The Temples of Tamil Nadu

Starting from: Chennai, Madurai

Season: All year 

Duration: 10+ days

Highlights: Chennai - Kanchipuram - Mahabalipuram - Kumbakonam - Thanjavur - Tiruchirappalli - Rameshwaram - Dhanushkodi - Madurai

Take the temple trail to visit some of the most impressive temples of South India; and also have the opportunity to experience the culture of Tamil Nadu, get an insight into the ancient history and mythology of India.

With some of the most impressive temples in the world, the state of Tamil Nadu is a must-visit for travellers interested in the religious and architectural heritage of India.
Intricately carved and steeped in ancient history and Dravidian culture, the temples of south India will leave you mesmerised. What's more - many of them are located in spectacular surroundings so as to give you an opportunity to enjoy the beautiful landscape and the Bay of Bengal coastline.

Each of our holidays is a personal experience and our goal is to design an itinerary that matches your dream trip.
Below is a 10 day / 9 night sample itinerary to give you a general idea of our Temples of Tamil Nadu holiday starting from Chennai: 

Day 1 - Chennai

The friendly city of Chennai is the gateway to the temple state of Tamil Nadu. We will visit the impressive temples of Kapaleeshwar, Kalikambal and Vadapalani Murugan. Experience Chennai culture in the narrow streets of the Mylapore Tank and Mandavali areas with quaint shops, flower sellers and street foods.

Day 2 - Kanchipuram

Drive to the pilgrim city of Kanchipuram, also known as the town of a thousand temples. We will visit the temples of Ekambaranathar, Kailasanatha, Varadharaja Perumal and Kamakshi Amman. Kanchipuram is also famous for its silk saris and we will visit the silk weavers and learn about the history of this colourful fabric, which is an essential part of a South Indian bride’s trousseau.

Day 3 - Mamallapuram

This 7th-century erstwhile port city of Mahabalipuram is famous for its historical stone carvings and rock-cut shore temples. We will visit the Shore Temple, Arjuna’s Penance, Krishna's butterball and the Five Rathas. The views of the town and the sea from the lighthouse on the hill are spectacular!

Day 4 - Kumbakonam

Another town of temples, Kumbakonam is known for its silk saris and brass work. It is famous for the Navagraha Temples, which are temples dedicated to the nine major celestial bodies of Hindu astronomy, of which we will visit the beautiful Vaitheeswaran Koil temple devoted to Mars.
En route we will also stop at the Airavateswara temple and the Mahalingeswarar temple.

Day 5 - Thanjavur

The ancient capital of the Chola empire; the town of Tanjore is known for the Brihadeeshwara Temple, an architectural masterpiece. The temple is one of the tallest temples in the world and the world's first complete granite temple.

Day 6 - Tiruchirappalli

Another ancient city, Trichy is famous for its ancient temples. We will visit the temples of Srirangam and Jambukeswarar. Another special place is the Rock Fort Temple complex which is perched on a rock from where you can enjoy splendid views of the city and the Kaveri river.

Day 7 - Rameswaram

An island with mythological significance, Rameswaram is one of the holiest cities of Hinduism and part of the Char Dham pilgrimage. We will visit the famous Ramanathaswamy Temple and the footprints of the god Ram.

Day 8 - Dhanushkodi

We will go on a jeep excursion to Dhanushkodi where the confluence of the Indian Ocean and Bay of Bengal resemble a bow and arrow. Here you can also enjoy beautiful views of the ocean and bird life.

Day 9 - Madurai

An important pilgrim destination, Madurai is famous for its Dravidian style temples, most importantly the famous Meenakshi Temple. We will also visit the Subramanya Swamy and Pazhamudhir Solai temples.

Day 10 - Departure

Fly back from Madurai.

Note: Non-Hindus are not allowed inside the main sanctum of the Meenakshi and Ramanathaswamy Temple, but it is no problem to visit the outer part.

Price from: INR per person on a twin-sharing basis

Inclusions:
- Accommodation with breakfast for 7 nights
- Chauffeur driven private air-conditioned car for 8 days
- Monument fees and admissions as per itinerary
- Day guide for all tours
- Current applicable taxes
- Contact person in India

Note: These prices are not applicable for festival dates and Christmas-New Years period.

Notes:
We offer a variety of comfortable vehicles for different group sizes with a local driver, and a guide for the sightseeing.

We offer a wide variety of accommodations, all well rated and located so as to balance your daily travel time.

Your detailed itinerary will include must-see attractions and offbeat sights. We can also add tours and activities of your choice, restaurant recommendations and any other special interests you have. Some of this might require adding extra time to the trip.

And of course, we are always available for questions or assistance during your trip.

Additional information for your trip will be sent to you after the booking. This will include details about weather and clothing, currencies and payments, electricity system, food and water, safety, contact info, and other useful tips.