South India Heritage and Ayurveda Tour

After breakfast, embark on a full-day guided tour of Chennai. Visit St. George Fort, India’s first English fortress, founded in 1644. Next, explore the Kapaleeshwarar Temple, a 7th-century Pallava construction reconstructed in the 16th century by the Vijayanagar Kings after Portuguese destruction. Continue to Guindy National Park, one of India’s smallest national parks nestled within the city. In the evening, unwind at the renowned Marina Beach, the second largest in the world. Return to the hotel for an overnight stay.

After a hearty breakfast at the hotel, set out for Mahabalipuram. En route, visit Kanchipuram, a revered city known for its rich temple heritage. Explore the Kamakshi Amman Temple, renowned for its intricate carvings and spiritual significance. Continue to the Kanchi Kailasanathar Temple, a prime example of early Dravidian architecture, and visit the Varadaraja Perumal Temple, known for its grandeur. Don’t miss the Ekamberashwar Temple, famous for its massive mango tree believed to be over 3,000 years old. Proceed to Mahabalipuram and check in at your hotel. After some rest, immerse yourself in the ancient wonders of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. Discover the Pancha Rathas, a group of monolithic rock-cut temples shaped like chariots, and the Ganesha Ratha with its detailed carvings. Explore the Cave Temples, notable for their intricate sculptures, and the Descent of the Ganges, a massive bas-relief depicting the river's mythological descent. Visit the Shore Temple, renowned for its stunning seaside location and ancient architecture, and the Olakkannesvara Temple, one of the lesser-known gems. Marvel at Mukunda Nayanar Temple and Pidari Ratha/Valian Kuttai Ratha, each with its unique history. Finally, see Krishna’s Butterball, a giant boulder precariously balanced on a slope. Overnight stay at the hotel.

After breakfast, drive to Pondicherry (or Puducherry), once a French colonial settlement until 1954, is now a Union Territory adjacent to Tamil Nadu. Its French heritage is evident in the French Quarter, with its tree-lined streets, mustard-colored colonial villas, and stylish boutiques. The seaside promenade along the Bay of Bengal is dotted with statues, including the prominent 4-meter-high Gandhi Memorial, reflecting the town's unique blend of French and Indian influences. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and relax. Later, begin exploring this charming town with visits to Aurobindo Ashram, a spiritual haven founded by Sri Aurobindo and the Mother. Stroll through the Botanical Garden, known for its diverse plant species and serene environment. Explore the Memorial House, dedicated to the memory of an important historical figure, and visit the Manakula Vinayagar Temple, a vibrant temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha. Also, check out the Vedapureeswarar Temple, noted for its architectural beauty. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure. Take a relaxing walk along Promenade Beach, capturing the picturesque views and pleasant weather. For shopping enthusiasts, Nehru Street Market offers a variety of local goods and souvenirs. Overnight stay at the hotel.

After breakfast at the hotel, head to Auroville, a unique experimental community founded in 1968 by Mirra Alfassa. The town is dedicated to human unity and peace. Visit the Matrimandir, a striking spherical temple covered in gold discs, symbolizing the center of Auroville. Explore the Auroville Botanical Gardens, which preserves the area's tropical dry evergreen forest, and Auroville Beach, known for its serene, sandy stretch and gentle surf. Return to Pondicherry for an overnight stay at your hotel.

After breakfast, depart for Thanjavur, with a stop in Chidambaram, The town belonged to the Cholas of Southern India and is one of the most famous and sought-after travel destination when it comes to culture tourism. Begin your visit with the Pichavaram Mangrove Forest and backwaters, a scenic area ideal for a tranquil boat ride. Next, explore the Thillai Nataraja Temple, a significant Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, famous for its intricate architecture and cultural importance. Visit the Thillai Kali Amman Temple, known for its vibrant rituals, and the Tirunallurpperumanam Temple, another important site in the region. Continue your journey to Thanjavur. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and relax after a day of cultural exploration. Enjoy your overnight stay in Thanjavur.

After breakfast at the hotel, start your day with a local sightseeing tour of Thanjavur. Visit the Schwartz Church, known for its colonial architecture and historical significance. Explore Sivaganga Gardens, a serene space ideal for a leisurely stroll, and the Lord Murugan Temple, dedicated to the Hindu deity Murugan. Don’t miss Sangeetha Mahal, renowned for its exquisite musical acoustics and historical value. In the afternoon, drive to Kumbakonam, a town celebrated for its ancient temples. Begin with a visit to the Airavatesvara Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its exquisite Dravidian architecture and sculptural details, built by Rajaraja Chola II in the 12th century. Explore the Adi Kumbeswarar Temple, The temple is in existence from Chola times of the 9th century, and has been maintained by Nayaks during the 15-17th century and the Nageswaraswamy Temple, notable for its historic significance. Return to your hotel in Thanjavur for an overnight stay.

After breakfast, drive to Madurai with a stop in Tiruchirappalli (Trichy). Begin with a visit to the Rock Fort Temple, offering panoramic city views. Next, explore the Jambukeshwara Temple, renowned for its unique water shrine, and Srirangam Temple, one of the largest functioning Hindu temples. Continue your journey to Madurai. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and relax. In the evening, head to the Meenakshi Temple to witness the special evening Aarti, a vibrant and spiritual experience. Overnight stay at the hotel.

After breakfast, embark on a full-day tour of Madurai. Start with a visit to the Meenakshi Amman Temple, a magnificent temple dedicated to Goddess Meenakshi and Lord Sundareshwar, renowned for its intricate carvings and vibrant ceremonies. The temple is located on the southern bank of the Vaigai River, every year millions on pilgrims visit this sacred shrine. Next, visit Thirupparamkunram Murugan Temple and Palamuthirsolai Murugan Temple, significant for their religious and cultural importance. Explore the Tirumal Nayak's Palace, known for its grand architecture, and the Gandhi Museum, which offers insights into India's struggle for independence. Also, visit Alagar Koil, an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Return to the hotel for an overnight stay.

Early in the morning, drive to Kanyakumari, the southernmost tip of India where the Indian Ocean, Arabian Sea, and Bay of Bengal converge. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and freshen up. In the afternoon, embark on a half-day sightseeing tour of Kanyakumari. Visit the Vivekananda Rock Memorial, built in 1970 to honor Swami Vivekananda, who is believed to have achieved enlightenment here. Explore the Sarvani Shaktipeeth Shri Bhagavathy Temple, a 3,000-year-old shrine dedicated to Goddess Kanya Kumari. Also, see the Tri Smudra Milan (where the three seas meet), Gandhi Mandapam, and the historic Suchindram Temple, known for its unique architecture. Return to your hotel for an overnight stay.

After breakfast at the hotel, begin your journey to Kovalam. En route, stop at the Nagaraja Temple in Nagercoil, a revered site dedicated to the serpent deity. Continue your drive to Kovalam and check in at your resort upon arrival. After freshening up, explore the area starting with the Vizhinjam Marine Aquarium, home to a variety of marine life. Visit the nearby Fishing Harbour and Vizhinjam Village to experience local life and culture. Spend some time at Samudra Beach and explore the Rock Cut Cave, appreciating the region's natural beauty. Enjoy the Arabian Sea's waves and witness the stunning sunset from the lighthouse near Kovalam Beach. Return to your resort for an overnight stay.

After breakfast at the resort, set out to explore Trivandrum. Begin with a visit to the Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple, renowned for its intricate blend of Chera and Dravidian architectural styles, high walls, and a 16th-century gopura. Next, explore the Napier Museum, which houses an impressive collection of art and natural history exhibits. Spend some relaxing time at Shankumugham Beach, known for its scenic beauty and as a significant festival site associated with Sri Ananthapadmanabhan, the city’s presiding deity. Conclude your day with a visit to Halcyon Castle, built in 1932 during the Travancore princely state era. This charming castle provides a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the time and stands as a testament to the region’s royal legacy. Return to your resort in Kovalam for overnight stay.

After breakfast at the resort, indulge in a range of Ayurvedic treatments provided by the resort’s professionals, tailored to rejuvenate and refresh you. Engage in yoga and meditation sessions on the serene beaches of Kerala, enhancing your sense of well-being. In the evening, relax by the Arabian Sea, take in views of the lighthouse, and enjoy a picturesque sunset. Return to the resort for an overnight stay.

In the morning, check out from the resort and our representative will transfer you to Trivandrum International Airport. Catch your flight for your onward destination, concluding your memorable trip.