Short Trip to The Great Living Chola Temples

4 Days

Duration

Thanjavur (India)

Tour Starts In

Thanjavur (India)

Tour Ends In

English +6 More

Operated in

1 - 80 Yrs

Age Group

Destination Covered

Kumbakonam Thanjavur

Highlights
Itinerary
Inclusions
Accommodation
Activities
FAQ
Terms

Tour Package Highlights

Embark on a captivating 4-day Short Trip to The Great Living Chola Temples to explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Great Living Chola Temples in Tamil Nadu, India. Built during the Chola dynasty between the 9th and 13th centuries, these architectural marvels are a testament to the grandeur and sophistication of ancient Indian architecture. This short trip offers an immersive experience into the history, art, and spirituality of the Chola era, allowing you to visit three of the most iconic temples. Trip includes deluxe accommodation, meals, transfers, expert travel guides, and more.

Key Highlights of the Great Living Chola Temples tour:

Explore Brihadeeswarar Temple at Thanjavur, known as the Big Temple, this magnificent structure, commissioned by Rajaraja Chola I in the 11th century, is a masterpiece of Chola architecture.
Explore the temple of Gangaikondacholisvaram at Gangaikonda Cholapuram, built by Rajaraja I's son, Rajendra Chola I, this temple commemorates his victorious campaign against the Pala dynasty.
Explore Airavatesvara Temple at Darasuram, constructed by Rajaraja Chola II in the 12th century, this temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is famous for its exquisite carvings of dancers and musicians.

Tour Package Itinerary

Explore the Day-to-Day Itinerary for a detailed schedule of the Short Trip to The Great Living Chola Temples to understand your daily activities and travel plans. The tour is fully customizable. Please contact us to tailor the itinerary to your preferences.

Day 1: Arrive in Thanjavur

Upon your arrival at Thanjavur or Tiruchirappalli International Airport, an Alkof Holidays representative will greet you and escort you to your hotel in Thanjavur. After settling in, visit the Brihadeeswarar Temple in the afternoon. In the evening, explore the local markets and sample some traditional Tamil cuisine. Enjoy an overnight stay at the hotel.

Day 2: Drive to Gangaikonda Cholapuram

After enjoying breakfast at the hotel, depart for Gangaikonda Cholapuram to visit the Temple of Gangaikonda Cholapuram. After exploring this magnificent temple, savor lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, head to the nearby Rajarajesvaram Museum to delve deeper into the history and culture of the Chola dynasty. Later in the evening, return to your hotel in Thanjavur for an overnight stay.

Day 3: Drive to Darasuram & visit the Airavatesvara Temple

After breakfast at the hotel, embark on a journey to Darasuram to visit the stunning Airavatesvara Temple. This architectural marvel, known for its intricate carvings and sculptures, will leave you mesmerized with its beauty and historical significance. In the afternoon, explore the charming town of Darasuram. Make sure to visit the Shiva Temple, which is renowned for its detailed and exquisite sculptures that showcase the incredible artistry of the Chola period. As you wander through the town, you'll get a sense of its rich cultural heritage and history. Later in the evening, experience the vibrant culture of Tamil Nadu by attending a traditional dance performance at a local cultural center. The colorful costumes and rhythmic movements will provide a perfect end to your day. After the performance, drive back to your hotel in Thanjavur for a comfortable overnight stay, reflecting on the day's enriching experiences.

Day 4: Departure from Thanjavur

In the morning, we will transfer you to the airport or railway station in time for your onward journey.

Tour Inclusion / Exclusions

Review the Inclusions/Exclusions section to see what's covered in the tour package and what's not, ensuring complete transparency and helping you plan accordingly.

Deluxe Accommodation

Accommodation changes or upgrades are available upon request and subject to availability. Your comfort and satisfaction are our top priorities.

3 nights accommodation in 3 star deluxe hotels on twin or double sharing basis.

Meals

Daily breakfast at the hotel.

Expert Guides

English speaking local destination guides.

Transport

Airport pick-up / drop-off, all sightseeing and transfers by private air-conditioned vehicle as per the itinerary.
1-2 persons - Air-conditioned sedan car such as Toyota Etios or Suzuki Dzire or similar.
3-4 persons - Air-conditioned MUV car such as Toyota Innova or similar.
5 or more persons - Air-conditioned mini-van such as Tempo Traveller / Tourist Bus or similar.

Additional Services

Our additional services enhance your travel experience with a variety of exclusive offerings. Enjoy a seamless and personalized journey tailored to your needs.

Personal assistance during arrival and departure.
1 mineral water bottle per person per day.
All applicable taxes

Flights

Any International or domestic flights are not included.

Insurance

It is advisable that you buy a comprehensive medical/travel insurance in advance from your country before traveling to India.

Additional Services

Optional additional services not included in the tour package can be booked separately to enhance your experience.

Please Note: Tour guides for specific languages, Italian, German, French, Spanish, Portuguese, Russian, Chinese, and Dutch, are also available on request basis at an additional cost.
Visa fee (if applicable).
Any monument entrance fee, camera fee.
Any kind of tips, personal expenses, laundry, or telephone charges.
Anything not mentioned in the inclusions.

Accommodation

Hotels are subject to availability. In case any hotel is not available we will provide alternative hotel of similar category. Upgrades to 4-star, 5-star luxury, or your preferred choice of hotels are available upon request. Pre-night and post-night accommodations are also available at an additional cost.

Hotel Grand Ashok, Thanjavur

Deluxe Hotel

Thanjavur, India

Tour Package FAQ

At Alkof Holidays, we believe in making travel planning as smooth as your journey. Our FAQ section is designed to address all your questions, from booking procedures and payment methods to travel itineraries, best times to visit, hotel upgrades, and more. For any additional queries or personalized assistance, feel free to contact us.

When is the best time to visit Thanjavur?

The best time to visit Thanjavur is between October and March, during the winter months. This period offers pleasant weather, making it ideal for exploring the city's rich cultural heritage, including its magnificent temples and vibrant markets. The cooler temperatures and minimal rainfall allow for comfortable sightseeing and outdoor activities. Additionally, visiting during these months provides an opportunity to experience local festivals and events, which showcase Thanjavur's traditional arts, music, and dance.

For more details with Thanjavur Travel Guide.

How old are the Great Living Chola Temples?

The Great Living Chola Temples, which include the Brihadeeswarar Temple at Thanjavur, the Temple of Gangaikonda Cholapuram, and the Airavatesvara Temple at Darasuram, were constructed during the Chola dynasty between the 10th and 12th centuries. This makes them approximately 900 to 1,100 years old. These temples are renowned for their architectural brilliance, intricate carvings, and historical significance, and they continue to be celebrated as outstanding examples of ancient Indian temple architecture.

Why are Chola temples called Great Living Temples?

The Chola temples are called "Great Living Temples" because they have been in continuous use for religious worship and cultural activities since their construction over a millennium ago. Unlike many ancient structures that have fallen into disuse or ruin, these temples remain vibrant centers of Hindu worship, maintaining their religious and cultural significance. They are living monuments that not only showcase the architectural and artistic brilliance of the Chola dynasty but also serve as active, thriving places of devotion and community gatherings, preserving the traditions and practices of South Indian Hinduism through the centuries.

Can I customize this tour?

Absolutely! We understand that a one-size-fits-all approach doesn't suit everyone. That's why we offer the flexibility to customize this tour to your preferences. Whether you'd like to add or remove destinations, include specific activities, or select your desired level of accommodation, we're here to tailor your journey to match your interests. Contact our team to create your dream vacation today!

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?

Yes, the tour is suitable for solo travelers.

You might be interest in 10 Best Destinations to Visit in India for Solo Travelers.

Can we book this tour as a private tour just for our family or group?

Yes of-course, you can book this tour on private basis just for your family or group. Please email us your group details to book the tour on private basis.

Can we upgrade our hotels or choose our preferred hotels?

Yes, we can provide you with a variety of hotels to choose from, based on your preferences and budget. We have a wide network of hotel partners, from mid-range to premium and luxury hotels, so we are confident that we can find the perfect hotel for you. If you have already chosen any particular hotel(s) to stay, we can also provide that hotel(s) to you on request basis. Hotels are suject to availability. Cost may vary depending on your hotel choice.

Do you accept international credit cards, and are the payments secure?

Yes, we accept international credit cards. Your payments are highly secure, as we process them through trusted platforms such as CCAvenue and PayPal. This ensures your transaction details are protected with the highest level of security standards.

If I came across any problem during my trip, how would you help me?

With Alkof Holidays, you get 24X7 personal assistance from your dedicated tour manager over phone, WhatsApp, or Email.

Who will I meet on my arrival at Tiruchirappalli Airport, India?

Upon your arrival at Tiruchirappalli International Airport, India, our local representative will be waiting at the main entrance of your terminal, holding a placard with your name and our company logo for easy identification. Additionally, we will provide you with a list of 24-hour emergency contact numbers for your convenience.

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Know Before Your Go

Important Information

For easy communication on the go, consider downloading WhatsApp, as it is widely used in India.
Transportation is provided according to the itinerary only and is not available on a disposal or point-to-point basis.
VISA: In most cases, you'll need a visa to visit India. Exceptions include Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholders and citizens of a few select countries with visa-free agreements. For more information, please check https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/tvoa.html.

Payment Terms

A deposit of 10% is required to confirm this tour, and the remaining balance will be charged 15 days prior tour starting date. For any bookings within 15 days of departure, the full tour amount will be charged upon booking. This can be paid through bank transfer, credit/debit card, or cash.

Cancellation

No additional cancellation fees apply for this tour, if you cancel this tour 15 days prior your tour start date. Read complete details at Cancellation Policy.

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Our Travelers Reviews

Clare

United States

We had a fantastic experience in India!

The ratings are given in the context of the price we paid which was extremely re... The ratings are given in the context of the price we paid which was extremely reasonable for the attentive service we were given. We were looked after at all times including being dropped off onto our correct train carriage in Delhi. The itinerary was full but not rushed. I would use Alkof tours again and recommend them to others. Read more

Lora

USA

Highly recommend!

We arrived in India and graciously met Sachin - the tour manager and transported... We arrived in India and graciously met Sachin - the tour manager and transported to the hotel in New Delhi! We had to alter our plans and extended the tour for 2 more days. From second day we started our sightseeing of Delhi, next day visited Agra, then Fatehpur Sikri and then Jaipur. The driver and the local guides were punctual, polite, and worked very hard to make our trip enjoyable. Sachin made sure we saw everything on our bucket list. I recommend Alkof Holidays, thank you so much. Read more

David

NSW, Australia

Enjoyed the Indian Golden Triangle

"Alkof Holidays has an outstanding team of highly knowledgeable tour managers wh... "Alkof Holidays has an outstanding team of highly knowledgeable tour managers who are passionate about the regions they cover. They promptly answered all my questions before finalizing the tour and made all the necessary changes to suit my requirements. The accommodations were excellent, and both our driver, Manoj, and guide, Sachin, were incredibly kind, supportive, and well-versed in all aspects of the tour, from geography to history. My family and I thoroughly enjoyed the Indian Golden Triangle and look forward to visiting India again soon. I highly recommend Alkof Holidays for India tours. Cheers, David." Read more

Patricia Clark

USA

Golden Triangle India Tour

The travel arrangement was superb and everything was well organised by Sachin. I... The travel arrangement was superb and everything was well organised by Sachin. I would recommend Alkof Holidays to everyone for India tours. Read more