Temples of South India

Arrival in Chennai Airport / Railway Station. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel for check-in and some rest.

Welcome to Chennai, famously known as the “Gateway to South India.” Established in 1639, this vibrant city beautifully blends ancient traditions with modern culture, offering a unique experience distinct from North India.

Afternoon Chennai Sightseeing tour with visit to the historic Kapaleeshwarar Temple, located in the bustling neighborhood of Mylapore. This 7th-century temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is a stunning example of Dravidian architecture, featuring intricately carved gopurams (temple towers) painted in vibrant colors. The temple is not only a place of worship but also a cultural hub where traditional music and dance are often performed. Next, proceed to the Santhome Basilica, an important Christian pilgrimage site. Built over the tomb of St. Thomas the Apostle, who is believed to have brought Christianity to India, the basilica showcases Gothic and Neo-Gothic architectural styles. Conclude your sightseeing with a visit to Marina Beach, one of the longest natural urban beaches in the world. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the shoreline, watch local vendors, and experience the vibrant energy of Chennai’s favorite recreational spot. The sunset here is particularly spectacular and a perfect way to end your day.

Return to your hotel. Overnight stay in Chennai.

Morning drive to Kanchipuram, a city steeped in history, spirituality, and vibrant culture. Known as the “City of Thousand Temples,” it was once the thriving capital of the Pallava dynasty, which ruled much of South India between the 4th and 9th centuries CE. Even today, the city houses over 120 ancient temples and shrines, many dating back over a thousand years, showcasing exquisite Dravidian architecture.

Visit “Ekambarnathar Temple” dedicated to Lord Shiva, famed for its enormous mango tree believed to bear four types of mangoes, symbolizing different aspects of spirituality. Later visit Kailasanathar Temple, another highlight, renowned for its delicate sandstone carvings and being one of the earliest examples of Dravidian temple architecture.

Kanchipuram’s fame isn’t limited to temples alone. It’s also internationally renowned for its handwoven silk sarees, which are considered some of the finest and most luxurious in India. These sarees are crafted with intricate zari work (gold or silver thread embroidery) and vibrant colors, often passed down through generations as treasured heirlooms.

Later drive to Mahablipuram. Overnight stay in Mahabalipuram.

Mahabalipuram, also known as Mamallapuram, was an ancient port city flourished under the rule of the Pallava dynasty during the 7th and 8th centuries CE and served as a vital maritime trading hub. Today, it stands as a testament to the Pallavas’ architectural genius and artistic brilliance, recognized globally as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Our first visit will be the iconic Shore Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the oldest structural stone temples in South India. This stunning monument stands majestically at the edge of the sea, its elegant Dravidian architecture carved meticulously from granite.

Next we will visit Arjuna’s Penance, also known as the Descent of the Ganges. This is one of the largest open-air rock reliefs in the world, carved directly onto a massive granite boulder.

Proceed to famous Five Rathas, also called the Pancha Rathas. These monolithic rock-cut temples are shaped like chariots, each uniquely carved and named after the Pandava brothers from the Mahabharata epic, as well as their wife Draupadi.

Overnight stay in Mahabalipuram.

We will begin our day with a morning drive to the charming union territory of Pondicherry (2 hrs drive), located along the southeastern coast of India. Formerly a French colonial settlement, Pondicherry was integrated into the Indian Union in 1954. This beautiful city retains a distinctive blend of French and Indian cultures, evident in its architecture, cuisine, and laid-back vibe.

In the evening, you will visit the serene Sri Aurobindo Ashram, founded by the philosopher and yogi Sri Aurobindo and his spiritual collaborator, The Mother. The Ashram is a peaceful sanctuary where visitors can experience quiet meditation, explore the beautiful gardens, and learn about the teachings of integral yoga and spiritual transformation.

Afterward, take a leisurely stroll along the popular Promenade Beach, a scenic waterfront stretch lined with statues, cafes, and historic landmarks. The gentle sea breeze and soothing sound of waves create a perfect setting for relaxation and reflection as the sun sets over the Bay of Bengal. Overnight stay in Pondicherry.

We will start your morning with visits to some of Pondicherry’s most beautiful and historic churches, reflecting its rich colonial heritage and vibrant Christian community. Your first stop will be the Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, an architectural marvel built in the Gothic style. The basilica’s stained glass panels vividly depict scenes from the life of Christ, creating a serene and inspiring atmosphere inside the church.

Next, you’ll head to the Immaculate Conception Cathedral, one of the oldest churches in Pondicherry, located right in the heart of the French Quarter. Its pristine white facade and elegant interiors make it a striking landmark.

Following this, you’ll visit the Our Lady of Angels Church, another charming colonial-era church known for its peaceful ambience and lovely pastel-colored exteriors.

After lunch, you will set out for Auroville, the famed “City of Dawn.” Founded in 1968 as an international township, Auroville is a unique and inspiring experiment in human unity and sustainable living. People from over 50 countries come here to live in harmony, transcending nationality, politics, and religion. Photo stop at Matrimandir—an awe-inspiring golden globe designed for meditation and introspection—and stroll through its lush gardens and eco-friendly communities.

In the evening, return to Pondicherry. Overnight stay in Pondicherry.

Morning drive to Chidambaram, a historic town renowned for the magnificent Nataraja Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva in his cosmic dancer form. As you enter the temple complex located at the heart of the town, you’ll be awed by the striking sanctum sanctorum crowned with a roof of gleaming golden plates, symbolizing the divine radiance of the deity within. Inside the temple, you’ll notice exquisite sculptures and carvings that vividly depict postures from Bharatanatyam, the classical South Indian dance form that celebrates the divine through graceful movements.

After this spiritual and cultural immersion, you will proceed to Thanjavur, a city famed as a vibrant center of South Indian religion, art, and architecture. Many of these, especially the Brihadeeswarar Temple, are part of the UNESCO World Heritage listing under the group known as the Great Living Chola Temples. The grandeur of these temples is evident in their massive vimanas (temple towers), intricate stone carvings, and richly adorned sanctums.

Check-in to Hotel. Overnight stay in Thanjavur.

Start your morning with a visit to the magnificent Brihadeeswarar Temple in Thanjavur, also known as the Big Temple. This UNESCO World Heritage monument is an architectural masterpiece built by Raja Raja Chola I in the 11th century. As you enter, you’ll be struck by the temple’s grand scale — its towering vimana (temple tower) rises nearly 66 meters high, making it one of the tallest of its kind in the world. The temple’s massive granite structures, exquisite sculptures, and beautiful frescoes showcase the zenith of Chola art and devotion.

Later drive to Trichy (Tiruchirappalli), a historic city situated on the banks of the sacred Cauvery River. Trichy’s heritage is shaped by centuries of rule by the Cholas, Pandyas, Nayaks, Marathas, Carnatic Nawabs, and later the French and British. The city’s most iconic landmark is the Rock Fort, a massive ancient fortress built atop a huge rock that rises sharply above the cityscape. Check-in to Hotel. Overnight stay in Trichy.

Begin your morning with a visit to the magnificent Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple in Srirangam, one of the largest functioning Hindu temple complexes in the world. Dedicated to Lord Ranganatha (a reclining form of Lord Vishnu), this sprawling temple is a masterpiece of Dravidian architecture, with its towering gopurams, intricate sculptures, and vast courtyards.

Next, you’ll visit the iconic Rock Fort Temple in Trichy, perched atop a massive rocky outcrop that dominates the city skyline. The climb up the steep steps is rewarded with stunning panoramic views of Trichy and the Cauvery River.

After your enriching morning, you’ll set out on a drive to Karaikudi, the heart of the Chettinad region, located in Tamil Nadu’s Sivaganga district. Known for its distinctive heritage mansions, Karaikudi showcases the architectural brilliance and opulence of the Chettiar community.

Karaikudi is also famed for its authentic Chettinad cuisine, renowned for its bold flavors, aromatic spices, and unique cooking techniques.

Check-in to Hotel. Overnight stay in Karaikudi.

Morning visit to the magnificent Chettinad mansions in Karaikudi, where you’ll get an intimate glimpse into the grandeur and lifestyle of the Chettiar community. These sprawling mansions are architectural marvels, known for their elegant courtyards, intricately carved wooden pillars, stained glass windows, and vibrant handmade tile floors. Following the mansion visits, you’ll explore a tile workshop, where the iconic colorful Chettinad tiles are crafted.

Later we will drive to Madurai, one of India’s oldest cities, situated on the banks of the River Vaigai. Madurai’s history spans over 2600 years, and it has long been a major center of Tamil culture, learning, and spirituality. The city is famously called the Athens of the East for its rich contributions to literature, art, and philosophy.

Madurai is home to the magnificent Meenakshi Amman Temple, which ancient Tamil classics describe as the very heart of the city. The temple complex is designed in the shape of a lotus, with the temple itself as the central bloom and the surrounding streets radiating like petals.

Upon arrival, check into your hotel. Overnight stay in Madurai.

Morning visit to the magnificent Meenakshi Sundareswarar Temple, the heart and soul of Madurai. This sprawling temple complex is an architectural marvel, renowned for its towering gopurams adorned with thousands of brightly colored sculptures. Dedicated to Goddess Meenakshi (a form of Parvati) and Lord Sundareswarar (Shiva), the temple is a vibrant center of worship and cultural festivities. Next, We’ll visit the splendid Thirumalai Nayakar Mahal, a 17th-century palace built by King Thirumalai Nayak. This grand structure is a blend of Dravidian and Islamic architectural styles, featuring majestic pillars, intricate stucco work, and vast courtyards. Following the palace, you’ll head to the Vandiyur Mariamman Teppakulam, a large temple tank famed for its annual Float Festival, where the temple’s deities are taken on a decorated boat ride.

After this rich morning of sightseeing, you will drive to Rameswaram, one of the most sacred temple towns in India, situated on an island in the Gulf of Mannar. This town is deeply revered in Hindu mythology and history, famously linked to the epic Ramayana as the place where Lord Rama built the bridge to Lanka.

Upon arrival in Rameswaram, check into your hotel. Overnight stay in Rameswaram.

Morning visit to the revered Ramanathaswamy Temple in Rameswaram, one of the most important pilgrimage sites in India dedicated to Lord Shiva. Explore the temple’s magnificent corridors adorned with intricately carved pillars, and soak in the spiritual ambiance of this sacred place. After the temple visit, proceed to Agniteertham, the sacred beach just outside the temple, where pilgrims take ritual baths in the holy waters believed to cleanse sins and purify the soul.

Following this, you will embark on a scenic drive to Kanyakumari, the southernmost tip of peninsular India. This town holds immense religious significance and is famous for the unique confluence where the waters of the Arabian Sea, Bay of Bengal, and Indian Ocean meet.

Upon arrival, Check-in to hotel. Overnight stay in Kanyakumari.

Begin your day by witnessing the breathtaking sunrise at Kanyakumari, where the first rays of the sun emerge from the confluence of the Arabian Sea, Bay of Bengal, and Indian Ocean.

After breakfast, visit the iconic Vivekananda Rock Memorial, located on a small island just off the coast dedicated to Swami Vivekananda, who meditated here in deep contemplation. Nearby, you will also visit the Devi Kanya Temple on the same island, an ancient shrine dedicated to the goddess Kanya Kumari. Next, drive to the Gandhi Mandapam, a solemn memorial built in honor of Mahatma Gandhi, situated on a hill overlooking the sea.

After these enriching visits, begin your journey towards Kovalam, a famous beach resort town in Kerala known for its pristine beaches, coconut palms, and laid-back vibe. En route, stop at Suchindram, a small town renowned for the Thanumalayan Temple, dedicated to the trinity of Hindu gods—Shiva, Vishnu, and Brahma. Continuing your drive, visit the Padmanabhapuram Palace, an architectural gem and former residence of the rulers of Travancore. This sprawling wooden palace is renowned for its traditional Kerala style craftsmanship, elaborate murals, and antique artifacts, providing a fascinating glimpse into the region’s royal heritage.

Arrive at your beach resort in Kovalam, where you can unwind and enjoy the serene surroundings. The evening is yours to relax by the sea, indulge in fresh seafood, or experience the vibrant local markets.

Overnight stay at Kovalam.

Start your morning with a visit to the Napier Museum in Thiruvananthapuram, a beautiful blend of Indo-Saracenic architecture set in lush gardens. The museum houses an impressive collection of ancient artifacts, bronze idols, traditional Kerala art, and historical relics, offering a fascinating glimpse into Kerala’s rich cultural heritage.

Next, proceed to the nearby Kuthiramalika Museum (also known as the Palace of Horses), a charming wooden palace built by Maharaja Swathi Thirunal. Known for its exquisite craftsmanship, intricate carvings, and unique wooden architecture, this museum displays royal artifacts, musical instruments, costumes, and paintings that tell the story of the erstwhile Travancore kingdom.

Later, visit the magnificent Sri Padmanabhaswamy Temple, one of the most important Hindu temples in South India dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The temple is renowned for its stunning Dravidian architecture, intricate sculptures, and spiritual significance.

Enjoy the rest of your day at leisure in Kovalam. You can relax on the sun-kissed beaches, take a rejuvenating Ayurvedic massage, or explore the local markets and cafes at your own pace.

Overnight stay in Kovalam.

Transfer to Trivandrum Airport / Railway Station after a memorable and culturally rich journey through the magnificent temples and heritage sites of South India.