Morning

Upon arrival in Chennai, travelers will be greeted by the Moksha Stories team and transferred to Mahabalipuram, about an hour and a half away.

Afternoon

After check-in, guests can relax at the hotel or enjoy a gentle walk along Mahabalipuram’s coastline, which offers stunning views of the Bay of Bengal.

Overnight

Stay at Mahabalipuram hotel.

Mahabalipuram (Mamallapuram) is a coastal gem that holds a treasured place in Indian architectural history. Known for its 7th- and 8th-century rock-cut temples and monolithic structures, the area offers a unique archaeological experience for enthusiasts.

Morning

After breakfast, travelers will embark on a guided exploration of Mahabalipuram’s heritage sites:

Arjuna’s Penance

A vast rock relief portraying scenes from the Mahabharata, intricately carved to depict gods, animals, and humans.

The Five Rathas

Monolithic temples in the form of chariots, each dedicated to different deities.

Rock-cut Temples

Marvels of Pallava-era architecture, with stories carved into every stone.

Afternoon

Free time to enjoy the peaceful beach or explore local shops and cafes.

Overnight

Return to Mahabalipuram hotel.

The coastal town of Pondicherry is a blend of French elegance and South Indian vibrancy. The distinct French influence can be seen in its architecture, cuisine, and culture, creating a one-of-a-kind experience for travelers.

Morning

After breakfast, depart for Pondicherry with a stop at Auroville, a global community known for promoting universal harmony. Here, guests will learn about sustainable initiatives, meditation practices, and Auroville’s ideals of peace and unity.

Afternoon

Arrival in Pondicherry and check-in. Stroll around the picturesque French Quarter, exploring the colonial architecture and waterfront promenade.

Evening

Experience Pondicherry’s beachside, mingling with locals and soaking in the town’s relaxed ambiance.

Overnight

Stay at Pondicherry hotel.

In Kumbakonam, visitors will encounter the lush Kaveri River basin, rich with Tamil heritage. The grandeur of Chola temples, particularly Brihadisvara Temple at Gangaikondacholapuram, attests to the empire’s architectural mastery and devotion.

Morning

Depart for Gangaikonda Cholapuram after breakfast.

Brihadisvara Temple

Known for its towering vimana (temple tower) and awe-inspiring Dravidian architecture, this UNESCO site offers a window into the 11th-century Chola dynasty.

Afternoon

Continue to Kumbakonam, exploring

Airavatesvara Temple

Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, distinguished by its intricately carved

stone pillars and sculptures. A stroll through Kumbakonam’s temple streets, where the aroma of Kumbakonam filter coffee fills

the air.

Visit a GI-tagged pith-craft community

Meet renowned pith-craft artist Shri K.A. Chokkalingam and see this delicate art form in action.

Overnight

Stay at Kumbakonam hotel.

The route to Thanjavur is dotted with traditional crafts, each a legacy of the Chola kingdom and a testament to the Kaveri River’s influence on the region.

Morning After breakfast, visit

Narasinghapettai Nadaswaram makers

Witness the creation of the GI-tagged classical wind instrument, crafted for centuries in this village.

Thirubuvanam Saree Weavers

Experience the intricate weaving process of these silk sarees, famous across South India.

Swamimalai Bronze Sculptors

Observe artisans crafting bronze icons using the lost-wax technique, a tradition established over a thousand years ago.

Evening

Check into Thanjavur hotel.

Overnight

Stay at Thanjavur hotel

Thanjavur, often called the cultural capital of Tamil Nadu, is home to the UNESCO-listed Brihadeeswara Temple. Known for its Tanjore paintings and musical traditions, the city offers a rich mix of spiritual, artistic, and architectural experiences rooted in the Chola period.

Breakfast at the hotel.

Brihadeeswara Temple

Visit the monumental Brihadeeswara Temple, an extraordinary feat of Dravidian architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Tanjore Art Exploration:

Tanjore Painting Workshop

Meet local artists creating GI-tagged Tanjore paintings with gold leaf and vibrant pigments.

Tanjore Veena Makers

Engage with artisans crafting this classical musical instrument.

Evening Performance

Enjoy a classical music or dance performance, showcasing Tamil Nadu’s artistic legacy.

Overnight

Return to Thanjavur hotel.

Today, you’ll experience the Maratha-influenced heritage of Thanjavur and journey to Chettinad, a region famed for its grand mansions built by Tamil merchant families. The architectural fusion in Chettinad reflects global influences that traders brought back from Southeast Asia and Europe.

Breakfast at the hotel.

Thanjavur Maratha Palace

Discover the official residence of the Bhonsle family, featuring royal collections and a distinctive blend of architectural styles.

Drive to Chettinad and check in to a Chettinad mansion.

Thirumayam Fort and Shiva Temple

Explore the fort and the temple’s rock-cut shrines and murals.

Overnight

Stay at a Chettinad heritage mansion.

Chettinad’s renowned architectural legacy is reflected in its stately mansions and unique arts, such as Athangudi tile making. Today’s tour of Chettinad showcases the craftsmanship, culinary heritage, and antique treasures that make this region unique.

Breakfast at the mansion.

Chettinad Mansion Tour

Discover the elaborate architecture of Chettinad’s mansions, showcasing imported materials from Italy, Burma, and Europe

Athangudi Tile Workshop

Visit workshops where local artisans handcraft these vibrant tiles unique to the Chettinad region.

Karaikudi Antique Market

Explore this bustling market for vintage artifacts and collectibles, a paradise for antique lovers.

Overnight

Return to Chettinad mansion.

Madurai, an ancient city more than 2,500 years old and often referred to as the “Athens of the East,” offers a deep dive into South India’s historical and cultural heritage. With its grand temples and bustling markets, Madurai promises a vibrant immersion into local traditions.

Transfer to Madurai

Start your journey from Chettinad to the historic city of Madurai.

Afternoon Sightseeing

Begin with a visit to the iconic Meenakshi Temple, where you can witness intricate Dravidian architecture and soak in the spiritual ambiance.

Evening Market Walk

Take a walking trail through the tailor and flower markets, bustling areas that reflect Madurai’s unique charm and local life.

Overnight Stay

Rest and relax at your hotel in Madurai.

Begin your journey to Palakkad, a region of serene landscapes and rich cultural heritage. The next few days are designed to offer immersive experiences into the traditions, art, and communities that make Palakkad special.

Transfer to Palakkad

Travel to Palakkad for a day dedicated to exploring the area at a leisurely pace.

Overnight Stay

Check in and unwind at your hotel or homestay in Palakkad.

Embark on a deeply engaging journey crafted by Moksha Stories to introduce you to the heart of Palakkad’s communities, from temple artisans to traditional musicians. This immersive experience celebrates Palakkad’s cultural diversity, traditional crafts, and unique ways of life.

Ambalavasi Community Visit

Begin at Thiruvalathur or Kachamkurissi temple to meet the Ambalavasi community, caretakers of temple activities, renowned for their traditional garland-making skills.

Traditional Percussion Instrument Makers

Experience an interactive session with artisans who create traditional Kerala instruments, including tabla, mridangam, and edakka.

Lunch at a Farmstead

Enjoy a plantation walk and cooking demonstration of local dishes followed by a delicious, spice-infused lunch on the farm.

Evening at Palliyil Tharavadu

Visit a heritage “Naalu Kettu” (ancestral home) to experience Kerala’s architecture and enjoy a culinary demonstration featuring local snacks.

Temple Ceremony or Panchavadhyam Performance

End your day with either a “Chuttu Vilakku” lamp-lighting ceremony or an enthralling Panchavadhyam performance, experiencing Kerala’s spiritual and musical heritage.

Return to Hotel/Homestay

Head back for dinner and overnight rest.

Deepen your connection with the local heritage by engaging with Palakkad’s traditional artisans,

weaving communities, and culinary traditions that span generations.

Weaving Village Visit

Begin with an exploration of a Devanga weaving village, learning about the 400-year-old techniques behind Kerala’s iconic Set-mundu and double mundu fabrics.

Traditional Mat Makers

Meet artisans crafting eco-friendly mats from coconut and palmyra leaves, gaining insight into this ancient, sustainable craft.

Lunch with the Community

Savor a meal prepared by the artisans, rich with local flavors.

Toddy Tapping Experience

In Kakkayur village, observe the process of toddy tapping and sample “Panangallu” (seasonal).

Evening Folk Song Performance

Experience Pulluvan Paatu, a traditional folksong genre by the Pulluva community that harmonizes with Kerala’s natural surroundings.

Return to Hotel/Homestay

Day 13

Community Encounters in Palakkad.Head back for dinner and rest.

Immerse yourself in the unique routines, art forms, and folklore of the region, culminating with a serene

boat ride along the Nila river.

Morning Routine at Agraharam

Discover the architectural heritage and culinary traditions of an Agraharam settlement, with tasting sessions of traditional Tamil Brahmin dishes.

Art Form Demonstration – Ottan Thullal or Shadow Puppetry

Engage with the stories and performances of either Ottan Thullal, a satirical dance, or Tholpaava Koothu (shadow puppetry).

Traditional Valluvanadan Sadhya Lunch

Enjoy a special meal featuring Valluvanadan dishes.

Panan Community’s “Olakkuda” Craftsmanship

Visit artisans making traditional umbrellas from Palmyra leaves.

River Nila Canoe Ride

End the day with a tranquil sail along the Nila-Gayatri Sangamam, the confluence of two rivers, experiencing the timeless beauty of Palakkad.

Return to Hotel/Homestay

Dinner and overnight stay.

Today, immerse yourself in the colorful world of Kathakali, learning about its elaborate costumes, ancient traditions, and mesmerizing rhythms.

Kathakali Koppu Craftsmen

Begin with a visit to artisans who create Kathakali’s iconic headgear and ornaments.

Workshop with Kathakali Chutti Master

Explore costume and makeup artistry, with an interactive session using naturally sourced colors.

Music and Rhythm

Discover the importance of percussion and music in Kathakali with a session featuring talented musicians and percussionists.

Lunch at an Ancestral Nambudiri Home

Enjoy a traditional Nambudiri Chathootu lunch, paired with stories of culinary heritage.

Return to Hotel/Homestay

Dinner and overnight stay

Journey to Muziris, the cradle of ancient trade routes, where the fusion of cultures has left a legacy of unique art, weaving traditions, and history.

Transfer to Muziris

Arrive and settle in.

Regal Weavers of Muziris

Engage with Chendamangalam weavers to understand loom techniques and their stories of survival.

Handicraft Artisans

Meet brass workers, blacksmiths, and screw-pine weavers, dedicated to preserving local handicrafts.

Paliyam Palace Tour

Discover the architectural wonders of Paliyam Palace and Naalukettu, delving into its royal past.

Sunset Canoe Ride and Jewish Synagogue Visit

Explore the Periyar river on a canoe and visit an ancient Jewish synagogue.

Return to Hotel/Homestay

Dinner and overnight stay.

Explore the captivating fishing and farming villages of Cochin, where the rich cultural heritage and sustainable practices create a unique tapestry of life. This day is dedicated to connecting with local communities, learning about traditional livelihoods, and experiencing the beauty of the region’s landscapes

Breakfast

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel or homestay.

Pokkali Farming

Visit a local farm to learn about the ancient Pokkali farming technique, a sustainable method of rice cultivation that thrives in saline conditions.

Chinese Fishing Nets

Witness the traditional fishing techniques of local fishermen as they use the iconic Chinese fishing nets, a unique sight along the coastline.

Prawn Farming

Meet local prawn farmers to gain insights into their livelihoods and the sustainable practices they employ to cultivate prawns.

Return to Accommodation

Head back to your hotel or homestay for dinner and relaxation.

Delve into the historical significance of Thrippunithura, once the capital of the Cochin Kingdom, where regal traditions and vibrant cultural

practices flourished. This day is dedicated to uncovering the rich heritage and culinary delights of this fascinating town.

Breakfast

Start your day with breakfast at your accommodation.

Historical Walk

Take a guided walk through the historical alleys of Thrippunithura, learning about its traditions, cultures, and the impact of the Cochin Kingdom.

Cooking Demonstration

Participate in a cooking demonstration of the Royal Sadhya, an elaborate vegetarian meal, with local chefs who were brought in by royal factions to cater to the kingdom’s palates.

Lunch

Enjoy the dishes you helped prepare during the cooking demonstration.

Evening at Leisure

Spend the evening at your leisure, exploring the town or relaxing at your accommodation

Embark on a journey with the Preserve Alleppey Society, an all-women’s organization dedicated to preserving and sharing the rich heritage of Alleppey. This day promises an authentic experience of the town’s history, craftsmanship, and culinary traditions.

Community Settlement Walk

Discover diverse community settlements that have shaped Alleppey’s history, guided by PAS volunteers.

Heritage Handmade Coir Factory

Visit a coir factory to witness skilled artisans at work and learn about the significance of coir in the local economy.

Home-Cooked Lunch

Enjoy a traditional meal prepared by members of PAS, experiencing the warmth and flavors of local cuisine.

Alleppey Heritage Walk

Join the “Alleppey on Foot” heritage walk to explore architecturally significant buildings and neighborhoods while hearing captivating stories from your guide.

Return to Accommodation

Head back to your accommodation for dinner and relaxation.

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Kuttanad, known for its unique agricultural practices and rich folklore. This day combines scenic exploration with cultural immersion, offering insights into the life along Alleppey’s enchanting waterways.

Breakfast

Begin with breakfast at your accommodation.

Kuttanad Agricultural Tour

Visit local farms to learn about paddy cultivation and the innovative sustainable practices farmers employ in this region located below sea level.

Folklore Exploration

Discover local folklore, including Vanchi-pattu and Krishi-pattu, which reflect the agricultural heritage of the area.

Canoeing on the Pamba River

Enjoy a canoe ride along the Pamba River, engaging with local residents and absorbing the tranquil beauty of the landscape.

Return to Kochi

Conclude the day with a transfer back to Kochi, where you’ll settle into your accommodation for the night.

Spend your final full day in Kochi at your leisure, indulging in shopping and exploring the vibrant local

markets. This is an opportunity to reflect on your journey while enjoying the dynamic atmosphere of the

city.

Breakfast

Start with a leisurely breakfast at your hotel.

Shopping

Explore the local markets for handicrafts, spices, and souvenirs to take home.

Relaxation

Take some time to relax and soak in the sights and sounds of Kochi, perhaps visiting cafes or historical sites at your own pace.

Farewell Dinner

Gather for a farewell dinner at a local restaurant, sharing stories and memories from your journey.

As your enriching journey through South India comes to an end, take with you the memories of vibrant cultures, exquisite traditions, and warm hospitality. Depart with a deeper understanding of this remarkable region.

Breakfast

Enjoy your final breakfast at the hotel.

Check-out

Complete your check-out process and prepare for your onward journey.

Transfer to Airport/Railway Station

Depending on your departure time, you will be transferred to the airport or railway station for your onward travel