Southern Treasures & Island Charms: Tamil Nadu Temples to Andaman Wonders

Arrive in Chennai and transfer to your hotel. Rest and relax after your journey or explore the local area at your leisure. Visit Marina Beach, one of the longest urban beaches in the world, renowned for its lively atmosphere, street food, and stunning sunrise views. Explore the Government Museum, featuring a diverse collection of art, archaeology, and numismatics, including ancient bronze sculptures and Roman antiquities. Discover Fort St. George, the oldest British fort in India, which houses the Fort Museum showcasing colonial artifacts and relics.

Breakfast at the hotel before departing for Kanchipuram. Visit Kailasanathar Temple, a 7th-century marvel with intricate carvings and a serene ambiance, built during the reign of the Pallava dynasty. Explore Ekambareswarar Temple, notable for its ancient mango tree, towering gopurams, and sacred tank. Drive to Trichy and check in at your hotel. Visit the Ranganathaswamy Temple, known for its grand architecture, massive gopurams, and a central deity of Lord Ranganatha. Explore the Rock Fort Temple, perched atop a rocky outcrop, offering panoramic views of Trichy and showcasing ancient cave temples.

Breakfast at the hotel before heading to Madurai. Explore Meenakshi Amman Temple, renowned for its vibrant sculptures, towering gopurams, and a sacred tank used for ritual bathing. Visit Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace, an exquisite 17th-century palace with grand arches, ornate ceilings, and a cultural light and sound show. Stroll through Madurai's local markets, vibrant with spices, textiles, and traditional crafts, and experience the lively local culture. Visit Gandhi Museum, housed in a former palace, featuring exhibits on Mahatma Gandhi’s life and the Indian freedom struggle.

Breakfast at the hotel before traveling to Rameshwaram. Visit Ramanathaswamy Temple, known for its extensive corridors, sacred wells, and intricately carved sculptures dedicated to Lord Shiva. Explore Dhanushkodi, a deserted town with picturesque ruins, ancient railway station remnants, and views where the Indian Ocean meets the Bay of Bengal. Visit Pamban Bridge, an engineering marvel with breathtaking views of the surrounding waters and landscape. Stop by Agni Theertham, a sacred sea beach where pilgrims take ritual dips, believed to cleanse the soul.

Breakfast at the hotel before traveling to Chettinad. Explore the grand Chettinad mansions, known for their intricate wooden carvings, decorative tile work, and elaborate courtyards. Experience a traditional Chettinad meal, famous for its rich, spicy flavors and diverse range of dishes. Drive to Thanjavur and check in at your hotel. Visit Brihadeeswarar Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its colossal Nandi statue, grand architecture, and detailed sculptures. Wander through Thanjavur's local markets, known for their silk sarees, traditional crafts, and vibrant atmosphere.

Breakfast at the hotel before visiting Airavatesvara Temple in Darasuram, noted for its exquisite stone carvings, intricate sculptures, and artistic pillars. Explore Gangaikonda Cholapuram, home to a grand temple built by Rajendra Chola I, showcasing Chola architectural excellence and grandeur. Visit Nataraja Temple in Chidambaram, renowned for its exquisite carvings, vibrant dance festivals, and significance as a center of Tamil culture. Drive to Pondicherry and check in at your hotel. Enjoy a relaxing evening exploring the French Quarter with its charming colonial architecture, lively cafes, and serene promenades.

Breakfast at the hotel before exploring Pondicherry’s French Quarter, characterized by its elegant colonial buildings, tree-lined streets, and vibrant café culture. Visit Sri Aurobindo Ashram, founded by Sri Aurobindo and The Mother, known for its tranquil environment and spiritual significance. Drive to Mahabalipuram and visit Shore Temple, a coastal temple with intricately carved sculptures and stunning views of the ocean. Explore the Pancha Rathas, a group of monolithic temples carved from a single rock, each dedicated to different deities and showcasing fine rock-cut artistry. Return to Chennai and check in at your hotel.

Breakfast at the hotel before transferring to the airport for your flight to Port Blair. Arrive in Port Blair and check in at your hotel. Visit the Cellular Jail, a historical site used during the Indian freedom struggle, known for its grim history, architectural style, and light and sound show in the evening. Relax in the evening or explore local markets for souvenirs and local crafts, including unique handicrafts and jewelry.

Breakfast at the hotel before boarding a ferry to Neil Island. Visit Laxmanpur Beach, famous for its tranquil setting, coral reefs, and panoramic sunset views. Explore Bharatpur Beach, known for its clear waters, ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and enjoying water sports. Check in at your hotel on Neil Island and enjoy a peaceful evening amidst the island’s natural beauty.

Breakfast at the hotel before exploring Neil Island further. Visit Natural Bridge, a unique coral formation offering picturesque views and opportunities for photography, with its natural arch and tidal pools. Relax on the island’s serene beaches, perfect for unwinding and enjoying the natural surroundings. Engage in water activities such as snorkeling or kayaking, experiencing the vibrant marine life and clear waters.

Breakfast at the hotel before taking a ferry to Havelock Island. Arrive in Havelock and check in at your hotel. Visit Radhanagar Beach, renowned for its pristine white sand, turquoise waters, and ideal conditions for swimming and relaxing. Explore the local area or unwind at the beach, enjoying the tranquil environment and scenic beauty.

Breakfast at the hotel before visiting Elephant Beach, known for its snorkeling opportunities with vibrant coral reefs and marine life. Explore Havelock’s lush landscapes, including dense tropical forests and serene beaches, offering peaceful retreats and scenic views. Enjoy local cuisine and relax in the picturesque surroundings of Havelock Island.

Breakfast at the hotel before continuing your exploration of Havelock Island. Visit secluded beaches such as Kalapathar Beach, known for its stunning black rocks, clear waters, and serene environment. Engage in additional water activities, such as scuba diving or island hopping, to fully experience the natural beauty and marine life of Havelock.

Breakfast at the hotel before taking a ferry back to Port Blair. Explore any remaining sites or do some last-minute shopping for souvenirs and local crafts in Port Blair. Check in at your hotel in Port Blair for your final night and enjoy a relaxed evening, perhaps visiting local markets or relaxing at the hotel.

Breakfast at the hotel before transferring to the airport for your flight back to Chennai. Depending on your flight schedule, enjoy last-minute shopping or sightseeing in Chennai before your departure.