Culture of Tamil Nadu Including Thanjavur Tour Package

Chennai to Kanchipuram

1. Breakfast at the Hotel:

• Time: Start your day with breakfast at your hotel in Chennai.

2. Drive to Kanchipuram:

• Travel: Check out from your Chennai hotel and drive to Kanchipuram, approximately 70 kilometers away. The drive usually takes around 1.5 to 2 hours.

3. Arrival in Kanchipuram:

• Check-In: On arrival in Kanchipuram, check in to your hotel and freshen up.

4. Sightseeing in Kanchipuram:

• Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary:
  • Significance: Located about 20 kilometers from Kanchipuram, this sanctuary is one of the oldest bird sanctuaries in India.
  • Highlights: Explore the sanctuary, home to various migratory bird species. The best time to visit is during the migratory season, from November to March.
• Kanchi Kailasanathar Temple:
  • Significance: This 8th-century temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is one of the oldest temples in Kanchipuram and is known for its early Dravidian architecture.
  • Highlights: Admire the intricate carvings and the architectural design, showcasing early Chola period artistry.
• Varadaraja Temple:
  • Significance: A significant Vaishnavite temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, known for its magnificent architecture and religious importance.
  • Highlights: Explore the expansive temple complex, including its beautiful halls, towering gopurams (gateway towers), and detailed sculptures.

5. Evening at Leisure:

• Options: Spend the evening at your leisure. You may choose to relax at the hotel or explore the local area at your own pace.

6. Dinner:

• Options: Enjoy dinner at your hotel or explore nearby dining options that offer local cuisine.

7. Overnight Stay:

• Hotel: Overnight stay at your hotel in Kanchipuram.

Kanchipuram to Mahabalipuram

1. Breakfast at the Hotel:

• Time: Start your day with breakfast at your hotel in Kanchipuram.

2. Drive to Mahabalipuram:

• Travel: Check out from your hotel and drive to Mahabalipuram, which is approximately 60 kilometers away. The drive usually takes around 1.5 to 2 hours.

3. En-Route Visit to Dakshina Chitra:

• Dakshina Chitra:
  • Significance: Dakshina Chitra is a cultural center showcasing the art, architecture, and lifestyle of South India.
  • Highlights: Explore traditional homes, crafts, and live cultural performances from Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh. This stop provides an engaging introduction to South Indian culture.

4. Arrival in Mahabalipuram:

• Check-In: Upon arrival in Mahabalipuram, check in to your resort and freshen up.

5. Afternoon Sightseeing in Mahabalipuram:

• Shore Temple:
  • Significance: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this ancient temple complex is renowned for its Dravidian architecture and its picturesque location by the sea.
  • Highlights: Admire the intricately carved sculptures and the serene seafront setting.
• Five Rathas (Pancha Rathas):
  • Significance: These rock-cut temples are dedicated to the Pandava brothers from the Mahabharata epic and showcase various styles of temple architecture.
  • Highlights: Explore the different rathas, each with unique carvings and architectural features.
• Arjuna’s Penance:
  • Significance: This massive bas-relief depicts scenes from Hindu mythology and is one of the largest rock carvings in India.
  • Highlights: Marvel at the detailed carvings and mythological stories etched into the rock face.
• Tiger Cave:
  • Significance: An ancient rock-cut temple known for its unique carvings of tigers and other motifs.
  • Highlights: Explore the cave and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

6. Evening at Leisure:

• Beach Time: Spend the rest of the evening relaxing on the beach. Mahabalipuram is known for its beautiful coastline, so you can enjoy activities like sunbathing, swimming, or taking a leisurely walk along the shore.

7. Dinner:

• Options: Enjoy dinner at your resort or explore nearby dining options offering local seafood and South Indian cuisine.

8. Overnight Stay:

• Resort: Overnight stay at your resort in Mahabalipuram.

Mahabalipuram to Pondicherry

1. Breakfast at the Resort:

• Time: Enjoy breakfast at your resort in Mahabalipuram.

2. Drive to Pondicherry:

• Travel: Check out from your resort and drive to Pondicherry, approximately 100 kilometers away. The journey typically takes around 2 to 2.5 hours.

3. Arrival in Pondicherry:

• Check-In: Upon arrival in Pondicherry, check in to your hotel and freshen up.

4. Sightseeing in Pondicherry:

• Auroville:
  • Significance: Auroville is an international community founded to promote peace, harmony, and sustainable living. It’s known for its unique architecture and holistic approach to living.
  • Highlights: Visit the Matrimandir, the central meditation dome, and explore the various international and community-run projects within Auroville.
• Aurobindo Ashram:
  • Significance: Founded by Sri Aurobindo and The Mother, this ashram is a center for spiritual practice and learning.
  • Highlights: Explore the serene ashram, including its meditation rooms and library. The ashram offers a peaceful environment conducive to reflection and learning.
• Government Museum:
  • Significance: The museum houses a collection of artifacts and exhibits related to the history and culture of Pondicherry and the surrounding region.
  • Highlights: View sculptures, archaeological finds, and historical artifacts that offer insights into the local heritage.
• Beach Along the City:
  • Significance: Pondicherry boasts a scenic coastline with charming beaches.
  • Highlights: Stroll along the Promenade Beach or Paradise Beach. Enjoy the coastal views, and relax by the sea.

5. Return to the Hotel:

• Relax: After a day of sightseeing, return to your hotel in Pondicherry.

6. Dinner:

• Options: Enjoy dinner at your hotel or explore local restaurants offering a range of cuisines including French, South Indian, and seafood.

7. Overnight Stay:

• Hotel: Overnight stay at your hotel in Pondicherry.

Pondicherry to Kumbakonam

1. Breakfast at the Hotel:

• Time: Begin your day with breakfast at your hotel in Pondicherry.

2. Drive to Chidambaram:

• Travel: Check out from your hotel and drive to Chidambaram, which is approximately 70 kilometers away. The drive usually takes around 1.5 to 2 hours.

3. Visit Chidambaram:

• Nataraja Temple:
  • Significance: The Nataraja Temple is renowned for its grand architecture and its significance as a major Hindu pilgrimage site dedicated to Lord Shiva in his dancing form.
  • Highlights: Experience the intricate Dravidian architecture, the main deity Nataraja's grand sanctum, and participate in the rituals if desired.

4. Proceed to Vaitheeswaram:

• Travel: After your visit to Chidambaram, continue your journey to Vaitheeswaram, which is about 40 kilometers from Chidambaram. The drive usually takes around 1 hour.

5. Visit Vaitheeswaram and Nearby Temples:

• Vaitheeswaran Koil (Chevaai):
  • Significance: This ancient temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, also known as Vaitheeswaran, and is considered an important site for those seeking relief from ailments.
  • Highlights: Explore the temple and its healing traditions, which are associated with the cure of various illnesses.
• Thiruvengadu:
  • Significance: Thiruvengadu is an important site for the worship of Lord Shiva and is associated with the planet Mercury (Budha).
  • Highlights: Visit the ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and learn about its astrological significance.
• Keezha Perumpallam:
  • Significance: Keezha Perumpallam is known for its temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, where it is believed that the planet Ketu is worshipped.
  • Highlights: Explore the temple and its unique features.
• Thirunallar (Saneeswaran):
  • Significance: The temple at Thirunallar is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is an important pilgrimage site for worshipping the planet Saturn (Sani).
  • Highlights: Visit the temple and participate in rituals for alleviating the malefic effects of Saturn in one's horoscope.

6. Arrival in Kumbakonam:

• Check-In: After your visits, drive to Kumbakonam, which is approximately 40 kilometers from Vaitheeswaram. Check in to your hotel in Kumbakonam.

7. Evening at Leisure:

• Options: Spend the evening relaxing at your hotel or explore local dining options in Kumbakonam.

8. Dinner:

• Options: Enjoy dinner at your hotel or discover local restaurants offering regional Tamil Nadu cuisine.

9. Overnight Stay:

• Hotel: Overnight stay at your hotel in Kumbakonam.

Kumbakonam to Thanjavur

1. Breakfast at the Hotel:

• Time: Begin your day with breakfast at your hotel in Kumbakonam.

2. Visit Navagraha Temples:

• Navagraha Temples: These temples are dedicated to the nine planets of Hindu astrology, each associated with a specific deity. Your visits will include:
• Thirunageswaram (Rahu):
  • Significance: Dedicated to Rahu, one of the shadow planets in Hindu astrology.
  • Highlights: Explore the temple and understand its role in mitigating the negative effects of Rahu.
• Uppliappan (Perumal):
  • Significance: Dedicated to Perumal (Lord Vishnu), this temple is associated with the planet Venus (Shukra).
  • Highlights: Visit the temple and observe the unique deity and its rituals.
• Alangangudi (Guru):
  • Significance: This temple is dedicated to Jupiter (Guru), an important planet in Hindu astrology.
  • Highlights: Explore the temple and learn about its significance in astrological practices.
• Suriyanar Kovil (Sun):
  • Significance: Dedicated to the Sun God (Surya), this temple is important for worship related to the Sun.
  • Highlights: Visit the temple and witness its architectural beauty and rituals.
• Swamimali:
  • Significance: Known for its connection to Saturn (Sani) and its significance in astrological worship.
  • Highlights: Explore the temple and understand its role in spiritual practices related to Saturn.

3. Return to the Hotel:

• Rest: After visiting the Navagraha temples, return to your hotel in Kumbakonam.

4. Lunch:

• Options: Enjoy lunch at your hotel or a local restaurant.

5. Check-Out from Kumbakonam Hotel:

• Process: Complete the check-out process and prepare for your journey to Thanjavur.

6. Drive to Thanjavur:

• Travel: Transfer to Thanjavur, approximately 40 kilometers from Kumbakonam. The drive typically takes around 1 hour.

7. Visit Thanjavur Temples:

• Kanjanur (Sukran):
  • Significance: Dedicated to the planet Venus (Sukra), this temple is crucial for those seeking to mitigate the effects of Venus.
  • Highlights: Explore the temple and its astrological significance.
• Thanjavur Big Temple (Brihadeeswarar Temple):
  • Significance: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this grand temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is an architectural marvel of the Chola dynasty.
  • Highlights: Admire the towering vimana (temple tower), intricate sculptures, and vast courtyards. The temple's grandeur and historical significance are remarkable.

8. Arrival in Thanjavur:

• Check-In: Upon arrival in Thanjavur, check in to your hotel and freshen up.

9. Evening at Leisure:

• Options: Relax at your hotel or explore local dining options.

10. Dinner:

• Options: Enjoy dinner at your hotel or at a local restaurant offering regional Tamil Nadu cuisine.

11. Overnight Stay:

• Hotel: Overnight stay at your hotel in Thanjavur.

Thanjavur to Tiruchi

1. Breakfast at the Hotel:

• Time: Start your day with breakfast at your hotel in Thanjavur.

2. Drive to Tiruchi:

• Travel: Check out from your hotel and drive to Tiruchi, approximately 90 kilometers away. The drive usually takes around 2 hours.

3. Arrival in Tiruchi:

• Check-In: On arrival in Tiruchi, check in to your hotel and freshen up.

4. Sightseeing in Tiruchi:

• Srirangam Temple:
  • Significance: One of the largest and most important Vaishnavite temples in South India, dedicated to Lord Vishnu in his Ranganatha form.
  • Highlights: Explore the sprawling temple complex, with its towering gopurams (gateway towers), intricately carved halls, and sacred tanks.
• Rock Fort Temple:
  • Significance: This historic temple complex is perched on a massive rock and offers stunning panoramic views of the city.
  • Highlights: Climb the rock to visit the Ucchi Pillayar Temple (dedicated to Lord Ganesha) and the Lower Rock Fort Temple dedicated to Shiva. The climb is a bit challenging but rewarding with its views.

5. Optional Exploration (If Time Permits):

• Moovar Koil Temple at Kodumbalur:
  • Significance: Known for its ancient Chola-era rock-cut temples and sculptures.
  • Highlights: Explore the historic temples and intricate carvings, reflecting the rich artistry of the Chola dynasty.
• Ancient Cave Temples of the Jains at Sittannavasal:
  • Significance: Famous for its Jain cave temples and stunning frescoes.
  • Highlights: Admire the ancient Jain carvings and the beautiful frescoes that depict scenes from Jain traditions.
• Pudukottai:
  • Significance: Home to various ancient temples and historical sites.
  • Highlights: Visit the temples and learn about the region’s historical significance.

6. Return to the Hotel:

• Relax: After a day of exploration, return to your hotel in Tiruchi.

7. Dinner:

• Options: Enjoy dinner at your hotel or explore local dining options offering regional cuisine.

8. Overnight Stay:

• Hotel: Overnight stay at your hotel in Tiruchi.

Tiruchi to Madurai via Karaikudi

1. Breakfast at the Hotel:

• Time: Start your day with breakfast at your hotel in Tiruchi.

2. Drive to Karaikudi:

• Travel: Check out from your hotel and drive to Karaikudi, approximately 80 kilometers away. The drive usually takes around 2 hours.

3. Explore Karaikudi:

• Fortress-Like Homes:
  • Significance: Karaikudi is known for its distinctive Chettinad architecture, characterized by grand mansions with intricate woodwork and spacious courtyards.
  • Highlights: Visit some of the renowned Chettinad homes and admire their architectural beauty, including detailed carvings, elaborate ceilings, and traditional furniture.
• Temples:
  • Significance: The region is home to several ancient temples with unique architectural styles.
  • Highlights: Explore notable temples such as the Karpaga Vinayakar Temple and the Pillaiyarpatti Temple, each known for its intricate sculptures and historical significance.
• Palaces and Mansions:
  • Significance: Karaikudi boasts several old palaces and mansions that reflect the opulence of the Chettiar community.
  • Highlights: Visit some of these historic buildings to get a glimpse into the grandeur of the past.

4. Drive to Madurai:

• Travel: After your excursion in Karaikudi, drive to Madurai, which is approximately 120 kilometers away. The journey typically takes around 2.5 to 3 hours.

5. Arrival in Madurai:

• Check-In: On arrival in Madurai, check in to your hotel and freshen up.

6. Evening at Leisure:

• Options: Relax at your hotel or explore nearby dining options. You might enjoy a leisurely evening in the city, possibly visiting local markets or cafes.

7. Dinner:

• Options: Enjoy dinner at your hotel or discover local restaurants offering Madurai’s famed cuisine, such as traditional South Indian dishes.

8. Overnight Stay:

• Hotel: Overnight stay at your hotel in Madurai.

Departure from Madurai

1. Breakfast at the Hotel:

• Time: Enjoy breakfast at your hotel in Madurai.

2. Check-Out from the Hotel:

• Process: Complete the check-out process and prepare for your journey.

3. Transfer to Airport/Railway Station:

• Travel: Transfer to the Madurai Airport or Railway Station based on your departure mode.
• Timing: Ensure you leave with ample time to accommodate travel and check-in procedures.

4. Onward Journey:

• Flight/Train: Board your flight or train for your onward journey back home.

5. Farewell:

• Departure: Bid farewell to Madurai and take home the memories of your enriching travel experience through Tamil Nadu.