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The
southern Golden Triangle is comprises of Chennai, Kovalam and Cochin.
Situated on the east coast, Chennai is the fourth largest Indian
city. Chennai has spread far beyond its original site to encompass
colonial buildings, factories and industries with equal aplomb.
The city also has a number of rivers and canals, like the Adyar
River and Cooum along which are gardens and facilities for boat
rides. Chennai today is a curious mix. While it retains its old
legacy and is a conservative bastion of Christianity, it is also
the Hollywood of South India and simultaneously a stronghold of
traditional Tamil culture.
Among
Kerela's excellent beaches, the best known is Kovalam, 16 km south
of Trivandrum. There are excellent tourist amenities in the vicinity
of the beach itself, but the countryside around is quite rural.
Life in the local fishing settlements is mercifully untouched. The
world famous Ayurvedic treatment for the body and soul are also
unique to this region.
DAY 1 Arrive Chennai
Reception at airport upon arrival and transfer to hotel.
DAY
2 Chennai
Morning - excursion to Mahabalipuram - an ancient coastal port -
south of Madras. Afternoon - excursion to Kancheepuram, known as
the Golden City of a Thousand Temples. Kancheepuram has also long
been famous for its silk weaving.
DAY
3 Chennai-Trivandrum
Morning transfer from hotel to airport in time to board flight to
Trivandrum. Reception upon arrival and transfer from airport to
the hotel. Afternoon, city sightseeing tour of Trivandrum.
DAY
4 Trivandrum
Full day excursion to Cape Comorin, 54 miles south of Trivandrum.
Also known as Kanyakumari, it is the farthest tip of the Indian
peninsula, where the Bay of Bengal, the Indian Ocean and the Arabian
Sea meet. Visit the Vivekananda Rock, which is an island in the
sea. It is the place where Swami Vivekananda meditated.
DAY 5 Trivandrum-Cochin
Drive from Trivandrum to Cochin (236 kms/6 hours). On arrival check-in
at hotel. Rest of day at leisure.
DAY
6 Cochin
Morning - sightseeing tour of Cochin. Afternoon motor launch cruise
on the backwaters of Cochin, around the harbour to the Bolghatty
Palace (a beautiful dutch colonial mansion). You will pass islands
and view the traditional fishing hamlets, and the fisher folk in
their colorful costumes.
DAY
7 Cochin-Chennai
Morning free for independent activities. Afternoon transfer from
hotel to airport in time to board the flight to Chennai. Reception
upon arrival and transfer to international airport. Departure Chennai.
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