Discovering Tamil Nadu

Today, we highly recommend you to wake up a bit early today to make the most of your day, as you will be visiting the Suriyanar Koli Temple and the Arulmigu Swaminathan Swamy Temple before heading off to explore Thanjavur.

After having a delicious breakfast, you will check-out from your hotel and head towards the Suriyanar Koil Temple, which is very famous Hindu temple dedicated to the Sun God, Lord Surya. This temple is unique among the Navagraha temples, featuring all the planetary deities in a single complex, and offers the perfect start with its vibrant architectural style and historical significance. Moreover, praying here is believed to remove any hurdles or obstacles coming in the development and well-being of a person.

This will be followed by a visit to the Arulmigu Swaminathan Swamy Temple, back in Kumbakonam. The Arulmigu Swaminathan Temple is counted among the six holy abodes of Lord Murugan and is revered for its spiritual ambiance and intricate carvings. It is believed that Lord Murugan himself taught the meaning of the ‘Pranaya mantra’ which is meant to worship his father Lord Shiva. The temple stands on a hilltop, providing not just spiritual bliss, but also a panoramic view of the surrounding countryside, making your visit a rewarding experience.

After these spiritual visits in Kumbakonam, you will depart on a short journey to Thanjavur, which is also referred to as the Rice Bowl of Tamil Nadu. Upon your arrival in Thanjavur, you will check into your hotel to refresh, and then you will set out to explore the grandeur of this ancient city.

The first attraction you will be visiting in Thanjavur is the majestic Brihadeeswara Temple, which is also referred to as the Big Temple. This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is counted amongst the largest temples of India. It was built by Raja Raja Chola I in the 11th century and is also considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The temple is known for its stunning architecture, the gigantic Shiva Lingam, and for housing the statues of the Ashtadikpaalakas (Guardians of Directions) namely Lord Indra, Lord Agni, Lord Nirrti, Lord Varuna, Lord Kubera, Lord Isana, Lord Yama, and Lord Vayu.

Next, you will head off to explore the Thanjavur Royal Palace, which is also known as the Thanjavur Maratha Palace. This palace was originally constructed by the Thanjavur Nayak kingdom, and it later served as the official residence of the Thanjavur Marathas. The palace complex houses an art gallery, a library, and a museum that features an exquisite collection of sculptures and paintings. The gallery’s highlight also includes the Royal Chola bronzes and the famous Saraswati Mahal Library, with ancient manuscripts on palm leaves.

As the evening approaches, you are free to take stroll through the vibrant Thanjavur local market to engage with the local artisans, and shop for some exotic souvenirs like the famous Thanjavur art dolls, silk fabrics, traditional paintings, etc.

Later, you will conclude your day by returning to your hotel to feast on a sumptuous dinner, before retiring for a peaceful night’s sleep.

Wake up, start your morning with a delightful breakfast and then you will embark on a scenic journey towards the peaceful and spiritually significant town of Rameswaram. This drive offers a great opportunity to observe the rural life and enjoy the serene beauty of the countryside.

On the way, you will be visiting the Thirumayam Fort, which is an 18th-century fortress that stands as a testament to the region’s historic legacy. The fort not only offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes, but also boasts of various impressive structures that include large bastions and ramparts. Apart from that, the fort also houses ancient rock-cut temples, that are dedicated to Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu.

Next, you will visit the Karpaga Vinayagar Temple, which is one of the oldest Cave Temples (Rock Cut) temples of Tamil Nadu. The temple is dedicated to Lord Ganesha and is renowned for its unique idol of the deity, that is carved directly out of a rock in a cave. The temple provides a tranquil and auspicious start to your journey of life, as Lord Ganesha is revered as the remover of all obstacles.

This will be followed by a brief stop at Devipattinam, which is a coastal village renowned for its Navagraha temple that is situated by the sea (Bay of Bengal). Here, you can see the unique arrangement of nine stones set in a square in the ocean, representing the nine planets. It is believed that Lord Rama installed the nine stones using clay here to represent the Navgraha, and taking a dip in the kund to worship the Navgrahas is considered quite auspicious.

After this, you will continue your journey towards Rameswaram, and will soon pass through the spectacular Pamban Road Bridge that has been constructed on the sea (Bay of Bengal). While passing through this iconic bridge, enjoy the panoramic views of the deep blue sea on both sides. After crossing the Pamban bridge, you will reach the Pamban island that houses Rameswaram.

Upon arrival, you will check into your hotel and take some time to freshen up and relax after the scenic drive.

Later, return to your cozy hotel to enjoy a delicious dinner, and to grab a restful sleep..

We recommend you to wake up a bit early today to make the most of your time, as there’s a lot to be explored and the journey to Kanyakumari is also quite long.

You will begin your exploration of Rameswaram by visiting the iconic Sri Arulmigu Ramanathaswamy Temple, which is counted among the holiest temples in India. This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is a part of the Char Dham pilgrimage. The temple is known for its magnificent corridors, intricately carved pillars, and 22 sacred wells (each believed to have different medicinal properties).

After this, if you have time, then explore the peaceful Agni Teertham, which is considered one of the 64 sacred baths in India. Pilgrims perform rituals here and it is believed that taking a dip in these waters absolves one of sins. The serene beach alongside offers a tranquil setting, perfect for enjoying a captivating sunset by the sea.

Then, you will return to your hotel to relish a delicious breakfast.

Post breakfast, you will head to Dhanushkodi, which is the point where the Bay of Bengal and the Indian Ocean converge. According to legend, it was here that Lord Rama built a bridge, known as Rama Setu, to Lanka (present-day Sri Lanka) to rescue his wife Sita from the clutches of the demon king Ravana. Dhanushkodi was once a small town which was washed away by the 1964 cyclone. To make the most of your trip, you may also choose to spend some quality time playing in the waters at the Dhanushkodi beach, but don’t go too far into the ocean.

On your way back from Dhanushkodi, you will visit the Kothandaramaswamy Temple, which is one of the oldest and most revered temples in the region. According to the Ramayana, this is the sacred place where Vibhishana, the younger brother of Ravana, surrendered before Lord Rama and sought his refuge. Surrounded by the sea on almost all sides, the temple offers a unique spiritual experience and picturesque views of the coastline.

After this, you will visit the Panchamukhi Hanuman Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Hanuman in his rare five-faced form. The temple is also known for preserving the floating stones that are believed to have been used during the construction of the legendary Rama Setu. This sacred site attracts devotees and history enthusiasts alike.

After exploring these fascinating attractions, you will return to Rameswaram to visit the Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam House, which has now been converted into a museum. This small house, where India’s Missile Man grew up, is filled with photographs, awards, and personal belongings of the late president. It offers a deeper insight into the life and times of one of the most beloved figures in Indian history.

The remainder of the evening has been kept at leisure for you to explore Rameswaram at your own pace. You may choose to relax at one of the peaceful beaches, enjoy a leisurely walk along the coastline, savour authentic South Indian delicacies at a local restaurant, or browse through the local markets for seashell handicrafts, souvenirs, and traditional items.
Later, return to your cozy hotel to enjoy a delicious dinner and settle in for another peaceful overnight stay in the sacred town of Rameswaram.

Wake up to a beautiful morning in Rameswaram, freshen up, and enjoy a hearty breakfast before bidding farewell to this sacred island town.

Today, you will embark on a scenic journey to Kanyakumari, the southernmost tip of the Indian mainland, where the Arabian Sea, Bay of Bengal, and the Indian Ocean meet.

You will arrive in Kanyakumari by late afternoon and then, you will check into your hotel to grab a little freshen up. After some rest, step out to experience the vibrant atmosphere of this town, which is famous for its unique geographical location. You can begin with a leisurely walk along the coast where the Arabian Sea, the Bay of Bengal, and the Indian Ocean meet. This is a perfect spot to feel the confluence of different water bodies and enjoy the gentle sea breeze.

Next, you must visit the renowned Vivekananda Rock Memorial, which is located on a small island just off the coast. This memorial is dedicated to the great philosopher Swami Vivekananda, and is accessible by a short boat ride. It provides a tranquil environment for meditation and boasts panoramic views of the ocean. A little towards the southwest, you will also see the towering statue of the great Tamil poet, Thiruvalluvar.

As the evening approaches, spend some time admiring the vast expanse of the ocean and witnessing the magical transformation of the sky as the sun slowly descends into the horizon. The spectacular sunset over the meeting point of the three seas is undoubtedly one of the most memorable experiences in Kanyakumari.

After enjoying the sunset from this spectacular location, return to your hotel in Kanyakumari to conclude your day. Here, relish a delectable dinner consisting of a delicious local South Indian cuisine, and then you can settle in for a peaceful night’s sleep.

We recommend you to wake up a bit early today and head towards the Sunrise Point to witness one of the most breathtaking sunrises in India. Watching the first rays of the sun emerge from the horizon over the vast ocean is a truly mesmerizing experience and one of the highlights of visiting Kanyakumari.

After witnessing the sunrise, return to your hotel to freshen up and enjoy a delicious breakfast.

After breakfast, you will proceed towards the Kanyakumari Amman Temple, which is also known as the Bhagavathy Amman Temple. This temple is counted among the 108 Shakti Peethas and is dedicated to the Goddess Kanyakumari (a manifestation of Goddess Parvati in the form of an adolescent girl).

This ancient temple is located near the southernmost tip of the Indian subcontinent and is revered for its powerful spiritual and historical significance. Apart from that, you will be in for stunning ocean views from the temple complex. It is believed that the temple existed even before the 8th century, as references to Kanyakumari can be found in the works of the Tamil saints known as the Nayanars and Alwars.

According to legend, Goddess Kanyakumari performed penance at this sacred spot to win the hand of Lord Shiva. However, before the marriage could take place, the auspicious time passed, and the wedding was called off. Legend has it that the rice and other grains meant for the wedding feast turned into stones, which can still be found on the shore near the temple.

After seeking the blessings of Goddess Kanya Kumari, you will proceed towards the Triveni Sangam, which is the confluence of three oceans—the Bay of Bengal, the Arabian Sea, and the Indian Ocean. This place not only allows you to observe the different colours of the waters merging, but also acts as the perfect place for spiritual reflection. It is believed that bathing here cleanses the soul and helps you attain nirvana (moksha).

This will be followed by a visit to the Our Lady of Ransom Shrine, which is an impressive Gothic structure with a brilliant white facade that stands out against the blue ocean backdrop. This Catholic church is dedicated to the Goddess Virgin Mary and is known for its beautiful stained glass and serene ambiance.

After this, you will head towards the Kanyakumari Pier to enjoy a relaxing walk and soak in the panoramic views of the vast ocean around you. The pier is a great spot for photography enthusiasts and will offer you ample opportunities to capture the essence of Kanyakumari’s coastal beauty.

Next, you have the option to either spend some leisure time at the Kanyakumari Beach or climb up the View Tower for a breathtaking 360-degree view of the surrounding seas and the coastline. Here, the rhythmic sound of waves and the picturesque views provide the perfect setting to soothe your senses.

The remainder of the evening has been kept at leisure, allowing you to revisit your favourite spots, explore the local markets, shop for seashell handicrafts and souvenirs, or simply relax while admiring the beauty of the coastline.

Later, return to your hotel to relish a delicious dinner and settle in for a restful night’s sleep.

Wake up to a beautiful morning in Kanyakumari, freshen up, and enjoy a delicious breakfast before bidding farewell to the southernmost tip of India.

Today, you will embark on a scenic journey towards Madurai, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world and a cultural capital of Tamil Nadu.

Upon arrival in Madurai, you will check into your hotel and take some time to relax and freshen up before beginning your sightseeing tour.

You will start the sightseeing for the day by visiting the Shri Arulmigu Subramaniya Swami Temple, which is an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Murugan (Lord Kartikey), the Tamil God of war and victory. This temple is not just a place of worship but a beacon of Tamil culture, which is celebrated for its architectural details that are a profound representation of the Dravidian style. The most notable feature within the temple is its towering gopuram (gateway tower) that is richly decorated with colourful statues.

Next, you will visit the Arulmigu Koodal Azhagar Temple, which is one of the ancient Vaishnavite temples in India dedicated to Lord Vishnu in his incarnation as Koodal Azhagar. The temple’s scriptures and inscriptions provide invaluable insights into the religious and social life of its time, making it a key site for historical and theological study.

If time permits and you’re interested, make a brief stop at the St. Mary’s Cathedral (Optional), which is known for its remarkable Romanesque architecture that blends both the European as well as the Indian styles, reflecting the colonial past and the adaptation of Christianity into the local culture. This beautiful church is one of the most important Catholic shrines in Madurai, serving as a peaceful sanctuary and a meeting ground for diverse cultural interactions.

The remainder of the evening is at leisure. You may choose to explore the bustling local markets, sample traditional Tamil cuisine, or simply relax after the journey.

Later, return to your hotel to relish a delicious dinner and have a peaceful night’s sleep.

Wake up to a refreshing morning in Madurai, enjoy a hearty breakfast, and prepare for another exciting day of exploration before heading towards the beautiful hill station of Kodaikanal.

You will begin your sightseeing with a visit to the Vandiyur Mariamman Teppakulam, which is a vast temple tank located near the Meenakshi Amman Temple. It is the site of the famous float festival, where the Goddess Meenakshi and her consort, Lord Sundareshwarar are taken around the tank on elaborately decorated floats during the Teppam festival. The tranquility of the tank with its central mandapam (pavilion) offers a serene respite.

This will be followed by a visit to the Arulmigu Kallalagar Kovil, which is another significant temple in Madurai that is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, depicted here as Lord Kallalagar. The intricate carvings and the colourful gopuram (gateway tower) are visually stunning, making it a fitting culmination to your temple tour in Madurai.

After completing your sightseeing in Madurai, you will embark on your journey towards Kodaikanal, a charming hill station known for its misty manicured cliffs and verdant forests.

After traveling through a scenic route with winding roads, you will arrive in Kodaikanal in the evening, where you will check-in to your hotel to relax and freshen up. You may choose to take a leisurely stroll near your accommodation to soak in the cool, fresh air and peaceful environment of the hill station.

Later, return to your hotel to relish a scrumptious dinner and to grab a restful sleep.

Wake up amidst the cool and misty climate that defines Kodaikanal, have a hearty breakfast, then prepare to explore the natural beauty and quaint charm of this beautiful hill station.

Wake up amidst the cool and misty climate that defines Kodaikanal, have a hearty breakfast, then prepare to explore the natural beauty and quaint charm of this beautiful hill station.

You will begin your day by visiting the Kodaikanal Lake, which is a man-made lake located in the heart of the town. Here, you can opt for a peaceful boat ride during the early morning hours (at your own expense), or take a leisurely walk or maybe opt for cycling (at your own expense) around the path that borders the entire lake. The misty setting of the lake paired with stunning reflection of the surrounding hills and clouds makes it a photographer’s delight.

Next, you will visit Bryant Park, which is a beautifully maintained botanical garden situated close to the Kodaikanal lake. This park is known for its floral diversity, including a remarkable section dedicated to roses and an exotic greenhouse full of orchids. Apart from that, it also houses various species of cacti, and trees that were planted here decades ago.

The best time to visit the park is during the summers, especially when the park is in full bloom. The park also hosts an annual horticulture show that draws gardening enthusiasts from all over the country.

This will be followed by a visit to the Coaker’s Walk, which is a paved pedestrian path along the edge of a mountain, that offers breathtaking views of the plains, valley, and the surrounding mountains.

After going on a healthy walk at the Coaker’s, you will proceed towards the Pillar Rocks, which are three giant granite pillars standing majestically amidst the dense forests. The eerie and often mist-covered chambers between the pillars, known as the “Devil’s Kitchen,” add a touch of mystical charm to your visit.

Having explored the key attractions of Kodaikanal, you will return to your hotel to feast on a delicious dinner and to have a peaceful overnight stay.

Wake up to a beautiful morning amidst the misty hills of Kodaikanal, freshen up, and enjoy a hearty breakfast before bidding farewell to this charming hill station.
Today, you will embark on a scenic journey towards Ooty, which is often referred to as the ‘Queen of Hill Stations’. As you travel through the picturesque landscapes of Tamil Nadu, you will witness rolling hills, dense forests, winding mountain roads, and beautiful countryside views that make the journey just as enjoyable as the destination itself.

Upon your arrival in Ooty, you will check into your cozy hotel and take some time to relax and freshen up after the drive.

After a little rest, you will head towards the Ooty Lake, which is surrounded by eucalyptus trees and lush greenery. This artificial lake was constructed in 1824 by John Sullivan, the founder of Ooty. Here, you can rent a pedal boat or a rowboat to explore the lake (at your own expense), or you may simply enjoy a leisurely walk along its banks while soaking in the cool mountain breeze.

Next, you will visit the St. Stephen’s Church, which is one of the oldest and most famous churches in the Nilgiris. This church was built in the 19th century by the British, and features stained glass windows, wooden beams hauled by elephants from the palace of Tipu Sultan, and a tranquil atmosphere that offers a peaceful retreat amidst your travels.

You are free to enjoy the remainder of the evening at leisure, where you may choose to take a stroll through the bustling local market, sample some homemade chocolates, shop for aromatic Nilgiri tea, or simply relax at a cozy café while enjoying the pleasant weather.

Later, you must return to your hotel to relish a delicious dinner and settle in for a restful overnight stay.

Today, wake up to another refreshing morning, freshen up, and enjoy a delightful breakfast before setting out for a scenic excursion to Coonoor, a charming hill station that is known for its rolling tea gardens, colonial heritage, and breathtaking viewpoints.

You will begin today’s sightseeing by visiting the Tea Factory and Museum, where you can delve into the fascinating world of tea production. Here, you will learn about the process from leaf plucking to brewing and indulge in tea tasting sessions. The museum also offers insights into the historical development of tea plantations in the Nilgiris, making it a perfect starting point for tea enthusiasts. Moreover, you can also pick up some fresh tea packets as souvenirs.

After this, you will proceed towards the famous Sim’s Park, which is a beautifully maintained botanical garden spread across nearly 12 hectares. The park is home to a wide variety of flowering plants, ornamental trees, and rare species brought from different parts of the world. Here, you can enjoy a leisurely walk through the lush greenery while admiring the vibrant floral displays.

Next, you will head towards Lamb’s Rock, which is one of the most popular viewpoints in Coonoor. Perched on the edge of a steep cliff, this viewpoint offers spectacular views of the surrounding tea estates, dense forests, and the vast Coimbatore plains. The cool breeze and scenic beauty make it a wonderful place to pause and soak in the tranquility of the Nilgiris.

This will be followed by a visit to Dolphin’s Nose, which is another iconic viewpoint that derives its name from the unique shape of the rock formation resembling a dolphin’s nose. From here, you will be treated to mesmerizing views of deep valleys, rugged mountains, and the picturesque Catherine Falls cascading in the distance.

After exploring the viewpoints, spend some time driving through the sprawling tea plantations that make Coonoor famous across the country. The neatly manicured tea gardens spread across the hills create postcard-perfect landscapes and offer countless opportunities for photography.

Later in the afternoon, you will begin your return journey to Ooty while enjoying the beautiful scenery along the way.

Upon arrival in Ooty, you are free to spend the rest of the evening at leisure, exploring the local markets, enjoy a hot cup of Nilgiri tea at a cozy café, or simply relax amidst the pleasant weather.

Later, return to your hotel to relish a delicious dinner and settle in for a peaceful overnight stay.

Today, wake up to another refreshing morning in Ooty, have a leisurely breakfast, and then prepare to embark on a journey to Coimbatore, from where you will further take a flight or a train back home.

But before you leave Ooty, you will be visiting the Rose Garden, which is spread across 10 acres on the slopes of the Elk Hill. The Ooty Rose Garden is home to over 2,000 varieties of roses, including miniature roses, hybrid tea roses, and floribunda, among others. The colourful flowers create a picturesque setting that is not only relaxing, but also acts as the perfect backdrop for those amazing photographs.

After this floral encounter with nature’s most beautiful creations, you will continue your journey towards Coimbatore, which is approximately 3 hours away. The drive from Ooty to Coimbatore descends through the Nilgiri Hills, offering scenic views and a last glimpse of the lush landscapes that characterize this region.

Depending on your interests and time availability, you may choose to visit the following attractions to make the most of your day:

• Black Thunder Water Theme Park: If you’re in the mood for some fun and excitement, you can consider stopping at the Black Thunder Water Theme Park, which is located near Mettupalayam on the way to Coimbatore. Counted among the largest water theme parks in Asia, it offers a variety of water rides and activities that provide recreational enjoyment for the whole family. (Please note: The entrance fees and expenses here are at your own expense.)
• D. Naidu Car Museum: If you are an automobile enthusiast, the G.D. Naidu Car Museum is a must-visit. This museum showcases an impressive collection of cars and other inventions by G.D. Naidu, an eminent industrialist and inventor. The exhibits include vintage cars, prototypes, and an insightful display on the evolution of the automobile industry.
• Brookefields Mall: In case you prefer some retail therapy or want to grab a bite in a more urban setting, the Brookefields Mall offers a range of shopping, dining, and entertainment options. This modern mall is one of the main shopping hubs in Coimbatore and is perfect for picking up last-minute souvenirs or enjoying a relaxed meal.
• Sri Perur Patteeswarar Temple: Alternatively, if you are looking for a more spiritual or cultural experience, you can visit the Sri Perur Patteeswarar Temple in Coimbatore. This ancient temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is known for its architectural beauty & intricate carvings.

We further recommend you plan your departure from these attractions in a way that it aligns with your train or flight timings, with a buffer time of about an hour. As per your preference, we will finally drop you at the Coimbatore Airport, the Railway Station or the ISBT to assist you with the second leg of your journey.

With this seamless departure, you will go back home with a treasure trove of memories filled with the rich tapestry of Tamil Nadu’s culture, history, and natural beauty.