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South India
12 Feb. - 24 Feb. 2026
spots available
gay round trip | CultURE & Experience | 12 DAYS | 4 - 12 Gays
What Awaits You
Explore the majestic colonial backdrops of India’s tropical south by tuk-tuk, hike through mystical tea mountains, and paddle through an enchanted water world. Learn about sustainable living in Auroville and discover the laid-back pace of the backwaters in Kochi. On the pulse of everyday life, we experience the many bright colours, scents and flavours of this fascinating country up close. What could be better? These and many more unforgettable adventures are waiting for you:
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Immerse yourself in South India's fascinating blend of culture and nature
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Discover the Backwaters - a fascinating water world
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Experience an unforgettable night on a traditional houseboat
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Optionally relax by the idyllic Bay of Bengal
Why South India
With over a billion citizens as well as a multitude of languages, religions, customs, and cuisines, every region in India is fascinating in its own right. In South India, the mix of modern cities, sleepy villages and one-of-a-kind natural and cultural treasures makes it an ideal gay travel destination.
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South India is home to vibrant festivals, ancient temples, and mesmerising traditional dance forms. Cities like Madurai showcase breathtaking temple architecture. The region is also known for its Ayurvedic retreats, yoga centers, and spa resorts – perfect for recharging body and mind in a serene, welcoming environment.
Same-sex relations are legal in India. Owing to the popularity of the Bollywood industry, the media and Indian society are increasingly addressing and taking a stance on LGBT issues, especially in the larger cities. Nevertheless, India is more traditionally oriented, and sexuality is lived in private and not demonstrated in public. Therefore, you should generally be cautious with public displays of affection.
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Escape the gloomy winter - February is one of the best times to explore South India. With pleasantly warm temperatures between 26 and 32 degrees Celsius, plenty of sunshine, minimal rainfall, and a refreshing coastal breeze, the weather is ideal for both sightseeing and relaxation.
Travel Package
Transfers
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Individual airport transfers
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Transfers, excursions, and round trip in a local air-conditioned coach
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Train ride from Madurai to Villupuram
​Accommodation
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12 nights in mid-range hotels in a shared or single room
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Room until departure on the last day
​Meals
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12x breakfast, 4x lunch, 12x dinner
Carefree travel package
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Various excursions and activities, including a Kalaripayattu demonstration and a street food tour
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English-speaking tour guide
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COâ‚‚ compensation - carbon-neutral travel
Detailed travel itinerary
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SHARE a room
EUR 2189,-
≈ USD 2564* | ≈ GBP 1898*
Have a room ALL TO YOURSELF
EUR 2889,-
≈ USD 3383* | ≈ GBP 2505*
* The USD and GBP prices quoted are approximate conversions of the binding EUR price. The actual USD / GBP amount will vary depending on the conversion rate of the payment service provider on the date of payment.
picture your Trip
jai
Your Local Connection
to Incredible India
South India Through Jai’s Eyes
"South India is a vibrant tapestry of ancient temples, lush landscapes, and warm-hearted people. The rhythm here is slower and more spiritual - from Kerala’s tranquil backwaters to Tamil Nadu’s majestic temples. I love sharing local markets, welcoming smiles, and rich traditions with travelers."
your itinerary
Day 1
Welcome to South India! Upon your arrival in the morning, you’ll be welcomed with a smile and taken directly to breakfast. After you’ve checked in, get ready for a short city tour of Chennai. You’ll pass maginificent colonial buildings until you arrive at the 7th-century Kapaleeshwarar Temple, a masterpiece of Dravidian architecture. At the Madras Museum, India’s second oldest museum, you’ll admire bronzes from the Chola period as well as countless other treasures. What a great way to start off your unforgettable gay holiday!
Day 2
A treasure trove of archaeology: Your day begins with a visit to the Santhome Cathedral, a neo-gothic shrine which houses the remains of Thomas the Apostle. Afterwards, you’ll continue past Marina Beach, a natural urban beach stretching 13 kilometres and one of Chennai’s best-known landmarks. The route continues past the flower and fruit market, before you stop to visit the richly ornate Kapaleeshwarar Temple. From there, the journey continues to Mahabalipuram.
Day 3
Temple hopping in Mahabalipuram: You’ll start the day with a visit to the fishermen in Devaneri. Make sure you’ve charged your camera: Between the surreal rock formations and dreamy Mahabalipuram Beach, you literally have millions of photo opportunities. On a tour of the city, you’ll discover impressive cave temples and elaborate relief sculptures. Among the highlights are the famous Shore Temple (UNESCO World Heritage Site), Arjuna’s Penance, the Five Rathas, and several Mandapams. The sculptures here tell fascinating stories of deities, animals, Hindu legends and everyday life.
DAY 4
Discovering utopia in Auroville: On your way to the southernmost tip of India just before Puducherry, you’ll stop at the Sri Aurobindo Ashram, a spiritual community established by Sri Aurobindo in 1910, and learn about everyday life in an ashram. After a brief visit to the city museum of the former French colony, you’ll make a pit stop to admire the new age world of Auroville, an experimental township founded in 1968. Wait till you see Matrimandir – the golden orb!
DAY 5
Dancing with the gods: Palm trees, sugar cane and small villages line our route to Tanjore on the Kaveri plain. On the way, you’ll stop in Tharangambadi – the “place of the singing waves”. Want to hear some Indian music? Your guide certainly has a wide selection for you to choose from. The rhythm will put you in the mood for your next stop in Chidambaram where you’ll visit a temple dedicated to Shiva as Nataraja, the King of Dance. Another architectural gem of the Chola kings awaits you in Darasuram as well: the Airavatesvara Temple (UNESCO World Heritage Site).
Day 6
Temples and god makers: Today, you’ll explore the 1,000- year-old Brihadishvara Temple in Tanjore (UNESCO World Heritage Site). In Vaitheeshwaran Koyil, you’ll encounter mystical fortune tellers who can see what your future holds by reading your personal palm leaf. On an excursion to Madurai, you’ll marvel at a pious and lively ceremony at the Meenakshi Temple in the evening.
Day 7
In the heart of Tamil Nadu: Prepare to be mesmerised! Today, you’ll visit Sri Meenakshi Sundareshwarar Temple, one of India’s largest temples and the lifeline of the city of Madurai. Another architectural highlight follows: Thirumalai Nayakkar Mahal, a magnificent and regal palace completed in 1636. Afterwards, it’s time to satisfy your appetite – explore the city’s diverse cuisine and experience how closely culinary art, history and culture are intertwined here.
Day 8
A bouquet of aromas​: Lush landscapes and “spicy” mountains will escort you over the heights of the Cardamom Hills on a spectacular drive to Thekkady. In a spice garden, you’ll get tips from the spice masters on how to grow pepper and ginger. Make sure to take notes and try it out back home! In the evening, you’ll get to know the distinctive culture of South India during a demonstration of the traditional martial art of Karalipayattu.
Day 9
Tigers, tea and teak: The morning begins with a leisurely stroll through the tropical landscape where there are plenty of opportunities to become acquainted with the local flora and fauna. Afterwards, spend the day at your leisure exploring this spice paradise. There is so much for you to discover here on your gay holiday!
Day 10
Behind the tea hills: “God’s Own Country” is Kerala’s tourism slogan. It’s certainly not an overstatement with all these natural splendours! You’ve reached the next stop of your gay adventure - the backwaters, the river and canal system of Vembanad Lake. There you’ll board an air-conditioned, traditional wooden houseboat, which will be your means of transport and accommodation for the day. Enjoy a taste of Kerala’s culinary specialities during the boat ride and then settle in for the night as the sounds of nature lull you to sleep.
Day 11
Culinary traditions in Kumbalangi: After so many culinary highlights on your gay holiday, you’ve probably asked yourself where all these different ingredients come from. During a visit to an Indian village, you’ll learn about the sophisticated techniques used by the locals to harvest mussel meat, crab, and coconut leaves. Make sure to enjoy some freshly caught fish before your journey continues to Kochi.
Day 12
In the kingdom of spices: Today you’ll dive into the history of multiculturalism in India in the 16th century. In the old town of Kochi, you’ll see colonial churches, synagogues, spice warehouses and even a Chinese fishing harbour. You’ll follow in the footsteps of adventurers from all over the world and hear fascinating stories about the people and traditions that shaped the culture of this wonderful place. During our final dinner together, you’ll have one last opportunity to savour the unique cuisine of South India and immerse yourself in the art of Indian dance drama. Later in the evening, you’ll transfer to the airport for your flight home. But you don’t have to leave just yet – you can book our beach extension!
Extend Your Trip
Beach Extension
3 days on the beach of the Bay of Bengal:
What could be better than three more days of ultimate relaxation under the sun in Maraikulam on the Arabian Sea! Chill out on Marari beach, one of the most pristine and beautiful beaches in India, visit other spectacular temples, or continue exploring the culinary wonders of the region. The possibilities are endless!
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SHARE a room
EUR 930,-
≈ USD 1089* | ≈ GBP 806*
Have a room ALL TO YOURSELF
EUR 1400,-
≈ USD 1639* | ≈ GBP 1214*
* The USD and GBP prices quoted are approximate conversions of the binding EUR price. The actual USD / GBP amount will vary depending on the conversion rate of the payment service provider on the date of payment.
Included
Transfers
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Private transfer from Kochi to Maraikulam
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Private transfer to Kochi Airport
​Accommodation
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3 nights at the luxurious 4-star Marari Beach Hotel in Maraikulam in a shared or single room
​Meals
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3x breakfast
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Please note that your return flight will need to depart from Kochi.
hotels
During your gay holiday, you’ll stay in charming mid-range hotels with comfort and local flair. A true highlight: an unforgettable night on a traditional houseboat, gliding through Kerala’s backwaters.
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For the beach extension, relax for three nights at the 5-star Marari Beach Hotel - with a lush garden, large pool, and direct access to a peaceful golden beach.
Radisson Blu Resort Temple Bay | 4 stars | Mahabalipuram
Indeco Hotel Swamimalai | 4 stars | Swamimalai
Amritara Spice Garden | 4 stars | Thekkady
Casino Hotel | 5 stars | Kochi
The Raintree Hotel | 5 stars | Chennai
Shenbaga Hotel | 4 stars | Puducherry
Heritage Madurai | 5 stars | Madurai
Houseboat | Alleppey
Extension: Marari Beach Hotel | 5 stars | Maraikulam
book now
from click to trip
Complete the booking form below
You’ll then receive your booking confirmation by email from our partner, Marco Polo, along with an invoice and a travel security certificate.
Secure your booking with a deposit
To confirm your spot, simply pay a 20% deposit of the total trip cost. You can choose to pay by bank transfer or conveniently by credit card.
Book your flights once minimum group size is reached
As soon as we let you know that the minimum number of participants has been reached, you can go ahead and book your flights.
Settle the remaining balance
The remaining amount is due no later than four weeks before departure. All payment deadlines and details will be outlined in your booking confirmation.
Receive your travel documents
Your travel documents will be sent to you by email directly from Marco Polo no later than two weeks before the start of your trip. All that’s left is to pack your bags and look forward to an unforgettable journey.
tour operator
This Guys.travel gay tour is organised and carried out by Marco Polo, a renowned specialist for worldwide discovery trips for over 60 years.
When booking the trip, the following Terms and Conditions as well as the Information Sheet for Travelers Participating in Package Travels apply. This sheet provides you with all legally required information prior to booking a package tour in accordance with Section 651a of the German Civil Code (BGB).
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Terms and Condition
of Marco Polo Reisen GmbH
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Information Sheet for Travellers Participating in Package Travels
Download | PDF
