South India Temples & Heritage

Overview

A cultural odyssey through Tamil Nadu — magnificent Dravidian temples, the royal city of Mysore, French-colonial Pondicherry and the sacred shore temples of Mahabalipuram.

Tour Highlights

• Chennai & the shore temples of Mahabalipuram
• French quarter of Pondicherry
• Chola temples of Thanjavur
• Temple city of Madurai — Meenakshi Temple
• Royal Mysore Palace

Day-by-Day Itinerary

1. Day 1

   Arrive Chennai

   Arrival and transfer to your hotel. Overnight in Chennai.

2. Day 2

   Chennai to Mahabalipuram

   City tour of Chennai, then drive to Mahabalipuram to see the UNESCO shore temples. Overnight in Mahabalipuram.

3. Day 3

   Mahabalipuram to Pondicherry

   Drive to Pondicherry and explore its French quarter and Auroville. Overnight in Pondicherry.

4. Day 4

   Pondicherry to Thanjavur

   Drive to Thanjavur to visit the Brihadeeswara Temple. Overnight in Thanjavur.

5. Day 5

   Thanjavur to Madurai

   Drive to Madurai. Evening visit to the Meenakshi Amman Temple ceremony. Overnight in Madurai.

6. Day 6

   Madurai Exploration

   Explore the Meenakshi Temple complex and the Thirumalai Nayak Palace. Overnight in Madurai.

7. Day 7

   Madurai to Mysore

   Travel to Mysore, the city of palaces. Overnight in Mysore.

8. Day 8

   Mysore Sightseeing

   Visit the grand Mysore Palace, Chamundi Hill and local markets. Overnight in Mysore.

9. Day 9

   Departure

   Transfer to Bangalore/Mysore airport for your onward journey.

Accommodation (or similar)

• Chennai – 4★ Hotel (1 night)
• Mahabalipuram – Beach Resort (1 night)
• Pondicherry – Heritage Hotel (1 night)
• Thanjavur – 3★ / 4★ Hotel (1 night)
• Madurai – 4★ Hotel (2 nights)
• Mysore – Heritage Hotel (2 nights)