Itinerary

Day 1, Madurai

Start this tour in Madurai, just 4 hours drive from Thekkady. Here you find the magnificent Meenakshi Temple complex whose soaring temple towers are covered with stucco figures of deities, mythical animals and monsters, painted in vivid colours.

Stay at Royal Court for two nights

Day 2, Madurai

Enjoy sightseeing of Madurai, the Meenakshi temple in the heart of the old town and the Tirumalai Nayak Palace where dance concerts are performed daily.

Day 3, Madurai to Thanjavur

Drive to Thanjavur via Trichy where you visit the Rock Fort and the superb Srirangam Temple complex, probably the largest in India. In Thanjavur visit the extraordinary 10th century Brihadeshwara Temple, now a World Heritage monument.

Stay at Ideal River View Resort

Day 4, Thanjavur to Pondicherry

Drive to Pondicherry (2 hrs), a small town of multi-coloured villas, quiet, tree shaded lanes and a long boulevard along the sea. There are some delightful small heritage hotels reflecting the French influence.

Stay at Coloniale Heritage

Day 5, Pondicherry to Mamallapuram

The coastal road leads to Mamallapuram (2 hrs), just south of Chennai. The 7th-century complex of monolithic rock-cut shrines and legendary Shore Temple are now a World Heritage Site. The stunning archaeological remains co-exist with a long white-sand beach, making Mamallapuram a favourite destination for travellers.

Stay at Sea Breeze Hotel

Day 6, Onwards from Mamallapuram

From Mamallapuram, it is just an hour drive to Chennai airport where you can connect with your onward travel.