Temples & Traders Expedition
Overview
Exploring the colonial trading hubs along the coast and the majestic Chola temples in Madurai and the Kaveri Delta, this culturally immersive journey guides you through a captivating array of towns and cities. Culminating with a serene interlude on the UNESCO-listed World Heritage Site beach at Mamallapuram, adorned with ancient Pallava shrines intricately carved from colossal granite boulders. The itinerary includes a visit to the atmospheric city of Mysore, an exploration of the refreshing climate in Ooty with its renowned tea plantations and iconic narrow-gauge railway, and accommodations in authentic heritage properties that echo the colonial splendour of the 18th and 19th centuries.
Breakfast
Sightseeing
Hotel
Transport
Trip Highlights
- Exploring the neighborhood of vibrant Bengaluru
- Full-day sightseeing in the city of Mysore
- Enjoy the Drive to Ooty, the Queen of Hill stations
- Visit the Botanical Garden
- Visit to Meenakshi-Sundeshwarar Temple in Madurai
- Visit to Thiruvamalai Nayaka Palace
- Two-night stay at Heritage Hotel in Chettinad
- Explore the region of Chettinad
- Visit the Magnificient Brihadeshvar Temple in Trichy
- Visit to Thanjavur’s Museum
- Visit to Tranquebar (Former Danish Colony) at Kumbakonam
- Visit to Chidambaram’s Thillai Nataraja Temple
- Explore the French Colony and other places at Pondicherry
- Explore the great shore temple of Mahabalipuram
- Shopping at Mahabalipuram
- City tour of important landmarks in Chennai
Tour Itinerary
Day 1: Bengaluru - Mysore
Bangalore, officially known as Bengaluru, is the capital city of the Indian state of Karnataka. It is renowned as the "Silicon Valley of India" due to its prominence as a major hub for information technology companies. Upon arrival in Bangalore, our Pals Holidays representative will meet you and assist with your transfer to Mysore, your base for the next two nights. Take the remainder of the day to rest and recuperate from your journey. Consider venturing out in the evening to explore the vibrant neighbourhood around your hotel.
Day 2: Mysore
Mysore, officially known as Mysuru, is a historic city located in the southern part of the Indian state of Karnataka. Renowned for its rich cultural heritage, palaces, and vibrant traditions, Mysore is a popular tourist destination. Enjoy a full day of sightseeing in Mysore and nearby Srirangapatnam, the former island capital of Tipu Sultan.
Day 3: Ooty
Ooty, short for Ootacamund and officially known as Udagamandalam, is a picturesque hill station nestled in the Nilgiri Hills of the Western Ghats in the southern state of Tamil Nadu, India. Famous for its stunning landscapes, pleasant climate, and colonial charm. Begin your day with a scenic drive to Ooty in the morning. Spend the afternoon exploring the beautiful Botanical Gardens.
Day 4: Madurai
Madurai, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the Indian subcontinent, is a cultural and historical gem located in the southern state of Tamil Nadu. Known as the "City of Temples," Madurai boasts a rich heritage, ancient architecture, and a vibrant cultural scene. Experience the Nilgiri Mountain Railway with a morning ride to Coonoor. Continue your journey by car to Madurai in the afternoon.
Day 5: Madurai
Explore the UNESCO-listed Meenakshi-Sundeshwarar Temple in the morning. Visit the 17th-century Thiruvamalai Nayaka Palace. Afternoon visits to a Vedic school for Brahmin boys, observing their Sanskrit chants learning process. Return to the temple in the evening.
Day 6: Chettinad
Chettinad is a region located in the Sivaganga district of Tamil Nadu, not far from Madurai. Known for its unique cultural heritage, distinctive architecture, and delectable cuisine, Chettinad has become a destination of interest for travellers seeking an authentic and immersive experience.Drive north to the Chettinad region, just a few hours from Madurai, for a two-night stay in a heritage property.
Day 7: Chettinad
Explore the rich heritage of Chettinad in the company of your TransIndus guide.Visit various mansions from different periods, crafts workshops, and shrines dedicated to local folk deities.
Day 8: Thanjavur
Thanjavur, also known as Tanjore, is a city in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu with a rich historical and cultural heritage. It is renowned for its magnificent temples, classical arts, and contributions to literature. Drive north to Thanjavur, the former capital of the Chola Dynasty, for an overnight stay. Upon arrival, marvel at the architectural grandeur of the Brihadeshvar Temple.
Day 9: Tranquebar
Tranquebar, officially known as Tharangambadi, is a coastal town located in the Nagapattinam district of the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. Steeped in history, Tranquebar has a unique cultural heritage influenced by Danish colonial rule. Explore Thanjavur's museum in the morning. Journey east across the Kaveri Delta in the afternoon, pausing to see the temples at Kumbakonam. Continue your journey to the former Danish trading post of Tranquebar.
Day 10: Tranquebar
Explore the charming former Danish colony on foot in the morning.
Visit the colonial-era fort and the 700-year-old Masilimani Nathar Temple.
Day 11: Puducherry (Pondicherry)
Puducherry, formerly known as Pondicherry, is a Union Territory in India located on the southeastern coast. Rich in cultural diversity and influenced by French colonial heritage, Puducherry is known for its distinct blend of Indian and European charm.Drive to Puducherry with a stop at Chidambaram to visit its expansive Hindu temple.
Day 12: Puducherry
Wander through the backstreets of the old colonial quarter in the morning.
Venture up the coast to the ashram at Auroville in the afternoon.
Day 13: Mamallapuram (Mahabalipuram)
Mamallapuram, also known as Mahabalipuram, is a coastal town in the Kancheepuram district of Tamil Nadu, India. Renowned for its UNESCO World Heritage-listed group of sanctuaries and rock-cut temples, Mamallapuram is a significant historical and cultural site.Drive to Mamallapuram to explore the ancient Shore Temple and other Pallava monuments.
Day 14: Mamallapuram
- Spend the day relaxing on the beach or indulge in souvenir shopping around Mamallapuram village.
- Alternatively, embark on a final day of sightseeing in Chennai (Madras).
Day 15: Chennai
- Bid farewell to the enchanting landscapes of South India as you drive to the airport for your return flight.
Important Information
- 14 nights accommodation in a hotel.
- All internal transportation and transfers
- English-speaking guides Breakfast daily
Packages Exclude
- Airfare is not included in the package.
- Entrance Fee to monuments, and temples. camera charges, cable car charges, boating charges, guide charges, etc.
- Personal expenses such as laundry, telephone calls, tips, mineral water, use of the mini-bar in the room, and shopping expenses are not covered.
