From
$8,009
NZ $2,803 per person

Classic South India

15 days
From Chennai (Madras) to Thiruvananthapuram
4.5
23 traveler reviews
From
$8,009
-65%
NZ $2,803 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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2025

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
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Dec

2026

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

Who is travelling?

AdultsAges 18 or above

2

ChildrenUnder 18

0
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Plan your adventure:
In-depth Cultural
Immerse yourself in rich history and local traditions
Partially Guided
Independent travel, featuring selected guided excursions
Guided in English
Other languages on offer: German, Italian, Portuguese, French, Spanish, Dutch, Russian
All Ages Welcome
Image of a map showing the route of the tour

Highlights

  • Explore Marina Beach and historic temples in Chennai
  • Visit the sacred city of Kanchipuram and its temples
  • Discover the French charm of Pondicherry and its beaches
  • Experience bamboo rafting in Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary
  • Cruise the backwaters of Alleppey on a houseboat

Itinerary

Expand All
  1. Day 1 Arrival at Chennai
  2. Day 2 At Chennai
  3. Day 3 Chennai - Kanchipuram - Mahabalipuram (140 Kms / 3.30 Hrs)
  4. Day 4 Mahabalipuram - Pondicherry (110 Km / 2 Hrs)
  5. Day 5 Pondicherry - Tiruchirappalli - Madurai (354 Kms / 5.30 Hrs)
  6. Day 6 At Madurai
  7. Day 7 Madurai - Periyar (147 Kms / 4 Hrs)
  8. Day 8 At Periyar
  9. Day 9 Periyar - Munnar (98 Kms / 3.30 Hrs)
  10. Day 10 At Munnar
  11. Day 11 Munnar - Cochin (130 Kms / 4 Hrs)
  12. Day 12 Cochin - Alleppey (53 Kms / 1.30 Hrs)
  13. Day 13 Alleppey - Trivandrum - Kovalam (159 Kms / 4.30 Hrs)
  14. Day 14 Kovalam - Kanyakumari - Kovalam (90 Kms / 2.30 Hrs)
  15. Day 15 Kovalam - Trivandrum (18 Kms / 30 Mins) and Departure
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What's Included

Expand All
  • Accommodation
  • Guide
  • Meals
  • Additional Services
  • Transport
  • Free eSIM
    TourRadar offers the lead traveler (the person who booked) a free 1GB eSIM for the trip. The eSIM is redeemable only through the TourRadar app 72 hours before departure.

What's Not Included

  • Insurance
  • Additional Services
4.6
(477 reviews)

Number of tours

156

Age Range

1 to 80 years old

Response time

8 hours

Response rate

100%

About Us - Panda Experiences: Your Journey, Your Way Welcome to Panda...

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Your Peace of Mind Options

Cancellation Policy

A transparent overview of applicable fees.

Travel Insurance

Be covered for any unforseen circumstances.

Customer Reviews

  • Overall Rating
    Excellent
    4.5
  • Itinerary
    Excellent
    4.4
  • Guide
    Excellent
    4.4
  • Transport
    Excellent
    4.4
  • Accommodation
    Excellent
    4.4
  • Food
    Excellent
    4.4
  • 4.6
  • Most Recent
  • Most Popular
  • Highest First
  • Lowest First
  • JC
    · August 3rd, 2025
    It was a good trip through two states with such different vibes. Tamil Nadu was intense and full of sacred energy, while Kerala was calmer, greener. The local guides were passionate about their regions, which made a big difference. The hotels had a local flavor not luxury, but that’s part of the charm, upgrade your hotels for more comfort. Our driver, John, was steady and reliable, especially on hilly roads.
    Show more
    Panda Experiences commented on this review
    Dear Joshua, Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback about your Classic South India. We truly appreciate your insights, as they are valuable in helping us improve our services. Your experience matters to us, and we look forward to welcoming... Show more
    Trip date: May 2025
  • ZS
    · August 3rd, 2025
    I appreciated the historical information the guides provided, particularly in Kanchipuram and Madurai. The temples were incredible, though a bit crowded. Our hotels varied some very nice (like in Munnar), some average (like in Trivandrum). But all were clean. The driver made us feel safe at every step, and his suggestions for local food stops were spot-on. Memorable India trip.
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    Panda Experiences commented on this review
    Dear Zoe, Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback about your Classic South India. We truly appreciate your insights, as they are valuable in helping us improve our services. Your experience matters to us, and we look forward to welcoming... Show more
    Trip date: May 2025
  • TS
    · May 27th, 2025
    This trip was a deep dive into South India heritage. We especially loved Mahabalipuram shore temple and the colonial charm of Pondicherry. The guides were generally very knowledgeable and helpful, although the one in Trichy seemed a bit rushed. The hotels were not fancy but clean and comfortable, upgrade for more comfort is suggested. Our driver was a star patient, always early, and very respectful.
    Show more
    Panda Experiences commented on this review
    Dear Tomas, Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback about your tour Classic South India. We truly appreciate your insights, as they are valuable in helping us improve our services. Your experience matters to us, and we look forward to... Show more
    Trip date: February 2025
  • YR
    · May 27th, 2025
    We booked this trip mainly for the temples, and it delivered. From the Dravidian architecture in Madurai to the French Quarter of Pondicherry, we soaked in culture. Our driver was careful and courteous. The guides were great especially in Mahabalipuram. Hotels ranged from decent to really nice. The one in Munnar had an amazing garden. Would recommend this trip.
    Show more
    Panda Experiences commented on this review
    Dear Yulia, Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback about your tour Classic South India. We truly appreciate your insights, as they are valuable in helping us improve our services. Your experience matters to us, and we look forward to... Show more
    Trip date: February 2025
  • RA
    · May 27th, 2025
    This South India tour was amazing. Starting in Chennai, we got a good feel of Tamil culture. Our guide was friendly and knowledgeable, especially in Mahabalipuram and Madurai, where the temples just blew our minds. The hotels were clean and comfortable not luxurious, but we were well taken care of. Our driver was calm and super patient on the road, which made all the difference.
    Show more
    Panda Experiences commented on this review
    Dear Romano, Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback about your tour Classic South India. We truly appreciate your insights, as they are valuable in helping us improve our services. Your experience matters to us, and we look forward to... Show more
    Trip date: January 2025
  • BB
    · March 28th, 2025
    South India was an unforgettable experience. Chennai was a great introduction, with its history and culture, followed by the serenity of Munnar lush greenery. I loved the temples in Kanchipuram and Madurai they were magnificent. The hotels were all good. The driver was excellent. Overall, it was a well organized tour, and I learned a lot about South India.
    Show more
    Panda Experiences commented on this review
    Dear Bianca, Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback about your Classic South India Tour. We truly appreciate your insights, as they are valuable in helping us improve our services. Your experience matters to us, and we look forward to... Show more
    Trip date: January 2025
  • Classic South India reviewer 7
    · March 28th, 2025
    This tour provided a wonderful overview of South India. I was blown away by the beauty of the temples in Chennai and Kanchipuram, and the natural beauty of Periyar and Munnar was truly a amazing. The hotel accommodations good. The driver was always courteous and made sure we were well taken care. Great experience overall, highly recommend it!
    Show more
    Panda Experiences commented on this review
    Dear Jane, Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback about your Classic South India Tour. We truly appreciate your insights, as they are valuable in helping us improve our services. Your experience matters to us, and we look forward to... Show more
    Trip date: January 2025
  • MT
    · March 28th, 2025
    I was particularly impressed by the history in Mahabalipuram and Madurai. The guides were friendly and shared lots of fascinating facts about each place. The hotels were perfect as 4 star category, offering a relaxing retreat at the end of each day. The driver was very experienced, which made the long drives much easier to handle. And Kovalam beaches. Absolutely gorgeous. I would recommend Panda Experiences for India trip.
    Show more
    Panda Experiences commented on this review
    Dear Monique, Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback about your Classic South India Tour. We truly appreciate your insights, as they are valuable in helping us improve our services. Your experience matters to us, and we look forward to... Show more
    Trip date: January 2025
  • MK
    · March 28th, 2025
    The tour was a beautiful combination of rich history and stunning natural landscapes. The temples we visited were amazing I was in awe of the architecture and history, especially in Kanchipuram and Madurai. Munnar and Periyar were peaceful. The accommodations were good. The driver made sure we were always safe and on schedule. Definitely recommend this trip with upgraded hotels.
    Show more
    Panda Experiences commented on this review
    Dear Mateusz, Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback about your Classic South India Tour. We truly appreciate your insights, as they are valuable in helping us improve our services. Your experience matters to us, and we look forward to... Show more
    Trip date: January 2025
  • MR
    · March 23rd, 2025
    This tour was perfect for me. Temples in Chennai and Madurai, with the Meenakshi Temple being the perfect visit of the trip. The nature reserves in Periyar were peaceful and rejuvenating, and Munnar tea gardens were stunning. The guide made sure we learned about the culture and traditions of the region, and the hotels were comfortable. The driver was always punctual and friendly. A fantastic trip overall!
    Show more
    Panda Experiences commented on this review
    Dear Mario, Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback about your Classic South India Tour. We truly appreciate your insights, as they are valuable in helping us improve our services. Your experience matters to us, and we look forward to... Show more
    Trip date: January 2025

Dates & Availability

Select departure month and travellers

Select Date

Select departure month

2025

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

2026

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 13 Aug, 2025
  • -65%
    From Friday
    8 Aug, 2025
    To Friday
    22 Aug, 2025
    English, German, Italian, Portuguese, French, Spanish, Dutch, Russian +7 more
    This departure date is available and will 100% depart
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    From:
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    NZ $2,803 per person
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  • -65%
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    9 Aug, 2025
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    23 Aug, 2025
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    From:
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    NZ $2,803 per person
    Multiple Room Types
  • -65%
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    10 Aug, 2025
    To Sunday
    24 Aug, 2025
    English, German, Italian, Portuguese, French, Spanish, Dutch, Russian +7 more
    This departure date is available and will 100% depart
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    NZ $2,803 per person
    Multiple Room Types
  • Instant Confirmation
    -65%
    From Monday
    11 Aug, 2025
    To Monday
    25 Aug, 2025
    English, German, Italian, Portuguese, French, Spanish, Dutch, Russian +7 more
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    From:
    $8,009
    NZ $2,803 per person
    Multiple Room Types
  • Instant Confirmation
    -65%
    From Tuesday
    12 Aug, 2025
    To Tuesday
    26 Aug, 2025
    English, German, Italian, Portuguese, French, Spanish, Dutch, Russian +7 more
    This departure date is available and will 100% depart
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    From:
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    NZ $2,803 per person
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  • Instant Confirmation
    -65%
    From Wednesday
    13 Aug, 2025
    To Wednesday
    27 Aug, 2025
    English, German, Italian, Portuguese, French, Spanish, Dutch, Russian +7 more
    This departure date is available and will 100% depart
    Guaranteed departure
    From:
    $8,009
    NZ $2,803 per person
    Multiple Room Types
  • Instant Confirmation
    -65%
    From Thursday
    14 Aug, 2025
    To Thursday
    28 Aug, 2025
    English, German, Italian, Portuguese, French, Spanish, Dutch, Russian +7 more
    This departure date is available and will 100% depart
    Guaranteed departure
    From:
    $8,009
    NZ $2,803 per person
    Multiple Room Types
  • Instant Confirmation
    -65%
    From Friday
    15 Aug, 2025
    To Friday
    29 Aug, 2025
    English, German, Italian, Portuguese, French, Spanish, Dutch, Russian +7 more
    This departure date is available and will 100% depart
    Guaranteed departure
    From:
    $8,009
    NZ $2,803 per person
    Multiple Room Types
  • Instant Confirmation
    -65%
    From Saturday
    16 Aug, 2025
    To Saturday
    30 Aug, 2025
    English, German, Italian, Portuguese, French, Spanish, Dutch, Russian +7 more
    This departure date is available and will 100% depart
    Guaranteed departure
    From:
    $8,009
    NZ $2,803 per person
    Multiple Room Types
  • Instant Confirmation
    -65%
    From Sunday
    17 Aug, 2025
    To Sunday
    31 Aug, 2025
    English, German, Italian, Portuguese, French, Spanish, Dutch, Russian +7 more
    This departure date is available and will 100% depart
    Guaranteed departure
    From:
    $8,009
    NZ $2,803 per person
    Multiple Room Types

Why book with TourRadar?

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    • Rated excellent on
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    • Earn $50 in travel credits
    • Free eSim with every purchase

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More benefits

What our customers ask about this tour

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

    Gerardus

    Asked on March 26th, 2025

    What are the different accommodation standards available for the tour?

    Accommodation
    • Panda ExperiencesOperatorWritten March 2025

      The tour offers several accommodation standards, including 3-star hotels at EUR 3270 per person, 4-star hotels at EUR 4590 per person, and 5-star hotels at EUR 6775 per person.

  • O

    Omar

    Asked on December 15th, 2024

    What is the group size for the Classic South India tour?

    Group size
    • Panda ExperiencesOperatorWritten December 2024

      Please inquire directly with the tour provider for details on the maximum group size for this tour.

  • A

    Antonia

    Asked on November 8th, 2024

    Are there any mandatory meals included in the tour price?

    Meals
    • Panda ExperiencesOperatorWritten November 2024

      Yes, there are two mandatory dinners during the tour, specifically for Christmas and New Year, but their prices are not included in the quoted tour price.

  • A

    Anivar

    Asked on October 5th, 2024

    Can you provide post-tour accommodation?

    Accommodation
    • Panda ExperiencesOperatorWritten October 2024

      Post-tour accommodation can be arranged upon request. Please provide your specific needs for a quote.

  • E

    Erik

    Asked on August 6th, 2024

    Are there any restrictions on age for participants in the tour?

    Age Range
    • Panda ExperiencesOperatorWritten August 2024

      The tour may have age restrictions in place. It is recommended to consult with the tour provider for specific age-related guidelines.

  • S

    Said

    Asked on July 13th, 2024

    Can I book flights through the tour operator?

    Flights / Transfers
    • Panda ExperiencesOperatorWritten July 2024

      Yes, the tour operator can arrange flights from Frankfurt to Goa, Goa to Trivandrum, Chennai to New Delhi, and New Delhi to Frankfurt. The total cost for these flights is approximately EUR 1590 per person.

  • M

    Melany

    Asked on June 7th, 2024

    Is travel insurance included in the Classic South India tour?

    Travel Support
    • Panda ExperiencesOperatorWritten June 2024

      Travel insurance is not typically included in the tour price. It is advised that you acquire separate travel insurance for your trip.

  • L

    Leticia

    Asked on May 19th, 2024

    Can I modify the tour itinerary?

    Tour Details
    • Panda ExperiencesOperatorWritten May 2024

      Tour itinerary modifications can be discussed with the operator. Additional fees might apply depending on the changes requested.

  • R

    Rosa

    Asked on February 8th, 2024

    How much does it cost to hire a German-speaking guide for the tour?

    Price / Availability
    • Panda ExperiencesOperatorWritten February 2024

      You can opt for a German-speaking guide, either at specific locations or as an escort throughout the entire trip. Please specify your requirement for more precise pricing.

  • E

    Evelyn

    Asked on December 23rd, 2023

    Does the Classic South India tour include airport transfers?

    Flights / Transfers
    • Panda ExperiencesOperatorWritten December 2023

      Yes, airport transfers are included in the Classic South India tour. Please provide your flight details for accurate scheduling.

Can’t find the answer to your question?
Reach out to the experts at Panda Experiences with your enquiry, they usually respond within 8 hours.
From
$8,009
-65%
NZ $2,803 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 Date

Select departure month

2025

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

2026

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
Save and compare this adventure

Best price guarantee Learn More

Plan your adventure:

Good to Know

Tour ID: 133806

  • Currency
    Indian Rupee
    India
  • Plugs & Adapters

  • Vaccines
    • These are only indications, so please visit your doctor before you travel to be 100% sure.
    • Typhoid - Recommended for India. Ideally 2 weeks before travel.
    • Hepatitis A - Recommended for India. Ideally 2 weeks before travel.
    • Cholera - Recommended for India. Ideally 2 weeks before travel.
    • Tuberculosis - Recommended for India. Ideally 3 months before travel.
    • Hepatitis B - Recommended for India. Ideally 2 months before travel.
    • Yellow fever - Certificate of vaccination required if arriving from an area with a risk of yellow fever transmission for India. Ideally 10 days before travel.
    • Japanese B encephalitis - Recommended for India. Ideally 1 month before travel.
  • Visa
    • Unfortunately we cannot offer you a visa application service. Whether you need a visa or not depends on your nationality and where you wish to travel. Assuming your home country does not have a visa agreement with the country you're planning to visit, you will need to apply for a visa in advance of your scheduled departure.
    • Here is an indication for which countries you might need a visa. Please contact the local embassy for help applying for visas to these places.
  • Payment information
    • For any tour departing before October 9th, 2025 a full payment is necessary. For tours departing after October 9th, 2025, a minimum payment of 50% is required to confirm your booking with Panda Experiences. The final payment will be automatically charged to your credit card on the designated due date. The final payment of the remaining balance is required at least 65 days prior to the departure date of your tour. TourRadar never charges you a booking fee and will charge you in the stated currency.
    • Some departure dates and prices may vary and Panda Experiences will contact you with any discrepancies before your booking is confirmed.
    • The following cards are accepted for "Panda Experiences" tours: Visa, Maestro, Mastercard, American Express or PayPal. TourRadar does NOT charge you an extra fee for using any of these payment methods.
  • Cancellation Policy
  • Accessibility
    Some tours are not suitable for mobility-restricted traveler, however, some operators may be able to accommodate special requests. For any enquiries, you can contact our customer support team, who are ready and waiting to help you.

Who is travelling?

AdultsAges 18 or above

2

ChildrenUnder 18

0

Select departure month

2025

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

2026

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