Tamil Nadu is India’s southernmost state and has its own unique identity. The language, architecture, religion and food of Tamil Nadu are unlike anything you will have experienced elsewhere in India.
This region is famous for its monument temples, ancient religious complexes that defy description, and all key sites are included in this journey. Fly into Chennai, the capital of the state, travelling along the coast to Mahabalipuram and Pondicherry before heading inland to Kumbakonam and Karaikudi, the centre of the Chettinad region. End your odyssey through the region at Madurai, the second largest city in Tamil Nadu from where you fly back to Chennai. After two weeks in the hustle and bustle of south India, escape the crowds and fly to the Andaman Islands. This remote archipelago in the Bay of Bengal still contains tribes uncontacted by the modern world, and the handful of resorts on Havelock Island offer the chance to relax and experience an unspoiled tropical paradise.
Chennai – Mahabalipuram – Pondicherry – Kumbakonam – Karaikudi – Madurai – Chennai – Andaman Islands – Mumbai
Trip Highlights
- The colourful gopurams of Madurai’s Sri Meenakshi Temple are instantly recognisable
- Discover the magnificent mansions of Chettinad built by wealthy merchant families
- The remote Andaman Islands are an untouched tropical paradise of turquoise seas
- Tamil Nadu is famous for its ‘Temple Towns’ each dominated by impressive complexes
- The former French colony of Pondicherry still retains a distinct Gallic influence
- Chennai was the first British city in India with this heritage evident in the metropolis
Itinerary
Day 1
Depart the UK
Depart from the UK in the afternoon on the direct flight from London Heathrow to Chennai.
Day 2
Arrive Chennai
Arrive in Chennai early in the morning, where you will bet met at the airport and transferred to your hotel. One of India’s largest cities, Chennai, previously known as Madras, is the capital of Tamil Nadu and a major entry point to southern India. The rest of the day is free to relax or begin your exploration of the city under your own arrangements.
Taj Coromandel
Taj Connemara
The Leela Palace Chennai
Day 3
Chennai
The British East India Company founded the colonial settlement that forms the core of modern-day Chennai during the 17th century, and you will be exploring this legacy today. The Fort of St George was the first British fortress in India, now a museum which houses St Mary’s Church, the oldest Anglian church in the country. Neo-classical and Indo-Saracenic buildings such as Chennai Central Station and Victoria Hall reflect the later era of the British Raj. However, this area was settled long before the British arrived, with the ancient Kapaleeshwarar Temple and the fine Chola Bronzes of the Government Museum representative of the early inhabitants of the region. Other places of interest include George Town Market and 16th century Portuguese San Thome Basilica.
Taj Coromandel
Taj Connemara
The Leela Palace Chennai
Day 4
Chennai to Mahabalipuram – 50kms
It is a short drive south along the coast to Mahabalipuram, famed for the complex of UNESCO World Heritage Site temples that overlook the Bay of Bengal. The port here has been in use since at least the 1st century BC, but it was the Pallavan Kingdom which built the temples on the beach in the 7th and 8th century. Many have been lost to the waves, but the Shore Temple survives as one of the oldest and most dramatically sited in south India.
- Breakfast
Ideal Beach Resort
Radisson Blu Resort Temple Bay
Day 5
Mahabalipuram to Pondicherry – 100kms
This morning continue along the coast to Pondicherry. The largest French colony in India, the city of Pondicherry was incorporated into the Indian Republic in 1954 and is the capital of a Union Territory which includes all the scattered former French possessions of southern India. The modern city still retains a strong French influence with the grid of streets in the old town and the seafront promenade lined with wooden-shuttered colonial buildings and pastel-coloured churches.
- Breakfast
Maison Perumal
Palais de Mahe
Day 6
Pondicherry – visit Gingee and Tiruvannamalai
Today you will be heading out of Pondicherry to explore nearby Gingee and Tiruvannamalai. Gingee is known for its fort which was established here in the 12th century and was fought over many times before finally conquered by the British in the 18th century who called it the ‘Troy of the East’. Tiruvannamalai is home to the even older Annamalaiyar Temple built in the 9th century. One of the largest temple complexes in India, it is known for its impressive thousand pillared hall and gopurams which attracts millions of pilgrims every year.
- Breakfast
Maison Perumal
Palais de Mahe
Day 7
Pondicherry to Kumbakonam – 135kms
Leave from Pondicherry in the morning to travel to the temple town of Kumbakonam, visiting Chidambaram and Gangaikondacholapuram along the way. The Nataraja Temple was built in Chidambaram in the 10th century under the rule of the Chola dynasty, whose capital was moved to nearby Gangaikondacholapuram in the 11th century. Although most of the old capital has been lost to the ages, the Brihadisvara Temple survives as a magnificent example of Dravidian architecture.
- Breakfast,
- Dinner
Mantra Koodam
Day 8
Kumbakonam – visit Swamimalai
With almost 200 temples within its limits, it is no wonder that Kumbakonam is known as the ‘city of temples’. Adi Kumbeswarar Temple is thought to be the oldest, dating from at least the 9th century, while Sarangapani Temple is the largest, surrounded by a bustling market. As well as exploring the many temples of Kumbakonam you will visit nearby Swamimalai, renowned for the production of bronze idols and statues.
- Breakfast,
- Dinner
Mantra Koodam
Day 9
Kumbakonam – visit Trichy and Srirangam
Follow the course of the Kollidam River to Tiruchirappalli, better known simply as Trichy, one of the oldest cities in Tamil Nadu. The Rock Fort which rises over the city on an ancient outcrop has seen many battles over its long history but, today, it is more famous for its atmospheric Rock Fort Temple which has far-reaching views. Nearby, the Ranganathaswamy Temple on an island in the river is said to be the largest complex in India and second only in size to Cambodia’s Angkor Wat.
- Breakfast,
- Dinner
Mantra Koodam
Day 10
Kumbakonam to Karaikudi via Tanjore – 160kms
Leave from Kumbakonam and continue by road to Karaikudi. This town is located in the heart of the Chettinad region and you will also make a stop on the way to visit Tanjore, an important temple town. Tanjore was the capital of the Chola Empire before it moved to Gangaikondacholapuram. The 11th century Brihadisvara Temple is the main highlight. Later continue to Karaikudi where you will stay for the next two nights.
- Breakfast,
- Dinner
The Bangala
Visalam
Day 11
Karaikudi
The Chettinad Region was home to some of south India’s wealthiest merchant families and, during the latter days of the Raj, used the fortunes they made trading in the British Empire to build magnificent mansions. Today many of the mansions of Karaikudi are crumbling and deserted, but they remain an architectural delight and a wonderful contrast to the temples you have seen elsewhere in the south. This region is also known for its unique cuisine and its history of fine crafts which can be found in local temples and markets.
- Breakfast,
- Dinner
The Bangala
Visalam
Day 12
Karaikudi to Madurai – 100kms
Your journey through Tamil Nadu reaches Madurai, the second largest city in the state and a centre for learning and pilgrimage throughout its long history. During your stay, visit the Indo-Saracenic Thirumalai Nayaka Palace and the Sri Meenakshi Temple. At the heart of Madurai surrounded by vibrant markets, Sri Meenakshi is southern India’s most important and most recognisable temple with it towering colourfully decorated gopurams visible throughout the city. The temple complex covers a vast area and is busy with pilgrims at all times of day. Return to Sri Meenakshi at nightfall to see the ‘putting to bed’ ceremony when Shiva is returned to his shrine – a highlight of any visit to the city.
- Breakfast
Heritage Madurai
Day 13
Madurai to Chennai – by air
There is time to continue your exploration of Madurai in the morning before boarding the afternoon flight back to Chennai, stopping overnight in a hotel close to the airport.
- Breakfast
Trident Chennai
Day 14
Chennai to Port Blair – by air / Port Blair to Havelock Island – by boat
Return to the airport in time for the morning flight to Port Blair, capital of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Here connect with the afternoon ferry to your resort on Haverlock Island. On the other side of the Bay of Bengal from Chennai, closer to Myanmar and Thailand than India, the Andamans were settled by the British as a penal colony and came under Indian rule after independence. One of the most remote places on the planet, many of the 300 islands of the archipelago are off limits to visitors to protect the indigenous communities which have little or no contact with the outside world. The islands which are open to visitors are known for their stunning beauty and peaceful atmosphere.
- Breakfast,
- Dinner
Barefoot at Havelock
Jalakara
Taj Exotica Resort and Spa, Andamans
Day 15-17
Havelock Island
Havelock Island has a well-deserved reputation as a tropical paradise. The densely forested interior, rich in wildlife, opens onto pristine sandy beaches facing azure oceans which offer some of the best diving and snorkelling in the world. Less than two hours by ferry from the airport in Port Blair, there is a small handful of exquisite resorts on the island, each with their own unique character and which allow for an escape from the hectic modern world. Relax on the palm-fringed beach or by the pool, swim, dive and snorkel in the crystal-clear waters, trek through the tropical rainforest and cruise around uninhabited islands.
- Breakfast,
- Lunch,
- Dinner
Barefoot at Havelock
Jalakara
Taj Exotica Resort and Spa, Andamans
Day 18
Havelock Island to Port Blair – by boat / Port Blair to Mumbai – by air
It is time to say farewell to paradise, taking the morning ferry back to Port Blair to catch the afternoon flight to Mumbai, staying overnight in a hotel close to the airport.
- Breakfast
Trident Hotel Bandra
Taj Santa Cruz
Day 19
Mumbai to the UK
Return to the airport in the morning to board the direct flight back to the UK.
- Breakfast
Extending your stay...
Commence your holiday in historic Kochi. A key spice trading centre since ancient times, Greeks, Romans, Arabs, Chinese, Portuguese, Dutch and British have all left their mark. Discover churches, palaces, markets and the oldest active synagogue in India.
Incorporate two-nights on a traditional houseboat. Known locally as kettuvallams, these authentic vessels come complete with captain, deck hand and cook and are small enough to cruise the picturesque palm-fringed canals and narrow village waterways.
Munnar is the setting for some of the highest tea estates in the world and has a beautiful setting. Midway between the Keralan coast and Madurai, visit the town and busy market, undertake a day hike or, simply, sit back and marvel at the spectacular scenery.
Mysore is another excellent option as a starting point for this tour. Highlights include a heritage walk of the old city and, outside of Mysore, visits to the temples at Somnathpur and Tipu Sultan’s capital, Srirangapatnam. Afterwards, travel by train to Chennai.
Guide to Price
19 days from £5400 - £5900 per person
What's Included
- International and domestic flights
- Private car with English speaking driver
- Sightseeing with local English speaking guides
- Ferry transfers
- Hotel accommodation and taxes
What's Not Included
- Cost of visas
- Travel Insurance
- Expenses of a personal nature
from £5400 - £5900
Travel Information
Getting There
British Airways fly direct from London Heathrow to Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai and Hyderabad. Virgin Atlantic have daily flights to Delhi and Vistara fly direct to Delhi. Emirates, Oman Air, Qatar Airways and Etihad Airways also have excellent connections via their respected hubs to Kolkata, Kochi, Trivandrum, Kozhikode, Goa, Jaipur and Lucknow and fly from airports all over the UK.
Flying Times From UK
Direct flights from the UK take between 8 and 10 hours depending on the destination. Flights with stops en-route take between 12 and 14 hours.
Time Zone
India is +5½ hours ahead of GMT.
Visa Requirements
Holders of British Citizen passports are able to apply for an e-Tourist Visa (eTV). There are three different eTVs - a one month eTV (valid for 30 days), a one year eTV (valid for 365 days) and a five year eTV (valid for 5 years). Applications for the one month eTV can only be made within 30 days of travel to India. Applications for the one year eTV and five year eTV can only be made within 120 days of travel to India.
Please note that the very latest an Indian eTV application can be made is 4 days prior to travel to India. The eTV becomes active from the date of entry into India. It is not valid for Protected or Restricted areas.
All international passengers arriving in India are required to complete an e-Arrival Card up to 72 hours prior to arrival India. This applies to all nationalities and must be submitted online via the official portal https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/earrival
Do’s & Don’ts
Smoking and drinking in public places is prohibited in India – with smoking this includes public areas in hotels, restaurants and bars.
E-cigarettes and related products are banned in India. You will be unable to buy e-cigarettes or bring them into the country.
Always ask permission before entering a temple and remember to remove your shoes and any leather objects such as bags, belts or wallets. It is fine to wear socks.
When in a Buddhist temple you should always walk in a clockwise direction with the main building to your right.
Modest, loose-fitting clothing is preferable and is essential when visiting religious places. When visiting a Sikh Gurudwara the head needs to be covered.
Permission should always be asked before taking a person’s picture.
When eating, only the right hand should be used. Indian culture considers the left hand to be unclean.
Money
The currency of India is the Indian Rupee (INR) and comes in notes and coins. Exchanging money is easy and can be done at international airports, most hotels or banks and it is always a good idea to ask for some small denomination Rupee notes. ATMs are now common and reliable in all main cities and credit cards are widely accepted by most hotels, shops and restaurants. In rural areas or wildlife reserves ATMs and money exchange facilities are limited so having cash is essential.
Please note that there are restrictions on bringing Indian rupees into India. Visitors, including tourists, are not permitted to bring any amount of Indian currency into the country. Pounds sterling and other foreign currencies are allowed to be brought into India. For more information please visit the FCO’s Foreign Travel Advice for India.
Tipping
This is left to your discretion, however, tipping for good service in India is part of everyday life. In restaurants and for room service a 10% tip is appreciated and at smaller hotels and homestays a communal ‘tip box’ is common.
For drivers and guides, hotel staff and at national parks, the following amounts should act as a guideline. Please note that these figures are based on two people travelling together:
Tour driver: INR1000 to INR1200 per day (not per person)
Tour guide: INR1000 to INR1200 per day (not per person)
Naturalist (national parks): INR1000 to INR1200 per day (not per person)
Jeep Driver (national parks): INR 500 per day & per safari (not per person)
Hotels (communal tip for all staff): INR 1000 to INR 1500 per day (not per person)
Food & Drink
India is known the world over for its food and especially its vegetarian cuisine. Spice plays an important role in dishes throughout the country as do breads, rice, pickles and chutneys. Although nearly every region has its own speciality, there is a divide between the cuisine of northern India and southern India – the north with its meat dishes influenced by the Mughals and the lighter, fruitier, coconut based dishes of the south. Desserts are common in India with kulfi ice cream and gulab jamun two of the best known and most popular. Nearly all tend to be very sweet, milk based or fried.
The most common drink in India is chai tea which can be bought on nearly every street corner. The yoghurt drink lassi – whether sweet, salty or fruity – is also easy to find. The popularity of coffee has spread from the south whilst Indian beer is well-respected. There is also a fledgling wine industry centred on Nashik in Maharashtra.
Accommodation
There is a huge breadth of accommodation in India with styles varying across the country. India is famed for its heritage properties, the majority of which tend to be found in the north of India. These come in all shapes and sizes from beautifully restored buildings and luxury palaces operated by distinguished hotel groups to small privately owned forts and ancestral homes.
Homestays are also very popular and found throughout the country. Whether a grand and luxurious family residence, heritage property or simple abode, they offer a high level of service and a unique glimpse into everyday Indian life. Please let us know if you would like to include a homestay into your itinerary. In more remote regions, hotels are likely to be clean and simple whilst wildlife accommodation is generally either in jungle lodges or comfortable tented camps. For those looking to relax there are many excellent beachside hotels and an increasing number of retreats specialising in both Ayurveda and yoga.
Shopping
With wholesale markets and bazaars, innumerable shops and stores, India is a shopper’s paradise. The country is best known for carpets and dhurries with Rajasthan, Kashmir and Leh best for these. There is also a bewildering range of clothing, fabric and leatherwear found not only in the smallest of villages but also the largest cities. Gems, silver and jewellery (valuable or costume) are popular throughout the country but especially in Jaipur and Hyderabad whilst Kochi is noted for its antiques. Spices can be bought all over India but purchased straight from plantations in the south. Darjeeling, Assam and the Western Ghats in south India are all known for tea.
Suggested Reading
For India travel advice, Footprint, Rough Guides, Lonely Planet and Bradt have excellent guide books whilst Nelles Maps have comprehensive and up to date maps of the Indian subcontinent. There is also a wide range of literature including from famed authors such as RK Narayan, Vikram Seth, Paul Scott, VS Naipaul, Arundhati Roy and Salman Rushdie. Vivek Shanbhag's more recently translated book 'Ghachar Ghochar' also comes highly recommended. Other good books on India include:
‘India: A History’ by John Keay
‘The Great Arc’ by John Keay
‘No Full Stops in India’ by Mark Tully
‘India in Slow Motion’ by Mark Tully and Gillian Wright
‘City of Djinns’ by William Dalrymple
‘White Mughals’ by William Dalrymple
‘Chasing the Monsoon’ by Alexander Frater
‘The Tears of the Rajas’ by Ferdinand Mount
‘Plain Tales from the Raj’ by Charles Allen
‘Mughal Architecture and Gardens’ by George Michell
'Tea, Love and War: Searching for English Roots in Assam' by David Mitchell
Health
Your doctor is the best person to advise you on staying healthy whilst abroad but current recommended vaccinations are Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Tetanus and Diphtheria. Yellow Fever is compulsory, but only if you have visited an affected Yellow Fever area within 5 days prior to your arrival. In some instances anti-malarial tablets may also be needed. For current information on health advice you may wish to visit the National Travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNaC) website Travel Health Pro on https://travelhealthpro.org.uk/. The Medical Advisory Services for Travellers Abroad (MASTA) website (www.masta.org) is also a useful resource.
Travel Advice
For current information on India the best resource is the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice) which is a comprehensive resource and updated regularly. We would also recommend visiting the Safer Tourism Foundation website (safertourism.org.uk) before you travel and will be happy to address any questions or concerns you may have.
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Our Reviews
What our clients say
We truly had the holiday of a lifetime
CM - India - March 2024
We truly had the holiday of a lifetime thanks to the exceptional guides and drivers we met along our trip in Northern India. The itinerary had the perfect balance of tours, travel days and rest days for us and was meticulously planned and executed. We'd love to use Pettitts Travel again in the future and will absolutely be returning to India.
Getting to know you
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Helping you to design your trip
Entirely tailor-made, there is complete flexibility to incorporate all your requirements.
On-hand support, when you need it
Our team are on hand to answer any questions and ensure you are fully ready, and excited, for your trip.
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Enjoy full support from our UK team and trusted local partners throughout your journey.
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