Southern Splendours

Overview:

Embark on an enriching journey through South India’s magnificent heritage sites, sacred temples, and vibrant culture. From the historic churches of Chennai to the rock-cut wonders of Mahabalipuram, the French colonial charm of Pondicherry, the grand Chola temples of Tanjore, the architectural marvels of Trichy, and the spiritual splendor of Madurai and Rameshwaram, this itinerary offers an immersive experience of Tamil Nadu’s rich tapestry of history, devotion, and art.

Trip Highlights:

  • Chennai city tour including St. Mary’s Church and Kapaleeshwarar Temple

  • Marvel at the ancient shore temples of Mahabalipuram

  • Explore the Sri Aurobindo Ashram and the French quarters in Pondicherry

  • Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Brihadeeswarar Temple in Tanjore

  • Temple tour in Trichy, including the grand Sri Ranganathaswami Temple

  • Discover Madurai’s famed Meenakshi Amman Temple and Thirumalai Nayak Palace

  • Excursion to the sacred island of Rameshwaram

Tour Plan

Day 1: Arrival in Chennai
  • Welcome to India! Meet and assist at the airport by our representative.

  • Transfer to your hotel. Rest and acclimatize.

  • Overnight stay in Chennai.

Day 2: Chennai City Tour
  • Explore Chennai’s heritage: St. Mary’s Church, Saint Thomas Cathedral, Kapaleeshwarar Temple, and Sri Parthasarathy Temple (exterior view).

  • Visit the National Art Gallery and Museum.

  • Drive past Fort St. George, the High Court, and film studios.

  • Overnight stay in Chennai.

Day 3: Chennai – Mahabalipuram
  • After breakfast, drive to Mahabalipuram (approx. 1.5 hours).

  • Visit the magnificent Shore Temple, the Five Rathas, Arjuna’s Penance, and rock-cut mandapams.

  • Overnight stay in Mahabalipuram.

Day 4: Mahabalipuram – Kanchipuram – Mahabalipuram
  • Day excursion to Kanchipuram, the “Golden City of a Thousand Temples.”

  • Visit Varadaraja Perumal Temple, Ekambareswarar Temple, and Kailasanatha Temple.

  • Return to Mahabalipuram for overnight stay.

Day 5: Mahabalipuram – Pondicherry
  • Drive to Pondicherry (approx. 2.5 hours).

  • Visit Auroville Ashram and explore the charming French Quarter.

  • Overnight stay in Pondicherry.

Day 6: Pondicherry – Tanjore
  • Journey to Tanjore (approx. 5 hours), with enroute visits to:

    • Chidambaram’s Nataraja Temple

    • Gangaikondacholapuram Temple

    • Kumbakonam town and Darasuram’s Airavatesvara Temple

  • Check-in and overnight stay in Tanjore.

Day 7: Tanjore – Trichy
  • Visit the world-renowned Brihadeeswarar Temple and Royal Palace Complex.

  • Drive to Trichy (approx. 1.5 hours).

  • Overnight stay in Trichy.

Day 8: Trichy
  • Visit the iconic Rock Fort Temple and Sri Ranganathaswami Temple.

  • Afternoon free for leisure.

  • Overnight stay in Trichy.

Day 9: Trichy – Chettinad – Madurai
  • Drive to Madurai (approx. 2.5 hours) with a stop at Chettinad to admire the grand mansions and taste the local cuisine.

  • Evening visit to Meenakshi Amman Temple to witness the lively pooja ceremony.

  • Overnight stay in Madurai.

Day 10: Madurai Exploration
  • City tour: Meenakshi Amman Temple, Thirumalai Nayak Palace, and local markets.

  • Visit Tiruparankundram Temple, dedicated to Lord Muruga.

  • Overnight stay in Madurai.

Day 11: Excursion to Rameshwaram
  • Full-day excursion to the sacred town of Rameshwaram.

  • Visit Ramanathaswamy Temple, one of the Jyotirlingas.

  • Return to Madurai for overnight stay.

Day 12: Madurai – Chennai Departure
  • After breakfast, transfer to Madurai airport for a short flight to Chennai.

  • Enjoy last-minute shopping in Chennai.

  • Evening transfer to Chennai International Airport for onward flight.

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