Book Early and Save $200 Per Person ![](/sites/default/files/2025-03/1%20Meals%20%28red%29_42.png) 45 Meals ![](/sites/default/files/2025-04/2%20Small%20Group%20%28red%29.png) Small Group ![](/sites/default/files/2025-03/3%20CT%20Ratings%20%28red%29_42.png) CT Rating 3.5/5 - Challenging ![](/sites/default/files/2025-03/4%20Leader%20%28red%29_38.png) Led by Heather Patenaude **Timeless Traditions, Scenic Wonders** India’s rich diversity has long captivated travelers. This journey explores the less-visited south, where traditions remain strong. We’ll visit temple towns, cruise Kerala’s backwaters, and explore hill stations, spice markets, and wildlife preserves. Along the way, we’ll experience stunning landscapes, deep-rooted traditions, and vibrant culture—perfect for adventurous travelers seeking something unique. .button { display: inline-block; padding: 10px 20px; margin: 5px; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none; border-radius: 6px; background-color: gray; /* default color */ color: white; } .button:hover { opacity: 0.9; } [Book Now](https://enrollment.craigtravel.com/booking?departurecode=TAS180227:20270218) [Download Brochure](https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/sl/Xc0ylmT/SouthIndiaFeb2027) [![South India map 2027](/sites/default/files/2026-04/South%20India%202027.jpg)](https://www.craigtravel.com/sites/default/files/2026-04/South%20India%202027.jpg) ### Tour Highlights - Shore Temple and Five Rathas (Mahabalipuram); Gangaikonda Cholapuram and Airavatesvara Temple (Kumbakonam); Brihadeeswarar Temple (Thanjavur). - Guided tours of Chennai, Pondicherry, Madurai, Thanjavur, and Cochin (Kochi) - Spice garden visit with cooking demonstration in Periyar; private cooking class with a local family in Cochin, tea plantation walk and tasting in Munnar - Private overnight Kerala backwaters cruise; scenic wildlife boat ride in Periyar Artisan Workshops & Practices: Traditional Rangoli practice; bronze statue-making and veena-making demonstrations - Traditional Kalaripayattu martial arts show; Kathakali dance performance - Rickshaw rides through the French Quarters of Pondicherry and the streets of Madurai, and bullock cart ride through a local village ### Inclusive Features - Return economy group airfare from Canada to India - Accommodations in traditional, first class hotels and resorts as indicated or similar - 45 meals included as noted in the itinerary (B - 15 breakfasts, L - 15 lunches, D - 15 dinners) - All gratuities, surcharges, taxes and fees for included services - Visa fee for India for Canadian passport holders - Airport transfers in Canada or equivalent value with purchase of group airfare - Services of our Canadian journey leader plus professional guide throughout India ### Itinerary Overview Full View DEPART CANADA February 18, 2027 Group members from across Canada gather in Toronto for the overnight flights to Chennai. ARRIVE CHENNAI February 19, 2027 Upon arrival in the evening, we transfer directly to our hotel. **The Residency Towers** (2 nights) Dinner CHENNAI February 20, 2027 Today's city tour features the historical landmarks of Fort St. George, St. Mary’s Church, the Government Museum, and the bustle of a local fruit and flower market. A highlight of our day is the Kapaleeshwarar Temple, a 7th-century architectural marvel dedicated to Lord Shiva (rebuilt in the 16th century), where we admire the massive, rainbow-hued gopuram covered in thousands of detailed carvings. We conclude our day with a welcome dinner to toast the start of our journey. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner SHORE TEMPLE / PONDICHERRY February 21, 2027 We depart Chennai and drive south toward Pondicherry, stopping first at Mahabalipuram. Here, we explore the UNESCO-listed Shore Temple, carved from granite to withstand the salt air of the Bay of Bengal, and the Five Rathas, a series of monolithic temples each sculpted from a single massive rock to resemble ceremonial chariots. **Le Pondy Hotel** (2 nights) Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner PONDICHERRY February 22, 2027 Pondicherry is a unique coastal town where French colonial architecture meets Indian spirituality. Our morning tour features the Sacred Heart Basilica, celebrated for its rare Gothic style, and a stop at the Raj Niwas, the official residence of the Lieutenant Governor. We also stroll along the Promenade, a scenic stretch along the Bay of Bengal. Later, we visit the Sri Aurobindo Ashram, a renowned spiritual community founded in 1926. In the afternoon, we enjoy a heritage walk through the French Quarter and a rickshaw ride along its charming streets. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner KUMBAKONAM / THANJAVUR February 23, 2027 Our journey continues inland toward Thanjavur, a city that served as the ancient capital for the mighty Chola Empire. Along the way, we visit the Gangaikonda Cholapuram and the UNESCO Airavatesvara Temple in Kumbakonam. The 12th-century Chola architecture of this temple features stone carvings so fine they resemble delicate lace. Following lunch, we enjoy a bullock cart ride through a local village, offering a slow-paced look at the rural way of life in this region. **Sangam Hotel** (2 nights) Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner THANJAVUR February 24, 2027 We dedicate the morning to Thanjavur’s history at the Brihadeeswarar Temple, part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site known as the "Great Living Chola Temples." We also visit the Royal Palace Museum, home to an extensive collection of Chola-era artifacts. Spend the afternoon connecting with the living traditions that still thrive in the city's workshops. We witness the ancient lost-wax casting technique during a bronze statue-making demonstration and watch master artisans at a veena-making workshop. Here, the national instrument of India is meticulously hand-carved, preserving a craft that has defined Thanjavur for centuries. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner CHETTINAD / MADURAI February 25, 2027 We depart for Madurai with a stop in Chettinad. This district is a culinary and architectural treasure, known for its unique cuisine and 19th-century palatial homes decorated with fine teak and Italian marble. After a glimpse into this opulent past, we complete our drive to Madurai, one of the world's oldest cities with a recorded history reaching back to the 3rd century BCE. **Courtyard by Marriott** (2 nights) Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner MADURAI February 26, 2027 Experience the soul of Madurai with a city tour by rickshaw, starting at the Meenakshi Amman Temple. This spiritual masterpiece of Dravidian architecture features fourteen towers covered in thousands of colourful stone figures. We also explore the Thirumalai Nayakar Mahal, a royal palace famous for its towering white pillars and fusion of Italian and Rajput styles, followed by a walk through the local market. To connect with daily Tamil traditions, we enjoy a demonstration of rangoli, a sacred art form that involves creating intricate geometric patterns on the ground using dyed rice flour. You’ll even have the chance to try your hand at this ancient practice. For those seeking a deeper spiritual connection, we gather for the evening prayer ceremony at Meenakshi Temple. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner MADURAI / MUNNAR February 27, 2027 We bid farewell to the ancient plains of Tamil Nadu and cross into the lush, emerald landscapes of Kerala. Our journey takes us to Munnar, a serene hill station situated at an altitude of 1,600 metres, where the cooler climate and rolling hills provide a refreshing change of pace. As we enter this new state, we are greeted by beautiful tea plantations, mist-covered peaks and tranquil mountain air. **Fragrant Nature Munnar** (2 nights) Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner MUNNAR February 28, 2027 There is a rare magic to Munnar, a place where you might spot elephants roaming freely across the hills or share a cup of the most authentic chai with the workers in the tea plantations. We begin our day at Echo Point for picturesque views of the area. We then immerse ourselves in the world of tea with a guided walk through the picturesque plantations, followed by a factory tour to witness the delicate processing of the leaves and sample the refined brews that have made this region famous. The rest of the day is yours to embrace the quiet beauty of the Western Ghats and relax with our hotel’s amenities. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner MUNNAR / PERIYAR March 1, 2027 We descend from Munnar towards Periyar, a region celebrated for its rich biodiversity. After checking in, we head to the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary for a scenic boat ride. Here we may have the chance to observe the sanctuary’s residents, such as wild Asian elephants, sambar deer, and various bird species, as they come to the water’s edge to drink and bathe. **Amritara Shalimar Spice Garden** (2 nights) Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner PERIYAR March 2, 2027 Following a relaxed morning in the heart of the Cardamom Hills, we are invited to a spice garden for a cooking demonstration and an authentic plantation lunch. Our day concludes with two powerful South Indian traditions: a Kalaripayattu show, featuring the world’s oldest martial art, and a special dinner accompanied by the rhythmic storytelling of a Bharatanatyam dance performance. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner BACKWATERS CRUISE March 3, 2027 We travel to Alleppey to board our private houseboats for a cruise through the tranquil backwaters of Kerala. These traditional barges have been converted into floating retreats featuring comfortable bedrooms, a lounge, and a dining area. As we drift through the labyrinth of palm-fringed canals, we glide past small villages, fish markets and lush paddy fields, offering intimate glimpses of rural life along the water’s edge. Relax on deck as the sun sets over the coconut groves while our onboard staff prepares a delicious meal. **Blue Jelly Cruises** (1 night) Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner ALLEPPEY / COCHIN March 4, 2027 Today we drive to the historic port city of Cochin. Along the way, we stop at the Coir Museum, dedicated to the history and production of coconut fibres. Upon arrival, we tour Fort Kochi, a seaside district defined by many foreign cultures. Highlights include St. Francis Church, one of the oldest European churches in India; the Mattancherry Palace, famous for its vibrant murals; and the 16th-century Jewish Synagogue. **Fragrant Nature Cochin** (2 nights) Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner COCHIN March 5, 2027 After a leisurely morning, we join a local family for a cooking class, to learn the secrets of Keralan spices before enjoying a traditional home-cooked lunch. The afternoon is yours to explore the charming streets of Fort Kochi at your own pace. As evening approaches, we witness a Kathakali dance performance, Kerala’s world-renowned drama famous for its elaborate make-up, costumes and intense facial expressions. Our journey culminates in a farewell dinner, celebrating the friendships and memories made across South India. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner DEPART COCHIN March 6, 2027 Breakfast, Lunch ARRIVE CANADA March 7, 2027 [Download Brochure](https://www.craigtravel.com/sites/default/files/2026-05/brx_TAS180227-South_India_REV05MAY26.pdf) [![Meenakshi Amman Temple](/sites/default/files/styles/gallery/public/2026-04/Meenakshi%20Amman%20Temple.jpg?h=89573a15&itok=NkA8NSlg "Meenakshi Amman Temple")](https://www.craigtravel.com/sites/default/files/2026-04/Meenakshi%20Amman%20Temple.jpg) [![Mahabalipuram, temples and monuments](/sites/default/files/styles/gallery/public/2025-04/mahabalipuram-2779567_adj.jpg?h=0d27ee61&itok=OLrkO_mV "Mahabalipuram, temples and monuments")](https://www.craigtravel.com/sites/default/files/2025-04/mahabalipuram-2779567_adj.jpg) [![Elephant splashing and washing in Periyar, India](/sites/default/files/styles/gallery/public/2025-04/iStock-1309935763_Elephant_washing_Periyar_sml.jpg?h=dda8405c&itok=DEdI_PZu "Elephant splashing and washing in Periyar, India")](https://www.craigtravel.com/sites/default/files/2025-04/iStock-1309935763_Elephant_washing_Periyar_sml.jpg) [![Tea plantations in Munnar](/sites/default/files/styles/gallery/public/2026-04/tea%20plantations%20in%20Munnar.jpg?h=e5aec6c8&itok=dRahuZMs "Tea plantations in Munnar")](https://www.craigtravel.com/sites/default/files/2026-04/tea%20plantations%20in%20Munnar.jpg) [![Embracing the rhythm of the journey on a rickshaw ride - credit Wendy Marshall](/sites/default/files/styles/gallery/public/2026-04/South%20India%20by%20Wendy%20Marshall%20Feb%202026.jpg?h=c4734396&itok=A5sxyFhm "Embracing the rhythm of the journey on a rickshaw ride - credit Wendy Marshall")](https://www.craigtravel.com/sites/default/files/2026-04/South%20India%20by%20Wendy%20Marshall%20Feb%202026.jpg) [![Kathakali dance performance](/sites/default/files/styles/gallery/public/2026-04/Kathakali%20dance%20performance.jpg?h=aa0c9c93&itok=5UB50Zex "Kathakali dance performance")](https://www.craigtravel.com/sites/default/files/2026-04/Kathakali%20dance%20performance.jpg) [![Cruise through the tranquil backwaters of Kerala](/sites/default/files/styles/gallery/public/2026-04/Alleppey%20Blue%20Jelly%20Cruise%20South%20India%20journey-cnva.jpg?h=0c17145f&itok=920jFmTJ "Cruise through the tranquil backwaters of Kerala")](https://www.craigtravel.com/sites/default/files/2026-04/Alleppey%20Blue%20Jelly%20Cruise%20South%20India%20journey-cnva.jpg) ### Have any questions? Contact Sharon at sbahadur \[at\] craigtravel.com or call [1-800-387-8890](tel:1-800-387-8890) ### Tour Cost in Canadian Dollars Per Person Land only* (Join/Leave at hotel) $6,095 Toronto $8,775 Montreal / Ottawa $8,995 Halifax / Winnipeg $9,095 St. John’s $9,195 Regina / Saskatoon / Victoria $9,295 Calgary / Edmonton / Vancouver $9,245 Single Supplement $1,675 [Book Now](https://enrollment.craigtravel.com/booking?departurecode=TAS180227:20270218) ### **Payment and Booking Terms** Deposit is **$800 per person** Final payment is due **November 17, 2026** \*Land only clients join at the Chennai hotel and leave the group at the Cochin hotel. Airfares and air carriers are subject to change and will be confirmed prior to final payment. Airfares from other gateways are available on request. Refer to inclusive features for details. Prices are per person, based on double occupancy and a minimum of 15 members. Price is based on taxes, surcharges, and exchange rates effective April 2026 and are subject to change due to factors beyond our control. Group will be escorted with a minimum of 15 members. **A visa is required for India**. For Canadian passport holders, the e-visa cost is included and assistance is provided for those needing individual applications. As of 2026, travellers must also complete a digital arrival card (e-arrival card) before departure; please contact us for details. **SMALL GROUP EXPERIENCE** **LIMITED TO 25 MEMBERS** Insurance is NOT INCLUDED but is highly recommended. Premiums are calculated based on the individual’s age, destination (country), trip length, and trip booking window – please contact our staff to receive a quote. Please discuss your insurance coverage prior to booking. Refer to [terms and conditions](https://www.craigtravel.com/terms-conditions) for more details. #### CT Rating **3.5/5 - CHALLENGING** India offers diverse cultural experiences but requires an open mind to embrace its unique environment. Living standards often differ from those in Canada, and travellers should anticipate a high-energy atmosphere in busy districts. Traffic is frequently chaotic, and the itinerary includes several long travel days where roadside facilities may be limited. Air quality, particularly in larger cities, can be poor. Accommodations range from deluxe hotels to rustic heritage properties. Meals are primarily vegetarian or vegan, served buffet-style, and can be spicy. Due to the physical and cultural demands of the trip, members should be in good health and capable of managing their own luggage. Do you have any questions about this journey? [Email Us]() #### Journey Leader ![Profile picture for user Heather Patenaude](/sites/default/files/styles/user/public/pictures/2025-03/Picture11112.png?h=b4c9372e&itok=QNZ6LhXH) Heather Patenaude - After retiring from a career in University Advancement, Heather Patenaude turned her lifelong love of travel into a new chapter of exploration. Having lived and worked across Canada, she spent more than a decade leading bilingual tours from coast to coast, proudly showcasing the country’s beauty. Her adventures have also taken her abroad, teaching English in Turkey, Spain, China, and Mexico, and visiting more than 55 countries. Today, Heather enjoys leading Canadians overseas to experience new cultures and create lasting memories. She recently led the Best of Ireland tour for Craig Travel. Guided by her motto, “One’s destination is never a place, but a new way of seeing things,” Heather looks forward to sharing an unforgettable journey with you. ![](/sites/default/files/2025-03/1%20CT%20Loyalty%20Points_4.png) [Craig Travel Loyalty Points ](/loyalty-club) ![](/sites/default/files/2025-03/2%20Pay%20By%20Cheque_4.png) [Pay by Cheque Discount](/pay-cheque-discount) ![](/sites/default/files/2025-03/3%20Refer%20a%20Friend_4.png) [Refer a Friend](/refer-friend) ![](/sites/default/files/2025-03/4%20About%20CT%20Ratings_4.png) [About CT Ratings](/craig-travel-ratings) ![](/sites/default/files/2025-03/5%20Travel%20Insurance_4.png) [Travel Insurance](/travel-insurance)