8-Day Temples of Tamilnadu Tour from Chennai: Vellore, Trichy, Madurai, Rameshwaram, Thanjavur and Pondicherry | Small Group Tour | Monument Entrances and Daily Breakfast

What you'll experience

Highlights

8 days

Day-by-day itinerary

1. 1

   Day 1 — Arrival in Chennai

   Upon arrival at Chennai airport, our representative will warmly welcome you and facilitate your transfer to the hotel. After settling in, your Chennai exploration begins with a visit to the historic Fort St. George, built in 1644, showcasing colonial architecture and housing a museum detailing the city's history. You'll then move on to St. Mary’s Church, one of the oldest Anglican churches in Asia. Next, dive into the bustling Kapaleeshwarar Temple, an architectural marvel dedicated to Lord Shiva. Later, visit the Vadapalani Murugan Temple and the enlightening Government Museum, home to a rich collection of archaeological and numismatic items. The Dakshinachitra Museum offers insights into South Indian heritage, while the serene Santhome Cathedral stands as a significant pilgrimage site. Conclude your day with a leisurely stroll along the expansive Marina Beach, enjoying the sea breeze and sunset. Overnight stay at the hotel.

   Meals: B: Excluded, L: Excluded, D: ExcludedStay: ZONE By The Park/ Raj Park or Similar
2. 2

   Day 2 — Chennai - Vellore (140kms)

   After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to Vellore, with a fascinating stopover in Kanchipuram, the "City of a Thousand Temples." Here, visit some of the notable temples like Kailasanathar Temple, Ekambareswarar Temple, and Varadharaja Perumal Temple, showcasing intricate Dravidian architecture. In Vellore, marvel at the Sri Lakshmi Narayani Golden Temple, adorned with 1500kg of pure gold. Discover the historical Vellore Fort, a significant heritage site, and the sacred Jalakandeswarar Temple within its precincts. Overnight stay in Vellore.

   Meals: B: Included, L: Excluded, D: ExcludedStay: Regency Sameera Vellore by GRT Hotel or Similar
3. 3

   Day 3 — Vellore - Trichy (280kms)

   Post breakfast, head to Trichy. En route, visit Tiruvannamalai, a revered Hindu pilgrimage town at the base of the sacred Arunachala Hill. Explore the ancient Arulmigu Arunachaleswarar Temple, a significant Shaivite temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. On arrival in Trichy, check in at the hotel and immerse yourself in the enchanting evening Arti ceremony at the Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Enjoy a comfortable overnight stay.

   Meals: B: Included, L: Excluded, D: ExcludedStay: Red Fox Hotel/ Hotel Blossoms or Similar
4. 4

   Day 4 — Trichy - Madurai (135kms)

   After a hearty breakfast, delve into Trichy's architectural wonders with visits to the Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple, a significant pilgrimage site, the Rock Fort Temple, perched atop a rock, and the Jambukeshwara Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Journey to Madurai to explore the magnificent Meenakshi Temple, known for its towering gopurams and intricate carvings. Discover the grandeur of Thirumalai Nayakar Palace, the spiritual allure of Alagar Koil, and the Tiruparankundram Murugan Temple and Palamuthirsolai Murugan Temple, nestled in the hills. Overnight stay in Madurai.

   Meals: B: Included, L: Excluded, D: ExcludedStay: JC Residency/ Hotel Royal Court or Similar
5. 5

   Day 5 — Madurai - Rameshwaram (170kms)

   Kickstart your day with a visit to the Ramanathaswamy Temple, one of the 12 Jyotirlinga temples, showcasing exquisite Dravidian architecture. Explore Adam’s Bridge, a remarkable natural formation linking India and Sri Lanka. The bridge, also known as Rama Setu, is steeped in mythology and offers breathtaking views. Overnight stay in Rameshwaram.

   Meals: B: Included, L: Excluded, D: ExcludedStay: Daiwik Hotel/ Vinayaga by Poppys or Similar
6. 6

   Day 6 — Rameshwaram - Thanjavur (250kms)

   After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to Thanjavur, visiting 19th-century mansions en route. These mansions, known as "Chettinad Mansions," are architectural marvels featuring wide courtyards, ornate marble, and teak embellishments. Explore the majestic Brihadeshwara Temple and Palace Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a testament to the grandeur of the Chola dynasty in the 10th century. Overnight stay in Thanjavur.

   Meals: B: Included, L: Excluded, D: ExcludedStay: Sangam Hotels or Similar
7. 7

   Day 7 — Thanjavur - Pondicherry (180kms)

   Start your day with a sumptuous breakfast and journey to Pondicherry via The Great Living Chola Temples at Darasuram and Gangaikonda Cholapuram, showcasing intricate carvings and architectural brilliance. Explore the Nataraja Temple at Chidambaram, dedicated to Lord Shiva in his dancing form. Upon reaching Pondicherry, check in at the hotel and explore the French Quarters, adorned with colonial-era buildings, churches, and a blend of French and Tamil architecture. Overnight stay in Pondicherry.

   Meals: B: Included, L: Excluded, D: ExcludedStay: Shenbaga Hotel/ Anandha Inn Convention Centre or Similar
8. 8

   Day 8 — Pondicherry - Chennai (160kms)

   After breakfast, visit Auroville, an experimental township promoting peace and unity, featuring unique architectural designs. Explore the Pondicherry Museum to delve into the region's rich history, showcasing archaeological findings and artifacts. Drive through the picturesque French Quarters in Pondicherry, admiring the French consulate, Raj Nivas, Government Square, and churches. En route to Chennai, make a stop in Mahabalipuram to explore the Monolithic Temples, Five Rathas, Krishna Butterball, Cave Temples, Shore Temple, and The Arjuna Penance, all UNESCO World Heritage sites. Return to Chennai and transfer to the airport for your onward journey.

   Meals: B: Included, L: Excluded, D: Excluded

What's included

Important info

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