south india
A Journey for the Senses
February 27 - March 18, 2026
Explore the vibrant heart of South India, where ancient temples, flavorful cuisine, and rich handloom traditions offer a feast for the senses. Retreat into the serene landscapes of Kerala, where an Ayurvedic sanctuary nestled among paddy fields invites you to realign body and mind through timeless therapies and mindful nourishment.
PART A
TEMPLES, TEXTILES & TASTES OF THE SOUTH
February 27 - March 11, 2026
12 nights/13 days
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Explore the vibrant heart of South India, as you embark on an unforgettable journey, where every moment is a feast for the senses. Wander through centuries-old temple towns carved in stone, savor regional delicacies crafted with love and tradition, and witness the artistry of handloom weaving that colors everyday life. South India is not just a destination—it’s an experience that touches heart, mind, and spirit.
Chennai
• Arrivals and transfer from the airport to the hotel
• Orientation meetingMadurai
• Morning flight from Chennai to Madurai (included)
• Meenakshi TempleChettinad
• Athangudi tiles factory, demonstration & Athangudi Palace visit
• Local antique market
• Chettinad heritage walk with visit to old mansions
• Cooking demonstration of the Chettinad cuisineTanjore/Kumbakonam
• Brihadeeswara Temple
• Thali lunch at Sangam
• Tanjore painting and bronze making demonstration
• Airavateswarar/Darasuram Temple
• Saree weaving village
• Ayurveda treatment (optional)Pondicherry
• Gangaikonda Cholapuram
• Kalamkari demonstration
• Early morning Rickshaw ride of Pondicherry
• Visit to Auroville and Matrimandir
• Aurobindo Ashram (optional)Kochi
• Afternoon flight from Chennai to Kochi (included)
• Boat ride in the backwaters of Kerala with lunch
• Full day sightseeing of historic sites
PART B
AYURVEDA RETREAT
March 11 - 18, 2026
7 Treatment Days (option to extend for Panchakarma)
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Transition from exploration to restoration. Nestled in nature and surrounded by the paddy fields of Kerala, this Ayurvedic retreat offers a serene space to realign body and mind through traditional therapies, mindful practices, and holistic nourishment.
7 Day Retreat
• 7 day ayurveda retreat at Athreya Ayurvedic Centre
• Personalized daily Ayurveda treatments
• Serene accommodation amidst Kerala paddy fields
• Daily Ayurvedic meals
• All transfers to retreat centre and airportAbout Athreya Ayurvedic Centre
At Athreya Ayurvedic Centre, the focus is on authentic ayurveda traditions proven over centuries that are based on holistic treatment of an individual. Every guest’s treatment plan is responsibly selected and customized to his or her specific needs – as the doctors of Athreya Ayurvedic Centre comprise the full expertise of Ayurvedic academic studies as well as the knowledge and experience of more than five generations of Ayurvedic doctors. The Athreya Ayurvedic Centre is a place of retreat for anyone seeking a genuine holistic experience for the well being of the body and mind.
SAVE $500
on the complete package
Register before August 31, 2025 and Save $250 on each part
Registrations ends November 15, 2025
Accomodations
India is known for its hospitality; treating guests with utmost respect and providing the best services.
We have chosen 5-star hotels/heritage properties, where you are sure to have this experience.
If you've been thinking about India, drop us a note and we can start a conversation.
Safety and fun are the top most priorities!
This journey has been thoughtfully curated by Malika Journeys, and your experience will be beautifully captured by Isabella Dell’Olio Photography.
Malika
Malika is a yoga practitioner and cultural curator with a unique life journey bridging East and West. Born and raised in India, she moved to the US in her early twenties for higher education and spent several years in corporate America before returning to her roots. In 2019, she came back to India to integrate her passions for travel, yoga, and cultural exchange. She now curates immersive and transformative experiences that invite participants to connect with the richness of India while embarking on their own path of self-discovery. Her work is inspired by her personal journey of living consciously and in alignment with purpose.
Isabella
Originally from Bologna, Italy, Isabella is a travel and portrait photographer based in Massachusetts. Her work is inspired by a deep love for people, storytelling, and authentic connection. She’s passionate about photography, travel, and food and finds joy in exploring new places and cultures. Though she now lives in the US, Isabella stays closely connected to her roots, spending as much time as possible with loved ones in Italy and India. She loves hiking, practicing yoga, and contra dancing. She adores her two wonderful children—curious, fun, and full of heart—who speak Italian with the sweetest American accent.