Footprints of Saint Thomas

Arrive at Trivandrum Airport, where you will be warmly greeted by a santos.travel representative. From here, transfer to your hotel in Kanyakumari (2.5 hrs drive), the southernmost tip of India where the Arabian Sea, Bay of Bengal, and Indian Ocean meet. Spend the day at leisure, soaking in the peaceful surroundings and resting after your journey. You may enjoy a quiet evening walk along the seafront, witnessing the gentle waves and the town’s serene charm. Overnight stay at Kanyakumari.

Wake up early to witness the breathtaking sunrise over the confluence of three oceans, a truly spiritual and mesmerizing experience. Afterwards, begin your drive to Kollam (4.5 hrs drive), visiting Padmanabhapuram Palace, a masterpiece of traditional Kerala architecture with intricately carved wooden structures, expansive courtyards, and royal chambers. En route, stop at one of the “Seven and a Half Churches” established by St. Thomas in Thiruvithamcode, offering a glimpse into early Christian heritage in India. Arrive in Kollam, historically known as Quilon, one of the oldest ports on the Arabian Sea, and explore its churches and local culture in the evening. Overnight stay at Kollam.

Start your day with a visit to the ancient church in Niranam, known for its historical significance and architectural beauty. Later, head to Alappuzha (2.5 hrs drive), the “Venice of the East,” where you board your traditional Kerala houseboat. Cruise along the serene backwaters, drifting past lush paddy fields, swaying coconut groves, quaint villages, and colorful birdlife. Stop at the Champakulam Church, one of the oldest in Kerala, before enjoying the magical experience of spending the night on the tranquil waters of your houseboat.

After checking out from your houseboat, visit the Nilackal Church, set amidst dense forests and known for its spiritual importance. Continue your journey through Gavi, located in the Periyar Tiger Reserve, where the landscape transforms into a paradise of rolling hills, waterfalls, tropical forests, and cardamom plantations. Reach Thekkady, home to one of Kerala’s finest wildlife reserves, where you can relax at your resort and soak in the cool, misty air. Overnight stay at Thekkady.

Begin the morning with a boat ride on Periyar Lake, spotting elephants, deer, and exotic birds in their natural habitat – a photographer’s delight. Later, drive to Munnar (3.5 hrs drive), a scenic hill station situated 1,600 meters above sea level, once the summer retreat of the British. Marvel at the endless expanse of neatly manicured tea gardens, mist-covered valleys, and tranquil streams. Check into your resort and enjoy the cool mountain breeze as the evening sets in. Overnight stay at Munnar.

Explore Munnar’s highlights on a full-day sightseeing tour. Visit the Tea Museum to understand the history and process of tea production, then head to Mattupetty Lake and Dam for boating amidst picturesque surroundings. Stop at Echo Point, where the hills create natural sound reflections, and Kundala Lake, a charming spot ideal for pedal boating. Discover the vibrant Blossom Garden and hike through Rajamalai, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. Return to your resort for an overnight stay in Munnar.

After breakfast, drive to Thrissur (5 hrs drive), the cultural capital of Kerala. Visit the historic Palayoor Church, followed by visit to Punnathurkotta, famous elephant camp where temple elephants are housed and cared for. Experience the cultural richness of the region before checking in at your hotel. Overnight stay at Thrissur.

Visit the historic Paravur Church before boarding an air-conditioned boat to explore the Muziris region, an ancient port city and trade hub dating back to the 1st century BC. Discover the rich maritime and cultural history, including stops at historic churches in Kodungallur, tracing the footsteps of St. Thomas, who is believed to have arrived in India in AD 52. Continue to Fort Kochi and check into your hotel. Overnight stay at Fort Kochi.

We will go on a sightseeing tour of Fort Kochi and Mattancherry.
Visit St. Francis Church, the oldest European church in India; witness the iconic Chinese fishing nets; explore Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica, and the Dutch Palace with its stunning Ramayana murals. Wander through Paradesi Synagogue and Jew Town, reflecting centuries of Jewish heritage. In the evening, enjoy a mesmerizing Kathakali performance, a classical dance-drama combining intricate gestures, vivid costumes, and expressive storytelling. Overnight stay at Fort Kochi.

Transfer to Marari Beach (1.5 hrs drive), one of Kerala’s pristine coastal gems. Relax under the shade of coconut palms, stroll along the white sandy shores, or simply enjoy the soothing sound of the waves. Marari offers the perfect blend of tranquility and natural beauty, ideal for unwinding. Overnight stay at Marari.

Visit the churches at Kokkamangalam and Arthunkal, with an optional visit to St. Kuriakose Elias Chavara Church. Spend the remainder of the day at leisure, enjoying the calm beach atmosphere. Overnight stay at Marari.

Transfer to Kochi Airport (2.5 hrs drive) for your flight to Chennai. Upon arrival, visit the San Thome Basilica, built over the tomb of St. Thomas, and St. Thomas Mount, the site where he was martyred. Continue to Pondicherry (2.5 hrs drive), a charming coastal town with French colonial architecture, and check into your resort. Overnight stay at Pondicherry.

Explore Pondicherry’s colonial and spiritual heritage. Visit the Sri Aurobindo Ashram, Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, Immaculate Conception Cathedral, and Our Lady of Angels Church. End the day with a stroll along Promenade Beach, enjoying the sea breeze and picturesque sunset. Overnight stay at Pondicherry.

Transfer to Chennai Airport for your onward journey, taking with you memories of an incredible South Indian adventure filled with culture, nature, and spirituality.