Temple Tour of South
Overview
This 9-day itinerary offers a captivating journey through the cultural and historical treasures of South India, beginning in Chennai, the vibrant capital of Tamil Nadu. Here, you'll immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Dravidian civilization, exploring landmarks like Fort St George, Kapeeleshwara Temple, and Marina Beach. Your adventure continues as you travel to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Mahabalipuram, known for its ancient temples and stunning rock carvings, followed by a visit to the spiritual haven of Pondicherry, where you'll discover the Aurobindo Ashram and the unique community of Auroville. After a day of leisure, your expedition takes you to the architectural marvels of Tanjore, including the Brihadeshwara Temple and Tanjore Palace, and further exploration of Trichy's Rock Fort and Srirangam. Finally, you'll experience the cultural wonders of Madurai, with visits to the Meenakshi Temple, Tirumalai Nayak, and Koodal Azhagar Temple, concluding this unforgettable journey through South India's captivating history and heritage.
Highlights
- Chennai Exploration: Discover the cultural hub of South India with visits to Fort St George, Kapeeleshwara Temple, and Marina Beach.
- Mahabalipuram's UNESCO Treasures: Explore the ancient Pallava kingdom's temples and intricate rock carvings, including the iconic Shore Temple and Panch Rathas
- Pondicherry's Spiritual Charms: Visit the Aurobindo Ashram and Auroville, offering unique spiritual experiences in this French-influenced town.
- Leisure in Pondicherry: Enjoy a day of relaxation or explore the charming streets and French colonies.
- Tanjore's Architectural Marvels: Witness the grandeur of the Brihadeshwara Temple and Tanjore Palace, showcasing exquisite Dravidian architecture.
- Trichy's Cultural Gems: Explore Rock Fort, Srirangam, and Thiruvanaikkaval, each steeped in history and tradition.
- Madurai's Vibrant Heritage: Immerse yourself in the cultural heritage with visits to the Meenakshi Temple, Tirumalai Nayak, and Koodal Azhagar Temple.
- Spiritual Experiences: Witness evening prayer ceremonies at significant temples, offering a glimpse into the region's spiritual traditions.
- A Well-Structured Itinerary: This itinerary ensures a perfect balance of sightseeing and leisure, providing an enriching experience of South India's history, culture, and spirituality.
- Ease of Travel: The itinerary is thoughtfully planned with manageable travel distances between destinations, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable journey.
Itinerary
Arrival in Chennai
Upon arrival in Chennai, you'll meet our representative in this capital city of Tamil Nadu, located on the Coromandel Coast of the Bay of Bengal. Chennai has played a pivotal role in the country's traditional, historical, and academic development, reflecting the rich diversity of Dravidian civilization. It is renowned as the cultural hub of South India, celebrated for its opulent heritage encompassing classical dance, music, architecture, sculpture, crafts, and more. After your arrival, you'll proceed to your hotel for an overnight stay.
Sightseeing in Chennai
After Breakfast, Embark on your Chennai exploration with visits to Fort St George, St. Mary's Church, a museum, Kapeeleshwara Temple, San Thome Cathedral, Government State Museum, and the National Art Gallery. Enjoy a scenic drive along Marina Beach, the world's second-longest beach, before an overnight stay in Chennai.
Sightseeing in Mahabalipuram
After breakfast, drive to Mahabalipuram, once a significant seaport of the ancient Pallava kingdom based in Kanchipuram. Explore the town's World Heritage-listed temples and captivating carvings, particularly at sunset. Additionally, take an excursion to Kancheepuram to visit renowned temples like Ekambaranatha Temple, Vaishnavite Vaikunta Perumal Temple, Varadharaja Perumal Temple, Kamakshi Temple, and Kailasanatha Temple. Your day concludes with an overnight stay in Mahabalipuram.
Mahabalipuram to Pondicherry
Following breakfast, embark on a drive to Pondicherry. Upon arrival, complete the check-in process at your hotel. Subsequently, indulge in a half-day sightseeing experience in Pondicherry. Your exploration begins with a visit to the Aurobindo Ashram, established in 1926 by Sri Aurobindo and 'the Mother,' a French-born woman. This spiritual enclave is now home to approximately 1200 members engaged in various ashram departments. Additionally, your tour includes a visit to the Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus and a highlight of Pondicherry, the iconic Auroville. Conclude the day with an overnight stay in Pondicherry.
Leisure at Pondicherry
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel, and the remainder of the day is yours to relax on the hotel premises or explore the charming local streets, markets, and the distinct French colonies that grace Pondicherry. Your night's accommodation will once again be in Pondicherry.
Pondicherry to Tanjore
Following breakfast, complete the check-out process at the hotel, and set out for a half-day sightseeing excursion of Mahabalipuram. Explore notable attractions such as the Panch Rathas, Arjuna's Penance, and the Shore Temple. Subsequently, continue your journey towards Tanjore, where you will check in at your hotel upon arrival, securing accommodation for the night in Tanjore.
Visit to Trichy and Madurai
Following an early breakfast, complete the check-out procedures at the hotel, and proceed to explore Tanjore. Your itinerary includes visits to the Brihadeshwara Temple, Tanjore Palace, and Museum. Subsequently, embark on a drive to Trichy, which takes approximately 2 hours. Along the way, make a stop to visit the Rock Fort, Srirangam, and Thiruvanaikkaval. By evening, you will reach your hotel in Madurai, which is about a 3-hour drive, where you will check in and spend the night.
Sightseeing in Madurai
Following breakfast, your day's itinerary includes visits to Tirumalai Nayak, the Koodal Azhagar Temple, and the opportunity to witness the evening prayer ceremony at the Meenakshi Temple. The remainder of the day is yours to relax at the hotel. Your overnight stay will be in Madurai.
Departure from Madurai
After enjoying breakfast, you will be seamlessly transferred to the Madurai airport to catch your return flight home.
Inclusions
- Hotel accommodation in Tamil Nadu for 8 nights.
- Daily breakfast at the hotel.
- Arrival and departure airport transfers from Chennai and to Madurai.
- Sightseeing and activities as mentioned in the itinerary.
- Driver’s allowances, toll taxes and Govt. Service Tax.
Exclusions
- International flights to and from Chennai and Madurai.
- Visa fees (if required).
- Personal expenses (laundry, phone calls, shopping, etc.).
- Lunch and dinner.
- Optional tours or activities not mentioned in the itinerary.
- Travel insurance.
- Gratuities for guides, drivers, and hotel staff.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to visit Chennai and the surrounding areas?
What are the must-visit attractions in Chennai?
What is Auroville, and why is it a must-visit in Pondicherry?
What are the highlights of Mahabalipuram?
Is there a specific dress code to enter temples in Tamil Nadu?
What is the significance of Meenakshi Temple in Madurai?
Terms & Conditions
All tour packages are subject to availability and confirmation at the time of booking. Prices are based on current exchange rates and may vary due to changes in airfare, hotel rates, or government taxes. A non-refundable advance payment is required to secure your booking, and the balance must be paid before the travel date as per the company's payment policy. Hotel rooms and services are subject to availability; in case of unavailability, a similar category hotel will be provided. The itinerary may be modified or rescheduled due to weather conditions, flight delays, or operational reasons without prior notice. Any unused portion of the tour, including meals, transfers, or sightseeing, is non-refundable. Travelers must ensure that their passport is valid for at least six months from the date of travel and are responsible for meeting all visa and travel requirements. The company will not be liable for any loss, injury, damage, or delay caused by natural calamities, accidents, or other unforeseen circumstances. Standard hotel check-in and check-out times apply unless otherwise mentioned. Personal expenses such as laundry, telephone calls, and shopping are not included. By confirming the booking, travelers agree to abide by the company's general terms, conditions, and travel policies.
Plan your trip with us
Let's create your travel story