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Spiritual Pathways & Colonial Legacy: Chennai to Cochin Drive

0/5
Duration

5 Nights / 6 Days

Tour Type

Specific Tour

Group Size

10 people

Languages

English

Overview

Embark on a captivating journey through South India with our “Spiritual Pathways & Colonial Legacy” tour, showcasing the rich temple heritage and colonial charm from Chennai to Cochin. Start in Chennai, exploring historic sites such as Fort St. George and the Kapaleeshwarar Temple. Drive through vibrant Vellore to admire the Sri Lakshmi Narayani Golden Temple and ancient forts. Visit Trichy and Thanjavur to experience grand temples like the Brihadeshwara Temple and the Rock Fort. Discover the French elegance of Pondicherry, with its picturesque streets and Auroville. Conclude in Cochin, where colonial architecture and vibrant local culture blend seamlessly.

Highlights

  • This is a private tour/activity only for your group.
  • Enhanced cleaning/ traveler safety.
  • In-depth cultural experience.
  • Flexible sightseeing & stopover.
  • Most travelers can participate.

Bulk discount (by Percent)

Bulk discount adult
# Discount group From adult To adult Value
1 Discount on 2-person group 2 2 %
2 Discount on 3-person group 3 3 %
3 Discount on 4-person group 4 4 %
4 Discount on 5-person group 5 5 %
5 Discount on 6-person group 6 6 %
6 Discount on 7-person group 7 7 %
7 Discount on 8-person group 8 8 %

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive Chennai

On arrival at Chennai airport, assistance and transfer to hotel. Visit Fort St. George, the first British fort in India, now housing the Fort Museum with historical relics. Explore St. Mary’s Church inside the fort, known for its colonial architecture and historical significance. See Kapaleeshwarar Temple, a Dravidian-style temple with detailed sculptures dedicated to Lord Shiva. Visit Vadapalani Murugan Temple, famous for its vibrant festivals and intricate carvings of Lord Murugan. Discover the Government Museum, which features a rich collection of South Indian artifacts, including bronze sculptures and ancient inscriptions. Explore Dakshinachitra Museum, showcasing traditional South Indian art and crafts through exhibits and live demonstrations. Visit Santhome Cathedral, built over the tomb of St. Thomas, with its neo-Gothic architecture and stained glass windows. Stroll along Marina Beach, a long stretch of sandy coastline ideal for evening walks and local snacks. O/n at hotel.

Day 2: Chennai - Vellore (140kms)

Breakfast at hotel. Drive to Kanchipuram, visiting Kailasanathar Temple, renowned for its early Dravidian architecture and ornate carvings. Explore Ekambareswarar Temple, with its grand gopuram (tower) and a sacred mango tree believed to be 3,000 years old. See Varadharaja Temple, dedicated to Vishnu, noted for its beautiful sculpture and intricate architectural details. Visit Vaikundhaperumal Temple, a significant Vishnu shrine with historical and cultural importance. Explore Kamakshiamman Temple, dedicated to Goddess Kamakshi, featuring exquisite sculptures and vibrant murals. Continue drive to Vellore and check in at hotel. Visit Sri Lakshmi Narayani Golden Temple, a dazzling temple covered in 1500 kg of gold, known for its opulent design and spiritual ambiance. Explore Vellore Fort, a massive 16th-century fort with impressive ramparts and a rich history of battles and conquests. Visit Jalakandeswarar Temple inside the fort, known for its ancient sculptures and tranquil atmosphere. O/n at hotel.

Day 3: Vellore - Trichy (280kms)

Breakfast at hotel. Drive to Tiruvannamalai, visiting Arulmigu Arunachaleswarar Temple, a major pilgrimage site dedicated to Lord Shiva, set at the base of the sacred Arunachala Hill. Explore Unnamalai Amman Temple, known for its religious significance and serene surroundings. Continue drive to Trichy and check in at hotel. Visit Ranganathaswamy Temple, a grand temple complex dedicated to Lord Vishnu, with extensive corridors and impressive gopurams. Attend the evening Arti at Ranganathaswamy Temple, a traditional ceremony with devotional hymns and light offerings. O/n at hotel.

Day 4: Trichy - Thanjavur (60kms)

Breakfast at hotel. Visit Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple, renowned for its architectural grandeur and sacredness, considered the largest functioning temple in the world. Explore the Rock Fort Temple, perched atop a 83-meter-high rock formation, offering panoramic views of the city and a glimpse into ancient rock-cut architecture. Drive to Thanjavur and check in at hotel. Visit Brihadeshwara Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site built by Chola king Raja Raja Chola I, famous for its massive dome and detailed carvings. Explore Thanjavur Palace & Museum, which includes the royal residence, a museum with art collections, and a library with ancient manuscripts. O/n at hotel.

Day 5: Thanjavur - Pondicherry (180kms)

Breakfast at hotel. Drive to Darasuram, visiting Airavateshwarar Temple, celebrated for its intricate sculptures and exquisite architectural style. Explore Gangaikonda Cholapuram, a temple complex with impressive halls and sculptures, built by Chola king Rajendra Chola I. Visit Chidambaram Nataraja Temple, known for its iconic bronze statues of Shiva in his cosmic dance and the vibrant annual festival. Continue drive to Pondicherry and check in at hotel. O/n at hotel.

Day 6: Pondicherry - Chennai (160kms)

Breakfast at hotel. Visit Aurovil, an international community known for its unique Matrimandir, designed as a center for spiritual growth and global harmony. Explore Pondicherry Museum, which features exhibits on regional art, archaeology, and local culture. Walk through the French Quarters, admiring colonial architecture, including the French consulate and Raj Nivas, with its elegant streets and heritage buildings. Drive to Mahabalipuram, visiting Monolithic Temples, carved from single rock formations, showcasing ancient craftsmanship. See the Five Rathas, a group of rock-cut temples representing different architectural styles. Visit Krishna’s Butterball, a giant boulder precariously balanced on a slope, and Cave Temples with their intricate carvings. Explore Shore Temple, a structural marvel facing the sea, and The Arjuna Penance, a colossal bas-relief depicting scenes from the Mahabharata. Continue drive to Chennai and transfer to the airport for departure.

Included/Excluded

  • Assistance on arrival at airport.
  • 5 Nights' accommodation in 4-star hotels.
  • Daily breakfast and meal as per day plane.
  • Private air-conditioned deluxe car for airport transfer, sightseeing and excursion as per program.
  • English speaking tour guide on sightseeing days (local guide in each city), as per program.
  • Monuments entrances and activities charges mentioned in the itinerary.
  • Bottled drinking water in car.
  • Government taxes.
  • Any flight tickets.
  • Camera charges at monuments.
  • Expenses of personal nature like liquor, laundry, tips, telephone, fax, internet etc.
  • Gratuities & optional activities.
  • Anything not mentioned in inclusions.

Tour's Location

FAQs

What is the standard of the hotels on this tour?

Hotels used or similar for 5 nights accommodation

4 Star Hotels
Chennai x 1 night: Accord Metropolitan/ The Park Chennai
Vellore x 1 night: Fortune Park Vellore
Trichy x 1 night: Courtyard by Marriott
Thanjore x 1 night: GReaT Trails Riverview Resort
Pondicherry x 1 night: Le Pondy/ Accord Puducherry

How many person will be in the group ?

There could be upto 10 people in the group.

Does this tour include airport pick ?

Yes, you can arrive on any flight and private airport transfer will be provided.

How do travelers meet the group ?

On first day of sightseeing all group member will assemble in hotel lobby and there will be first introduction with group member.

What category of hotel accommodation will be provided ?

4star below mention or similar hotels accommodation is included in the tour.
Hotels used or similar for 10 nights accommodation

Hotels used or similar for 5 nights accommodation

Chennai x 1 night
4* - The Raintree/ Accord Metropolitan

Vellore x 1 night
4* - Regency Sameera Vellore by GRT Hotels/ Fortune Park

Trichy x 1 night
4* - Sangam Hotels

Thnjore x 1 night
4* - Sangam Hotels/ Ideal River View Resort

Pondicherry x 1 night
4* - Le Pondy/ The Windflower Resort & Spa

Can travelers upgrade the accommodation to 5-star hotels?

Yes, travelers can upgrade the accommodation to 5-star hotels by paying the supplement. Please send inquiry for same from the booking page to get the price quote.

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