Heritage of South India 9 Nights / 10 Days

Welcome to Chennai, the gateway to South India. On arrival, check into your hotel and freshen up. In the afternoon, explore the city’s highlights — the historic Fort St. George, the beautiful Kapaleeshwarar Temple, and the bustling Marina Beach. Enjoy a glimpse into the city’s cultural rhythm through its vibrant markets and colonial-era buildings. Later, savor a delicious South Indian dinner before retiring for the night. Overnight stay in Chennai.;

After breakfast, drive to Pondicherry, stopping at the UNESCO-listed monuments of Mahabalipuram en route. Marvel at the Shore Temple and the stunning rock-cut sculptures of Arjuna’s Penance. Continue your scenic coastal journey to Pondicherry, where French charm meets Tamil tradition. In the evening, stroll through the serene Promenade Beach and the picturesque French Quarter lined with colonial villas. Overnight stay in Pondicherry.;

Begin your day with a visit to the peaceful Sri Aurobindo Ashram, followed by the experimental township of Auroville — a symbol of harmony and human unity. Discover the Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus and unwind at the beaches or chic cafés serving fusion cuisine. Take a rickshaw ride through cobbled lanes as the sun sets over the Bay of Bengal. Overnight stay in Pondicherry.;

Journey inland to Thanjavur, the cultural cradle of Tamil Nadu. After checking in, visit the majestic Brihadeeswarar Temple — an architectural masterpiece from the Chola Empire. Explore the Thanjavur Palace and Art Gallery, home to bronze sculptures and ancient manuscripts. In the evening, witness local artisans creating the famous Tanjore paintings. Overnight stay in Thanjavur.;

After breakfast, head to Karaikudi in the Chettinad region, famous for its lavish heritage mansions and spicy cuisine. Wander through grand ancestral homes showcasing intricate woodwork and European influences. Visit local tile workshops and antique stores brimming with vintage treasures. Savor a traditional Chettinad lunch bursting with bold flavors. Overnight stay in Karaikudi.;

Spend the day exploring the unique Chettinad lifestyle. Visit local temples adorned with elaborate carvings, explore handmade crafts, and interact with locals who preserve these traditions with pride. Sample authentic sweets and snacks at traditional eateries. The evening is free for leisure — perhaps enjoy a quiet walk through the heritage streets or a cozy dinner at your heritage hotel. Overnight stay in Karaikudi.;

Proceed to Madurai, one of India’s oldest cities, steeped in devotion and tradition. Visit the magnificent Meenakshi Amman Temple, with its towering gopurams and vibrant sculptures. As dusk falls, witness the sacred evening ceremony inside the temple — a deeply spiritual experience. Later, explore the local markets famous for jasmine flowers and handcrafted souvenirs. Overnight stay in Madurai.;

Begin your day with a visit to Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace, a blend of Indo-Saracenic grandeur. Stop by the Gandhi Memorial Museum to trace India’s independence journey. Sample Madurai’s famous street delicacies like jigarthanda and parotta. In the evening, take a leisurely rickshaw ride through the bustling lanes and soak in the city’s eternal charm. Overnight stay in Madurai.;

After breakfast, transfer to the airport or railway station for your journey back to Chennai. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and spend the evening exploring the city’s chic shopping areas — perfect for silk sarees, handicrafts, and souvenirs. Overnight stay in Chennai.;

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast before transferring to the airport for your onward journey. Carry with you beautiful memories of South India’s glorious temples, vibrant cultures, warm hospitality, and timeless heritage that will stay etched in your heart forever.;