St Thomas Christian Heritage

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Overview

  • Duration: 15 Nights 16 Days
  • Travellers: 6 to 12 Travellers
  • Tour Type: Fixed Departure Tours
  • Language: English
  • Starts: Kochi on 15 Sep 2026
  • Ends: Goa on 30 Sep 2026

Overview

  • Duration:0 days 0 nights
  • Travelers:6 - 12 guests
  • Tour Type:Fixed Departure Tours
This unique 16-day pilgrimage traces the Apostle St. Thomas’s journey across India, blending sacred sites, ancient churches, and spiritual experiences with the cultural richness of South India. Beginning in Cochin, where tradition holds that St. Thomas first arrived in AD 52, the journey follows his footsteps through Kerala and Tamil Nadu before continuing to Pondicherry, Chennai, and Goa. Along the way, discover living traditions of faith, UNESCO monuments, and serene ashrams that reflect India’s deep spiritual heritage.

Highlights

  • Walk in the footsteps of the Apostle Thomas across Kerala and Tamil Nadu.
  • Visit ancient churches founded by St. Thomas – Paravur, Kodungallur, Palayoor, Malayattoor, and Kokkamangalam.
  • Experience a serene Alleppey backwater cruise with traditional Kerala lunch.
  • Immerse in spirituality at Shantivanam Christian Ashram.
  • Savour an authentic Chettinad lunch at a heritage mansion.
  • Pray at Velankanni Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health – the Lourdes of the East.
  • Explore San Thome Basilica, Little Mount, and St. Thomas Mount in Chennai – sites of the Apostle’s tomb and martyrdom.
  • Discover the grand churches of Old Goa, including the Basilica of Bom Jesus, housing the relics of St. Francis Xavier.
  • Blend of faith, heritage, and leisure with time in Pondicherry, Mahabalipuram, and Goa.

Includes/Excludes

  • Accommodation on twin / double sharing basis for 15 nights in value for money hotels (Mix of 3* plus and 4* hotels) as mentioned above or similar in the event of any hotel being sold out.
  • Breakfast and Dinner are included at all places.
  • 02 Lunches are included as mentioned in the itinerary at the Houseboat & in Goa.
  • All transport by air-conditioned vehicle (Tempo Traveller for 6–8 guests, Mini Coach for 8+ guests).
  • Entrances as per the programme.
  • An accompanying English-speaking Indian tour guide cum manager for the tour till Chennai, and a local English-speaking guide for the Goa city tour.
  • Foreign Tour Leader in 01 Single room for the whole trip.
  • Customary tips to local guides, drivers, and hotel staff.
  • Day cruise with Lunch at Alleppey.
  • Toiletries for the train journey.
  • Train ticket in AC sleeper class (2 Tier) from Cochin to Trichy.
  • Airfare between Chennai and Goa.
  • Assistance at the airport for arrival/departure and check-in / check-out.
  • All the applicable taxes.
  • Early check-in or Late check-out at all places (subject to room availability).
  • Expenditure of a personal nature, such as drinks, telephone calls, laundry, and tips.
  • Camera fees, medical & travel insurance etc.
  • Any meals unless specified above.
  • International airfare.
  • Indian Visa fees.
  • Travel Insurance. It is strongly recommended to buy comprehensive travel insurance, which includes trip cancellation/disruption situations as well.

Itinerary

15 Sept (Tue) – Arrival in Cochin (Kochi)

On arrival at Cochin International Airport, you will be greeted and transferred to a hotel near the airport. The rest of the day is at leisure to recover from your journey and prepare for the days ahead. Overnight in Cochin (near the airport).
Meals: Dinner

16 Sept (Wed) – Paravur • Kodungallur • Palayoor (120 km / 4–5 hrs driving)

Begin your pilgrimage along the Apostle’s footsteps. Drive north to Kottakkavu Church, Paravur, one of the original seven churches established by St. Thomas. Continue to Kodungallur (ancient Cranganore), the historic port believed to be his landing site in AD 52. The day concludes at Palayoor Church, where local tradition recalls his early conversions among Jewish settlers. As you return to your hotel, reflect on how faith first took root on Indian soil. Overnight in Cochin (near the airport).
Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

17 Sept (Thu) – Malayattoor • Cochin (90 km / 3–4 hrs round-trip)

Start early today and travel inland to Malayattoor Hill, a sacred site where St. Thomas is believed to have spent days in prayer and solitude. Pilgrims still climb this hill every year, carrying a deep sense of devotion. This experience includes a 1.5-hour one-way climb. Continue to Cochin downtown, where you will stay in the city for two nights. Overnight in Cochin (city hotel).
Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

18 Sept (Fri) – Cochin Sightseeing

Today, explore Cochin’s blend of European, Jewish, and Indian influences. Walk through Fort Kochi to see the iconic Chinese fishing nets, visit St. Francis Church (Vasco da Gama’s first burial place), and admire the grandeur of the Santa Cruz Basilica. In Jew Town, visit the historic Synagogue and Mattancherry Palace. If time permits, the day also includes a visit to the Basilica of Our Lady of Ransom. Overnight in Cochin (city hotel).
Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

19 Sept (Sat) – Cochin • Alleppey • Kokkamangalam → Trichy (Train)

Drive towards Alleppey (1.5 hrs), pausing at Kokkamangalam St. Thomas Church, another of the Apostle’s early foundations. In Alleppey, board a traditional houseboat for a serene backwater cruise with a freshly prepared Kerala lunch served on board. Later return to Cochin for a light. Supper before boarding the overnight train to Trichy (9–10 hrs). Overnight on board a train (air-conditioned sleeper) – Train: Ers Kik Express (2225-0805 hrs).
Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

20 Sept (Sun) – Trichy (Tiruchirappalli)

Arrive in Trichy, a city of contrasts between towering Hindu temples and colonial churches. Visit the vast Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple, climb up to the Rock Fort Temple for sweeping views, and step into the quiet precincts of St. John’s Church. Overnight in Trichy.
Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

21 Sept (Mon) – Excursion to Shantivanam Ashram (60 km / 1.5 hrs each way)

Spend the day at Shantivanam Christian Ashram, founded by French Fathers Jules Monchanin and Henri Le Saux. Here, Christian monastic traditions blend harmoniously with Indian spirituality through prayer, meditation, and silence. Return to Trichy in the evening, carrying the serenity of the ashram with you. Overnight in Trichy.
Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

22 Sept (Tue) – Trichy → Chettinad (Lunch) → Tanjore (140 km / 4 hrs incl. stop)

Depart Trichy and drive through the countryside to Chettinad, famed for its palatial mansions and fiery cuisine. Pause for an authentic Chettinad lunch in a restored heritage mansion, where you'll experience the hospitality and flavours that made this region legendary. Continue to Tanjore, the cultural heart of the Chola dynasty. Visit the UNESCO-listed Brihadeeswara Temple, the Royal Palace, and its Art Gallery of bronzes and murals. Overnight in Tanjore.
Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

23 Sept (Wed) – Tanjore → Velankanni → Pondicherry (250 km / 6–7 hrs

Drive south to the Velankanni Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health, one of Asia’s most revered Marian shrines, often referred to as the “Lourdes of the East.” Pilgrims throng here in devotion, offering a glimpse of faith’s power in India. Continue along the coast to Pondicherry. Overnight in Pondicherry.
Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

24 Sept (Thu) – Pondicherry Sightseeing

Discover Pondicherry’s French charm. Visit the Sacred Heart Basilica, wander through the French Quarter and its seaside promenade, and explore the spiritual world of Sri Aurobindo Ashram and Auroville, the international township dedicated to human unity. Overnight in Pondicherry.
Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

25 Sept (Fri) – Pondicherry → Mahabalipuram → Chennai (170 km / 4–5 hrs)

Travel north via the scenic East Coast Road. Stop at Mahabalipuram (Mamallapuram), a UNESCO site where the Shore Temple and intricate rock-cut monuments tell stories in stone. Continue to Chennai, where we will stay for the next two nights. Overnight in Chennai.
Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

26 Sept (Sat) – Chennai (St. Thomas Trail)

Dedicate the day to the Apostle’s legacy in Chennai. Begin at San Thome Basilica, built over his tomb. Visit Little Mount, where a small cave recalls his preaching, and climb St. Thomas Mount, believed to be the site of his martyrdom. In the evening, enjoy a heritage walk in Mylapore, blending temples, churches, and bazaars. Overnight in Chennai.
Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

27 Sept (sun) – Chennai → Goa (Flight:6E973 | 1215 – 1345 hrs.)

Transfer from the hotel to the airport to board your flight for Goa. On arrival, you will be met and transferred to the hotel. Overnight in Goa.
Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

28 Sept (Mon) – North Goa (Christian Heritage & Latin Quarters)

Spend the day in Old Goa, once the capital of Portuguese India. Visit the Basilica of Bom Jesus (housing relics of St. Francis Xavier), the imposing Se Cathedral, the ornate Church of St. Cajetan, and the haunting ruins of St. Augustine. Later, proceed to the spice plantation visit with lunch. Overnight in Goa.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

29 Sept (Tue) – Goa (Leisure Day)

A free day to relax on the beaches, shop for souvenirs, or take an optional excursion into Goa’s hinterland. Overnight in Goa.
Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

30 Sept (Wed) Day 16 – Departure from Goa

Transfer to the Goa International Airport for your onward flight.
Meals: Breakfast

Envisaged Hotels

Date City Hotel Room Category
Date 15 – 17 Sept’26
City Cochin
Hotel Flora Airport Hotel and Convention
Room Category Deluxe King
Date 17 – 19 Sept’26
City Cochin
Hotel Travancore Court
Room Category Deluxe King
Date 20 – 22 Sept’26
City Trichy
Hotel Hotel Blossoms
Room Category Executive Room
Date 22 – 23 Sept’26
City Tanjore
Hotel Hotel Gnanam
Room Category Executive Room
Date 23 – 25 Sept’26
City Pondicherry
Hotel Shenbaga Hotel and Convention
Room Category Majesty Room
Date 25 – 27 Sept’26
City Chennai
Hotel The Accord Metropolitan
Room Category Superior Room
Date 27 – 30 Sept’26
City Goa
Hotel Silva Heritage
Room Category Deluxe Room

Price Advice

Price valid for travel between 15 Sept - 30 Sept 2026 Price in AUD per person on a twin-sharing basis
Price valid for travel between 15 Sept - 30 Sept 2026 06 Pax onwards
Price in AUD per person on a twin-sharing basis AUD 4000
Price valid for travel between 15 Sept - 30 Sept 2026 Single Room Supplement
Price in AUD per person on a twin-sharing basis AUD 834 per single room

Includes/Excludes

  • Accommodation on twin / double sharing basis for 15 nights in value for money hotels (Mix of 3* plus and 4* hotels) as mentioned above or similar in the event of any hotel being sold out.
  • Breakfast and Dinner are included at all places.
  • 02 Lunches are included as mentioned in the itinerary at the Houseboat & in Goa.
  • All transport by air-conditioned vehicle (Tempo Traveller for 6–8 guests, Mini Coach for 8+ guests).
  • Entrances as per the programme.
  • An accompanying English-speaking Indian tour guide cum manager for the tour till Chennai, and a local English-speaking guide for the Goa city tour.
  • Foreign Tour Leader in 01 Single room for the whole trip.
  • Customary tips to local guides, drivers, and hotel staff.
  • Day cruise with Lunch at Alleppey.
  • Toiletries for the train journey.
  • Train ticket in AC sleeper class (2 Tier) from Cochin to Trichy.
  • Airfare between Chennai and Goa.
  • Assistance at the airport for arrival/departure and check-in / check-out.
  • All the applicable taxes.
  • Early check-in or Late check-out at all places (subject to room availability).
  • Expenditure of a personal nature, such as drinks, telephone calls, laundry, and tips.
  • Camera fees, medical & travel insurance etc.
  • Any meals unless specified above.
  • International airfare.
  • Indian Visa fees.
  • Travel Insurance. It is strongly recommended to buy comprehensive travel insurance, which includes trip cancellation/disruption situations as well.

Notes on The Quote

  • The quote is in Australian dollars and is worked out based on the minimum pax travelling in the group, as mentioned in the cost grid above.
  • In the event of a particular hotel not being available, we will make an alternate arrangement that will be similar to or higher than the quoted hotel.
  • The price in AUD reflects current exchange rates and prevailing ground realities. In the event of significant fluctuations (i.e., beyond ±5%) in currency or operating costs, we reserve the right to revise the quote, provided the tour has not yet been booked and paid for in full.
  • The cost is based on currently applicable taxes and tariffs. Should these change due to factors beyond our control, we will revise the pricing accordingly to reflect the new reality.
  • Once the tour gets booked, we need the full name along with the date of birth of the guests to secure the accommodation.

Customer reviews

Jackie
On July 9, 2025

We are not seasoned international travellers. It took several days to feel comfortable in the tour due to the invasion of all our senses in Delhi and the Golden Triangle, but as we moved to the South, our comfort level increased significantly, and we began to really enjoy the tour, and we immersed ourselves in all activities. The hill country on Kerala is simply gorgeous and the people were gentle. Overall, thanks for an amazing tour, David.

John
On May 26, 2025

If you are looking for an adventure of a lifetime in India, just let David plan the itinerary. We could not have imagined from our online research how many wonderful experiences could be stitched together in one tour. From bustling cities with monuments galore to peaceful villages and everything in between. From tigers, mongoose, rhinos, elephants, squirrels and many birds, our tour had more than we asked for. Twenty-eight non-stop days covering some parts of North India and South India – perhaps a little slower next time!

Overall, I will ask David to prepare my next tour, hopefully to the Bengal Region.

Customer reviews

Jackie
On July 9, 2025

We are not seasoned international travellers. It took several days to feel comfortable in the tour due to the invasion of all our senses in Delhi and the Golden Triangle, but as we moved to the South, our comfort level increased significantly, and we began to really enjoy the tour, and we immersed ourselves in all activities. The hill country on Kerala is simply gorgeous and the people were gentle. Overall, thanks for an amazing tour, David.

John
On May 26, 2025

If you are looking for an adventure of a lifetime in India, just let David plan the itinerary. We could not have imagined from our online research how many wonderful experiences could be stitched together in one tour. From bustling cities with monuments galore to peaceful villages and everything in between. From tigers, mongoose, rhinos, elephants, squirrels and many birds, our tour had more than we asked for. Twenty-eight non-stop days covering some parts of North India and South India – perhaps a little slower next time!

Overall, I will ask David to prepare my next tour, hopefully to the Bengal Region.

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