South India The Temple Route

Day 1: Arrival in Chennai

Upon arrival at Chennai airport, you will be welcomed and transferred to your hotel for check-in. Begin the city tour with a visit to Kapaleeshwarar Temple, an iconic Dravidian-style temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Continue to Fort St. George, a historic colonial landmark reflecting British-era architecture. Visit Santhome Cathedral, built over the tomb of St. Thomas, showcasing neo-Gothic design. Later, explore the Government Museum displaying archaeological and cultural artifacts. Conclude the day with a relaxing walk along Marina Beach, enjoying the coastal breeze. Overnight at hotel.

Day 2: Chennai – Kanchipuram – Vellore (140 kms / 4 hrs approx.)

After breakfast, drive to Vellore with an en route visit to Kanchipuram, known as the “City of Thousand Temples.” Visit Kailasanathar Temple, one of the oldest temples showcasing Pallava architecture. Continue to Ekambareswarar Temple, famous for its ancient mango tree and massive gopuram. Explore Varadharaja Perumal Temple and Kamakshi Amman Temple, reflecting spiritual importance and artistic brilliance. On arrival in Vellore, visit Vellore Fort, a 16th-century fort complex surrounded by a moat. Also explore Jalakandeswarar Temple, known for its intricate carvings. Overnight at hotel.

Day 3: Vellore – Tiruvannamalai – Trichy (280 kms / 6–7 hrs approx.)

After breakfast, drive towards Tiruchirappalli with a stop at Tiruvannamalai. Visit the sacred Arunachaleswarar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva and one of the Pancha Bhoota temples representing fire. Explore the serene Ramana Ashram, a spiritual retreat attracting seekers from around the world. Continue your scenic drive through rural Tamil Nadu landscapes towards Trichy. Upon arrival, check in at the hotel and relax after the long journey. In the evening, you may visit local markets or enjoy the peaceful ambiance of the city. Overnight at hotel.

Day 4: Trichy – Thanjavur (60 kms / 1.5 hrs approx.)

After breakfast, begin the city tour of Trichy starting with the Rockfort Temple, perched on a massive rock offering panoramic views. Visit Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple at Srirangam, one of the largest functioning temple complexes in India. Continue to Jambukeswarar Temple, representing the water element among Shiva temples. Later, drive to Thanjavur and check in at your hotel. Visit the magnificent Brihadeeswarar Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site built by the Chola dynasty. Explore Thanjavur Palace, showcasing royal artifacts, art galleries, and historical architecture. Overnight at hotel.

Day 5: Thanjavur – Chidambaram – Pondicherry (180 kms / 4–5 hrs approx.)

After breakfast, drive to Pondicherry with cultural stops en route. Visit Darasuram Temple, part of the Great Living Chola Temples, known for its intricate carvings. Continue to Gangaikonda Cholapuram Temple, reflecting Chola architectural excellence. Explore the famous Nataraja Temple at Chidambaram, dedicated to Lord Shiva in his cosmic dancer form. Proceed to Pondicherry and check in at your hotel. Spend the evening exploring the French Quarter with its colonial buildings and charming streets. Overnight at hotel.

Day 6: Pondicherry – Mahabalipuram – Chennai (160 kms / 4–5 hrs approx.)

After breakfast, explore Pondicherry including Sri Aurobindo Ashram and the experimental township of Auroville. Walk along Promenade Beach and enjoy the peaceful coastal atmosphere. Later, drive to Mahabalipuram, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for rock-cut temples. Visit Shore Temple, Pancha Rathas, Arjuna’s Penance, and cave temples showcasing Pallava architecture. After sightseeing, continue your drive back to Chennai. Upon arrival, transfer to the airport for your onward journey, marking the end of the tour.

• Assistance on arrival at airport
• 5 Nights accommodation in selected category hotels
• Daily breakfast at hotels
• Private AC car/van for transfers and sightseeing
• English speaking guide during sightseeing
• Monument entrance fees as per itinerary
• Bottled drinking water in vehicle
• Government taxes

Hotels used or similar for 5 nights accommodation

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

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

Trichy x 1 night
3* - Red Fox Hotel/ Grand Gardenia
4* & 5* - Sangam Hotels

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

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

• Any flight tickets
• Camera charges at monuments
• Meals other than mentioned
• Personal expenses (laundry, tips, drinks, etc.)
• Gratuities and optional activities
• Anything not mentioned in inclusions