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Royal Heritage & Scenic Splendors of South India

0/5
Duration

11 Nights / 12 Days

Tour Type

Daily Tour

Group Size

10 people

Languages

English

Overview

Embark on a captivating journey through South India with our “Royal Heritage & Scenic Splendors of South India” tour. Starting in Bangalore, delve into the city’s vibrant culture and historical landmarks before exploring the architectural wonders of Vellore and Chennai. Traverse ancient temples and picturesque landscapes as you visit Pondicherry’s French Quarter, Thanjavur’s grand temples, and the unique Chettinad mansions. Experience the charm of Madurai’s Meenakshi Temple and enjoy the serene beauty of Ooty’s hill stations. Conclude your adventure with a royal touch in Mysore, exploring its majestic palace and rich heritage. This tour promises a blend of cultural richness and scenic beauty, showcasing the diverse splendors of South India.

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 46.2%
2 Discount on 3-person group 3 3 48.4%
3 Discount on 4-person group 4 4 56.5%
4 Discount on 5-person group 5 5 58.1%
5 Discount on 6-person group 6 6 60.7%
6 Discount on 7-person group 7 7 61.3%
7 Discount on 8-person group 8 8 65.2%

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive Bangalore

Upon arrival at Bangalore airport, a representative will greet you and assist with your transfer to the hotel. Check-in and take some time to unwind and enjoy the luxurious amenities and ambiance of your accommodation.

Day 2: Bangalore

Start your day with breakfast at the hotel before embarking on a city tour of Bangalore. Visit Lalbagh Botanical Garden, renowned for its stunning floral displays, historic glasshouse, and diverse plant species, including the centuries-old banyan tree. Stroll through Cubbon Park, a lush green oasis in the city center, offering peaceful walking paths and scenic views. Explore Bangalore Palace, an opulent Tudor-style mansion featuring grand interiors, art collections, and beautiful gardens. Tour Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace, a splendid teakwood structure adorned with intricate carvings and historic artifacts from the late 18th century. Visit the Vidhana Soudha, the state legislature building, known for its Neo-Dravidian architecture and grandiose structure. Discover the National Gallery of Modern Art, showcasing an impressive collection of contemporary Indian art.

Day 3: Bangalore - Vellore (220kms)

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before setting out on a scenic drive to Vellore. Check into your hotel upon arrival and then visit the Sri Lakshmi Narayani Golden Temple, renowned for its lavish golden architecture and serene ambiance. Explore Vellore Fort, a 16th-century fortress with massive ramparts, a moat, and historical structures including a temple and mosque. Visit Jalakandeswarar Temple, known for its intricate sculptures and historical significance, showcasing Dravidian architecture. Tour the Sripuram Golden Temple, a unique temple built entirely of gold, situated within a beautiful garden setting. Explore the Government Museum, which features an array of artifacts, sculptures, and inscriptions from various historical periods.

Day 4: Vellore - Chennai (145kms)

After breakfast, drive to Chennai. En route, stop at Kanchipuram to explore its ancient temples, such as Kailasanathar Temple, known for its detailed carvings, and the Ekambareswarar Temple, a major Shiva temple with a grand gopuram (gateway tower). In Chennai, visit Marina Beach, one of India's longest urban beaches, known for its lively atmosphere and scenic beauty. Explore the Kapaleeshwarar Temple, an ancient Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, featuring vibrant gopurams and elaborate carvings. Visit Fort St. George, housing a museum with exhibits from the British colonial era, including antique maps and military artifacts. Take a walk around the bustling George Town area, known for its vibrant markets and historical buildings.

Day 5: Chennai - Pondicherry (160kms)

Start with breakfast at the hotel before driving to Pondicherry. Stop at Mahabalipuram to visit the Shore Temple, an 8th-century marvel overlooking the Bay of Bengal, and Arjuna's Penance, a colossal bas-relief depicting Hindu mythological scenes. In Pondicherry, visit Auroville, a unique experimental township focused on sustainable living and spirituality. Explore Aurobindo Ashram, founded by Sri Aurobindo and known for its tranquil environment and spiritual practices. Wander through the French Quarter, admiring its colonial architecture, charming streets, and vibrant cafes. Visit the Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, a beautiful church known for its Gothic architecture and stained glass windows.

Day 6: Pondicherry - Thanjavur (180kms)

After breakfast, drive to Thanjavur. Visit the Nataraja Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its stunning Chola architecture and exquisite bronze sculptures. Explore The Great Living Chola Temples, including Gangaikonda Cholapuram and Darasuram, recognized for their architectural brilliance and historical importance. Check into your hotel and immerse yourself in Thanjavur’s rich cultural heritage. Visit the Thanjavur Art Gallery, housing an impressive collection of Chola bronze sculptures and traditional paintings. Explore the Saraswathi Mahal Library, one of the oldest libraries in India with a rare collection of manuscripts and texts.

Day 7: Thanjavur - Chettinad (140kms)

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before visiting key sites in Thanjavur. Explore Brihadeshwara Temple, a monumental Chola-era temple famous for its massive dome and detailed carvings. Visit Vijayanagar Fort, known for its historical significance and grand architecture. Explore Thanjavur Art Gallery & Saraswathi Mahal Library, home to a vast collection of manuscripts and artworks. Drive to Chettinad, with a stop in Trichy to see Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple, a sprawling complex with intricate carvings, Rock Fort Temple, perched on a hilltop, and Jambukeswarar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Check into your hotel in Chettinad and appreciate the region's unique architecture and cultural heritage.

Day 8: Chettinad - Madurai (90kms)

Start with breakfast at the hotel and then delve into Chettinad’s cultural landmarks, such as its grand mansions and distinctive architectural style. Drive to Madurai, about 90 kilometers away. Check into your hotel and visit the Meenakshi Amman Temple, a masterpiece of Dravidian architecture with intricate sculptures and vibrant colors. Explore Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace, known for its grandiose columns and beautiful frescoes. Visit Gandhi Memorial Museum, which provides insights into India’s freedom struggle and Mahatma Gandhi’s life. Explore the bustling Madurai markets and try local delicacies.

Day 9: Madurai - Coimbatore (220kms)

After breakfast, visit the Meenakshi Amman Temple and explore additional attractions like the Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace and Gandhi Memorial Museum if desired. Drive to Coimbatore, covering around 220 kilometers. Check into your hotel and explore Marudamalai Temple, a hilltop temple dedicated to Lord Murugan with panoramic views of the surroundings. Visit Dhyanalinga Temple, known for its meditative atmosphere and unique architecture. Explore the Gass Forest Museum, which showcases botanical specimens and forestry-related exhibits. Take a stroll through the bustling city streets and visit local markets.

Day 10: Coimbatore - Ooty (85kms)

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before driving to Ooty, a scenic hill station about 85 kilometers away. Visit the Botanical Gardens in Ooty, featuring a wide variety of plant species, including rare and exotic plants. Take a joy ride on the Nilgiri Mountain Railway, offering breathtaking views of the lush landscapes and tea gardens. Explore Ooty Lake, where you can enjoy boating and relax by the lakeside. Visit Doddabetta Peak, the highest point in the Nilgiri Hills, for panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Day 11: Ooty - Mysore (210kms)

Start with breakfast at the hotel and then drive to Mysore, approximately 210 kilometers away. Check into your hotel and explore Mysore Palace, an opulent royal residence known for its grand architecture and richly decorated interiors. Visit Chamundi Hills to see the Chamundeshwari Temple and enjoy panoramic views of the city below. Explore St. Philomena's Church, an impressive neo-Gothic church with beautiful stained-glass windows and tall spires. Visit the Mysore Zoo, one of the oldest and well-maintained zoos in India, home to a variety of animal species. Take a walk through the vibrant Devaraja Market, known for its local produce, flowers, and traditional crafts.

Day 12: Mysore - Bangalore (140kms)

After a hearty breakfast, drive back to Bangalore, covering about 140 kilometers. Upon arrival in Bangalore, visit the Bull Temple, dedicated to Nandi, the sacred bull of Lord Shiva, and renowned for its giant bull statue. Explore the Visvesvaraya Industrial and Technological Museum, showcasing India's scientific and technological advancements. Proceed to the airport for your onward journey, concluding your South India temple and cultural tour with cherished memories.

Included/Excluded

  • Assistance on arrival at airport.
  • 11 Nights' accommodation in selected price category 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.
  • Any flight tickets.
  • 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 11 nights accommodation

3 Star Hotels
Bangalore x 2 nights: Royal Orchid Central/ Ramada Bangalore
Vellore x 1 night: Regency Sameera Vellore by GRT Hotel
Chennai x 1 night: ZONE By The Park/ Raj Park
Pondicherry x 1 night: Shenbaga Hotel/ Anandha Inn Convention Centre
Thanjore x 1 night: Sangam Hotels
Chettinad x 1 night: Chidambara Vilas/ Chettinadu Mansion
Madurai x 1 night: JC Residency/ Hotel Royal Court
Coimbatore x 1 night: ZONE By The Park/ ZIBE Coimbatore by GRT Hotels
Ooty x 1 night: Gem Park Ooty/ Monarch Hotel
Mysore x 1 night: Sandesh The Prince/ Regenta Central Herald By Royal Orchid Hotels

Can travelers upgrade the accommodation to 5-star hotels?

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