Southern Trail

Chennai, the capital of the state of Tamil Nadu, is one of the four major metropolitan in India. Elegantly placed in the shores of Coromande

Southern Trail

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Highlights

Chennai, the capital of the state of Tamil Nadu, is one of the four major metropolitan in India. Elegantly placed in the shores of Coromandel Coast, Chennai boast of a rich heritage, which is elaborately intertwined with the culture, traditions and living style of the people through generations. One of the prettiest metropolitan cities in India, Chennai perfectly mixes the elegance of past with the vibrancy of modernism. This contemporary city is often referred as the Gateway to the South India. Till 1639 what was a small fishing village on the coast of the Bay of Bengal, is today one of the most peaceful and green metropolis in India. The city has its share of forts and palaces reminding the tourists of its antiquity.

 

COST PROPOSAL

City

Hotel Name

No of Nights

New Delhi

Jaypee Vasant Continental

Fraser Suites

02 Nights

Mahabalipuram

Ideal Beach Resort

Mamalla Beach Resort

02 Nights

Madurai

Hotel Royal Court

Fortune Pandiyan

02 Nights

Karaikudi

Chettinadu Mansion

Thappa Gardens Resort

02 Nights

Trichy

Femina Hotel

Ramyas Hotels

01 Night

Thanjavur

Red Fox Hotel

Grand Arcadia

02 Nights

Pondicherry

Hotel Atithi

Grand Serenaa Hotel & Resorts

02 Nights

Chennai

The Accord Metropolitan

The Raintree

01 Night

 

Our Nett applicable rates Per Person on Twin / Double sharing (IN USD)

 

No of Pax

01 April - 30 September ’19 01 April– 31 September ’19

02 Paying Pax

USD 1178 Per Person

USD 1348 Per Person

05 – 07 Paying Pax

USD 1036 Per Person

USD 1192 Per Person

10 and above Paying Pax

USD 958 Per Person

USD 1114 Per Person

Single room Supp

USD 568 Per Person

USD 698 Per Person

 

Rates valid from 01 April - 30 September 2019 and 01 April 2019 - 31 April 2019

Rates are based on current rate of exchange of 1 USD = 77.50 INR

The final price will be calculated on the prevailing ROE on date of booking.

There will be supplement for X – Mas and New Year Eve dinner which will be mandatory during the stay on 24th Dec and 31st Dec in any of the city. Will advise you the cost once fianlised by the hotel.

Detailed Day Wise Itinerary

Day 01 : Arrive at Chennai

Arrive at Chennai International Airport. Following customs, immigration formalities and baggage collection, our representative will meet you as you exit the arrival terminal building after which you would be transferred to your hotel.

Chennai, the capital of the state of Tamil Nadu, is one of the four major metropolitan in India. Elegantly placed in the shores of Coromandel Coast, Chennai boast of a rich heritage, which is elaborately intertwined with the culture, traditions and living style of the people through generations. One of the prettiest metropolitan cities in India, Chennai perfectly mixes the elegance of past with the vibrancy of modernism. This contemporary city is often referred as the Gateway to the South India. Till 1639 what was a small fishing village on the coast of the Bay of Bengal, is today one of the most peaceful and green metropolis in India. The city has its share of forts and palaces reminding the tourists of its antiquity.

Upon arrival at the hotel, proceed for check-in.

Rest of the day is at leisure.

Stay overnight at hotel.

 

Day 02 : Chennai

Morning enjoy sightseeing tour of Chennai. The tour allows you to explore the Kapaleswarar Temple, St Thomas Church, walking tour of George Town covering the Armenian Church and the local market.

Kapaleshwarar Temple is holy temple of Shiva. Fragmentary inscriptions date back to 1250 A.D. The form of Shiva's wife Parvati worshipped at this temple is called Karpagambal, the word which is derived from Tamil, "Goddess of the Wish-Yielding Tree". The temple was built around the 7th century and is a good example of Dravidian architecture. It has some beautiful sculptures among which are the bronze idols of 63 Saivite saints or the Nayanmars. These adorn the outer courtyard within the temple precinct.

St. Thomas church” also known as “National Shrine of St.Thomas Basilica” or “San Thome church” is located in San Thome locality of Chennai. It is a Roman Catholic minor Basilica and is built over the tomb of Apostle St. Thomas. Saint Thomas, one of Jesus’s twelve disciples, was also witness to the momentous resurrection of Christ. He arrived in India in 52 AD and spent seven years preaching Christianity in areas surrounding Chennai. It was during his stay, that a log of wood was washed ashore at San Thome. Interestingly, San Thome is one of the three churches in the world that is built over the tomb of an apostle. Built in Neo-Gothic style, this church is spotless white and the current structure was built by the British in the late 19th century. The central area known as the nave is colossal and measures 112 feet by 33 feet. The church and its slender towers reach a maximum of 155 feet from the ground.

Later enjoy a walking tour of George Town.

On this tour, you explore the busy neighborhood of Georgetown.

This area consists of well-established specialised bazaars, with small winding streets, warehouses, covered wholesale markets, street stalls and retail shops. Originally called ‘Black Town’, the area came up in the late 1600s after the founding of Fort St. George. The tour covers Armenian Church, High Court – Stationery Market, Fruit and Vegetable Market, Flower Market, Kasi Chetty Street and side lanes – King George Statue.

Evening is at leisure.

Stay overnight at hotel.

 

Day 03 : Chennai to Kanchipuram to Mahabalipuram (70 Kms/02 Hrs)

Morning, travel to Mahabalipuram by surface, enroute visit Kanchipuram.

Kanchipuram is also known as city of thousand temples and is one of the seven holy cities in India. Hindus consider Kanchipuram as one of the seven holiest town of its kind in the country. It is believed that a visit to this town bestows salvation. The city was the capital of early Cholas and it was the capital of Pallavas between the 6th and 8th centuries. Silk Industry has its roots for over few hundred years and the name Kanchipuram is famous across the globe for its hand woven Silk Saree.

In Kanchipuram, visit several temples including Ekambaranathar Temple, Kailasanatha Temple etc. You would also experience the silk saree factory during the excursion.

Post sightseeing of Kanchipuram, proceed towards Mahabalipuram.

This UNESCO World Heritage-listed city is full of rock-cut monuments built between the 7th and 9th centuries. Mahabalipuram is located right on the Coromandel Coast next to the Bay of Bengal. It was a well-established sea port during the the Pallava dynasty, and has flourished accordingly. These structures, most of which were built to honor Hindu gods, are some of the oldest existing examples of Dravidian architecture.

Upon arrival in Mahabalipuram, check-in at hotel.

Stay overnight at hotel.

 

Day 04 : Mahabalipuram

Morning sightseeing of Mahabalipuram, visit several cave temples and sculpted reliefs including Five Rathas, Krishna Mandapam, Mahishasuramardhini Cave, Krishna Butterball, Arjuna's Penance and the Shore Temple.

Five Rathas are the rock-cut temples and are rated as excellent examples of Pallava art. Shaped in different styles, the five structures are named after the Pandava brothers of the Mahabharatha. These are monolithic temples, each created in a different style. They are also known as the Pancha Pandava Rathas, and the four of the rathas are supposed to have been scooped out of a single rock formation.

Arjuna's Penance is the world's largest bas-relief measuring 27m x 9m is the pride of Mahabalipuram. This huge whale-back shaped rock contains figures of gods, demigods, men, beasts, and birds and in fact, can be said to represent creation itself. Krishna Mandapam cave has a big bas-relief, notable for its realistic representation. The panel relates one of the stories of Lord Krishna.

The Shore Temple is one of the oldest temples in South India. It belongs to the 8th Century A.D. and is a good example of the first phase of the structure of temples constructed in the Dravidian style.

Evening is at leisure. In your free time you have choice to visit the beach, which is one of longest beach in India.

Stay overnight at hotel.

 

Day 05 : Mahabalipuram to Chennai (70 Kms/ 02 Hrs) to Madurai (By Air)

Late morning, transfer straight to Chennai airport to board flight for Madurai.

Flight number :                  Jet Airways/9W 2727

Departure Chennai :        1330 Hrs.

Arrival Madurai :               1450 Hrs.

 

Upon arrival at Madurai, transfer to hotel for check-in.

Madurai is a sanctuary town situated in southern locale of India. It is arranged on the banks of waterway Vaigai and has been the kingdom of Pandya lords in the previous century. The place has a great cultural heritage and strong mythological history. The city is constructed in the form of a lotus and is known as lotus city too. The temples and palaces speak about the architectural beauty of the olden days. Meenakshi Amman Temple, one of the world wonders is situated in the hot of the Madurai City. There are several small temples all around the city, therefore it is aptly known as the temple city of India

Evening, visit to the Sri Meenakshi Temple and witness “Going to Bed” Ceremony.

Every night the image of Lord Shiva is carried out from his shrine by temple priests. It is a big procession and Lord Shiva is carried in a chariot, to his wife Meenakshi's shrine where he will spend the night. His gold feet are brought out from her shrine, while his chariot is fanned to keep it cool, and a puja (worship) is performed, amidst much chanting, drums, horns, and holy smoke. You can also experiencing Tuk Tuk ride (auto rickshaw ride) from your hotel to the temple.

Stay overnight at hotel.

 

Day 06 : Madurai

Morning proceed for half day sightseeing tour of Madurai, includes visit to Sri Meenakshi Temple, Thirumalai Nayak Palace and Gandhi Museum.

Sri Meenakshi Temple is the holy temple of Hindu’s located in the city of Madurai. It is a vast temple of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. It is the best temple in which both God and Goddess are worshipped together. It is the life line of the country, especially southern India as Lord Shiva is the highly worshiped god of the country. The temple has its foundation way back in the 2500 AD. According to mythology, Lord Shiva visited Madurai to marry Goddess Parvati and it has been the sacred abode of Goddess Parvarti since her birth. The wonderful architecture of the place is simple mesmeric and the construction is highly minute with great art piece incorporated walls and pillars of the temple.

Thirumalai Nayak Palace was built by Thirumalai Nayaakar in 1636. The Palace showcases paintings, carvings and designs that reflect the amazing abilities of the kings. It was built as a residence for the king of the Nayak Kindgom when their capital was at Madurai. The palace is a complete blend of Dravidian and Islamic styles of architecture. The Palace is famous for its impressive art work on its domes and pillars.

Gandhi Museum is a great master piece and holds both historical as well as mythological backgrounds. There are several Gandhi museums across the nation and the Gandhi museum of the Southern India is basically a Tamukkam bungalow which means summer house in Tamil, the local language of the place.

Rest of the day is at leisure.

Stay overnight at hotel.

 

Day 07 : Madurai to Karaikudi (100 Kms/ 2.5 Hrs.)

Morning, travel to Karaikudi by surface.

The town of Karaikudi is situated in the Chettainad region of Tamil Nadu. Karaikudi is also o known as the land of Chettiyars who were local merchants of the region .The city is known for its splendid ancient mansions  which displays an array  of architectural wonders  mainly in  marbles, woods, glasses(building  materials ) being imported from Burma, Malayasia, Italy, United Kingdom.

On arrival, check-in at hotel.

Afternoon experience Bullock Cart Ride and visit Karaikudi Mansions.

The construction materials, decorative items and furnishings used in these mansions were primarily imported from East Asian countries and Europe. The marble used here originates from Italy, chandeliers and teak found their way from Burma, crockery arrived from Indonesia, crystals from Europe and wall-to-wall mirrors arrived from Belgium.

Evening is at leisure.

Stay overnight at hotel.

 

Day 08 : Karaikudi to Trichy (95 Kms/ 02 Hrs.)

Morning travel to Trichy by surface, enroute visit Chettinad.

Chettinad, considered as the Land of Heritage & Devotion is a place that enchants and enhances one’s soul. It is the homeland of Nattukottai Chettiars, also known as the Nagarathars who belong to the prosperous banking and business community. With its palatial mansions, Chettinad is a place of rare charm. The Chettinad region is known across for its spectacular mansions built in the 18th century. These mansions have wide courtyards and spacious rooms which are embellished with marble and teak.

In the sightseeing of Chettinad, visit Chettinad Mansions and Tile making unit.

The Chettinad region is known across for its spectacular mansions built in the 18th century. These mansions have wide courtyards and spacious rooms which are embellished with marble and teak. Construction materials, decorative items and furnishings used in these mansions were primarily imported from East Asian countries and Europe. The marble used here originates from Italy, chandeliers and teak found their way from Burma, crockery arrived from Indonesia, crystals from Europe and wall-to-wall mirrors arrived from Belgium. The wood- and stone-work was inspired by opulent houses in France and other European countries. One such magnificent mansion is the Chettinad Mansion, a heritage property located at Kandukanthan village near Karaikudi, Tamil Nadu.

The quest for creativity in Chettinad continues in form of the Athangudi Tiles. Aptly named after the place of manufacture, these tiles are a tribute to the rich cultural heritage and most conspicuous form of craftsmanship of the Chettiar community. The patterns and colors adopted in Athangudi Tiles are reminiscent to a bygone era. Of late, some contemporary designs have carved a niche for themselves in this arena.

Later continue travel to Trichy.

Trichy is located on the Cauvery river banks. Trichy gives an absolute combination of tradition and contemporary surroundings. There are several churches, colleges, missions, and temples dating back to 1700s. Trichy is an eminent place as it has bestowed with impressive Tamil scholars who have contributed significantly for the Tamil literature. Trichy is a flourishing commercial hub of Tamil Nadu. The rock fort is the landmark of this magnificent holy city.

On arrival, check-in at hotel.

Stay overnight at hotel.

 

Day 09 : Trichy to Thanjavur (70 Kms/ 02 Hrs.)

Morning proceed for sightseeing of Trichy includes visit to the Rock Fort and Sri Rangnathaswamy Temple.

The Rock Fort is situated on the banks of the Cauvery River is an 84 m high rock which is one of the oldest in the world. Atop of the rock is the Ucchi Pillayar Koil, a temple dedicated to Lord Vinayaka, from where one can enjoy a panoramic view of Trichy. A flight of steps leads to the Mathrubutheswarar or Thayumanaswami temple dedicated to Lord Siva where the lingam is a projection of the rock itself.

Later visit to Sri Rangnathaswamy Temple, it is positioned 6 kilometers from the city center Trichy. The temple is built on an island in the middle of the Cauvery River and devoted to Lord Vishnu. It is also the largest temple in the world.

Later travel to Thanjavur by surface.

Thanjavur formerly known as Tanjore is a majestic city located near the banks of Cauvery River. It is an ancient city rich in cultural and historical heritage. It’s an incredible destination where you can immerse yourself in the culture, history and fine arts of India. This city is home to Brahadeeswara Temple, an UNESCO World Heritage Site, built in the 11th Century AD. There are a number of other ancient temples and forts in the city too. The city is also recognized worldwide for its antiques and meticulous handicrafts.

On arrival, check-in at hotel.

Stay overnight at hotel.

 

Day 10 : Thanjavur

Morning proceed for half day sightseeing tour of Thanjavur includes visit to Brahadeeswara Temple, Thanjavur Royal Palace, Art Gallery and Saraswati Mahal Library.

The Brahadeeswara Temple is considered to be one of the best specimens of South Indian temple architecture. It is an UNESCO World Heritage Site and was constructed by Rajaraja Chola I in the early 11th century. Shivalinga is amid the prime attraction of this temple which is 2.7 m in height. The temple is also famous due to its uniqueness as among the greatest glories of the Indian architecture.

Thanjavur Royal Palace is one of the famous historical destinations located within the Vijayanagara Fort complex. This palace was the house of the Nayak Kings of Thanjavur and was constructed in 16th century. Serfoji’s Saraswati Mahal Library, Durbar Hall, Nayak Hall and the arsenal tower are the main attractions of this palace.

Thanjavur Art Gallery situated within the Thanjavur Royal Palace has an extensive collection of stone and bronze statues, and idols belonging to the Chola period (8th – 9th centuries). Bronze statues belonging to the Pallava period are also displayed here.

Serfoji's Saraswati Mahal Library is well known for its grand collection of myriad rare paintings, depicting various Indian cities during the reign of King Saraboji.

Rest of the day is at leisure.

Stay overnight at hotel.

 

Day 11 : Thanjavur to Chidambaram to Pondicherry (180 Kms/ 04 Hrs.)

Morning travel to Pondicherry by surface, enroute visit Chidambaram.

Chidambaram is a town located on the Karaikal-Cuddalore-Chennai highway in Tamil Nadu. It is the seat of the astronomical artist Lord Nataraja (Ananda Tandava posture ; the Cosmic Dance of bliss).The town is accepted to be of huge artifact and has been ruled, at distinctive times, by the Medieval Cholas, Later Cholas, Later Pandyas, Vijayanagar Empire, Marathas and the British. The Chidambaram Temple committed to Lord Nataraja manufactured in the ninth century has an uncommon cabin like sanctum with a gold-plated rooftop and four towering gopuras.

Sightseeing tour of Chidambaram includes visit to Nataraja Temple, Picthavaram Backwaters and Vaitheeswaran koil Temple.

Nataraja Temple is the fundamental sanctuary of Chidambaram, which is committed to the Nataraja or the moving stance of Lord Shiva. This sanctuary is situated in the heart of the town and has experienced various redesigns under the rule of Chola and Pallava rulers.

Pitchavaram Backwaters is a mainstream outing spot, which is around 16 km from Chidambaram. The 11,000 hectares of backwater investigation is situated against the setting of 3000 sections of land of mangrove timberlands.

Vaitheeswaran Temple or Pullirukkuvelur Hindu Temple devoted to the god Shiva is situated in Tamil Nadu, India. Shiva is venerated as Vaitheeswaran or the "Divine force of mending" and it is trusted that requests to God to Vaitheeswaran can cure maladies. It is one of the nine Navagraha (nine planets) sanctuaries connected with the planet Mars (Angaraka). The town is likewise known for palm leaf crystal gazing called Naadi soothsaying in Tamil. It is found 27 km from Chidambaram.

Later continue travel to Pondicherry.

Pondicherry now called ‘Puducherry’ literally means a ‘new settlement’.  Located on the Bay of Bengal on the Coromandel shoreline, it is famous for pristine beaches, French colonial rule and culture. Pondicherry is a perfect place with pleasant atmosphere, natural beauty and superb cuisines along with architectural marvel and cultural wealth. The major attraction in Pondicherry is Sri Aurobindo Ashram, where Sri Aurobindo and the Mother spent their time for the upliftment of society, an amusing beach alongside Promenade and some ancient monuments.

On arrival, check-in at hotel.

Stay overnight at hotel.

 

Day 12 : Pondicherry

Morning proceed for sightseeing tour of Pondicherry includes visit to Auroville City, Sri Aurobindo Ashram and Sri Manakula Vinayagar Temple.

Sri Aurobindo Ashram was founded in the year 1926 by Sir Aurobindo, a revolutionary turned Yogi from Bengal along with the Mother (earlier known as Mira Alfassa) a French painter as well as a sculptor. It is the most popular landmark of Pondicherry where people find peace and come to meditate. Being the Samadhi of Sir Aurobindo and the Mother, the ashram draws a lot of respect.                 

Sri Manakula Vinayagar Temple is said to be 5 centuries old with golden spire and walls portraying forty different forms of Ganesha. There is also a smaller shrine dedicated to Ganesha’s younger brother, Lord Murugan. The temple elephant called Lakshmi stands outside the temple and gives blessings to the devotees by delicately laying her trump on one's head.

Mahatma Gandhi Statue is located on the Promenade and was built by sculptor Roy Choudhary. It is surrounded by eight exquisitely carved monolithic granite 17th century pillars that were brought from Gingee - a fort about 70 kms from Pondicherry - after the capture of the fort. The statue of Gandhi stands 13 feet high. The entire structure is at least twice that high and is one of the nicest monuments of Gandhi I have seen. It is especially striking when you see the statue and pillars from a distance.

Rest of the day is at leisure.

Stay overnight at hotel.

 

Day 13 : Pondicherry to Gingee to Chennai (240 Kms /5 Hrs)

Morning, travel to Chennai enroute visit Ginjee Fort.

Gingee Fort is one of the surviving forts in Tamil Nadu, India. The fort is so fortified, that Shivaji, the Maratha king, ranked it as the "most impregnable fortress in India" and it was called the "Troy of the East" by the British.

This fort was built by Ananda Kone, Chief of the Local Shepherd community. Kurumbars, Cholas, Nayaks, Marathas, Mugals and British followed them. Venkataramana Temple, Kalyan Mahal, Horse stables, Granary, Mosque and Prisoner's Cell may not be in the same shape as before, but it speaks of the richness of the past. Rajagiri and Krishnagiri are two important fortifications located here and they are popular picnic spots.

Later continue drive to Chennai.

On arrival, check-in at hotel. Stay overnight at hotel.

 

Day 14 : Chennai Departure

In time, departure transfer to Chennai airport to board your onward flight.

 

Inclusions

  • 13 Nights’ accommodation on double/Twin  occupancy basis.
  • Meal Plan – Bed and breakfast basis at all places.
  • All transfers, sightseeing and excursions by AC transport.
  • Services of an English speaking local guide as per programme.
  • Entrances to the monuments as per programme (one visit per monument).
  • All currently applicable taxes, including the service tax of 3.62% applicable on total invoice amount.

Exclusions

  • Meals unless specified.
  • Expenses of personal nature like tipping, laundry, telephone / fax calls, alcoholic beverages, camera / video camera fees at  monuments, medical expenses, airport departure taxes, etc.;
  • Meals other than those specified above;
  • Any insurance;
  • Any air-fare
  • Any Visa fee
  • Any other services not mentioned in the inclusion;
  • Optional tours are on direct payment.
  • 18% GST is applicable on total billing

Terms and Conditions

  • Check-in time is 1400 Hrs and check-out is at 1200 Hrs;
  • Prices especially air fares are subject to revision;
  • In case of any currency fluctuations or amendments to local Government taxes, or any fuel price rises, we reserve the right to adjust the tour price accordingly;
  • All the hotels and room categories are yet to be booked. Any change in hotel or room category may attract a supplement or reduction in the tour cost.
  • Rate quoted above includes only those items as specified in the above inclusion column;
  • Quote is valid only for the above mentioned period
  • Effective 2nd October 2008, the Government has introduced "No-Smoking" legislation for hotels, restaurants and all public places. As a consequence, smoking is prohibited in all parts of the hotel except in designated bedrooms where smoking is permitted. The hotel has dedicated smoking guest bedrooms. Should you desire a smoking bedroom, please let us know. We shall try to reserve a smoking bedroom for you, subject to availability, should you need one
  • For Flight bookings, we will require complete names alongwith full first names of the guests;

 

For Security Reasons, it is mandatory to supply respective units the below

    • Guest Residential Address
    • Contact Numbers
    • Email ID
    • Nationality
    • Photo Identity
    • Copy of Passport

Trip Information

  • Location : Trichy,Thanjavur,Pondicherry,Mahabalipuram,Madurai,Karaikudi,Chennai
  • Arrival Date: 01/04/2019
  • Departure Date: 30/09/2023

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