Description
From Temples to Taj: A 17-Day Indian Odyssey
Chennai / Kanchipuram / Pondicherry / Tanjore / Trichy / Madurai / Periyar / Cochin / Delhi / Agra / Jaipur / Benares / Sarnath / Delhi
Bullet Itinerary:
Day 1: Chennai
- Welcome and hotel transfer
- Explore Chennai: Shiva Temple, Old Church, Marina Beach, Fort Museum, George Town Bazaar, Government Museum
- Overnight in Chennai
Day 2: Chennai – Kanchipuram – Pondicherry
- Breakfast and departure to Pondicherry via Kanchipuram
- Visit Kanchipuram: Shiva Temple, Silk Weaving Factory
- Arrival in Pondicherry and check-in
- Overnight in Pondicherry
Day 3: Pondicherry
- Breakfast and exploration of Pondicherry: French Quarter, Sri Aurobindo Ashram, Ganesha Temple
- Free time for personal exploration
- Overnight in Pondicherry
Day 4: Pondicherry – Tanjore – Trichy
- Breakfast and departure to Trichy via Tanjore
- Visit Brihadishvara Temple, Lunch in Tanjore
- Arrival in Trichy and check-in
- Overnight in Trichy
Day 5: Trichy – Madurai
- Breakfast and departure to Madurai
- Visit Tirumalai Nayak Palace, Meenakshi Temple
- Free time for shopping
- Overnight in Madurai
Day 6: Madurai – Periyar
- Breakfast and departure to Periyar
- Arrival, check-in, and Ayurvedic massage
- Overnight in Periyar
Day 7: Periyar
- Breakfast and 2-hour boat ride on Periyar Lake
- Visit Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Spice and Coffee Gardens
- Free time in the evening
- Overnight in Periyar
Day 8: Periyar – Cochin
- Breakfast and departure to Cochin
- Arrival and exploration of Cochin: Raja’s Palace, St. Francis Church, Chinese Fishing Nets
- Shopping in Cochin
- Overnight in Cochin
Day 9: Cochin – Delhi
- Breakfast and flight to Delhi
- Arrival and hotel transfer
- Overnight in Delhi
Day 10: Delhi – Agra
- Breakfast and road trip to Agra
- Visit Taj Mahal, Red Fort
- Overnight in Agra
Day 11: Agra – Jaipur
- Breakfast and departure to Jaipur
- Arrival and check-in
- Overnight in Jaipur
Day 12: Jaipur
- Breakfast and visit to Amber Fort with Elephant Ride
- Sari demonstration, City Palace, Hawa Mahal
- Overnight in Jaipur
Day 13: Jaipur – Delhi – Benares
- Drive to Delhi, flight to Benares
- Arrival and check-in
- Overnight in Benares
Day 14: Benares
- Breakfast and excursion to Sarnath
- Evening Aarti ceremony by the Ganges River
- Overnight in Benares
Day 15: Benares – Delhi
- Breakfast and boat ride on the Ganges
- Explore Old Benares, flight to Delhi
- Arrival and hotel transfer
- Overnight in Delhi
Day 16: Delhi
- Breakfast and free day for exploration
- Overnight in Delhi
Day 17: Departure
- Transfer to the airport for onward journey
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Chennai
Welcome to Chennai! After your personalized transfer to the hotel, get ready to dive into the vibrant energy of this bustling metropolis, once known as Madras. As the capital of Tamil Nadu, Chennai is a melting pot of rich heritage, arts, sculpture, and architecture. Today, you’ll visit a temple dedicated to Shiva, explore an old church, and unwind at the famous Marina Beach.
You’ll also tour the Fort Museum, wander through the lively George Town Bazaar, and discover the Government Museum, home to a fascinating Bronze Gallery. After a day full of exploration, settle in for a cosy overnight stay at your hotel.
Marina Beach: Did you know Marina Beach is the longest natural urban beach in India? Stretching over 13 km, it’s not just a spot for sunbathing but also a place with deep historical roots, where many significant gatherings took place during India’s independence struggle.
Day 2: Chennai / Kanchipuram / Pondicherry
Start your day with a hearty breakfast before setting off for Pondicherry. On the way, you’ll stop at Kanchipuram, a city renowned for its exquisite silk production. While here, you’ll visit a stunning Shiva temple and get a behind-the-scenes look at a silk-weaving factory—watching the artisans at work is a real treat.
Next, you’ll head to Pondicherry, a charming former French colony and once the capital of French India. After arriving and checking into your hotel, relax and soak in the unique blend of French and Indian culture that makes this town so special.
Kanchipuram Silk: Kanchipuram isn’t just a temple town—it’s also the heart of a rich silk-weaving tradition. The city’s weavers are believed to be descendants of Sage Markanda, the master weaver for the gods in Hindu mythology, making every piece of silk here a little piece of history.
Day 3: Pondicherry
After breakfast, you’ll explore the picturesque French Quarter of Pondicherry, where colonial architecture meets tropical flair. The serene streets lined with bougainvillea-clad buildings will make you feel like you’ve stepped into a different world. Visit the Sri Aurobindo Ashram, now a centre for integral yoga, and pay a visit to the Ganesha Temple.
The afternoon is yours to wander and discover the many hidden gems of Pondicherry. End your day with an overnight stay at your hotel.
Day 4: Pondicherry / Tanjore / Trichy
Enjoy breakfast before departing for Trichy, with a stop at Tanjore on the way. Tanjore, also known as the city of Chola kings, is famed for the magnificent Brihadishvara Temple, an awe-inspiring Shivaite shrine with exquisite bronze sculptures. After a leisurely lunch in Tanjore, continue your journey to Trichy, where you’ll check into your hotel and settle in for the night.
Brihadishvara Temple: This temple isn’t just an architectural masterpiece; it’s a UNESCO World Heritage site. The main temple tower, known as the ‘Vimana,’ is one of the tallest in the world, and unbelievably, it was built without any modern cranes or machinery. The engineering marvels of ancient India never cease to amaze!
Day 5: Trichy / Madurai
After breakfast, it’s off to Madurai, the spiritual heart of Tamil Nadu. Your first stop is the grand Tirumalai Nayak Palace, followed by a visit to the iconic Meenakshi Temple. While the Sanctum Sanctorum of the temple isn’t open to visitors, the intricate details and vibrant atmosphere will leave you mesmerized.
Later, enjoy some free time to indulge in a bit of shopping or perhaps get some custom-made clothing. After a day full of discovery, unwind with an overnight stay at your hotel.
Meenakshi Temple: This isn’t just a temple—it was once the epicentre of Madurai’s ancient Tamil Sangam, where poets and scholars gathered to share their works. If you visit the ‘Hall of a Thousand Pillars,’ try tapping on the pillars; each one produces a different musical note!
Day 6: Madurai / Periyar
After breakfast, you’ll make your way to the serene surroundings of Periyar. Upon arrival, check-in and take some time to relax. Maybe treat yourself to an Ayurvedic massage, a traditional Indian practice that is as rejuvenating as it is relaxing. End your day with a peaceful overnight stay at your hotel.
Day 7: Periyar
Start your day with breakfast before embarking on a 2-hour boat ride across Periyar Lake, which winds through the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. Keep your eyes peeled for elephants, tigers, gazelles, and rhinoceroses as you float through this natural haven.
Later, explore the lush spice and coffee gardens, and enjoy some free time in the evening—Periyar is the perfect place to pick up some spices, coffee, or tea as souvenirs.
Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary: Fun fact— the British created Periyar Lake in 1895 for irrigation purposes. Today, it’s a thriving ecosystem teeming with wildlife. Who knew that a British engineering project would turn into a natural paradise?
Day 8: Periyar / Cochin
After breakfast, you’ll head to Cochin, where you’ll explore this historic and picturesque city. As one of the oldest cities in Kerala, Cochin is a treasure trove of history. You’ll visit the Raja’s Palace (Dutch Palace), St. Francis Church (built by the Portuguese), and the famous Chinese fishing nets.
Later, check out the bustling market near your hotel—perfect for picking up some jewellery, clothes, and other unique finds. End your day with an overnight stay at your hotel.
Chinese Fishing Nets: These iconic fishing nets were brought to Cochin by Chinese explorers from the court of Kublai Khan centuries ago. They are still in use today, making Cochin one of the few places outside China where you can see this ancient fishing technique in action!
Day 9: Cochin / Delhi
Enjoy breakfast before transferring to Cochin Airport for your flight to Delhi. Upon arrival, you’ll be whisked away to your hotel for a relaxing overnight stay.
Day 10: Delhi / Agra
After breakfast, depart for Agra by road. Once you arrive and check into your hotel, get ready to explore the treasures of Mughal art and architecture. Your first stop is the Taj Mahal, a breathtaking white marble mausoleum built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal. Set in a lush garden on the banks of the Yamuna River, the Taj is adorned with intricate inlays of semi-precious stones—it’s a sight you won’t soon forget.
Next, visit the Red Fort, a stunning example of Mughal architecture, with palaces, audience halls, gardens, pools, and mosques. Fun fact: Shah Jahan was imprisoned here by his son, but at least he had a view of the Taj Mahal from his cell. End your day with an overnight stay at your hotel.
Taj Mahal: There’s a popular myth that the artisans who worked on the Taj Mahal had their hands cut off so they could never create anything as beautiful again. While this is just a myth, it adds to the Taj’s mystique, don’t you think?
Day 11: Agra / Jaipur
After breakfast, hit the road for Jaipur, the vibrant capital of Rajasthan. Once you arrive and check into your hotel, relax and get ready to explore this colourful city tomorrow.
Day 12: Jaipur
Start your day with breakfast before visiting the magnificent Amber Fort, the former capital of the Rajput Empire. You’ll ride an elephant up to the fort and explore its beautiful palace rooms and a small temple dedicated to the goddess Kali, all set around a lovely Mughal garden.
In the late morning, enjoy a sari demonstration at a local shop, followed by a tour of Jaipur, the “Pink City.” You will visit the City Palace, the Maharaja’s residence, known for its impressive weaponry and costume collections. Then, take a stroll around the famous Hawa Mahal (Palace of the Winds), Jaipur’s most iconic building, with its grand pink sandstone facade.
End your day with an overnight stay at your hotel.
Hawa Mahal: The intricate latticework of the Hawa Mahal allowed royal women to observe street festivals while remaining unseen. Plus, the design keeps the palace cool during those scorching Rajasthani summers—a real architectural marvel!
Day 13: Jaipur / Delhi / Benares
After breakfast, drive to Delhi and catch your flight to Benares. Upon arrival, check into your hotel for a restful overnight stay.
Day 14: Benares
After breakfast, take an excursion to Sarnath, a major Buddhist pilgrimage site. In the evening, witness the mesmerizing Aarti ceremony by the Ganges River, a spiritual experience you will not want to miss. End your day with an overnight stay at your hotel.
Sarnath: After achieving enlightenment, Buddha gave his first sermon here in Sarnath. The Dhamek Stupa marks the spot where this sermon, known as the “Turning of the Wheel of Law,” was delivered, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in Buddhist history.
Day 15: Benares / Delhi
Start your day with a peaceful boat ride along the ghats of the Ganges River, followed by a stroll through the old city of Benares. Later, transfer to the airport for your flight back to Delhi. Upon arrival, check into your hotel for your final overnight stay in India.
Day 16: Delhi
Enjoy a full day at leisure in Delhi. You can explore more of the city’s landmarks, shop for souvenirs, or simply relax at your hotel.
Day 17: Departure
After breakfast, you’ll be transferred to the airport for your onward journey, carrying with you memories of a rich and diverse Indian experience.
What Makes This Tour Unique?
This tour offers a perfect blend of cultural immersion, historical exploration, and spiritual enrichment, covering both South and North India’s most iconic and lesser-known destinations. You will explore vibrant cities, ancient temples, and serene landscapes, all while experiencing the diverse traditions and architectural marvels that define India’s rich heritage.
From the French colonial charm of Pondicherry to the Mughal grandeur of Agra and the spiritual sanctity of Benares, each destination on this journey offers a unique insight into the country’s multifaceted culture. The carefully curated itinerary ensures a deep connection with India’s past and present, making it an unforgettable experience for any traveler.
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