Meals

7 breakfasts. Please advise dietary requirements.

Transport

Our trips feature a mix of different transport options. We want you to feel like you’re really experiencing the country you’re travelling through, but at the same time finish journeys refreshed enough to enjoy the next stage of the tour. Due to the somewhat chaotic nature of Indian roads, we only use private vehicles for all road journeys on this tour. The tour also features a journey on India’s famous railway network. The journey from Madurai to Chennai takes around 6 hours and we book 2nd Class AC chair seats. You will be shown to your seat in the departure station and met on the platform on arrival in Chennai. Delays of up to an hour are quite common. Tickets are issued 120 days before departure. If you book within that time we cannot guarantee that you will be seated with other travellers, though the train stewards are normally very helpful and will arrange seat swaps with other people on the train, who are normally very accommodating.

Guide

In India we provide a fully trained, local English-speaking tour leader/driver to accompany our groups. On this tour they will accompany you throughout the whole loop from Kochi/Munnar/Thekkady/Kumarakom/Kochi. On groups of 4 or more, a guide will accompany you for the duration of the tour, for groups of 2 to 3, you will have a driver and local guides in each city. At Encounters Travel we have a policy of aiming to use only local Indian guides and reps. We feel this gives you the best experience of the country and the sites you are seeing.

Accommodation

We use good quality hotels rated at the Indian 3 to 4-star level on this tour. The specific hotels listed on our website are our preferred hotels for our small-group tours. However, these may be changed from time to time based on current availability and other logistics. In this event alternative hotels of a similar standard will be used. If you would like to guarantee any particular hotels for your trip, please contact us to request a tailor-made tour. Accommodation is based on twin or double en-suite rooms with air conditioning. All couples will receive a private double room.

Others

All accommodation in mid-range hotels and heritage properties All transport and transfers in AC vehicles 24-hour airport arrival and departure transfer service Sightseeing tours and activities as per the itinerary The incredible Mahabalipuram shore temple Pondicherry French Quarter, Sri Aurobindo Ashram, Manakula Vinayagar Temple and Pondicherry beach Learn about the culture and arts of the region at the Mohanam Cultural Center Tanjore’s awe-inspiring Brihadeeswarar Temple Ancient Madurai, Old Town tour, Meenakshi Amman Temple, Aarti Ceremony Madurai to Chennai rail journey Entrance Fees for included sightseeing Services of a local tour leader and specialist local guides Meals as indicated in the itinerary

Not included:

Others

International flights (available on request) Visa fees Travel insurance (compulsory, available on request) Meals not indicated in the itinerary Drinks, snacks and other personal expenses (e.g. laundry) Tips for driver and/or tour guide Any other items not mentioned above

Flights

International flights (available on request)

Optional

Other activities and services are not included.

Insurance

Travel insurance is compulsory on all of our tours and needs to cover personal accident & liability, medical expenses and repatriation, travel delay & abandonment. We also strongly recommend that you take out cover against cancellation and lost/stolen baggage. Personal medical insurance does not normally provide sufficient cover and is generally not suitable for travel on our tours. You will not be able to join your tour if you have not provided us with details of your insurance or if you arrive without cover in place (no refunds will be due in this event).

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Day 1 Day 1: Welcome To Chennai. Transfer To Your Hotel.
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 1: Welcome To Chennai. Transfer To Your Hotel.

Welcome to Tamil Nadu and the city of Chennai. You’ll be met by a member of our local team, who will transfer you to your hotel. Once you’re settled in, we’ll run through the tour itinerary for the next few days, brief you on the local area and arrange a time to collect you and your fellow group members tomorrow. If you have a morning arrival, why not join our optional half day Chennai City Tour which starts at around 12 midday. OVERNIGHT:. Chennai hotel. MEALS:. NULL. EXTRAS:. NULL
Day 2 Day 2: Travel To Pondicherry Via The Unesco Listed Mahabalipuram Temples
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 2: Travel To Pondicherry Via The Unesco Listed Mahabalipuram Temples

From Chennai we’ll take the coastal road south towards Pondicherry, stopping along the way to visit the incredible shore temple at Mahabalipuram. The Mahabalipuram temples stand as a testament to the artistry and devotion of the ancient Pallava dynasty. These magnificent structures, carved directly into the rock face, boast intricate sculptures and reliefs depicting scenes from Hindu mythology. The Shore Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, overlooks the Bay of Bengal, while other temples like Arjuna’s Penance and the Five Rathas showcase a range of architectural styles. Mahabalipuram invites you to explore a world where history and spirituality collide, revealing the remarkable craftsmanship and vision of those who came before. As we continue along the coast we’ll arrive in Pondicherry where you’ll have some free time in the evening to begin exploring. OVERNIGHT:. Pondicherry hotel. MEALS:. Breakfast. EXTRAS:. NULL
Day 3 Day 3: Exploring Picturesque Pondicherry
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 3: Exploring Picturesque Pondicherry

Today is all about Pondicherry. We’ll begin our exploration in the heart of Pondicherry’s French Quarter (White Town). Stroll along tree-lined avenues admiring the elegant villas, quaint cafes, and restored colonial buildings. Next, it’s time to seek tranquility at the Sri Aurobindo Ashram, a spiritual community founded by Sri Aurobindo and The Mother. Learn about their philosophy and visit the peaceful courtyard which is used for meditation. We’ll experience the vibrant Tamil culture at the Manakula Vinayagar temple, dedicated to Lord Ganesha. Witness traditional rituals and admire the ornate architecture on show here. We’ll end the day by heading to the iconic Promenade Beach for a refreshing sea breeze. Take a leisurely stroll, admire the Gandhi Statue, and soak in the coastal energy. Consider revisiting the French Quarter this evening where you’ll be spoilt for dinner options!. OVERNIGHT:. Pondicherry hotel. MEALS:. Breakfast. EXTRAS:. NULL
Day 4 Day 4: Learn About Local Culture And Arts At The Mohanam Cultural Centre. Drive To Tanjore
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 4: Learn About Local Culture And Arts At The Mohanam Cultural Centre. Drive To Tanjore

The Mohanam Cultural Centre, established in 2001, serves a rural village within the Kaluveli/Auroville region of coastal Tamil Nadu. Facing the challenges of globalization, the centre strives to preserve local culture by providing extracurricular activities that help young people connect with their heritage. Housed in a traditional village home, Mohanam offers creative arts classes, a creche/kindergarten, and evening tuition. Its mission is to document and revive endangered elements of the region’s intangible heritage, including performing and martial arts, festival customs, and crafts. By identifying living practitioners and offering workshops and classes focused on Kummi, Kollattam, Tapattam, Silambam, and Koothu, the centre raises awareness and passes skills to the next generation. This vital work draws government and international attention, particularly through the Tamil Heritage Festival. Mohanam’s programs celebrate the richness of Tamil culture while embracing contemporary influences. In addition to these vibrant arts initiatives, the centre fosters education with its innovative kindergarten program, empowers women through skills training and its Mohanam Malargal House, and actively contributes to community development projects focused on environmental safety, health, and hygiene. After receiving a traditional welcome to the cultural centre, our visit will include an introductory tour of the village, a visit to their bamboo farm and lesson in Kolam making, a traditional dance and musical performance and a tamil style lunch which is typically served on banana leaves. Your Mohanam experience will leave you with a deep appreciation for the local culture, knowing your visit directly supports those the center helps. This afternoon, we head to Tanjore!. OVERNIGHT:. Tanjore hotel. MEALS:. Breakfast. EXTRAS:. NULL
Day 5 Day 5: Visit The Brihadeeswarar Temple In Tanjore. Afternoon Drive To Madurai
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 5: Visit The Brihadeeswarar Temple In Tanjore. Afternoon Drive To Madurai

Tanjore, nestled in the heart of Tamil Nadu, is a city steeped in history and artistic brilliance. Renowned as the cradle of Chola art and architecture, Tanjore’s crown jewel is the magnificent Brihadeeswarar Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and this will be the focus of our sightseeing this morning. This temple stands as a testament to the Chola dynasty’s architectural prowess. With its towering vimana, intricate carvings, and the massive Nandi statue, it leaves visitors awestruck. In the afternoon we’ll continue south to the city of Madurai. OVERNIGHT:. Madurai hotel. MEALS:. Breakfast. EXTRAS:. NULL
Day 6 Day 6: Visiting The Old City Of Madurai, Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace And Spiritual Aarti Ceremony
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 6: Visiting The Old City Of Madurai, Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace And Spiritual Aarti Ceremony

Madurai, an ancient city in Tamil Nadu, pulses with a unique blend of history, spirituality, and vibrant culture. Renowned as the "Athens of the East," Madurai was once the seat of the Tamil Sangams, promoting a rich literary tradition. The city’s heart beats around the magnificent Meenakshi Amman Temple, an architectural masterpiece with towering gopurams, intricate carvings, and sacred rituals that draw pilgrims from across India. Madurai’s streets, filled with the sweet fragrance of jasmine, lead to bustling bazaars where you can find colorful textiles, delicious street food, and echoes of the city’s lively spirit. Madurai offers a window into India’s rich heritage and a glimpse of a city steeped in tradition yet brimming with modern energy. Our sightseeing in Madurai today will include the Old Town - where you can lose yourself in the maze of narrow streets lined with traditional homes, shops selling fragrant jasmine garlands, and small eateries serving up Madurai’s famous street food, The Grand Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace and the centre piece of Madurai, the Meenakshi Amman Temple where we’ll have time to explore and partake in the aarti ceremony this evening. OVERNIGHT:. Madurai hotel. MEALS:. Breakfast. EXTRAS:. NULL
Day 7 Day 7: Hop On The Indian Railway For The Journey From Madurai To Chennai
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 7: Hop On The Indian Railway For The Journey From Madurai To Chennai

Trains are the lifeblood of India, connecting people and places across the vast country. A train journey offers a unique glimpse into Indian life, culture, landscapes and you’ll often meet interesting characters onboard. Today’s journey from Madurai to Chennai takes approximately 6 hours and you’ll have some free time in Chennai in the afternoon to catch up on any last minute shopping before your tour comes to an end tomorrow. OVERNIGHT:. Chennai hotel. MEALS:. Breakfast. EXTRAS:. NULL
Day 8 Day 8: Bon Voyage! Transfer To Chennai Airport For Departure.
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 8: Bon Voyage! Transfer To Chennai Airport For Departure.

You have some free time to buy any gifts for your loved ones back home before we transfer you to the airport to catch your flight back home. If one week wasn’t enough, why not consider our South India Uncovered tour, which combines the best of Tamil Nadu and Kerala. OVERNIGHT:. N/A. MEALS:. Breakfast. EXTRAS:. NULL

8 days tour

Temples & Spices

This tour includes:

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Itinerary of your trip Temples & Spices

Day 1: Welcome To Chennai. Transfer To Your Hotel.

Day 2: Travel To Pondicherry Via The Unesco Listed Mahabalipuram Temples

Day 3: Exploring Picturesque Pondicherry

Day 4: Learn About Local Culture And Arts At The Mohanam Cultural Centre. Drive To Tanjore

Day 5: Visit The Brihadeeswarar Temple In Tanjore. Afternoon Drive To Madurai

Day 6: Visiting The Old City Of Madurai, Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace And Spiritual Aarti Ceremony

Day 7: Hop On The Indian Railway For The Journey From Madurai To Chennai

Day 8: Bon Voyage! Transfer To Chennai Airport For Departure.

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