Enchanting Tamil Nadu: Temples, Heritage & Coastal Charms

Arrive in Chennai, a thriving metropolis that blends colonial legacy with Dravidian spirit. You will be met on arrival and transferred to your hotel.

Embark on a sightseeing tour of Chennai. Visit the famous Kapaleeshwarar Temple, one of the city’s oldest and most vibrant places of worship, and San Thome Basilica, built over the tomb of Saint Thomas the Apostle. Discover the rich heritage of South Indian art at the Government Museum and stroll along Marina Beach for a taste of local life.

Accommodation: Taj Connemara – Chennai’s iconic colonial hotel, restored with contemporary elegance.

Board the express train to Madurai, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, brimming with spiritual and historical highlights.

Visit the Meenakshi Temple by day to admire its towering, colourfully carved gopuram (gateway covered in detailed sculptures) and return in the evening to witness its enchanting closing ceremonies. Explore the Tirumalai Nayak Palace with its grand pillared hall and take a rickshaw ride through narrow lanes lined with jasmine sellers and ancient shrines.

Accommodation: Gateway Hotel Passumalai, a charming first-class hotel set in colonial elegance atop Pasumalai Hill, offering panoramic views of Madurai.

Drive to Chettinadu, the ancestral homeland of the Chettiar community known for its grand mansions and legendary cuisine, where you will stay in an elegant heritage home.

Spend your time exploring the faded grandeur of Chettinadu’s palatial homes, visit local weavers creating intricate saris, visit local markets, and discover the handcrafted tile-making workshops of Athangudi.

Visit the Ayyanar shrine of Kothadi, where rows of life-sized terracotta horses stand guard. Round off your experience with a private Chettinad cooking session to learn about the region’s bold and complex flavours before sitting down to a sumptuous dinner in the historic surroundings of your mansion.

Accommodation: Visalam, a lovingly restored heritage Chettiar mansion turned boutique hotel.

Head east to Tanjore (Thanjavur), famed for its classical music, ancient art, and the UNESCO-listed Brihadeeswara Temple, a Chola-era marvel of granite and grandeur.

Visit the Bronze Museum and see artisans crafting exquisite bronze idols using the lost-wax technique. Continue onward to Kumbakonam, a temple town known for its deep spirituality and silk weaving traditions, with a stop at the beautifully carved Airavatesvara Temple at Darasuram.

Accommodation: Mantra Koodam, a serene boutique retreat blending heritage and modern comfort.

Journey to Pondicherry, the former French enclave along the Bay of Bengal, stopping to explore the majestic Chola-era temple at Gangaikondacholapuram. In Pondicherry, wander the cobbled streets of the French Quarter on a guided heritage walk, past mustard-yellow villas and colonial churches. Ride a rickshaw through vibrant Tamil neighbourhoods and visit Aurobindo Ashram and the tranquil seafront promenade. Discover art galleries, boutique shops, and sample French-inspired Tamil cuisine at local cafes.

Accommodation: Palais de Mahe, a boutique heritage hotel blending French colonial elegance nestled in the heart of the French Quarter.

Drive north to Mahabalipuram, a coastal town known for its UNESCO-listed rock-cut temples and shore monuments. Explore the iconic Shore Temple, Arjuna’s Penance, and Pancha Rathas.

The next two days are at leisure to enjoy the beach or indulge in spa treatments.

Accommodation: Taj Fisherman’s Cove, Mahabalipuram – An exquisite seaside resort blending colonial charm with modern luxury, set amidst palm-fringed shores.

Transfer back to Chennai and check in to your airport hotel for your final night in India.

Accommodation: Radisson GRT Hotel & Suites Chennai Airport – A modern and comfortable stay close to the airport.

Transfer to Chennai International Airport for your onward journey, carrying with you, memories of temple bells, spice-laden feasts, and centuries-old stories etched in stone.

Price Guide:

From £3,290 per person (October to April)
From £2,890 per person (May to September)

Prices are based on two guests sharing and exclude international flights. These are guideline rates and may vary depending on travel dates, room category, exchange rate fluctuations, and peak holiday periods such as Christmas, New Year, or regional festivals.

Authentic India Tours is a member of ABTA and ATOL. All the holidays on this website are ABTA protected. If you would like us to arrange your holiday including flights we will be happy to provide a quote and your holiday will also be ATOL protected.

Please get in touch with your dates and we will be pleased to provide you with your personal itinerary and accurate quote.

What’s Included in Your Tailor-Made Journey with Authentic India Tours

• A dedicated Travel Consultant to plan and manage every detail of your holiday
• Private car and driver at the destination for all your transfers and tours.
• Your own English-speaking local guides for insightful, personal experiences
• A selection of unique and meaningful experiences, handpicked by our expert team
• Entrance to museums, monuments, national parks and key cultural and historical sites included in your itinerary.
• Accommodation on a bed and breakfast basis at all destinations, staying in carefully selected hotels as listed in the itinerary.
• 24/7 in-country support, so you’re always in safe hands.

Price does not include:

• International flight tickets
• Travel insurance and visa
• Expenses of personal nature like laundry, tips, beverages etc
• Meals other than mentioned in the above meal plan
• Camera & video fees at national parks, museums & monuments

Prices mentioned above are per person based on two people sharing a twin room. The prices which were valid at the time of publication may be subject to change, based on your date of travel and local market fluctuations. You will be informed of any price differences prior to booking.

For a quote based on your dates of travel, any alternative accommodation or changes to this itinerary, please call us on 01792 315499 or email us at info@aitholidays.com

Please remember all our private tours are designed to meet your exact requirements, and this South India tour is just an example to help inspire you.

For more information please email info@aitholidays.com or call our India specialists on 01792 315499.

ABTA and ATOL Protected Tour Package

Authentic India Tours is a member of ABTA and ATOL. All the holidays on this website are ABTA protected. If you would like us to arrange your holiday including flights we will be happy to provide a quote and your holiday will also be ATOL protected.