After an early breakfast, we drive south into the Nilgiri Hills to Ootacamund, the Queen of Hill Stations. During colonial times, the British administrators in Madras and other southern cities escaped to the hills in the hot season to enjoy the cooler climate, and Ootacamund was undoubtedly the popular choice. Arrive and check in at a hotel. Afternoon sightseeing, includes the Botanical Gardens and St Stephen's Church.

After breakfast a long drive takes us to Cochin, on the Malabar coast, is an attractive city influenced by many cultures - Arab, Dutch, British and Portuguese - and is rich in maritime history. Arrive and check in at hotel.

A morning tour of Fort Cochin, the oldest part of the city, visiting the 16th century Church of St. Francis, the Mattancherry (or ‘Dutch’) Palace and the enormous cantilevered Chinese fishing nets characteristic of the Kerala coast. Afternoon at leisure.

After breakfast depart and drive to Alleppey, arrive and check in a hotel. Afternoon we take a walking tour to see the typical Keralian architecture and also see how they build their boats.

After breakfast cruise on Lake Periyar, where we can see a variety of bird life including herons, hornbills and egrets. There are approximately 800 elephants in the Periyar Reserve. Afternoon drive to Madurai, one of the great pilgrimage centers of the south, whose temples constitute one of India's architectural wonders.

We visit the Meenakshi Temple, one of the biggest temple complexes in India, including the beautiful 16th century Court of a Thousand Pillars. Tirumalainaik Palace, built in 1636, with its splendid Main Hall, where dancers, musicians and court magicians used to entertain the ruler and his guests. Afternoon at leisure.

Morning transfer to the airport in time to board Chennai flight, founded by the British in the 17th century, where we visit Fort St. George. Rest of the day is at leisure.

Full day at leisure. An optional excursion is available to the holy city of Kanchipuram, one of the seven sacred cities of India, famous for its marvelous 6th century Hindu temples, and Mamallapuram, with its sculptured rock temples, including the spectacular Shore Temple decorated with a row of Nandi bulls.

Transfer to international airport for onward destination.