Shreelekha 2N Madurai-2N Thekkady-2N Munnar-2N Kochi-2N Trivendrum

On arrival at Madurai Airport, meet and greet our representative who will assist with your transfer and sightseeing. Madurai is known for its ancient temples, vibrant streets, and rich Tamil heritage.

Madurai Sightseeings:

• Meenakshi Amman Temple: Iconic Dravidian-style temple dedicated to Goddess Meenakshi and Lord Sundareshwarar.
• Thirumalai Nayakar Mahal: Historic palace known for its grand pillars and courtyard.
• Gandhi Memorial Museum: Museum showcasing Mahatma Gandhi’s life and India’s freedom journey.
• Koodal Azhagar Temple: Prominent Vishnu temple known for its intricate architecture.
• Vandiyur Mariamman Teppakulam: Large temple tank famous for its Float Festival.
• Local Market: Explore shops around the temple for brass items, fabrics, and handicrafts.

Note: Sightseeing in Madurai will be covered based on your arrival time and temple timings. Meenakshi Temple typically closes in the afternoon (12 PM–4 PM), so plan visits accordingly.

Embark on a captivating full-day journey exploring the cultural heart of Tamil Nadu – Madurai. This itinerary is designed to immerse you in the city's rich history, magnificent architecture, and vibrant local life, ensuring a memorable single-day experience within Madurai itself.

Please note that the sights would be covered only once during your travel even if those are mentioned twice in the itinerary.

Morning: Divine Beginnings & Architectural Grandeur

• Meenakshi Amman Temple: Begin your day early at the iconic Meenakshi Amman Temple, a masterpiece of Dravidian architecture. Dedicate ample time (2-3 hours) to explore its towering gopurams, intricate sculptures, sacred ponds, and bustling halls dedicated to Goddess Meenakshi and Lord Sundareswarar.
• Puthu Mandapam: Located just outside the East Gate of the Meenakshi Temple, the Puthu Mandapam (New Hall) is a 17th-century pillared hall now serving as a vibrant market. Browse through shops selling textiles, handicrafts, and souvenirs.
• Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace: Post-lunch, visit the magnificent Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace, built in the 17th century by King Thirumalai Nayak. Admire its Indo-Saracenic architectural style, grand courtyards, and impressive stucco work.
• Gandhi Memorial Museum: Delve into India's freedom struggle at the Gandhi Memorial Museum, housed in the historic Tamukkam Palace. The museum meticulously preserves artifacts, photographs, and personal belongings related to Mahatma Gandhi, including the blood-stained dhoti he wore when assassinated.
• Vandiyur Mariamman Teppakulam: Take a serene break at the Vandiyur Mariamman Teppakulam, a large temple tank with a mandapam (central shrine) that appears to float during the annual float festival. It’s a peaceful spot for reflection and photography.

Conclude your day by exploring the local eateries around the city. Don't miss trying Madurai's famous 'Jigarthanda', a refreshing cold drink, and other local street food before heading back.

After breakfast, set out to explore the scenic beauty and wildlife of Thekkady, one of Kerala’s most captivating destinations known for its dense forests, spice plantations, and adventurous experiences.

You can enjoy the following sightseeing points and activities during your stay in Thekkady:

• Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary & Lake Boating – Enjoy a serene boat ride on Periyar Lake and spot elephants, deer, and other wildlife along the banks.
• Spice Plantation Visit – Learn about the cultivation of Kerala’s famous spices such as cardamom, pepper, and cinnamon.
• Elephant Junction – Interact with elephants, enjoy elephant rides, feeding, or bathing experiences (optional).
• Kadathanadan Kalari & Kathakali Centre – Watch traditional Kerala martial arts (Kalaripayattu) and classical dance performances (tickets extra).
• Chellarkovil Viewpoint – Offers breathtaking views of plains and cascading waterfalls on clear days.
• Ayurvedic Massage & Shopping – Visit one of the local centers for authentic Kerala Ayurvedic therapies or shop for handmade chocolates and spices.

Note: If any sightseeing or activities are not possible due to time constraints or weather conditions, they can be covered the next day before checkout.

After breakfast, check out from your hotel in Thekkady. Before departure, complete any remaining sightseeing you may have missed.

Start your drive to Munnar, which is approximately 110 km away and takes around 4–5 hours by road.

En route, you can visit the following authentic attractions:

• Cheeyappara Waterfalls – A seven-tiered waterfall surrounded by lush greenery
• Valara Waterfalls – Scenic cascade ideal for photography
• Tea Plantations near Munnar – Stop briefly to admire the rolling hills and lush estates

Upon arrival in Munnar, check in to your hotel and relax. The rest of the day is free for leisure — you may stroll through the local markets or enjoy the hotel facilities.

After breakfast at the hotel, head out for sightseeing in and around Munnar. Complete any remaining sights from the previous day before starting new activities.

Munnar Extended Sightseeing:

• Eravikulam National Park – Famous for Nilgiri Tahr and scenic landscapes, ideal for photography.
• Spice Garden – Explore local spices and plantations.
• Rajamalai (Eravikulam Hills) – Panoramic views and trekking opportunities.

Return to the hotel in the evening for overnight stay.

After breakfast, check out from your hotel in Munnar. Complete any remaining sightseeing in Munnar before beginning your journey to Kochi.

Kochi is approximately 130 km away from Munnar, and it would take around 4 hours to reach by road.

En route, visit the following attractions:

• Valara Waterfalls – a beautiful cascade surrounded by dense forests
• Cheyyappara Waterfalls – a seven-step waterfall offering great photo opportunities

Upon reaching Kochi, set out to explore Fort Kochi, known for its colonial charm and coastal beauty.

Sightseeing in Fort Kochi includes:

• Chinese Fishing Nets – Iconic cantilevered fishing nets that define Kochi’s shoreline
• St. Francis Church – The oldest European church in India, built in the early 16th century
• Santa Cruz Basilica – A magnificent church with impressive architecture and interiors
• Dutch Palace (Mattancherry Palace) – A Portuguese-built palace famous for its Kerala murals
• Jew Town & Synagogue – A quaint area filled with antique shops and the historic Jewish Synagogue
•  

Optional Experiences:

• Sunset Cruise – Enjoy a scenic backwater sunset cruise (additional cost)
• Cultural Shows – Witness traditional Kathakali or Kalaripayattu performances (additional cost)

Later, return to your hotel in Kochi and relax for the evening.

After breakfast at 9 AM, head out to Fort Kochi to explore its iconic sights.

Sights to visit in Fort Kochi:

• Fort Kochi Beach – Free entry
• Chinese Fishing Nets – Approx. 30 minutes, Free entry
• St. Francis Church – Approx. 30 minutes, Free entry
• Indo-Portuguese Museum – INR 50 per couple (closed on Mondays)
• Mattancherry Palace / Dutch Palace – INR 50 per couple (closed on Fridays)
• Jewish Synagogue – Free entry (closed on Friday and Saturday)
• Jew Street – Popular street for shopping, Free entry

Optional experiences:

• Sunset Cruise on the Kochi Backwaters – Experience scenic sunset views (cost varies, approx. INR 800–1,500 per person)
• Cultural Center Show – Traditional Kerala dance performances (Approx. INR 1,000 per couple)

It usually takes around 4–5 hours to cover the Fort Kochi monuments. The optional sunset cruise and cultural show can be enjoyed later in the day before returning to the hotel for dinner and overnight stay.

Check-out from Kochi Hotel: Complete any pending sightseeing in Kochi before departure.

Pending sights may include:

• Fort Kochi Beach
• Chinese Fishing Nets
• St. Francis Church
• Indo-Portuguese Museum
• Mattancherry Palace / Dutch Palace
• Jewish Synagogue
• Jew Street (shopping)

Drive to Jatayu Earth’s Center (Jatayu Park). It is Approximately 110 km from Kochi, around 2.5 hours by road.

Sightseeing at Jatayu Park:

1. World’s largest bird sculpture
2. Cable car ride
3. Panoramic views of the surrounding hills
4.  

Drive from Jatayu Park to Kovalam. It is Approximately 100 km, around 2–2.5 hours by road.

Check-in at Kovalam Hotel: Relax and enjoy the beachside ambience. Stroll along the coastline or explore local markets. Evening at leisure at Kovalam.