Country of Gods & God’S Own Country

Day 1: ARRIVE CHENNAI

Ornare proin neque tempus cubilia cubilia blandit netus.
Maecenas massa. Fermentum.

• Arrive Delhi by international flight
• Meeting and assistance by ‘WAITE’ representative and transfer to the hotel where room will be protected for immediate occupancy.

Overnight in Chennai

Day 2: A DAY IN CHENNAI

Breakfast at the hotel
Morning: Sightseeing Tour of Chennai
Visit the Marina Beach – Chennai’s Marina Beach is famous around the world for being the second-longest urban beach in the world. It is counted among the most popular beaches in India and is undoubtedly Chennai’s biggest landmark.

Visit Fort St. George – The other major landmark that is crucial to the very existence of Chennai is the Fort St. George. It was the first British centre of power in the southern part of the country and continues to be the seat of the Government of Tamil Nadu since independence.

Visit the Fort Museum – Located within the Fort St. George compound, the Fort Museum is Chennai’s go-to place for anyone with an interest in Chennai/Madras’ British heritage.

Visit the St. Mary’s Church – Famous for being the first Anglican church in India, the St. Mary’s Church is also located inside the Fort St. George compound and continues to be an important Christian religious centre in the city.
Visit the Kapaleeswarar Temple – With a history going back nearly 1300 years, the Kapaleeswarar Temple is one of the oldest places of worship in the city. Apart from being a religious landmark, the temple is a major centre of culture and regularly hosts several classical music and dance performances.

Visit the San Thome Bascilica – Constructed in the year 1523 by the Portuguese, the Santhome Basilica in Chennai’s Mylapore neighbourhood is an important Christian site in not just Chennai but all over the world. Said to be one of the only three basilicas in the entire world to be constructed over the tomb of a direct Apostle of Jesus Christ.

Visit the Government Museum – Counted among India’s first and oldest public museums, the Government Museum complex in Egmore’s Pantheon Road has been one of Chennai’s most famous recreational and educational attractions for more than 160 years. After visits, return to the hotel

Overnight in Chennai

Day 3:  CHENNAI MAHABALIPURAM

⦁ Breakfast at the hotel
⦁ Morning: Leave Chennai for Mahabalipuram visiting Kanchipuram enroute
⦁ The distance is about 145 kms and the drive would take about 6 ½ hours including visits
Visit the Kailasanathar Temple: Constructed in the Dravidian style of architecture. This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is probably the oldest structure in Kanchipuram.

Visit the Ekambaranatha Temple – The Ekambaranatha Temple is the largest temple in Kanchipuram. It covers a massive area of 20 acres. This temple is also dedicated to Lord Shiva, and was built by the Pallavas and then in turn was renovated by both the Cholas and the Rayas.

Visit a Silk Weaving Centre – A famous king of the Chola dynasty ruled Kanchipuram between the years 985 and 1014, who took an initiative of silk trade. It was during the reign of Krishna-Deva Raya, when the famous weaving communities of Andhra Pradesh, the Devangas and Saligars, migrated to Kanchipuram. Thus, occurred the historical migration of the entire silk industry in the 15th century, to this city.
⦁ On arrival in Mahabalipuram, check-in at the hotel
⦁ Afternoon: Sightseeing Tour of Mahabalipuram

Visit the Shore Temple – Dating back to the 8th century AD, Shore Temple is one of the oldest temples which represent the ancient designs, carving art and constructions. It is claimed to be a part of Seven Pagodas by the legends and is one of the finest places to visit in Mahabalipuram.

Visit Arjuna’s Penance – It is one of the greatest and ancient artworks inscribed in two monolithic rock boulders. This work of art brilliantly highlights Arjuna doing his penance in order to gratify Lord Shiva to get his celestial weapon.

Visit the Panch Rathas – This is another intriguing complex that is full of architectural beauty. It lies near the southern end of the Mahabalipuram town and houses five chariots or pancha rathas that are skilfully carved out of a granite rock in Dravidian architectural style. These five chariots are named after the Pandavas from the Mahabharata era.

Visit Krishna’s Buttel Ball – Perched on a steep rock slope, this massive round boulder known as Krishna’s Butter Ball refuses to give in to gravity. The giant boulder appears to be frozen in its roll down the hill it sits on, and no one is quite sure why. This huge boulder is likely a glacial erratic that got stranded in a serendipitous position on the hill.

Overnight in Mahabalipuram

Day 4: MAHABALIPURAM PUDUCHERRY (PONDICHERRY)

⦁ Breakfast at the hotel
⦁ After a leisurely morning, leave Mahabalipuram for Poncicherry by road
⦁ The distance is about 100 kms and the drive would take about 2 hours
⦁ On arrival, check-in at the hotel
⦁ Afternoon: Sightseeing Tour of Pondicherry
This former French colony is a perfect amalgamation of the traditional Indian sensibilities and French architecture.

Visit the French Quarters – The streets of the French Quarter of Puducherry, also known as White Town, are dotted with charming mustard-yellow colonial structures with bougainvillaea laden walls. These are interspersed with cosy cafes and chic boutiques that offer delectable French cuisine and beverages. Simply strolling down these streets, can give the traveller an insight into the fairy-tale charm of Puducherry.
Visit the Tamil Quarters – In size, the Tamil Quarter or the Black Town dwarfs the French Quarter, being a good 3 – 4 times larger. In typical colonial fashion, the quarter is further segregated into a Hindu Quarter to the North, and Christian (Catholic) Quarter west and centre, and a Muslim Quarter to the South, each of which have their own unique architecture and places of worship.

Visit Sri Aurobindo Ashram – Located in the White Town of Pondicherry, Aurobindo Ashram has been named after its creator- Sri Aurobindo Ghosh. This ashram was set up with the aim of helping people attain moksha and inner peace.

Visit Auroville (subject to permissiona) – Auroville is one of those towns which appear to come to life right out of fiction. This township runs on the principles of peace, harmony, sustainable living and ‘divine consciousness’ which was the philosophy of the Mother of Sri Aurobindo Society, Mirra Alfassa

Overnight in Puducherry

Day 5: PONDICHERRY/THANJAVUR

⦁ Breakfast at the hotel
⦁ Leave Pondicherry for Thanjavur visiting Chidambaram, Gangaikonda Cholapuram and Darasuram enroute
⦁ The distance is about 190 kms and the drive would take 8 hours including visits
Visit the temple at Chidambaram – The temple is spread over 40 acres in the heart of Chidambaram. Its name suggests the main deity of the temple, the dancing form of Lord Shiva. The construction of the temple was supported by many southern dynasties like Cholas, Pallavas, Nayakas, Pandyas, and Vijayanagar Kings. The temple has huge colorful main entrances in its four directions (North, South, East, West) with the eastern gate being the main entrance of the temple. There are a total of 9 gateways to the temple.

Visit the Shiva Temple at Gangaikonda Cholapuram – This majestic Shiva temple is the main attraction of Gangaikonda Cholapuram. The magnificent temple was constructed by the Chola King Rajendra Chola I in the year 1025 CE. The temple has been accorded the status of World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

Visit the temple at Darasuram – The great Dravidian Architecture style temple was built during 12th century by great Chola king Rajaraha II. The temple was much larger than today, as the gopurams, the complex was all destroyed but still court, main shrine and other sanctum still stand today.
⦁ On arrival in Thanjavur, check-in at the hotel.

Day 6: A DAY IN THANJAVUR

⦁ Breakfast at the hotel
⦁ Full Day Tour of Thanjavur

Visit the Brihadeeshwara Temple – This famous Temple was built in the period from 1003-1010 by the Chola King, Raja Raja Chola I is an amazing example of Dravidian architecture and art. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple is one of the largest temples in South India and attracts thousands of pilgrims and visitors.

Visit the Thanjavur Fort/Palace – Tanjore Palace was built by the Nayaks and was briefly also their primary residence up until the Maratha Empire annexed Thanjavur. Thereafter, the palace was known as the Tanjore Maratha Palace and served as the official residence of the Thanjavur Marathas.

The fort also houses the Saraswathi Mahal Library, which is described as one of the most remarkable libraries across the Indian subcontinent. The library dates back to the 16th-17th century, when, much like the Tanjore Palace, it was constructed by the Nayaks and later nurtured by the Maratha rulers. The library holds books and written compilations from medieval India, recording the culture and art from those periods. Stories, lore, and texts about gods, saints, wars, and weapons from that era can be found intact in the grand library.

Visit the Bangaru Kamakshi Amman Temple -Famous for its history and the idol that it houses, the temple stands witness to the great artistic feats of South India during the mediaeval period. ‘Bangaru’ translates to ‘golden’, which means that the name of the temple translates to the Temple of Golden Mother Kamakshi.

Overnight in Thanjavur

Day 7: THANJAVUR MADURAI

⦁ Breakfast at the hotel
⦁ Leave Thanjavur for Madurai visiting Trichy enroute
⦁ The distance is about 200 kms and drive would take about 6 hours including visits
⦁ Visits in Trichy

Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple – Constructed in the Dravidian style of architecture, Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple is the foremost of the eight self-manifested shrines of Lord Vishnu. Built across an area of 156 acres, this temple is dedicated to Ranganatha, a reclining form of Hindu deity, Lord Vishnu. This temple lies on an island formed by the twin Rivers Cauvery and Kollidam. Though the temple existing since the 2nd century BC, the archaeological inscriptions are available only from the 10th century CE.

Visit the Rock Fort – Perched on a large rock with a height of 85 meters, the temple was initially built by the Pallavas but the Nayaks made use of its naturally fortified position and designed it as a fort. There are 344 steps carved out of rock lead to the top. The fort complex has witnessed fierce battles between Madurai Nayakas and Bijapur, Carnatic, and Maratha forces. The fort played an important part during the Carnatic wars, helping lay the foundations of the British Empire in India. The Rock Fort is the most prominent landmark of the city.

⦁ After visits, drive on to Madurai and on arrival, check-in at the hotel
⦁ Afternoon: Sightseeing Tour of Madurai
Visit the Meenakshi Amman Temple – The 17th-century Temple is a must-see South Indian temple and the focal point of Madurai. Apparently, the city was built around the Shiva lingam that’s inside the temple’s inner sanctum. The temple complex covers an extensive 15 acres, including the Hall of a Thousand Pillars and 14 towers that can be seen from across the city.

Visit the Thirumalai Nayak Palace – Southeast of Meenakshi Temple, Thirumalai Nayak Palace is Madurai’s second-biggest attraction. King Thirumalai Nayak built it as his residential palace in 1636 with the input of an Italian architect and it’s a classic fusion of Dravidian and Islamic styles. The palace’s distinguishing feature is its pillars and there are more than 240 of them.

Evening: Attend the Night Ceremony at the Meenakshi Amman Temple – As the evening draws in experience the extraordinary ‘Going to Bed Ceremony’ at Sri Meenakshi Temple. Each night the image of Shiva (in the form of Sundareswarar) is carried from his shrine to join his consort Parvati (in the form of Meenakshi) at hers, in another part of the temple. Each morning he is returned to his own place of rest. Please note non-Hindus are not allowed to enter the Temple’s main sanctum area but can witness the ceremony from a gallery outside.

Overnight in Madurai

Day 8: MADURAI THEKKADY (PERIYAR)

⦁ Breakfast at the hotel
⦁ Leave Madurai for Thekkady by road
⦁ The distance is about 150 kms and the drive would take about 3 ½ hours
⦁ On arrival, check-in at the hotel
⦁ Afternoon: Visit a Spice Plantation and spend an hour with an elephant
An hour with the Elephant is a pilot programme offered by the Periyar Tiger Park and spice plantations in Thekkady. One of the most popular activities in Thekkady, the programme includes elephant rides, elephant bath, photo sessions, elephant shower, and elephant feeding.

Overnight in Thekkady (Periyar)

Day 9: THEKKADY (PERIYAR) KUMARAKOM

⦁ Early Morning: Visit the proceed for a boat ride on Paraiyar Lake to see the wildlife

Sprawled over an area of over 925 sq. kilometers, Periyar Wildlife is one India’s 27 tiger reserves and the single biggest draw of visitors to Thekkady. The sanctuary is ardently guarded and efficiently managed, helping several highly endangered and endemic species of flora and fauna to thrive in the vast expanse of the sanctuary
⦁ Breakfast at the hotel
⦁ After a leisurely morning, leave Thekkady for Kumarakom by road
⦁ The distance is about 130 kms and drive would take about 3 ½ hours
⦁ On arrival, check-in at the hotel
⦁ Evening: Sunset Boat Ride on Vembanad Lake

Overnight in Kumarakom

Day 10: KUMARAKOM HOUSEBOAT ALAPPUZHA (ALLEPPEY)

⦁ Early Morning: Visit the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary
⦁ Breakfast at the hotel
⦁ Morning: Walking Tour of Kumarakom Village
⦁ Later embark on a houseboat to cruise through the backwaters (Vembanad Lake) towards Alappuzha
⦁ Take short shore excursions during the cruise
Kerala houseboats are designed keeping in mind the comfort of the tourist for cruising across backwaters and overnight stay. They are well equipped with all the modern amenities for comfortable stay. Therefore, it can be considered as floating home with the luxuries provided, gliding across the backwaters. These provide the opportunities to have glimpses of nature and local life of Kerala, while enjoying the tropical climate.
⦁ Lunch on board houseboat
⦁ The houseboat will be docked before sunset for overnight
⦁ Dinner on board houseboat

Overnight on-Board Houseboat

Day 11: ALAPPUZHA KOCHI (COCHIN)

⦁ Breakfast on board houseboat
⦁ Dis-embark the houseboat at Alappuzha and drive to Kochi
⦁ The distance is about 60 kms and the drive would take about 1 ½ hours
⦁ On arrival, check-in at the hotel
⦁ Afternoon: Sightseeing Tour of Fort Kochi
Visit Mattancherry Palace – Popularly known as the Dutch Palace, the Mattancherry Palace is now a museum displaying paraphernalia belonging to the Rajas of Kochi.
Visit the Jew Town, which is one of the oldest parts of the Kochi. It was here that the Jews first settled in India in around 700 BC and were here till they moved to Israel.

Visit the Jewish Synagogue. Also known as Paradesi Synagogue or Mattancherry Synagogue, Cochin Synagogue is the oldest active synagogue, not just in Kochi but in the Commonwealth of Nations.

Visit the Chinese Fishing Nets – Popularly known as Cheenavala, the Chinese Fishing Nets are the most iconic and popular attractions of Kerala peculiar to Kochi. One of the significant cultural symbols of Kerala, the spot is also one of the most photographed places in all of the town.

Visit the St. Francis Church – This finely exhibits Portuguese architecture and is believed to be one of a kind amongst all the European churches which were constructed in India.
⦁ Afternoon: At leisure or free for shopping
⦁ Evening: Cooking Demonstration and Dinner with a local family

Overnight in Kochi

Day 12: DEPART KOCHI

⦁ Breakfast at the hotel
⦁ Morning: At leisure or for shopping
⦁ Late afternoon: Transfer to airport to board onward international flight