Overview

This 11-day itinerary offers a spiritual and cultural exploration of Tamil Nadu and parts of Kerala. The journey begins in Chennai and concludes at Trivandrum, covering iconic temples, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and natural wonders. From architectural marvels to serene mangroves and coastal landmarks, this tour immerses travelers in the rich heritage and spiritual essence of South India.

10 Nights 11 Days Available on request
Highlights
What makes this tour special
  • Explore Chennai’s historic landmarks and vibrant culture.
  • Visit the sacred Kamakshi Amman Temple in Kanchipuram and the stunning Golden Temple in Vellore.
  • Experience the spiritual aura of Tiruvannamalai and Chidambaram.
  • Enjoy a serene boat ride at the Pichavaram Mangrove Forest.
  • Witness the grandeur of the Brihadeeswarar Temple and the intricacy of Sri Ranganatha Swamy Temple.
  • Discover the beauty of Thirumayam Fort and the cultural richness of Madurai and its Meenakshi Amman Temple.
  • Visit Rameshwaram’s holy shrines and the southernmost tip of India, Kanyakumari.
  • End with a visit to the revered Padmanabhaswamy Temple in Trivandrum.
Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Chennai

  • Arrival: Arrive at Chennai Airport or Railway Station. Meet and greet with the tour representative.
  • Sightseeing:
    • Marina Beach: A stroll along the second-longest urban beach in the world.
    • Kapaleeshwarar Temple: A stunning Dravidian-style temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.
    • Fort St. George: A historic fortress built by the British East India Company, now housing a museum.
    • San Thome Basilica: A neo-Gothic church built over the tomb of St. Thomas, one of Christ’s apostles.
  • Evening Leisure: Enjoy local delicacies such as filter coffee, masala dosa, and Chettinad specialties.
  • Overnight Stay: Hotel in Chennai.

Day 2: Chennai to Vellore (Via Kanchipuram)

  • Distance: ~145 km | Driving Time: ~4 hours
  • Sightseeing enroute:
    • Kamakshi Amman Temple, Kanchipuram: A renowned temple dedicated to Goddess Kamakshi, exemplifying classic Dravidian architecture.
    • Kanchipuram Silk Factory Visit (Optional): Explore how the iconic silk sarees are crafted.
    • Golden Temple, Vellore: A striking temple made of gold, dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi. The temple features intricate designs and serene surroundings.
  • Overnight Stay: Hotel in Vellore.

Day 3: Vellore to Tiruvannamalai

  • Distance: ~80 km | Driving Time: ~2 hours
  • Sightseeing in Tiruvannamalai:
    • Arunachaleswarar Temple: One of the largest temples in India, dedicated to Lord Shiva in the form of fire (Agni Lingam).
    • Ramana Ashram: A peaceful ashram known for its spiritual teachings and tranquil ambiance.
    • Girivalam (Optional): Experience the sacred circumambulation of the Arunachala Hill if time permits.
  • Evening Leisure: Witness the serene temple ambiance at dusk.
  • Overnight Stay: Hotel in Tiruvannamalai.

Day 4: Tiruvannamalai to Chidambaram (Via Pichavaram)

  • Distance: ~160 km | Driving Time: ~4 hours
  • Sightseeing enroute:
    • Pichavaram Mangrove Forest: Enjoy a tranquil boat ride through one of the largest mangrove ecosystems in the world, home to diverse flora and fauna.
  • Sightseeing in Chidambaram:
    • Thillai Nataraja Temple: A temple dedicated to Lord Shiva as Nataraja, the cosmic dancer. Known for its cultural significance and exquisite carvings.
  • Evening Leisure: Explore local markets for handicrafts and temple souvenirs.
  • Overnight Stay: Hotel in Chidambaram.

Day 5: Chidambaram to Thanjavur (Via Kumbakonam)

  • Distance: ~110 km | Driving Time: ~3 hours
  • Sightseeing enroute:
    • Kumbakonam Temples: Known as the "City of Temples," visit key sites such as Adi Kumbeswarar Temple and Sarangapani Temple.
  • Sightseeing in Thanjavur:
    • Explore local attractions and get a glimpse of Tanjore’s rich cultural history.
  • Overnight Stay: Hotel in Thanjavur.

Day 6: Explore Thanjavur

  • Sightseeing:
    • Brihadeeswarar Temple: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this Chola-era temple is known for its towering vimana and intricate sculptures.
    • Thanjavur Palace: A historic complex showcasing royal artifacts, paintings, and architecture.
    • Sri Ranganatha Swamy Temple: A revered temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, known for its ornate towers and vibrant sculptures.
  • Overnight Stay: Hotel in Thanjavur.

Day 7: Thanjavur to Madurai (Via Thirumayam Fort)

  • Distance: ~190 km | Driving Time: ~5 hours
  • Sightseeing enroute:
    • Thirumayam Fort: A historic fort offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.
  • Sightseeing in Madurai:
    • Evening leisure and preparation for the next day’s temple tour.
  • Overnight Stay: Hotel in Madurai.

Day 8: Explore Madurai

  • Sightseeing:
    • Meenakshi Amman Temple: A masterpiece of Dravidian architecture, featuring towering gopurams and intricate carvings.
    • Thirumalai Nayakkar Mahal: A grand palace showcasing Indo-Saracenic architecture.
    • Gandhi Memorial Museum: Explore the museum dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi’s life and contributions.
  • Evening Leisure: Enjoy the vibrant streets and local cuisine of Madurai.
  • Overnight Stay: Hotel in Madurai.

Day 9: Madurai to Rameshwaram

  • Distance: ~170 km | Driving Time: ~4 hours
  • Sightseeing in Rameshwaram:
    • Ramanathaswamy Temple: Known for its massive corridors and ornate pillars, dedicated to Lord Shiva.
    • Dhanushkodi Beach: Visit the ghost town and scenic beaches with stunning views.
  • Overnight Stay: Hotel in Rameshwaram.

Day 10: Rameshwaram to Kanyakumari

  • Distance: ~310 km | Driving Time: ~6-7 hours
  • Sightseeing in Kanyakumari:
    • Vivekananda Rock Memorial: A serene memorial located on a rocky islet.
    • Thiruvalluvar Statue: A towering statue dedicated to the Tamil poet and philosopher.
    • Sunset Point: Enjoy mesmerizing views of the sunset at the southernmost tip of India.
  • Overnight Stay: Hotel in Kanyakumari.

Day 11: Kanyakumari to Trivandrum

  • Distance: ~90 km | Driving Time: ~2 hours
  • Sightseeing:
    • Padmanabhaswamy Temple: A historic and opulent temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu.
  • Departure: Transfer to Trivandrum International Airport for departure.

Hotel Details: 3/4-stars 

  • Chennai: Novotel Chennai OMR or similar
  • Vellore: Fortune Park or similar
  • Tiruvannamalai: Athena Hotel or similar
  • Chidambaram: Clarks Inns or similar
  • Thanjavur: Gnanam or similar
  • Madurai: Astoria or similar
  • Rameshwaram: Ragavendra or similar
  • Kanyakumari: Ocean Heritage or similar
Inclusions/Exclusions

What is included in the tour

  • Accommodation in 3-star deluxe properties
  • Breakfast and Dinner
  • All sightseeing and transfers as per the itinerary by Sedan AC (transfer block for 1900 km only)
  • All taxes, fuels, parking, and driver allowances

Note: 

  • Rates are valid based on a minimum of 2 passengers travelling together

What is NOT included in the tour

  • GST
  • Domestic flights, Airport Taxes, Porterage, Reschedule, or Cancellation charges
  • Any meals other than those mentioned above
  • Entrance fees
  • Any portage at airports and hotels, tips, insurance, wine, mineral water, telephone charges, and all items of a personal nature.
  • Any services not specifically mentioned in the inclusions.
  • Factors beyond our control like flight delays, flight or train operations cancellations, bad weather, vehicle malfunctions, political disturbances, etc cause expenses.