    • View rock-carved caves and monolithic sanctuaries
    • View Relief of Penance Bhagirathy (Ganges Ride from Heaven)
    • Visit Shore Temple
    Landmarks
    Shore Temple
    Arjuna's Penance
    Itinerary Image 1Itinerary Image 2Itinerary Image 3
  10. Day 9

    Chennai

    Chennai
    End point
    Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India (provide us with a drop off address in Chennai, central location or the airport)
    Meals
    Breakfast

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What's Included

Expand All
  • Accommodation
  • Guide
  • Meals
  • Additional Services
  • Transport

What's Not Included

  • Optional
  • Additional Services

Where You'll Stay

All accommodations are subject to change
Silver Operator
Rating
4.8 (620 reviews)
Response time
6 hours
Response rate
100%
Cancellation policy
Learn more

Traveler Moments

Traveler Reviews

4.8
Overall rating based on 13 Reviews
  • Itinerary
    4.9
  • Transport
    5.0
  • Guide
    4.9
  • Accommodation
    4.6
  • Food
    4.7
  • 4.8

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  • Jan5.0•August 2026
    Our South India tour arranged by Payless Tours India was an exceptional, hassle-free experience. Traveling as a...
    Show more
    Traveled in April 2026
    Reply from: Payless tours india
    We appreciate that you found time to write this lovely review. It was real pleasure to prepare this tour for you and travel with you. Thank you for trust and choosing our travel agency. Al l the best from Paylesstoursindia team
    Show more
  • Mia5.0•April 2026
    That was a special tour with an amazing driver/guide who took a great care of us. We highly recommed all the...
    Show more
    Traveled in March 2026
    Reply from: Payless tours india
    We appreciate that you found time to write this lovely review. It was real pleasure to prepare this tour for you and travel with you. Thank you for trust and choosing our travel agency. Al l the best from Paylesstoursindia team
    Show more
  • Peter
    Peter5.0•January 2026
    We are wrapping up our first ever visit to India later this morning. We chose to come to southern India as first time...
    Show more
    Traveled in December 2025
    Reply from: Payless tours india
    Thank you so much for this wonderful review. Hope to see you and make your holidays again, Best regards and luck,
    Show more
  • Tony
    Tony5.0•August 2025
    Idyllic of South India was a perfect tour to explore the southern part of India. Paylesstoursindia provided us with a...
    Show more
    Traveled in February 2025
    Reply from: Payless tours india
    Thank you for rewarding words. It is extremely motivating for our Paylesstoursindia team and important. We hope that you wish to come to India again and travel with us. Thank you for trust and using our services. Best wishes from Paylesstoursindia team
    Show more
  • Angelina
    Angelina5.0•April 2025
    South India tour was customized for our small group of pensioners perfectly. We were provided with a very friendly...
    Show more
    Traveled in February 2025
    Reply from: Payless tours india
    We are so satisfied to receive such a positive feedback regarding our services and Paylsstoursindia team. We are always ready to serve our Customers in case of problems or situations which sometimes happen. There is always solution which can be found. Thank you for trust, Hopefully you will come here again, All the best from Paylesstoursindia team
    Show more
  • Victoria3.0•February 2025
    Good itinerary, but after driving so far they rush you thru the sites. Long drives were necessary but were always in...
    Show more
    Traveled in February 2025
    Reply from: Payless tours india
    Thank you very much for taking the time to write this review. We are sorry to hear you feel this way about the driver's English. We are normally known for our exceptional attention to detail, and we regret that we missed the mark on this occasion. We will do our best to make some changes in order to improve the services for the future clients. Anyway, we are happy for the feedback and hope to serve you again. Best regards, Ewa Lewandowska
    Show more
  • Clive
    Clive5.0•January 2025
    A very well thought out tour of Southern India to include lots of cultural sites and wilde life. We believe it gives...
    Show more
    Traveled in January 2025
    Reply from: Payless tours india
    Thank you so much for this wonderful feedback and trust. We are glad you liked our service and the driver. We hope to make another exciting tour for you. Best regards from Paylesstoursindia team
    Show more
  • Thi5.0•October 2024
    The drivers Shaker un Mumbai and Sunil in Kerela aère good driver professionnel and ponctually, very kìn RSS and pay...
    Show more
    Traveled in October 2024
    Reply from: Payless tours india
    Thank you so much for your positive review! We're so glad you enjoyed South India tour. We appreciate your support and look forward to welcoming you back for your next adventure! Best wishes from Paylesstoursindia team
    Show more
  • Tedy
    Tedy5.0•June 2024
    The service of Paylesstoursindia and people who work in this travel agency are really good and highly rated. All the...
    Show more
    Traveled in April 2024
    Reply from: Payless tours india
    Thank you for your precious time which you dedicated to write this review. We appreciate your beautiful words and we hope to see you in India again soon. Maybe you will decide to visit the South, Sri Lanka or Maldives in the near future. We will be happy to serve you again. Sending you the best regards, Paylesstoursindia team
    Show more
  • Risolda
    Risolda5.0•May 2024
    One of the best travel agencies I know . An amazing customised trip for me and my family. Mrs. Eve was my tour...
    Show more
    Traveled in April 2024
    Reply from: Payless tours india
    We are so satisfied to receive such a positive feedback regarding our services and Paylsstoursindia team. We are always ready to serve our Customers in case of problems or situations which sometimes happen. There is always solution which can be found. Such a beautiful review is always motivating and extremely rewarding. Thank you for trust, Hopefully you will come here again, All the best from Paylesstoursindia team
    Show more

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Dates & Prices

Select departure month

Select departure month

2026

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

2027

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

2028

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
1 Adult2 Adults, 1 Child2 Children

Who is travelling?

AdultsAges 18 or above

2

ChildrenUnder 18

0
Upcoming departures
Hurry, deals only available for a limited time!
Ends on 14 Oct, 2026
  • Instant Confirmation
    From Monday
    12 Oct, 2026
    To Tuesday
    20 Oct, 2026
    English
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    This departure date is available and will 100% depart
    Guaranteed departure
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    US$2,119 per person
    Price based on Private Double Room
  • Instant Confirmation
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    13 Oct, 2026
    To Wednesday
    21 Oct, 2026
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    This departure date is available and will 100% depart
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    Price based on Private Double Room
  • Instant Confirmation
    From Wednesday
    14 Oct, 2026
    To Thursday
    22 Oct, 2026
    English
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    This departure date is available and will 100% depart
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    From Thursday
    15 Oct, 2026
    To Friday
    23 Oct, 2026
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  • Instant Confirmation
    From Friday
    16 Oct, 2026
    To Saturday
    24 Oct, 2026
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    This departure date is available and will 100% depart
    Guaranteed departure
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    Price based on Private Double Room
  • Instant Confirmation
    From Saturday
    17 Oct, 2026
    To Sunday
    25 Oct, 2026
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    Filling Fast
    This departure date is available and will 100% depart
    Guaranteed departure
    From:
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    Price based on Private Double Room
  • Instant Confirmation
    From Sunday
    18 Oct, 2026
    To Monday
    26 Oct, 2026
    English
    Filling Fast
    This departure date is available and will 100% depart
    Guaranteed departure
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    Price based on Private Double Room
  • Instant Confirmation
    From Monday
    19 Oct, 2026
    To Tuesday
    27 Oct, 2026
    English
    Filling Fast
    This departure date is available and will 100% depart
    Guaranteed departure
    From:
    US$2,119 per person
    Price based on Private Double Room
  • Instant Confirmation
    From Tuesday
    20 Oct, 2026
    To Wednesday
    28 Oct, 2026
    English
    Filling Fast
    This departure date is available and will 100% depart
    Guaranteed departure
    From:
    US$2,119 per person
    Price based on Private Double Room
  • Instant Confirmation
    From Wednesday
    21 Oct, 2026
    To Thursday
    29 Oct, 2026
    English
    Filling Fast
    This departure date is available and will 100% depart
    Guaranteed departure
    From:
    US$2,119 per person
    Price based on Private Double Room

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What our customers ask about this tour

The content in our FAQ section is subject to change.
All questions
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  • M

    Marlene

    Asked on January 31st, 2025

    When will I receive the payment link?

    Payments
  • A

    Amy

    Asked on January 20th, 2025

    Can I add extra nights to my stay?

    Accommodation
    • Payless tours indiaOperator•Written January 2025

      Yes, extra nights can be added based on availability.

  • P

    Philippe

    Asked on November 16th, 2024

    What meal options are available during the tour?

    Meals
    • Payless tours indiaOperator•Written November 2024

      Meals are typically included as specified in the itinerary.

  • R

    Rachael

    Asked on August 9th, 2024

    How many people are typically on this tour?

    Group size
    • Payless tours indiaOperator•Written August 2024

      Group sizes vary, and you can inquire about current availability.

  • C

    Clara

    Asked on July 11th, 2024

    What should I do if I have more questions?

    Travel Support
    • Payless tours indiaOperator•Written July 2024

      You can reach out to us via the Ask a Question button.

  • A

    Alexandra

    Asked on June 2nd, 2024

    What are the transport arrangements during the tour?

    Transport
    • Payless tours indiaOperator•Written June 2024

      Transport between locations is included in the tour package.

  • P

    Philippe

    Asked on March 14th, 2024

    What if I want to upgrade my accommodations?

    Accommodation
    • Payless tours indiaOperator•Written March 2024

      Upgrading to 4-star accommodation is an option at an additional cost.

  • L

    Laia

    Asked on February 23rd, 2024

    Are there any age restrictions for the tour?

    Age Range
    • Payless tours indiaOperator•Written February 2024

      There are no specific age restrictions, but we recommend checking any special requirements.

  • J

    Jennifer

    Asked on February 15th, 2024

    How can I check the availability of accommodations?

    Accommodation
    Price / Availability
    • Payless tours indiaOperator•Written February 2024

      You can check accommodation availability by reaching out through the Ask a Question button.

  • M

    Mélissa

    Asked on February 11th, 2024

    What is the price for 2 people including breakfast?

    Meals
    Price / Availability
Can’t find the answer to your question?
Reach out to the experts at Payless tours india with your enquiry, they usually respond within 6 hours.

Trip essentials

Good to know

Tour ID: 184406

The practical details for your trip across India: money, plugs and flexible ways to pay, all in one place.

Have a question? Chat with a travel expert

  • Pay in installments

    Spread the cost in interest-free biweekly installments of $46.

  • Deposit only

    Book now with just a 25% deposit. The remaining balance is due 65 days before departure.

  • ₹ - Indian Rupee

    You’ll encounter Indian Rupee in India.

  • Plug types C, D, M

    You’ll need an adapter for these sockets in India.

  • Currency

    ₹
    Indian Rupee

    India

  • Plugs & adapters

    As a traveler from USA, Canada, England, Australia, New Zealand you will need an adaptor for types C, D, M. As a traveler from South Africa you will need an adaptor for type C.

    • Type C

      Used in India

    • Type D

      Used in India

    • Type M

      Used in India

  • Visa

    Whether you need a visa depends on your nationality and how long you stay. We can’t process visas for you, but here’s a quick indication for this trip.

    This is only an indication. Visa rules depend on your passport, trip length and purpose. Always confirm with the official embassy or consulate before you travel.

  • Payment information

    Pay now
    A 25% deposit
    Balance due
    65 days before departure
    Installments
    Interest-free, every two weeks
    Currency
    USD
    Booking fee
    None

    Book now with just a 25% deposit and pay the rest later. The remaining balance is due 65 days before departure, charged automatically to your card, or you can split it into interest-free biweekly installments of $46 at checkout. Everything is charged in USD, and TourRadar never adds a booking fee. Any trip departing before December 13th, 2026 will need to be paid in full at checkout.

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From
$2,119
40% off
US $1,271 per person

Price based on Cheapest Room

Price based on Shared Room

Price based on Private Single Room

Price based on Private Double Room

Select departure month

Select departure month

2026

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

2027

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

2028

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
1 Adult2 Adults, 1 Child2 Children

Who is travelling?

AdultsAges 18 or above

2

ChildrenUnder 18

0
Pay only 25% today. The rest is due 65 days before departure. Learn more

Best price guarantee Learn More

Plan your adventure:

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With TourRadar RISE, you can earn commission when someone books a tour through a link you share — like this one.

Who is travelling?

AdultsAges 18 or above

2

ChildrenUnder 18

0

Select departure month

2026

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

2027

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

2028

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec