Unveiling the Enchanting South — Tamil Nadu

Explore this UNESCO World Heritage town and its remarkable rock-cut monuments. Visit the great bas-relief of Arjuna's Penance, depicting the mythical descent of the Ganges with gods, animals, and fables carved into a massive granite face. Continue to the Five Rathas, five monolithic temples carved from a single rock formation. End at the Shore Temple, one of the oldest in South India, standing at the water's edge.

After breakfast, drive to Pondicherry (approx. 2 hours), a former French colonial settlement that retains its European character in its tree-lined boulevards, pastel-coloured villas, and seaside promenade. Take a walk through the French Quarter and White Town, passing colonial-era buildings, the Alliance Française, and the Cluny Embroidery Centre.

After breakfast, visit Auroville, the experimental international township founded in 1968 where people of all nationalities live in progressive harmony. Explore the complex and learn about its unique philosophy and way of life. Later, stroll through the local markets and along the beachside promenade.

Depart for Tanjore (approx. 5 hours), stopping en route at Chidambaram to visit the sacred Nataraja Temple, where Shiva is worshipped as the cosmic dancer. Continue to Darasuram, whose temple is a superb example of Chola architecture. Arrive in Tanjore and visit the magnificent Brihadeeshwara Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage masterpiece, and the Palace with its gallery of ancient bronzes.

After breakfast, drive to Chettinad (approx. 4 hours), a region of 74 villages once home to the fabulously wealthy Chettiar merchants who built extraordinary mansions in their own distinctive style. In the evening, explore the charming village of Karaikudi. Visit workshops for traditional woodwork, silversmithing, and textile weaving.

Spend the day exploring the local villages and meeting artisans who keep centuries-old craft traditions alive—from intricate wood carving and handloom weaving to the production of earthenware tiles renowned throughout India. Wander through forgotten hamlets, romantic palaces, and sacred groves with paths lined with wonderful terracotta horses.

After a leisurely breakfast, drive to Madurai (approx. 3 hours), the ancient capital of the Pandyan Kings, set on the banks of the River Vaigai. In its heyday, Madurai traded with Greece and Rome and was a centre of Tamil poetry and literature. Check in at your hotel and spend the rest of the day exploring this vibrant temple city at your own pace.

Visit the Thirumala Nayak Palace, built in 1639 in a blend of Dravidian and Islamic styles, with its remarkable unsupported curved dome. Continue to the Meenakshi Temple, a masterpiece of Dravidian architecture with immense gopurams adorned with thousands of colourful stucco figures. In the evening, attend the nightly ceremony where the temple bronze of Lord Shiva is carried in procession to the boudoir of his consort Parvati, accompanied by devotional music.

Transfer to Madurai Airport for your flight to Chennai. On arrival, connect with your onward international flight. End of tour.