South Indian Temple Tour (Tamil Nadu)- 5 Days 4 Nights

Tamil Nadu, India

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It’s famous for its numerous classical Buddhist temples, as well as gardens, imperial palaces, traditional wooden houses

Duration

2 days

Max People

Min Age

12+

Pickup

Airpot

Overview:

Tamil Nadu is home to some of the most ancient and intricate temples in India, reflecting the state’s rich cultural heritage and Dravidian architecture. The South Indian Temple Tour covers the grand temples of Mahabalipuram, Madurai, and Rameswaram, where towering gopurams (temple towers) and sculpted pillared halls narrate tales from Hindu mythology.

This tour offers an immersive experience into Tamil Nadu’s spiritual history, with opportunities to admire breathtaking architecture, participate in temple rituals, and understand the significance of these sacred sites.

Tour Highlights:

Shore Temple (Mahabalipuram): Explore the Shore Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located by the Bay of Bengal, with its grand carvings and views of the sea.
Meenakshi Temple (Madurai): Visit the iconic Meenakshi Temple, dedicated to Goddess Meenakshi, with its towering gopurams and stunning sculptures.
Ramanathaswamy Temple (Rameswaram): Explore the grand Ramanathaswamy Temple, a sacred pilgrimage site and an architectural marvel.
Chidambaram Nataraja Temple: Visit the temple dedicated to Lord Shiva in his cosmic dance form, Nataraja.

Included/Excluded

Accommodation
Entry Fees
Transport
Meals

Departure Taxes
Personal expenses
Optional activities
Travel Insurance
Alcoholic Drinks

Tour Plan

Day 01 Arrival in Chennai & Travel to Mahabalipuram

Arrival in Chennai: Upon arrival at Chennai, the capital of Tamil Nadu, you will be welcomed by our representative and transferred to your vehicle.
Drive to Mahabalipuram: Embark on a scenic drive to Mahabalipuram, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its rock-cut temples and monolithic sculptures.
Shore Temple: Begin your exploration with a visit to the iconic Shore Temple, situated on the shores of the Bay of Bengal. The temple is renowned for its architectural brilliance and tranquil setting by the sea.
Arjuna’s Penance: Next, visit the famous Arjuna’s Penance, a massive bas-relief that depicts scenes from the Mahabharata. The intricate carvings are a marvel of ancient art and craftsmanship.
Overnight in Mahabalipuram: After a day of exploration, return to your hotel in Mahabalipuram for an overnight stay.

Day 02 Kanchipuram Temples & Travel to Madurai

Drive to Kanchipuram: After breakfast, drive to Kanchipuram, one of the holiest cities in Tamil Nadu, famous for its historic temples.
Visit Kanchipuram Temples: Kanchipuram is home to several magnificent temples. Visit the Kailasanathar Temple, a fine example of early Pallava architecture, and the Vaikunta Perumal Temple, known for its beautifully sculpted walls and grand gopuram (entrance tower). Don’t miss the Ekambareswarar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, and the Kanchi Kamakshi Temple, dedicated to the goddess Kamakshi.
Travel to Madurai: After your temple tour, proceed on a drive to Madurai, one of the oldest cities in India, steeped in history and culture. Check into your hotel upon arrival.

Day-3 Explore Meenakshi Temple & Madurai

- Meenakshi Temple: After breakfast, begin your day with a visit to the magnificent Meenakshi Amman Temple, dedicated to the goddess Meenakshi (a form of Parvati) and Lord Sundareshwarar (Shiva). The temple is renowned for its stunning gopurams (towers), intricate sculptures, and the sacred tank where pilgrims take holy dips.
- Other Local Sights in Madurai: Explore other local sights, such as the Thirumalai Nayakkar Mahal, an ancient palace with Indo-Saracenic architecture, and the Gandhi Museum, which showcases the life and contributions of Mahatma Gandhi. You can also explore the vibrant local markets, famous for their handicrafts and traditional South Indian textiles.
- Overnight in Madurai: Enjoy an overnight stay in Madurai.

Day-4 Visit Rameswaram & Ramanathaswamy Temple

Travel to Rameswaram: After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to Rameswaram, one of the most important pilgrimage destinations in South India.
Ramanathaswamy Temple: Upon arrival, visit the Ramanathaswamy Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is famous for its long corridors, stunning architecture, and sacred water tanks. The temple is believed to be the site where Lord Rama worshipped Lord Shiva to atone for his sins.
Other Sights in Rameswaram: If time permits, visit the Dhanushkodi Beach, the ruins of the town of Dhanushkodi, and the Pamban Bridge, which connects Rameswaram Island to the mainland.
Overnight in Rameswaram: Spend the night in Rameswaram.

Day-5 Departure

After breakfast, enjoy some last-minute sightseeing or shopping in Rameswaram.
Departure: Depending on your flight or train schedule, you will be transferred to the nearest airport or railway station for your onward journey.