The Temple Trail

Living Temples of the South

Tamil Nadu, in south India, is a fascinating state full of ancient Dravidian architecture. Intricately crafted temples, rock carvings, and classical dance are some of the attractions.

Starting at the beach side retreat of Mamallapuram, you relax in the historic `French' town of Pondicherry before exploring the main temple cities of Thanjavur, Trichy and Madurai.

"Every night in the Meenakshi temple in Madurai, around 9:30 PM, Shiva is carried to Meenakshi's bedroom, an amazing procession. Don't miss it!"

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The Temple Trail

Day 1, MAMALLAPURAM

At Mamallapuram, barely an hour's drive from Chennai, the 7th-century complex of monolithic rock-cut shrines and legendary Shore Temple are now a World Heritage Site. The stunning archaeological remains co-exist with a long white-sand beach, making Mamallapuram a favourite destination for travellers.

Stay at Sea Breeze Hotel

Day 2, MAMALLAPURAM TO PONDICHERRY

The coastal road from Mamallapuram leads to the former French colony of Pondicherry (2 hrs), a small town of multi-coloured villas, quiet, tree shaded lanes and a long boulevard along the sea. There are some delightful small heritage hotels reflecting the French influence.

Stay at Coloniale Heritage

Day 3, PONDICHERRY TO THANJAVUR

From Pondicherry an inland road puts you back on the temple trail, leading to Chidambaram, Kumbakonam and Darasuram. The best bronzes and paintings can be found in Thanjavur (2 ½ hrs), a city which boasts of almost a hundred temples including the monumental Brihadeshwara Temple, built entirely from granite.

Stay at Ideal River View Resort

Day 4, THANJAVUR TO MADURAI

Drive from Thanjavur to Trichy where you visit the Rock Fort and the superb Srirangam Temple complex, probably the largest in India. You end the day in Madurai.

Stay at Royal Court for two nights.

Day 5, MADURAI

Enjoy sightseeing of Madurai where you find the magnificent Meenakshi Temple complex whose soaring temple towers are covered with stucco figures of deities, mythical animals and monsters, painted in vivid colours.

Day 6, ONWARDS FROM MADURAI

Your tour ends today. We can arrange a transfer for you to Madurai airport to board the flight to Chennai. Alternatively you can continue to Thekkady to explore the Jungles & Backwaters of Kerala.

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Tailor-made Suggestions

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There are plenty of ways to change this sample itinerary, either to extend your stay or experience different areas in more detail.

The Bungalow on the Beach

Stay at the Bungalow on the Beach, a grand bungalow in the former Danish outpost of Tranquebar.

A 100-year old heritage home

Stay in Anandham, a resort in Kumbakonam which resembles a typical south Indian village.

Visit Chettinad villages

Stay at The Bangala, an elegant boutique Heritage Hotel to explore the Chettinad villages and the exciting Chettinad Cuisine.

Fact Finder for this Tour

Highlights
  • Relax on the beach of Mamallapuram
  • Visit the former French colony of Pondicherry
  • Tour the magnificent temples of Thanjavur, Trichy and Madurai
Duration

Departure

Daily from Mamallapuram
Not advisable in May and June (due to uncomfortable heat)

Price

From 646 USD per person - based on 2 people sharing

Inclusions
  • Accommodation on twin share basis at selected hotels
  • Stay on bed & breakfast basis
  • English-speaking local guide for tour of Mamallapuram and Madurai
  • Transport by air-conditioned vehicle with private chauffeur
  • All transfers as per the itinerary
Tour price excludes
  • International flights
  • Entrance fees to historical monuments