Temples & Spices

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.

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.

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!

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.