Bangalore to Madurai South India Temple Trail

Day 1: Arrival in Bangalore

Upon arrival at Bangalore International Airport, you will be warmly received by our representative and assisted with your transfer to the hotel. After a smooth check-in, take time to relax and recover from your journey in this vibrant cosmopolitan city. Known as the “Garden City of India,” Bangalore offers a pleasant climate and a perfect introduction to South India. The rest of the day is at leisure, allowing you to explore nearby surroundings or enjoy hotel facilities. You may take an optional evening walk to experience the city's lively ambiance. Overnight at hotel in Bangalore.

Day 2: Bangalore City Tour

After breakfast at the hotel, begin the city tour of Bangalore with a visit to Lalbagh Botanical Garden, a historic garden featuring rare tropical plants and a stunning glasshouse. Continue to Cubbon Park, a lush green retreat ideal for a peaceful stroll amidst colonial-era buildings. Visit the magnificent Bangalore Palace, showcasing regal interiors inspired by Windsor Castle. Proceed to Tipu Sultan’s Summer Palace, an elegant Indo-Islamic structure reflecting the legacy of Mysore’s ruler. Later, explore Bangalore Fort and enjoy some time at bustling local markets such as Brigade Road. Return to the hotel after a fulfilling day. Overnight at hotel in Bangalore.

Day 3: Bangalore to Vellore (220 km / approx. 4–5 hrs drive)

After breakfast, check out and drive to Vellore, enjoying scenic views of rural Karnataka and Tamil Nadu along the way. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and relax before beginning your sightseeing. Visit the Sri Lakshmi Narayani Golden Temple, an architectural marvel adorned with gold plating and surrounded by spiritual tranquility. Continue to explore the historic Vellore Fort, known for its massive granite walls and historical significance. Inside the fort complex, visit the Jalakandeswarar Temple, famed for its intricate carvings and Dravidian architecture. Spend the evening at leisure soaking in the peaceful ambiance. Overnight at hotel in Vellore.

Day 4: Vellore to Chennai via Kanchipuram (145 km / approx. 4–5 hrs drive)

After breakfast, proceed towards Chennai with a culturally enriching stop at Kanchipuram, one of the seven sacred cities of India. Begin your exploration with Ekambareswarar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva and known for its towering gopuram and ancient mango tree. Continue to Kailasanathar Temple, one of the oldest temples in Tamil Nadu, admired for its sandstone carvings. Resume your drive to Chennai and check in at your hotel upon arrival. In the evening, visit Marina Beach, one of the longest urban beaches in the world, and enjoy the coastal breeze. Overnight at hotel in Chennai.

Day 5: Chennai to Pondicherry via Mahabalipuram (160 km / approx. 4–5 hrs drive)

After breakfast, drive along the scenic East Coast Road towards Pondicherry, enjoying beautiful views of the Bay of Bengal. En route, stop at Mahabalipuram, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its rock-cut temples and sculptures. Visit the Shore Temple overlooking the sea, Arjuna’s Penance showcasing intricate carvings, and the Five Rathas representing monolithic architecture. Continue your journey to Pondicherry and check in at your hotel. Later, explore the French Quarter with its colonial buildings, visit Sri Aurobindo Ashram, and enjoy a peaceful walk along Promenade Beach. Overnight at hotel in Pondicherry.

Day 6: Pondicherry to Thanjavur (180 km / approx. 5–6 hrs drive)

After breakfast, drive to Thanjavur, a city steeped in rich Chola heritage and temple architecture. En route, visit Chidambaram to explore the sacred Nataraja Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva as the cosmic dancer. Continue to Gangaikonda Cholapuram, an architectural masterpiece reflecting the grandeur of the Chola dynasty. Visit Darasuram Temple, known for its exquisite stone carvings and intricate sculptures. Upon arrival in Thanjavur, check in at your hotel and relax. The evening is free to unwind or explore the local surroundings. Overnight at hotel in Thanjavur.

Day 7: Thanjavur to Chettinad via Trichy (140 km / approx. 4–5 hrs drive)

After breakfast, begin your city tour of Thanjavur with a visit to the magnificent Brihadeshwara Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of India’s greatest architectural achievements. Explore Vijayanagar Fort and visit the Thanjavur Art Gallery and Saraswathi Mahal Library, home to ancient manuscripts and rare collections. Later, drive to Trichy and visit the grand Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple, one of the largest functioning temple complexes in India. Continue to Rock Fort Temple, offering panoramic views of the city. Proceed to Chettinad and check in at your heritage hotel. Overnight at hotel in Chettinad.

Day 8: Chettinad to Madurai (90 km / approx. 2–3 hrs drive)

After breakfast, explore the Chettinad region, known for its grand mansions built by wealthy merchant families, showcasing a blend of European and Indian architecture. Walk through traditional villages and witness the region’s rich cultural heritage and craftsmanship. Later, drive to Madurai, one of the oldest cities in South India. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and relax. In the evening, you may visit local markets or experience the vibrant temple town atmosphere. Overnight at hotel in Madurai.

Day 9: Madurai Sightseeing & Departure

After breakfast, begin the city tour of Madurai with a visit to the iconic Meenakshi Amman Temple, a masterpiece of Dravidian architecture adorned with colorful gopurams and intricate sculptures. Experience the temple’s spiritual energy and vibrant rituals. Continue to Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace, known for its grand pillars and Indo-Saracenic design. If time permits, explore local markets famous for textiles and handicrafts. Later, transfer to Madurai Airport for your onward journey. Your enriching South India temple trail concludes with unforgettable cultural memories.

• Assistance on arrival at airport
• 8 Nights’ accommodation in selected category hotels
• Daily breakfast at hotels
• Private AC vehicle for transfers and sightseeing
• English-speaking local guides
• Monument entrance fees as per itinerary
• Bottled drinking water in vehicle
• Government taxes

Hotels used or similar for 8 night accommodation

Bangalore x 2 nights
3* - Ramada/ The Rialto
4* - Fortune Select JP Cosmos/ Lemon Tree Premier Ulsoor Lake
5* - ITC Gardenia, a Luxury Collection/ ITC Windsor a Luxury Collection

Vellore  x 1 nights
3* - Hotel Khanna Fiesta/ POPPYS Anukula Residency
4*/5* - Regency Sameera Vellore by GRT Hotels/ Fortune Park

Chennai x 1 nights
3* - Raj Park/ MGM East Woods
4* - The  Raintree/ Accord Metropolitan
5* - ITC Grand Chola/ The Leela Palace

Pondicherry x 1 nights
3* - Shenbaga Hotel/ Annamalai International
4* - Le Pondy/ The Windflower Resort & Spa
5* - Palais De Mahe/ La Villa

Thnjore x 1 nights
3* - Grand Gardenia/ Oriental Towers 
4* - Sangam Hotels/ Ideal River View Resort
5* - Svatma

Chettinad x 1 nights
3* - Chidambara Vilas/ Chettinadu Mansion 
4* - Chidambara Vilas/ Chettinadu Mansion
5* - Visalam Cgh Earth

Maduraix 1 nights
3* - Astoria by Sparsa/ Madurai’s Residency 
4* - GRT Regency/ Fortune Pandiyan Hotel
5* - Heritage Madurai/ The Gateway Hotel Pasumalai

• Madurai – Bangalore flight fare
• Camera charges at monuments
• Meals not mentioned in inclusions
• Personal expenses (laundry, tips, etc.)
• Optional activities
• Anything not mentioned in inclusions