Itinerary

Day 1 Delhi

Delhi is a city of dramatic contrasts, and is the most popular starting point for any tour of India. A tour to Old Delhi includes the Red Fort and the mosque of Jama Masjid with a stroll through the bazaars of Chandni Chowk ("Moonlit Square"). A New Delhi travel includes the Humayun's Tomb, in many ways the precursor of the Taj Mahal, the India Gate, a memorial dedicated to the unknown soldiers who laid their lives in the World War I, the President's House, and the Parliament House.

Relax and enjoy an airport transfer in a private vehicle, with driver, and English-speaking assistant.

Kensington Tours donates a portion of proceeds to our charitable initiative www.kensingtoncares.com which supports education-based initiatives in disadvantaged communities.

The Claridges is a centrally located, elegant property close to the Rashtrapati Bhawan and the city's business and shopping districts. The hotel is situated near the New Delhi Train Station, domestic airport and the international airport. The hotel offers 162 comfortable and spacious guestrooms that are complete with a range of modern amenities. Dine in elegance at any of the onsite restaurants, serving a variety of delicious dishes. The bar provides the ideal setting for you to relax with a refreshing cocktail. Leisure facilities include a health club, swimming pool, tennis court and shopping arcade.

Overnight at The Claridges (City Center).

Day 2 Delhi

Private guided tour of Old Delhi. The Red Fort was the palace for Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan's new capital, Shahjahanabad, when he moved his capital from Agra to bring prestige to his reign. Its wall is 1.5 miles long, and varies in height from 60-110 ft. At 72.5 meters, the Qutab Minar is the tallest brick minaret in the world. Surrounding the building are many fine examples of Indian artwork dating back to 1193. Humayun's tomb is a complex of buildings of Mughal architecture dating to the Slave Dynasty (1268-1287 AD). The complex is a World Heritage Site and the first example of this type of Mughal architecture in India. This style of mausoleum is similar to the Taj Mahal in Agra.

Avail a vehicle and driver at your disposal around Northern India.

A Home Visit: Enjoy dinner with an India family at their home. You will be served delicacies of Indian snacks and food; cocktails can be arranged as per your request. The experience of visiting an Indian family is a priceless memento. You will get immense pleasure in meeting Indian families and will be surprised at the incredible Indian hospitability.

Overnight at The Claridges (City Center).

Day 3 Varanasi

Varanasi is set at the left bank of the mighty river Ganges, this immensely chaotic place of pilgrimage is known for its ritual burnings. A dawn boat ride down the river is a fascinating and unforgettable spectacle. The city is sacred to Hindus and also one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. In many ways Varanasi epitomizes the very best and worst aspects of India, and it can be a little overwhelming. However, the scene of pilgrims doing their devotions in the River Ganges at sunrise set against the back drop of the centuries old temples is probably one of the most impressive sights in the world - definitely a must see destination on any trip to northern India.

Relax and enjoy an airport transfer in a private vehicle, with driver, and English-speaking assistant.

Enjoy your flight from Delhi to Varanasi. The flight duration is approximately two hours.

From your hotel, a private vehicle, with driver, and English speaking guide, will transfer you to the airport for your flight.

Private guided tour of Sarnath, located 5 miles from Varanasi, the site is a deer park where Gautama Buddha first taught the Dharma after his enlightenment. Sarnath is one of four holy Buddhist sites sanctioned by the Buddha himself for pilgrimage. Amongst the ruins is the Dharmekh Stupa is impressive at 128 feet high, and 93 in diameters. This dates back to 200 BC and is the sport where the Buddha is said to have preached his first sermon.  Within the deer park complex is the large Dhamekha Stupa, constructed by the Emperor Ashoka in 249 BCE, and several other Buddhist structures that were added between the 3rd and the 11th century BC.

The Taj Gateway hotel is set amidst 40 acres of lush green gardens, just 21 kms (45 mins drive) from the airport. The hotel is the veritable haven of peace and tranquility in this crowded, ancient temple city. The hotel is 6 kms away from the city centre or the commercial hub of Varanasi, also commonly known as The Chowk. The hotel is constructed in the holy Swastik shape (The Swastika is an ancient symbol which re-presents good fortune and blessing). Taj Gateway offers recently renovated & refurbished world-class contemporary rooms & suites with choice of views ranging from the lush green gardens or the swimming pool. The hotel has 130 rooms divided in four categories - Standard Rooms, Executive Rooms, Executive Suites and Deluxe Suites.

Overnight at The Taj Gateway.

Day 4 Varanasi

Winding through the streets and popping out onto the riverside will give you an insider’s look at the symbiotic life of the riverside people of Varanasi. Eventually, as you tour through the city you will end up on Bengali Tola, the street of the Bengalis, where you will be visiting the hidden Mother Goddess Kali shrines, and the vistas of life along the riverside. The tour continues to the historic ritual bathing site called Dashaswamedh, or the ten-horse sacrifice Ghat, the perfect way to conclude this walking city tour.

Overnight at The Taj Gateway.

Day 5 Khajuraho

The 9th to 12th century temples of Khajuraho showcase the architectural genius of the Chandela dynasty. Stone carvings ooze with passion, eroticism, dance and music and other creative arts. The 85 temples were built in North Indian 'Nagara' style of architecture, though only 20 of them have survived the rough weather conditions over long years of time.

Glide along the famous and holy Ganges waterway in a private boat accompanied by an expert guide.  The Ganga Ghats at Varanasi attract tourists and pilgrims of all ages for the opportunity to take a dip in the holy Ganges, which is believed to absolve one's sins.  Pilgrims and tourists alike can be seen swimming and bathing immediately next to the funeral pyres of the riverside temples.  This is a somewhat surreal experience and only for those with a strong constitution.

From your hotel, a private vehicle, with driver, and English speaking guide, will transfer you to the airport for your flight.

Enjoy your flight from Varanasi to Khajuraho today. The flight duration is approximately 1 hour.

Sit back and relax for this airport transfer in a private vehicle, with driver, and English-speaking assistant.

This private guided tour of the Khajuraho Group of Monuments in Khajuraho, is a once in life time experience.  Located in a town in the Indian state of Madhya Pradesh, in the Chhatarpur District, about 620 kilometers southeast of New Delhi, this unique location is one of the most popular tourist destinations in all of India. Khajuraho contains the largest group of medieval Hindu and Jain temples, which are famous due to the erogenous nature of the sculptures. The Khajuraho group of monuments has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and is considered to be one of the "seven wonders" of India. The city of Khajuraho was the original capital of the Chandela Rajputs, a Hindu dynasty that ruled this part of India from the 10th to the 12th centuries. These marvelous Khajuraho temples and its whole surrounding area were enclosed by a wall with eight gates, each flanked by two golden palm trees. There were originally over 80 Hindu temples, of which only 22 now stand in a reasonable state of preservation, scattered over an area of about 8 square miles.

A haven of peace and tranquility, Hotel Chandela offers easy access to the world famous Khajuraho temples, Panna National Park Tiger Reserve, and more. Tucked snugly amidst 11 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens, this hotel offers an array of modern comforts. After a long day, retire to the splendid ambience of a sprawling deluxe cottage or unwind in the comfort of an elegantly appointed standard room. From casual, all-day eateries to formal, fine dining, guests can look forward to a wide selection of delectable dishes and refreshing drinks. Take advantage of our recreation activities for irresistible fun and relaxation.

Overnight at Taj Chandela.

Day 6 Agra

Agra boasts three UNESCO World Heritage sites, the Taj Mahal, the Agra Fort, and nearby Fatehpur Sikri. The Taj Mahal in all its timeless beauty is still the inspiration of poets and painters, writers and photographers. Agra Fort is a testament to the Mughal dynasties and their conqueror architecture. And the ghost city of Fatehpur Sikri dazzles with its temples and palace yards.

Meet your driver for a private transfer to Jhansi.

Enjoy your train ride from Jhansi to . The train ride duration is approximately five hours.

A private vehicle, with driver, and English-speaking assistant will pick you up for a transfer to the train station.

Sprawled over 35 acres of luxurious gardens, and in close proximity to the Taj Mahal, ITC Mughal is a fitting tribute to the great Mughal builders of the past. The only Indian hotel to have won the prestigious Aga Khan Award for its excellent representation of Mughal architecture, it now boasts of a brand new accommodation wing - the 'Khwab Mahal' - Palace of Dreams. Comprising of 42 opulent rooms and suites, they resemble Miniature Palaces recreating a paradise for the contemporary Mogul- full of splendor and perfection which was the hallmark of the Mughal Dynasty.

Overnight at ITC Mughal (5*).

Day 7 Agra

Be amazed on this private guided tour of Taj Mahal, one of the most beautiful monument built by the Mughals, the Muslim rulers of India. Taj Mahal is built entirely of white marble. Its stunning architectural beauty is beyond adequate description, particularly at dawn and sunset. It was built by Emperor Shah Jahan in the memory of his dear wife and Queen Mumtaz Mahal. Also visit Agra Fort, built of red sandstone and marble. This great monument of red sandstone dominating a bend in the river Yamuna, 2km northwest of Taj Mahal was constructed by the Mughals during 1565-1571.

Avail a vehicle and driver at your disposal around Northern India.

Overnight at ITC Mughal (5*).

Day 8 Jaipur

Jaipur is the capital of Rajasthan and known as the Pink City for its reddish stucco on the massive Rajput forts. The Amber Palace complex overlooking the artificial lake south of the town is one of the most popular tourist sites. Bustling markets offer great shopping.

Transfer to Jaipur with private vehicle and driver. On the way, visit ancient ghost city of Fatehpur Sikri. Built during the second half of the 16th century by the Emperor Akbar, the "City of Victory" was the capital of the Mughal Empire for only some 10 years. The complex of monuments and temples, all in a uniform architectural style, includes one of the largest mosques in India, the Jama Masjid.

Visit the local markets to find an exotic array of art, gems, and souvenirs.

The Jai Mahal Palace is set amidst 18 acres of beautifully landscaped Moghul gardens, and dates back to 1745 A.D. A masterpiece in the Indo Saracenic style of architecture, it blends spotlight-grabbing opulence with tantalizing comforts that transport guests to a world of Rajasthan magnificence. It is located downtown, close to the main shopping center and historical monuments. Luxury Rooms, designed in turquoise and red, evoke the rich colours of Rajasthan. The rooms seamlessly blend contemporary and traditional style and offer modern facilities such as cordless phone and LCD TV. The stylish bathrooms have state of the art fittings, a separate shower cubical and a separate bath tub. These rooms offer a spectrum of moods in their design elements.

Overnight at Jai Mahal Palace.

Day 9 Jaipur

Elephant Ride accompanied by a professional mahout to ascent Amber Fort and non-air-conditioned Jeep to drive down. Non-air-conditioned Jeep will be provided for both ways if the elephant ride is not available.

Private guided tour of Amber Fort, located in the city of Amber, 11 km from Jaipur. The structure which is today known as Amber Fort was initially a palace complex within the much larger Jaigarh Fort. The fort is constructed of red sandstone and white marble, overlooking Maotha Lake, and was reputed to be the treasure vault of the Kacchwaha rulers. The most magnificent sight is inside the hall of mirrors. When royalty lived here, at night they needed only a single candle, because the thousands of tiny intricate mirrors would light up the entire room.

Avail a vehicle and driver at your disposal around Northern India.

Overnight at Jai Mahal Palace.

Day 10 Udaipur

Udaipur is referred to as the most romantic city in India and dubbed the ‘Venice of the East’. The marble palaces, beautifully laid out gardens and the lakes make Udaipur seem almost like a mirage. The City Palace, or the Palace of the then King of Mewar, is built with white marble and shines in the bright sunshine. There are three interconnected lakes within the town; Fateh Sagar Lake, Pichhola Lake, and Swaroop Sagar Lake. Pichhola Lake is home to one of the most romantic hotels of the world, the Lake Palace Hotel. Fateh Sagar Lake contains two small islands, one contains the Udaipur solar observatory, and the other one has the beautiful Nehru Garden.

Private guided tour of the City Palace of Jaipur, an imposing blend of traditional Rajasthan and Mughal architecture, originally built by Maharaja Jai Singh II of the Kachhwaha clan of Rajputs. The vast palace complex occupies one seventh of the walled city of Jaipur. The Jantar Mantar is a collection of massive astronomical instruments, built of local stone and marble. Each instrument carries an astronomical scale marked on the marble inner lining, and bronze tablets were also employed. Adjoining the Palace is the Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds). Built in 1799 by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh, the Hawa Mahal overlooks one of the main streets and also provides some excellent views of the city.

Airport transfer with private vehicle, driver, and English-speaking assistant.

Enjoy your flight from Jaipur to Udaipur today. The flight duration is approximately one hour.

Airport transfer with private vehicle, driver, and English-speaking assistant.

Private guided tour of Eklingji, located about twelve miles north of Udaipur, featuring a complex of 108 ancient temples, carved from sandstone and marble. The main temple was built in AD 734 to propagate the blessings of Lord Shiva. At Nagda there are some 10th century temples. The Jain temple of Adbudji is essentially ruined, but its architecture is interesting. About 500m away, the Sas Bahu temple has fine intricate carvings. There are also some small temples submerged in the nearby lake.

The Grand Laxmi Vilas Palace Udaipur, was originally built in 1911 by Maharana Bhupal Singh and overlooks the serene Fateh Sagar Lake, radiating with the grandeur and grace of an earlier era. The entire palace hotel has been renovated in Nov 2004, amalgamating modern luxuries with royal splendor. The hotel offers 55 Palace style rooms and suites – all gracefully appointed and elegantly decorated. The Grand Laxmi Vilas Palace Udaipur offers a range of dining options within the hotel, as well as interesting entertainment such as the Royal Baggi rides, and the Light and Sound shows.

Overnight at Grand Laxmi Vilas Palace.

Day 11 Udaipur

Private guided tour of the majestic white City Palace built in granite and marble. This largest palace complex in Rajasthan is surrounded by crenellated fort walls, and overlooks Pichola Lake. The Garden of the Maids of Honor is well laid out with extensive lawns and shady walks. Constructed for forty eight young ladies-in-waiting sent to the royal house as part of the dowry, the garden has many fountains in its four delightful pools, chiseled kiosks and marble elephants. Crystal Gallery in the Fateh Prakash Palace features a breath taking collection of crystals including tables, sofa sets, dining table, dressers, fountains, beds, and an exquisite jewel studded carpet, which is beyond description.

Avail a vehicle and driver at your disposal around Northern India.

Overnight at Grand Laxmi Vilas Palace.

Day 12 Mumbai

Mumbai (Bombay), the cosmopolitan capital of India is located in the west of India. Its most recognizable monument is the Gateway to India, built to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary in 1911. From there you can catch a boat to the Elephanta Island, a UNESCO world heritage site where you can see rock-cut temples and caves dating back to the 6th century. There are museums such as the Gandhi, art galleries, bazaars, parks and temples. Bollywood, the film industry in Mumbai produces over 400 films a year and is therefore, the largest movie industry in the world. The actors enjoy their god-like statuses and dwell in exclusive mansions on Malabar Hill.

Airport transfer with private vehicle, driver, and English-speaking assistant.

Enjoy your flight from Udaipur to Mumbai today. The flight duration is approximately two hours.

Airport transfer with private vehicle, driver, and English-speaking assistant.

The tour covers the Gateway of India, the heritage buildings of Kala Ghoda, Victoria Terminus, Crawford Market, Marine Drive and Chowpatty Beach. If you feel like walking, you can ask the Guide to take you to the traditional marketplace of Bhuleshwar, or the crowded lanes of Mohammed Ali Road. The streets are brightly lit, and crammed with businessmen whose day is far from over. Street food vendors are busy selling local delicacies to a hungry crowd.

Bubbling with big-city delight, The Taj President offers lovely views of the city. A haven of comfort and style, this hotel offers a welcome respite of tranquil relaxation, while still being close to the city's main business district, so guests are just steps away from all the excitement it has to offer. Rooms are spacious and well-appointed and offer a wide range of modern amenities to ensure a comfortable stay. Dine at one of the various restaurants and take part in a variety of recreational activities offered at the resort.

Overnight at Taj President (Vivanta) (South Mumbai).

Day 13 Mumbai

Enjoy a private cruise through Mumbai Harbor brings you to the rock-cut cave temples on Elephanta Island. In 1987, the caves were designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The rock-cut temple complex covers an area of 60,000 sq ft consisting of a main chamber, two lateral ones, courtyards and subsidiary shrines. The site of these magnificent caves contained beautiful reliefs, sculptures, and a temple to the Hindu god Siva. The caves are hewn from solid rock. The temple complex is said to be the abode of Shiva.

This is a walk through the Art Precinct of Mumbai’s British Heritage District, to introduce you to the vibrant world of contemporary Indian painting and sculpture.  Kala Ghoda (Black Horse) is a crescent shaped sub-precinct that has developed into a prominent cultural center in Mumbai. The crescent has a distinct visual identity because it houses a fine collection of heritage structures in Victorian Neo-Gothic, Indo Saracenic, Renaissance Revival and Edwardian Neo Classical styles. The Kala Ghoda crescent has numerous art galleries, museums and cultural spaces, including pavement galleries. Several restaurants, popular shops, and designer boutiques also add diversity to the area.  During the walk, we will introduce you to the history of Mumbai’s beautiful heritage buildings, and we’ll visit several galleries showcasing different schools of Indian art. The walk attempts to give you a first hand understanding of modern Indian art and its evolution from the early 1900s to the present day. As in most countries with a colonial past, Indian artists have sought to interrogate and understand Western influences on artistic expression. They have questioned the role and function of an artist in a country like India, and established a distinct identity and idiom for Indian art.

Overnight at Taj President (Vivanta) (South Mumbai).

Day 14 Goa

Goa has famously laid-back beaches on the Indian Ocean. A very popular package destination, especially from Europe. Portuguese merchants first landed in Goa in the 15th century, and annexed it soon after. The Portuguese colony existed for about 450 years (one of the longest held colonial possessions in the world). The region is famous for its excellent white sand beaches, and sun drenched weather. A wonderful addition to any itinerary to take a break before heading home.

Airport transfer with private vehicle, driver, and English-speaking assistant.

Enjoy your flight from Mumbai to Goa today. The flight duration is approximately 1 hour.

Airport transfer with private vehicle, driver, and English-speaking assistant.

Enjoy time at leisure to explore at your own pace, or relax at your hotel.

Coconut Grove is a brand new villa style property set amongst the coconut groves. It is located 250m from Betalbatim beach in South Goa will appeal to all looking for a truly relaxing break in a excellent standard of accommodation. Its quiet location makes it ideal to relax and soak in the sun on the endless stretches of golden sands of Betalbatim beach, which is only a short walk away. The resort consists of 36 deluxe double rooms and 2 cottages.

Overnight at Coconut Grove (South Goa).

Day 15 Goa

Enjoy time at leisure to explore at your own pace, or relax at your hotel.

Overnight at Coconut Grove (South Goa).
    
Day 16 Goa

Enjoy time at leisure to explore at your own pace, or relax at your hotel.

Overnight at Coconut Grove (South Goa).
    
Day 17 Cochin

Kochi (Cochin) has a powerful lure for tourists. Its location between the blue waters of the Arabian Sea and Kerala’s emerald backwaters, rich medley of Indian and foreign architecture, unusual sights like the Chinese fishing nets, and quaint localities like the Jewish Quarter, all draw the attention of visitors. Kochi played a pivotal role in the development of shipping and trade in the southern region with its prime location on the west coast, fine bay, and protected harbor. Merchant ships made frequent stops to stock up on spices, coffee and wood, en-route to the rich markets of Europe and West Asia. The city was alternately controlled by the Portuguese, Dutch and British, whose influences are evident in the architecture of city buildings.

Airport transfer with private vehicle, driver, and English-speaking assistant.

Enjoy your flight from Goa to Cochin today. The flight duration is approximately three hours.

Airport transfer with private vehicle, driver, and English-speaking assistant.

Enjoy a Kathakali dance performance. Dating back to the 17th century, it originated in the south Indian state of Kerala. The word Kathakali literally means "Story-Play". It is known for its large, elaborate makeup and costumes. Usually performed only by men, the actors rely heavily on hand gestures to convey their story.

Le Méridien Cochin Resort & Convention Center is nestled amongst 25 acres of coconut groves and backwater rivers. Fashionably luxurious in beautiful pristine environs, the 223 rooms and suites offer a perfect view into the best Kerala has to offer: her natural splendors. Cochin, its rich maritime history evident in the myriad cultures and flavours found here, is the queen’s necklace on the Arabian Sea. 72 state-of-the-art suites with large bay windows overlooking the scenic beauty, bright paintings, and contemporary decor. The resort's restaurants offer relaxed, all-day dining, a popular nightspot with splendid international cuisine, or a cozy bar.

Overnight at Le Meridien.

Day 18 Cochin

Private guided tour of Kochi (Cochin). The first stop is the Paradesi Synagogue, built in 1568, it is the oldest synagogue in Commonwealth of Nations. The synagogue is magnificently decorated with Chinese tiles and Belgian chandeliers. The Paradesi Synagogue is the oldest synagogue in the Commonwealth of Nations. Giant scrolls of the Old Testament can be found here. A short boat ride to Bolghatty is the Dutch palace offering a fantastic view of the city. This palace is notable for some of the best mythological murals in India, particularly in the bed chambers. In that room one can see the entire story of Ramayana on the walls. The palace also contains rare examples of traditional Kerala flooring, which looks like polished black marble but is actually a mixture of burned coconut shells, charcoal, lime, plant juices and egg whites.

Avail a vehicle and driver at your disposal around Southern India.

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.

Overnight at Le Meridien.

Day 19 Kumarakom

Kumarakom - An invigorating, fascinating paradise. The slender coconut palms, never ending paddy fields, meandering lagoons and backwaters, mangroves nesting birds of a hundred varieties. The charming emerald peninsula juts into Vembanad Lake where you'll come across plenty of traditional country crafts, boats and canoes. The fresh water of the lake runs into the mainland making a labyrinth of lagoons, brooks, canals and waterways.

Meet your driver for a private transfer to Kumarakom.

Enjoy a private tour of the Kumarakom bird sanctuary. Spread across 14 acres the sanctuary is a favourite haunt of migratory birds and an ornithologist's paradise. Egrets, darters, herons, teal, waterfowl, cuckoo, wild duck and migratory birds like the Siberian storks that live here. The best way to watch the birds is a boat trip round the islands.

Coconut Lagoon is a boutique hotel located in an abandoned coconut plantation on the shores of the Vemabanad Lake. An ideal getaway for romantic holidays and family gatherings, this hotel charms you with its serenity, country side charm and greenery. Kumarakom, where the hotel is situated, is a favourite among holiday makers who are longing for a respite from the bustling city life. Coconut Lagoon captures all the nuances of this quaint little island, and tops it off with supreme facilities. This resort is surrounded by backwaters and is accessible only by boat.

Overnight at Coconut Lagoon.

Day 20 Thekkady

Thekkady. The very sound of the name conjures up images of elephants, unending chains of hill and spice scented plantations. Picturesque plantations and hill towns hold great opportunities for treks and mountain walks. The Thekkady sanctuary is one of the best in the country for watching and photographing wild life.

Alleppey is spread through canals, lakes & lagoons. Your private guided tour by boat includes sailing down a maze of canals where one sees different scenes from the villages, paddy fields, coconut palms, fisherman and local life.

Meet your driver for a private transfer to Thekkady.

The Land Where Pepper Grows. Spice Village is located in the Periyar wilderness, high in the western ghats of Kerala. For centuries, the area attracted voyagers and adventurers, mercenaries and empire builders, kings and merchant princes. Men and women drawn not only by the lure of spices, but by the romance and wild beauty of the land. The Portuguese and the Jews of Cochin visited as traders, turning the natural bounties of the area into wealth. Pepper and cardamom, cinnamon and ginger, nutmeg, mace and anise the Periyar hills became nature's taste factory in the 14th century, as Cochin became nature's harbour, the port of lading for a spice-hungry world. Today, it's the rainforests, the animals and the vast silences that attract the modern visitor.

Overnight at Spice Village.

Day 21 Madurai

The highpoint of visits to temple cities is Madurai, spread along the rocky banks of the river Vaigai in the state of Tamil Nadu. Meenakshi Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and his consort, Goddess Parvati (in the form of Meenakshi or Fish-eyed Goddess). The temple has a stunning architecture. It is literally a splendid art gallery with each stone, each image breathing the tradition of this ancient and vibrant culture. Kallazhagar Temple, in the outskirts of Madurai is one of the 108 Divya Desams of the Sree Vaishnava tradition. The ancient Tirupparamkunram temple enshrining Subramanya is one of the 6 Aarupadai Veedu shrines of Skanda. Also located in Madurai is the lesser known Shivastalam of Tiru Aappanoor enshrining Aappudaiyaar.

Private guided tour of a Kerala spice plantation, where you can see natural pepper, cardamom, cinnamon, ginger, vanilla, and nutmeg. The spice plantations in Kerala are captivating farms to wander in, since different spices are cultivated in different sections of each plantation. While exploring the Kerala spice plantations, you can go for nature walks, bird watching treks, taste the various spices and breathe in the fragrant air.

Meet your driver for a private transfer to Madurai.

Hotel Sangam is surrounded by the business and entertainment districts. The hotel's spacious guest rooms and suites feature luxuriously appointed marble bathrooms. Guests can visit tourist places like Madurai Meenakshi Temple and Tirumalai Nayak Palace from here. The hotel has 60 guest rooms that are comfortably equipped with numerous modern amenities. The multi-cuisine on-site restaurant satisfies your taste buds by offering varied dishes including Indian, Continental and Chinese. The well-stocked in-house bar offers a world of choice in fine liquors to the true connoisseur. Wake up to the refreshing power of water at the giant kidney-shaped swimming pool. You can also just lounge by the poolside and listen to the gurgle of the fountain and lilting waves.

Overnight at Sangam.

Day 22 Madurai

Private guided tour of Madurai, one of the great temple towns of South India. The Meenakshi Sundareswarar Temple is a historic Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and his consort, Goddess Parvati (in the form of Meenakshi or Fish-eyed Goddess). The temple has a stunning architecture and it was a frontrunner in the election for the modern seven wonders of the world for its architectural importance. The Venkateswara Temple at Tirumala is dedicated to Lord Vishnu as 'Venkateswara' (or Srinivasa) and attracts Hindus from across the world and is the most visited religious place in the world. The temple is the world's richest in terms of the wealth of offerings and gifts given by visiting pilgrims.

Private guided tour of Madurai, one of the great temple towns of South India. The Meenakshi Sundareswarar Temple is a historic Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and his consort, Goddess Parvati (in the form of Meenakshi or Fish-eyed Goddess). The temple has a stunning architecture and it was a frontrunner in the election for the modern seven wonders of the world for its architectural importance. The Venkateswara Temple at Tirumala is dedicated to Lord Vishnu as 'Venkateswara' (or Srinivasa) and attracts Hindus from across the world and is the most visited religious place in the world. The temple is the world's richest in terms of the wealth of offerings and gifts given by visiting pilgrims.

Overnight at Sangam.

Day 23 Chennai

Chennai (Madras) is a culturally rich city with temples, museums, and churches. A stroll on the Marina Beach, the 2nd longest beach in the world is recommended, especially early in the morning to catch the glorious spectacle of the sunrise. Just a little further on is Fort St. George, which was the British seat of power until Independence. A short walk away is the Kapaleeshwarar temple in Mylapore, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Another famous temple worth visiting is the Parthasarathy temple in Triplicane. Both these temples are centuries old and rich in grandeur and cultural heritage.

Airport transfer with private vehicle, driver, and English-speaking assistant.

Enjoy your flight from Madurai to Chennai today. The flight duration is approximately two hours.

Airport transfer with private vehicle, driver, and English-speaking assistant.

Day Private guided tour of Mahabalipuram, a World Heritage site famous for its Shore Temple and carved bas relief works on stone. On the way, stop at Dakshin Chitra Craft Foundation , and Cholalmandal Artists Village. Duration: 6-8 hours.  Mamallapuram - Seaport of the Pallava Kings: Mamallapuram (also called Mahaballipuram) is about an hour's drive from Chennai on the East Coast Road. It was the second capital and seaport of the Pallava Kings who ruled in the 5th century. Local legend has it that there was once a beautiful city here with seven temples, which the Gods submerged under the sea in anger. It was dismissed as fishermen's tale, until in 2002, an Indo-British team of divers discovered a series of man-made structures under water, covering an area of several square miles. Today at Mamallapuram, you can see the famous Shore Temple, the only surviving temple out of the original seven (the rest have sunk under the sea). The Shore Temple is among the oldest temples of South India and represents the final flowering of Pallava art. Mamallapuram is also famous for its awe-inspiring open-air granite sculptures. Arjuna's Penance, one of the world's biggest bas-reliefs depicts the story of the descent of the River Ganges from Heaven to Earth. Cave temples and massive monolithic sculptures (carved from a single large block of granite) make Mamallapuram a place to remember.  Dakshina Chitra – A unique glimpse of South India: On the way to Mamallapuram is Dakshin Chitra, a project of the Madras Craft Foundation. Here, traditional houses from various parts of South India have been transported and re-built, offering you an unforgettable and authentic insight into the lifestyles of the diverse people of South India. Cholamandal Artists Village: Cholamandal is a village of artists. Set up in 1965 as an experiment, it is now a successful co-operative. About 30 artists and sculptors live here in beautiful green surroundings.

Raintree is a specialty restaurant in Taj Connemara and features authentic southern Indian cuisine. With a history of over 18 years, Chennai's only iconic Chettinad Restaurant, is open for lunch in an air-conditioned indoor setting and for dinner in an enhanced al-fresco setting.

Radisson GRT is a 5-Star luxury business hotel, located in the emerging industry and business zones in Chennai, South India. Radisson GRT provides guests with an impeccable blend of genuine hospitality and international comforts. Radisson GRT offers 101 centrally air-conditioned rooms with European décor and a truly world-class stay and dining experience.

Overnight at GRT Radisson.

Day 24 Chennai

Half day private guided tour of ancient Kanchipuram, the city of thousand temples, is one of the seven most sacred pilgrim centres for the Hindus. There now remain about 126 temples in Kanchi and a few more in its outskirts. The city was the capital of the Early Cholas as far back as the 2nd century BC and a Pallava capital between the 6th and 8th centuries. Kanchipuram is 75 kms away from Chennai.

Overnight at GRT Radisson.

Day 25 Chennai

Airport transfer with private vehicle, driver, and English-speaking assistant.

Overnight at Depart.

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