from $ 2,189.00
Book Now

Divine South India: Temples, Heritage, and Chola Marvels

0/5
Duration

7 Nights / 8 Days

Tour Type

Daily Tour

Group Size

10 people

Languages

English

Overview

Embark on a captivating journey through South India with the “Divine South India: Temples, Heritage, and Chola Marvels” tour. Begin in Chennai, where ancient and modern blend seamlessly amidst sites like Fort St. George and the serene Kapaleeshwarar Temple. Explore the architectural wonders of Kanchipuram and Mahabalipuram, adorned with monolithic temples and ancient sculptures. Delve into Pondicherry’s French Quarter and Auroville, discovering a unique cultural fusion. Continue to Thanjavur, home to the majestic Brihadeshwara Temple and the Great Living Chola Temples, marvels of Chola architecture. Conclude in Madurai, where the Meenakshi Temple and vibrant markets offer a glimpse into South India’s spiritual and cultural tapestry. This journey promises an enriching exploration of history, spirituality, and architectural splendor.

Highlights

  • This is a private tour/activity only for your group.
  • Enhanced cleaning/ traveler safety.
  • In-depth cultural experience.
  • Flexible sightseeing & stopover.
  • Most travelers can participate.

Bulk discount (by Percent)

Bulk discount adult
# Discount group From adult To adult Value
1 Discount on 2-person group 2 2 45.8%
2 Discount on 3-person group 3 3 48.0%
3 Discount on 4-person group 4 4 55.2%
4 Discount on 5-person group 5 5 57.2%
5 Discount on 6-person group 6 6 60.3%
7 Discount on 7-person group 7 7 61.0%
8 Discount on 8-person group 8 8 64.8%

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive Chennai

On arrival at Chennai airport, meet our representative for a transfer to your hotel for check-in. After freshening up, begin your city tour with Fort St. George, the first English fortress in India, established in 1644, offering historical insight into colonial Chennai. Explore St. Mary’s Church inside the fortress, the oldest Anglican church in India, known for its historical significance and elegant architecture. Visit Kapaleeshwarar Temple, an ancient Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, renowned for its colorful Dravidian-style gopuram (tower) and intricate sculptures. Continue to Vadapalani Murugan Temple, dedicated to Lord Murugan, famous for its vibrant murals depicting various deities and mythological events. Explore the Government Museum, which houses a rich collection of art, archaeology, and natural history, including bronze sculptures and ancient artifacts. Discover Dakshinachitra Museum, a living-history museum showcasing South Indian cultural heritage with exhibits on traditional crafts, architecture, and lifestyle. Conclude your day with a visit to Santhome Cathedral, built over the tomb of St. Thomas, one of the twelve apostles, and a relaxing walk along Marina Beach, one of the longest urban beaches in the world. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 2: Chennai -Kanchipuram - Mahabalipuram - Pondicherry (240kms)

After a hearty breakfast, drive to Kanchipuram, renowned for its ancient temples and silk sarees. Visit Ekambareswarar Temple, dedicated to Shiva, one of the Pancha Bhoota Stalas representing the element of earth, featuring a massive, thousand-year-old mango tree and intricate carvings. Explore Kailasanathar Temple, the oldest temple in Kanchipuram, known for its exquisite Dravidian architecture and sculptural richness. Proceed to Mahabalipuram, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and admire the Shore Temple, a structural marvel overlooking the Bay of Bengal, famous for its twin shrines dedicated to Shiva and Vishnu. See Arjuna’s Penance, a monumental open-air rock relief depicting the epic tale of Arjuna’s penance, with intricate carvings of gods and mythical figures. Marvel at Krishnas Butterball, a massive boulder that seems precariously balanced on a slope, and the Cave Temples with their elaborate carvings. Arrive in Pondicherry, check in at your hotel, and spend the evening at leisure exploring the charming French colonial architecture and tranquil beaches of the town. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 3: Pondicherry

After breakfast, visit Auroville, an experimental township founded on the principles of sustainable living and universal harmony, known for its futuristic architecture and community-driven projects. Explore the Pondicherry Museum, featuring a diverse collection of sculptures, ancient coins, and artifacts reflecting the region’s rich history and culture. Drive through the French Quarters, known as White Town, to admire colonial-era buildings, including the French consulate and Raj Nivas, along with picturesque churches and French schools. Visit Government Square, where you can appreciate the blend of historical and modern architecture. Stroll along Promenade Beach, a popular seafront promenade, and enjoy the scenic coastal views and pleasant ambiance. In the afternoon, experience the unique cultural township of Auroville, focusing on sustainable living and community cooperation. Return to your hotel for an overnight stay.

Day 4: Pondicherry - Chidambaram - Gangaikonda Cholapuram - Darasuram - Thanjore (180kms)

Start your day with breakfast before driving to Chidambaram to visit Nataraja Temple, dedicated to Shiva as the cosmic dancer, known for its intricate bronze sculptures and vibrant rituals. Continue to Gangaikonda Cholapuram, home to a grand Chola temple built by Rajendra Chola I, showcasing monumental architecture and intricate carvings reflecting Chola dynasty's glory. Visit Darasuram to see another Great Living Chola Temple, known for its architectural excellence and detailed stone carvings that represent the zenith of Chola temple architecture. Arrive in Thanjavur, check in at your hotel, and spend the rest of the day at leisure, exploring the town's local markets and relaxing. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 5: Thanjore

After breakfast, visit Brihadeshwara Temple, also known as the Big Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site built by Rajaraja Chola I, featuring a towering vimana and intricate sculptures. Explore the Thanjavur Palace Complex, a historic fortress with a blend of Nayak and Maratha architectural styles, housing an art gallery with a remarkable collection of bronze sculptures and ancient manuscripts. Visit the Saraswathi Mahal Library, one of the oldest libraries in Asia, known for its extensive collection of ancient texts and manuscripts. Spend the remainder of the day exploring nearby villages, experiencing local crafts and traditional rural life. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 6: Thanjore - Trichy - Madurai (190kms)

After breakfast, drive to Madurai with a stop in Trichy to visit Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple, a vast temple complex dedicated to Lord Vishnu, featuring towering gopurams and intricate carvings. Explore Rock Fort Temple, an ancient fort temple complex perched atop a rock formation offering panoramic views of Trichy, and Jambukeshwara Temple, known for its unique water-based rituals. Continue to Madurai, check in at your hotel, and spend the evening at leisure exploring the city. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 7: Madurai - Chennai (Flight)

Begin your day with breakfast before visiting Meenakshi Temple, a grand temple dedicated to Goddess Meenakshi and Lord Shiva, renowned for its towering gopurams and colorful sculptures. Explore Thirumalai Nayakar Palace, an impressive palace with expansive courtyards and historical significance, known for its Indo-Saracenic architecture. Visit Alagar Koil, a temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, surrounded by lush natural scenery and known for its serene ambiance. See Tiruparankundram Murugan Temple, a rock-cut temple dedicated to Lord Murugan, featuring unique architectural elements and spiritual significance. Transfer to the airport for your flight back to Chennai. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel for an overnight stay.

Day 8: Chennai - Departure (Flight)

After breakfast, check out of the hotel and transfer to the airport for your onward flight back home.

Included/Excluded

  • Assistance on arrival at airport.
  • 7 Nights' accommodation in 4-star hotels.
  • Daily breakfast and meal as per day plan.
  • Private air-conditioned deluxe car for airport transfer, sightseeing and excursion as per program.
  • English speaking tour guide on sightseeing days (local guide in each city), as per program.
  • Monument entrances and activities charges mentioned in the itinerary.
  • Bottled drinking water in car.
  • Government taxes.
  • Madurai - Chennai flight fare approx. INR 5000 per person in economy class.
  • Camera charges at monuments.
  • Expenses of personal nature like liquor, laundry, tips, telephone, fax, internet etc.
  • Gratuities & optional activities.
  • Anything not mentioned in inclusions.

Tour's Location

FAQs

What is the standard of the hotels on this tour?

Hotels used or similar for 7 nights accommodation

3 Star Hotels
Chennai x 2 nights: ZONE By The Park/ Raj Park
Pondicherry x 2 nights: Shenbaga Hotel/ Anandha Inn Convention Centre
Thanjore x 2 nights: Sangam Hotels
Madurai x 1 night: JC Residency/ Hotel Royal Court

Can travelers upgrade the accommodation to 5-star hotels?

Reviews

0/5
Not Rated
Based on 0 review
Excellent
0
Very Good
0
Average
0
Poor
0
Terrible
0
Showing 1 - 0 of 0 in total

Write a review

from $ 2,189.00

You might also like