Built in typical Dravidian style, a pyramid shape with intricately carved stones, the Kapaleeshwar temple in Chennai is around 300-400 years old, its ancient predecessor probably being destroyed by the Portuguese.

Meaning ‘story-play’, Kathakali is a form of religious dance drama from Kerala in the south of India, usually performed by men with elaborate costume and make-up. It dates back to the 17th century. (Please note, this is an optional excursion).

Lying parallel to India’s Malabar Coast, the Kerala backwaters are a chain of lakes and lagoons linked by rivers and canals, with a unique eco-system created by the meeting of freshwater with seawater from the Arabian Sea.

Renowned as one of the best places to study wildlife, take an early boat trip across Lake Periyar. Observe up 260 bird species including the great Malabar grey hornbill and try to spot flying squirrels, bison and the endangered lion tailed macaque as well as wild elephants along the densely forested banks.

Dedicated to Shiva and his consort Parvati, the historic Meenakshi Temple in Madurai has been mentioned in Tamil literature for many centuries, although its present structure is thought to have been built in the 15th century.