Cultutal Heritage of South India

After breakfast proceed for the sightseeing. Important temples can be witnessed here are Kapaleeshwarar temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is a prime example of Dravidian architecture, Astalakshmi temple dedicated to the goddess Lakshmi, the deity of wealth and prosperity and Parthsarathy temple Dedicated to Lord Krishna. St. George fort was established by the British East India Company in 1644. It was the first fort built by the British in India and served as the foundation for British rule in the region. And Santhome church is built over the burial site of St. Thomas the Apostle, one of Jesus Christ’s twelve apostles. According to tradition, St. Thomas arrived in India in 52 AD and established Christianity in the region. He is believed to have been martyred in Chennai in 72 AD.. Evening have a sunset stroll at the beach side.

Overnight stay at Chennai.

Take a 2 hours’ drive to Mahabalipuram which is a beautiful beach destination. Enroute visit Dakshinachitra- a tastefully recreated village showcasing the arts, crafts and building styles of the different states of southern India- and the artists’ village of Cholamandal. Continue drive and on arrival check in at the hotel and relax rest of the day.

Overnight stay at Mahabalipuram.

Have a Day Excursion to Kanchipuram (one hour one way), renowned for its ancient temples and are a testament to its rich cultural and architectural heritage. Here are some key temples that you witness are Ekambereshwarar temple representing one of the five elements of nature “Earth”, Kailashanathar temple which is a fine example of early Dravidian architecture. Varadharajar temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Moreover Kanchipuram is also known for its silk sarees, if time permits, it’s really worth to visit the local weaving shops.

Return back to Mahabalipuram for your overnight stay.

Morning visit the UNESCO sites of Mahabalipuram namely Seashore temple, Five Rathas, Arjuna’s Penance and Krishna’s Butter ball. Later drive 2 hours’ to Pondicherry. Enroute visit Auroville meditation centre. On arrival at Pondicherry, check in at the hotel and refresh. Then proceed for the other sightseeings Aurobindo Ashram which is a significant spiritual and philosophical center founded by Sri Aurobindo and his spiritual collaborator, The Mother (Mirra Alfassa). Then to Manakula Vinayagar temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha, the elephant-headed deity known as the remover of obstacles and the god of beginnings. Rest of the day you can relax and in the evening you can have a sunset stroll at the beach side and French colony is something rather special- part Gallic, part Tamil and is a great place to walk around on foot. Explore the French Quarter via the Heritage Trail walk and later venture into the Tamil Quarter with superb shops, boutiques and cafes.

Overnight stay at Pondicherry.

Today’s drive to Tanjore takes in the rich agricultural land of the Cauvery Delta and passes through interesting villages and a patchwork of emerald green rice paddies. Enroute visit the 2 temples, both are considered to be the UNESCO World Heritage sites. Gangaikondacholapuram is a relatively modest temple nestled in serene surroundings, away from the usual tourist trails. If you visit, you might find the only other visitors to be a few sadhus (holy men) and the occasional school group. Nearby, in the village of Darasuram close to Kumbakonam, stands the Airavateshwara Temple. This temple is a prime example of the excellent restoration efforts carried out by the Archaeological Survey of India, who are dedicated to preserving India's cultural heritage. Continue the drive to Tanjore and visit the thousand year old Brihadishwara Temple which is also an UNESCO site during the sun sets. This temple is quite simply one of the most stunning sights in all of south India and the effect of the light playing on the granite surfaces of the main temple tower is an unforgettable experience.

Overnight in Tanjore.

Today have a 2 hours’ drive to Trichy. It is often referred as Rock City. Here the major attractions are Rock Fort temple, Jambukeshwarar temple which is one of the five elements of nature representing Water and Srirangam temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, renowned for its impressive Dravidian architecture, intricate carvings, and sprawling temple complex.

Overnight stay at Trichy.

Today explore further into the unique Chettinad culture, including a visit to a hand-painted tile maker. Many artisans of this ancient craft work from their homes, making it a true cottage industry. Another highlight of Chettinad is its cuisine—rich, spicy, and utterly delicious, it has garnered increasing attention. A visit to Karaikudi, the district headquarters, is also worthwhile; an entire street is dedicated to antique shops.

Overnight in Kanadukathan.

Leave the tranquility of Chettinad and head to Madurai, Tamil Nadu's second-largest city and a major pilgrimage center. In the afternoon, visit the Nayak Palace and then explore the heart of Madurai: the immense and ornate Sri Meenakshi Temple. This vast complex is best appreciated with the guidance of an expert, who can provide context to its significance. The Meenakshi Temple is not only a spiritual landmark but also a hub for social gatherings and commerce, with the surrounding streets bustling with traders and merchants.

Overnight in Madurai.

Enjoy a full day of relaxation on the beautiful beach, complemented by soothing Ayurvedic massages.

Overnight in Kovalam.

Drive north to Alleppey and explore the Krishnapuram Palace, followed by a heritage tour of the town, often referred to by locals as the "Venice of the East." Alleppey may take time to reveal its charms, but those familiar with the town can uncover a hidden history that most tourists miss. In the afternoon, board a private houseboat for a leisurely lunch and a scenic day cruise through the renowned backwaters of Kerala. After disembarking, drive for approximately two hours to Cochin, where you will spend the night in Fort Cochin.

A full day to explore Cochin- a major trading port for over 500 years. Over these centuries of trade, commerce and conquest, Cochin has been influenced by Chinese, Arab, Dutch, Portuguese and British elements and the lasting impact of all these is still clearly seen around the historic Fort Cochin and Mattancherry areas. Your guided sightseeing will focus particularly on the synagogue here (the oldest in India) and the recently restored Dutch Palace. Later in the day visit Greenix Village, a cultural centre, tour their museum and attend a performance of traditional Kerala dance/drama- Kathakkali.

Overnight in Cochin.

This full day is free for your own activities. You may choose to spend it shopping or exploring at your leisure.

Overnight stay in Cochin.

Today you will be transferred to the airport as per your departure schedule.