A fascinating journey through India’s tropical south, do experience the diversity in scenery, architecture, culture and most importantly the people. In Tamil Nadu, The most leading feature is the prevalence of Hinduism, which has given rise to a unique style of temple architecture found in this state alone. These temples are not only a spectacular architectural feat, but still provides the focus for daily life. On this tour You Travel further to discover Pondicherry – still a world from another Era.
Highlights of the Experience:
TOUR ITINERARY
Day 01: Arrive Chennai
Upon arrival at Chennai airport, meet with our driver followed by a transfer to your hotel for check-in. After some rest, be introduced to the “Capital of South India” during an orientation tour. Pass though the excellent British-built Government Museum, the Roman style San Thome Basilica and the majestic colonial Fort St George. Finally If time permits, take a stroll along the long stretch of Marina Beach and catch some families evenings gather. Return back to your hotel for your Dinner & overnight stay.
Day 02: Sunday 16th May Chennai – Dakshin Chitra – Mahabalipuram (70 kms / 1.5 hrs)
Breakfast at the hotel. Enjoy an easy tour to the impressive Kapaleeshwarar temple, with its rainbow-coloured Gopuram and Pillared Mandapas. Your journey will lead to a character full market. Proceed to Dakshina Chitra, a Cultural Living Museum of Art, Architecture, Lifestyles, Crafts and Performing Arts of South India. Later drive to the seaside town of Mahabalipuram, Port of the Pallava kings in the 5th to 8th centuries. Along the shore lies a stunning series of temples and sculptures, carved from the living rock 1,200 years ago. Unlike many Hindu temples, the rocks show scenes of everyday life. Check-in your hotel and later go visit with your guide, the magnificent Shore temple, symbolising the heights of Pallava architecture and the maritime ambitions of their kings. Go explore the masterpiece of Mahabalipuram’s Rock cut caves representing the scenes of Hindu myths and finish by the site of the Five Rathas. – Overnight stay.
Day 03: Mahabalipuram – Pondicherry (100 km /2.5 hrs)
Breakfast. Check-out, head to Pondicherry. Settled by the French in the 18th century, this colonial town retains a tranquil atmosphere with some French architecture aesthetic. Make a first stop at Auroville, situated outskirt of the town – Fine example of Community Living. See a couple of the self sufficient – eco friendly workshops of wood, stone, papers and Bamboo. Reach Pondicherry and check-in at your hotel. Later in the evening enjoy a walk through the French town and promenade Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 04: Pondicherry
Breakfast. Today take a stroll through this small town with our Story teller. Through reminiscence of almost a century old European occupation, walk through the white town (as the French quarters is popularly known as) while our story teller relates the history with what you see around. See the Temple and a bit of the Tamil quarters. End the tour with a cup of bru coffee. Rest of the day free for independent activities. Tonight you may taste some delicious French fusion cuisine at the restaurant La Villa Helena, a charming old colonial house located in one of the town’s bougainvillea-draped streets. (Payable Locally) .Overnight at the hotel
Day 05 Pondicherry –Chennai (180 km / 4 hrs)
Leisurely Breakfast at the hotel. Check out and drive back to Chenmnai.
HOTEL RECOMMENDED:
| PLACE | NIGHTS | STANDARD |
| CHENNAI | 01 | Rain Tree |
| MAHABALIPURAM | 01 | Ideal Beach Resort |
| PONDICHERRY | 02 | CGH Palai De Mahe |
TOUR PRICE: ON REQUEST
INCLUSIONS:
EXCLUSIONS:
