TEMPLES AND ANCIENT SOUTH INDIA 14 Days | 13 Nights

Chennai, Mahabalipuram, Pondicherry, Kumbakonam, Thanjavur, Chettinad, Madurai, Dindigul

A Full Day Adventure

For those wanting to escape the main tourist track, yet still enjoy some of India’s most impressive sites, Tamil Nadu is the place to come. Steeped in history, the state offers travellers a chance to get lost in it’s temple town’s where ancient traditions are still practised everyday. Heat and noise can overwhelm the senses here but those who explore the region are rewarded with unique memories and stories to take back home. The cuisine of Tamil Nadu is also a highlight, where one can indulge in distinctive dishes such as uttapams, or vadas with sambar - whilst not forgetting the famous south Indian filtered coffee. This journey will begin in the rapidly modernising city of Chennai before heading south to the former French colony of Pondicherry. Enjoy strolling through the attractive bougainvillea lined streets, passing quaint cafes and ‘lifestyle’ shops. When finished here, you will leave the unique Franco-Indian style behind to delve deep into the spiritual side of Tami Nadu where ancient civilisations once ruled. Get immersed in colourful and fervent temple ceremonies, such spectacles happen daily in Chidambaram and Madurai. The tour will also take you through the region of Chettinad, which was once home to thousands of opulently decorated mansions from the 19th century. Soak in the restored beauty of many of these palatial homes as you enjoy the authentic Chettinadu cuisine, which is famous throughout India for it’s distinctive taste and use of spices. Finish your trip in a quieter manner as you head up into the Palani Hills to have a couple of nights’ relaxation. Enjoy your stay in a grand heritage house surrounded by acres of farmland and forests where you can sit back with a good book or tie up your laces to follow the hiking trails.

Historic Landmarks

Fully Narrated Tour

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Trip Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive Chennai
On arrival, check in to the symbolic Taj Connemara Hotel where you can relax and spend the rest of the day enjoying the hotel facilities.
Day 2: Chennai
Take a guided tour of the city with your guide, including a visit to the the National Art Gallery and Museum. A visit to the neighbourhood of Mylapore is also a highlight.
Day 3: Chennai – Mahabalipuram – Pondicherry
Transfer by road to the former French colonial town of Pondicherry. On the way, stop to visit the World Heritage-listed temples at Mahabalipuram. On arrival into Pondicherry, settle into your characterful hotel the Maison Perumal.
Day 4: Pondicherry
Spend the day exploring the former colony town with it’s picturesque streets, boutique cafes and shops. A visit to the fascinating township of Auroville will also be included.
Day 5: Pondicherry – Kumbakonam
Morning transfer to Kumbakonam stopping en route to visit the active temple shrine at Chidambaram. Check in to the peaceful Mantra Koodam hotel where the remainder of the day will be at your leisure to relax and enjoy the hotel swimming pool.
Day 6: Kumbakonam – Thanjavur
Morning sightseeing through Kumbakanom where most of the temples are dedicated to Shiva or Vishu. Your tour will also include a visit to the Ramanujan Museum which is dedicated to the famous mathematician who attended Cambridge University. Afterwards, continue your journey to Thanjavur where you will spend the next two nights at the Svatma hotel.
Day 7: Thanjavur
Delve into history today as you explore the legacy of the great Chola Empire with your guide. A visit to the Brihadishwara Temple is unforgettable and is the crowning glory of Chola temple architecture.
Day 8: Thanjavur – Chettinad
Morning transfer to the Chettinad region where you will check into The Bangala Hotel. Spend the remainder of the day enjoying the hotel and the local town of Karaikkudi. Optional activities can include learning how to cook the famous Chettinadu cuisine.
Day 9: Chettinad
Enjoy a sightseeing tour of the area today as you visit some of the regions most lavishly decorated mansions, which were built during the 19th century by The Chettiars. Your tour will also include an exciting visit to see the artisans at an Athangudi tile making unit.
Day 10: Chettinad – Madurai
Leave the villages of Chettinad behind as you continue on to the ancient city of Madurai. On arrival, your guide will show you the colourful side of the city including a visit to the vegetable and banana markets. Enjoy evening dinner at your hotel The Heritage before visiting the Meenakshi Temple for the exhilarating evening ceremony.
Day 11: Madurai – Dindigul
Transfer to the fresh cool air of Rajakkad Estate today where you can enjoy a couple of nights of quiet relaxation in a beautiful setting. Spend the afternoon exploring the surrounding forest and local villages
Day 12: Dindigul
A day at leisure to further enjoy the estate and its peaceful location. Guided walks can be arranged, along with birdwatching opportunities.
Day 13: Dinidigul – Chennai
Morning transfer to the nearest domestic airport in Madurai to fly back to Chennai. Spend your final night at The Trident Hotel, where you can enjoy the evening reflecting on your Tamil Nadu adventure.
Day 14: Depart Chennai
Early morning transfer to the airport for your onward destination.
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