South India Temples and Spices - India

Day 1: Arrive Chennai

Arrive at the Chennai International Airport and transfer to hotel. Overnight at Trident Hotel.

Day 2: Chennai - Mahabalipuram

After breakfast spend the morning touring Chennai city (formerly Madras) including the local museum to see the art and bronze gallery, the flower and fruit market, Marina Beach, Saint Thomas Cathedral and Kapaleeshwar Temple. In the afternoon drive to Mahabalipuram (60 km/2 hrs). The rest of the afternoon is free.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 3: Mahabalipuram - Kancheepuram

In the morning drive to visit the temples of Kanchipuram including the 16th AD Ekambasreshwar Temple, the Kamakshi Temple dedicated to Goddess Parvati, and the Vaikunta Perumal Temple. Kanchipuram is also famous for its hand woven saris, presenting an opportunity to learn more about silk saris and other locally produced garments.

This afternoon explore Mahabalipuram, located on the Coromandel Coast facing the Bay of Bengal. A well established sea port during the 7th and 10th centuries of the Pallava Dynasty, this was the second capital of the Pallavas who ruled Kanchipuram. The name ‘Mahabalipurnam’, has a history: in a fierce battle King Mahabali was killed by Lord Vishnu and the place was named after the dead and once arrogant king. Your guide will take you to the Shore Temple, Arjuna’s Penance and various outdoor sculptures. Visit the Cholamandal Artists Village, an enclave of artists who work and live in a community

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 4: Pondicherry

Drive to Pondicherry (132 km/3 hrs). The French ruled this territory for 300 years, and today it remains as a living monument of the French culture in India located on the Coromandel Coast of the Bay of Bengal. Pondicherry is a beautiful settlement with a strong spiritual element. Enjoy the afternoon exploring the town. Visit Auroville (City of Dawn), an experimental neighborhood founded by Ms. Mirra Richard also known as “Mother.” Auroville was created as a universal town where men and women of all persuasions and origins are meant to live in peace and harmony above all creeds, politics and nationalities. Also visit the Sri Aurobhindo Ashram founded by Sri Aurobhindo, a Bengal revolutionary and philosopher who struggled bitterly for freedom against the British Empire.

Accommodations: De L'Orient Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 5: Thanjavur - Kumbakonam

In the morning, drive to Thanjavur (160 km/3 hrs) stopping en-route to visit the fascinating temples of Chidambaram, Gangai Konda Cholapuram and Darasuram. Chidambaram Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva located in the heart of the temple town of Chidambaram, Tamil Nadu. There have been several renovations in its history, particularly during the days of the Pallava/Chola emperors in ancient and pre-medieval periods. Our next stop (1 hr), the ancient town of Gangai Konda Cholapuram was the capital of the Cholas until their fall in the 13th century. The Gangai Konda Cholapuram Temple was built in the 11th century . Lavishly sculpted with beautiful stone sculptures including a dancing Ganesha, a lion headed wall and a stunning freeze depicting Rajendra being crowned by Siva and Parvati, the temple is one of the most ancient temples of Tamil Nadu built in the Chola style.

Continue to Thanjavur visiting Darasruam Temple. With 18 temples in its town center, Kumbakonam is the famous “temple town” of South India picturesquely situated amidst the Cauvery and Arasalar rivers. Known for production of brass vessels and silk weaving, this is primarily a market town for the predominantly agriculture-based rural villages. The Darasuram Temple is a 'sculptor's dream in stone', among the most well-preserved examples of 12th century Chola architecture. Afternoon arrival at Thanjavur.

Accommodations: Sangam Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 6: Thanjavur

In the morning visit the Brihadeshwara Temple (35 km/45 min), a UNESCO World Heritage Site also called the “Big Temple”. The main shrine of this temple is Lord Brahadeeswarar (Shiva). The Shiva Linga of Brahadeeswara is probably the grandest in existence. An architectural wonder of the world, the massive Nandi statue (Shiva’s bull) weighs 25 tons and is the second largest Nandi in India. Also visit the palace built by the Nayakas around 1550 AD and finished by Marathas. With huge corridors, spacious halls, observational towers and shady courtyards, the total area of the temple is around 10 acres.

Accommodations: Sangam Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 7: Trichy - Chettinadu

Drive from Thanjavur to Trichy (50 km / 1 hr) to visit the Rangnathswamy Temple and Rock Fort Temple. The latter stands 83 m high, perched on a huge rocky outcrop. The temple complex is composed of two parts - a Shiva temple carved in the middle of the rock and a Ganesh temple at the top portion of the rock. The Ganesh temple is much smaller with access through steep steps carved on the rock and provides a stunning view of Trichy and the rivers Cauvery and Kollidam. The Srirangam Ranganathaswamy Temple (7 km from Trichy) is an important pilgrimage site and an exclusive Vaishnavite landmark. Srirangam looks like an island surrounded by the Cauvery and Kollidam rivers on either side. This temple has the highest tower in south India and can be seen for many miles. Continue the drive to Chettinad (85 km / 2hrs), the land of Nattukottai Chettiars, which is famous for its fortress-like homes and temples that are architectural marvels.

Upon arrival at Chettinad, check into the Chettinadu Mansion heritage hotel is and step back in time. The Chettiars belong to a lineage of wealthy traders and financiers who made their fortunes by extending their business to the whole of Southeast Asia, particularly during the 19th century when they were at the peak of their economic power. As a result of their traveling, the Chettiars integrated diverse influences into their traditions which contributed to their uniqueness. The houses, which evolved over two centuries, are veritable palaces, and the Chettinadu Mansion is one of the most impressive of the many heritage homes of the Chettiars. This small town is equally famous for its astrological explorations and exquisite Chettinadu cuisine.

Accommodations: Chettinadu Mansion

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 8: Chettinadu - Madurai

Chettinad is a region where a strong culture has been preserved by the Chettiar community which is organized around 9 clan temples. Each member of the Chettiar community belongs to a clan and each clan has its own temple run by its own committee. Enjoy a relaxed morning to learn more about the community before driving to Madurai. (80 km/2 hrs) Madurai is one of the oldest cities of India, dating back to the Sangam Period of the pre-Christian era. This was the Golden age of Tamil literature when Madurai was the seat of the Tamil academy of learning. In the afternoon, enjoy time to wander and explore Madurai’s extensive and vibrant bazaar, a bustling produce, spice and textile market with a fascinating array of emporiums.

You may choose to stay up late and visit the Shree Meenakshi Temple to witness the ‘Closing Ceremony’ which takes place every night at 11:30pm. An image of the God Shiva is carried in procession to Parvati’s bedroom, where it remains until being ceremonially escorted back at 6:00am the next morning. You will return from the vegetable market in time to participate in this remarkable ceremony, watch the procession of the god, and walk amongst the devotees. This is one of India’s most memorable experiences.

Accommodations: Heritage Madurai

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 9: Madurai

In the morning light proceed into the heart of Madurai to view the mighty Shree Meenakshi Temple (1560 AD), the heart and living symbol of Madurai’s centuries old tradition as the cultural center of the Tamil people. Dedicated to Lord Shiva and his consort, you will be amazed by the rising tower entrance and amazing architecture. Also visit Tirumalai Nayak Palace, built by Thirumalai Nayak and designed by an Italian. In the afternoon, visit Koodal Azhagar Temple which is 21 km from Madurai in the countryside.

Accommodations: Heritage Madurai

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 10: Munnar Tea Gardens

In the morning drive to Munnar (160 km/5-6 hrs). Situated at the confluence of three mountain streams in the Western Ghats, Munnar is considered the abode of natural purity. Munnar is high up in the hills and is set amidst spice and tea estates and tropical forests. Visit tea gardens of Munnar where you will also have opportunity to buy some spices and tea. Your accommodation at Windermere Estate is set amongst the manicured tea gardens and lush green forests of the Western Ghats. The presence of the planter's family next door ensures a truly local experience devoid of a hotel atmosphere.

Accommodations: The Windermere Estate

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 11: Periyar National Park

Early this morning take a cardamom and nature walk organized by a Windermere Estate naturalist guide. (4 km/ 2 hrs) Cardamom is cultivated under the shade of a vast variety of evergreen trees. Later drive from Munnar to Periyar (110 km/4 hrs). Periyar National Park is situated in the lush green hills, lakes and rivers of the Western Ghats. The core feature of the park is Periyar Lake - a rich habitat for large mammals. Here it is possible to see large herds of Indian elephant. There are more than 30 species of mammals including tiger, gaur (Indian bison) and sloth bear. The birdlife is vibrant and includes numerous aquatic species and the great Indian hornbill. In the afternoon, enjoy a boat safari on Lake Periyar.

Accommodations: CGH Earth Spice Village

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 12: Periyar National Park

In the morning, you return to the park again to cruse by boat on Lake Periyar. This afternoon enjoy a walking excursion amongst local people working in the plantations. This region is famous for cardamom, cinnamon, pepper, coffee and tea estates.

Accommodations: CGH Earth Spice Village

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 13: Backwater Houseboat

Transfer to Putthengadi (150 km/3 hrs) set on the Keralan backwaters. ). Cruising on the backwaters is one of the highlights of a visit to Kerala. From your boat you can see the daily life of those who live on the vast network of lagoons, lakes, rivers and canals lying parallel to the Arabian Sea coast (known as the Malabar Coast) and extend the entire length of Central Kerala. These backwaters represent a unique geographical formation and are the basis of a distinct life style to be explored by water.

Accommodations: Kumarakom Lake Resort Houseboat, CGH Earth Houseboat

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 14: Kochi (Cochin)

Cruise the backwaters and at 10am disembark from the houseboat for the drive to Kochi (110 km/2 hrs). Kochi (formerly Cochin) is a vibrant city situated on the south-west coast of the Indian peninsula in the scenic and prosperous state of Kerala. Its strategic importance over the centuries is underlined by its location on the Arabian Sea. In the evening visit the Kathikali Dance Theatre for a makeup demo followed by a performance of the famous Kathikali, a traditional dance form of Kerala with impressive facial expressions, hand gestures and dance moves that leave one spellbound.

Accommodations: CGH Brunton Boatyard

Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 15: Cochin - Mumbai

A local resident guide leads a morning sightseeing excursion of Cochin city visiting Bolghatty Palace, St Francis Church, Jewish Synagogue, Dutch Palace (Mattencherry) and any other sights or activities of interest including Chinese Fishing Nets. Enjoy free time before transferring to the airport for your flight to Mumbai. Transfer to your hotel, the Taj Mahal Palace.

Accommodations: Taj Mahal Palace

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 16: Mumbai

In the morning, travel by boat to the Elephanta Caves (closed on Mondays), dedicated to Lord Shiva. The famous sculpture signifying the trinity of the Creator, the Preserver and the Destroyer is located here. After lunch, explore Mumbai. You have a choice of places to see including Gateway of India, Prince of Wales Museum, Kamla Nehru Park, and the hanging gardens situated on the slopes of Malabar Hill offering a panoramic view of Marine Drive, Chowpatty Beach and Dhobi Ghat.

Accommodations: Taj Mahal Palace

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch