
Madurai & South India Temples
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Begin in Madurai, where the Meenakshi Sundareshwar Temple's intricate sculptures and Tiruparankundram Murugan Temple's rock-cut architecture beckon. Travel to Rameshwaram, an island steeped in mythology, home to the sacred Ramanathaswamy Temple and the legendary Adam's Bridge. Explore the opulent mansions of Chettinad, reflecting a bygone era's grandeur, before proceeding to Thanjore. Here, the Brihadeshwara Temple and the historic Thanjavur Palace captivate with Chola architecture. Conclude the journey in Trichy, where the towering Rock Fort Temple and the ancient Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple await.
For a detailed itinerary and information about visas, money, weather and more.
Accommodation Standard
Prices
Tour Overview
Duration
5 daysHotel Rating
3, 4 or 5 star hotelsStarts
MaduraiEnds
TrichyMinimum Age
No minimum ageMaximum Age
Tours have upper age limits for several reasons, such as but not limited to: tour pace, activity level, and accommodation standards. If you fall outside of this age limit, we do have lots of other tours in India that are suitable for all ages!
Arrival Transfer
YesDeparture Transfer
YesTour Guide
Yes - for included sightseeing.Country
IndiaPassengers
R 19 085,00
R 9 999,00
Accommodation Standard
Prices
Tour Style
Group Size
Min 1 / Max Private Tour
Trip Type
Private Tours
Range
On this tour, you won't be joined by other travellers, and will just be travelling with your booking party. Some transportation & sightseeing may be shared, check the Inclusions for more information.
Guiding Style
This tour includes scheduled sightseeing with expert guides in key destinations as per the Inclusions, as well as transportation (either with a driver or public transport), plus of course your accommodation. There is no single tour guide or tour leader throughout the trip. You’ll have support where it counts, and more freedom in between. Our cruise tours also fall into this category where you will be looked after by a crew. For more information, check the Inclusions of this tour.
Tour Pace
A balanced pace, with a mix of free time and visits to multiple locations, allowing for both relaxation and exploration. Generally doesn't visit more than one or two destinations per day.
Physical Rating
A moderate amount of walking is required during sightseeing, with some free time, offering a balance between activity and relaxation. As a general rule, you should be able to walk 2-kilometres without stopping.
Tour Guide
Yes - for included sightseeing.Group Size
Min 1 / Max Private TourRange
On this tour, you won't be joined by other travellers, and will just be travelling with your booking party. Some transportation & sightseeing may be shared, check the Inclusions for more information.
Guiding Style
This tour includes scheduled sightseeing with expert guides in key destinations as per the Inclusions, as well as transportation (either with a driver or public transport), plus of course your accommodation. There is no single tour guide or tour leader throughout the trip. You’ll have support where it counts, and more freedom in between. Our cruise tours also fall into this category where you will be looked after by a crew. For more information, check the Inclusions of this tour.
Tour Pace
A balanced pace, with a mix of free time and visits to multiple locations, allowing for both relaxation and exploration. Generally doesn't visit more than one or two destinations per day.
Physical Rating
A moderate amount of walking is required during sightseeing, with some free time, offering a balance between activity and relaxation. As a general rule, you should be able to walk 2-kilometres without stopping.
Trip Type
Private ToursPlaces You'll See

Madurai

Rameshwaram

Rameswaram

Ramanathapuram

Chettinad

Thanjore

Tiruchirappalli

Thanjavur

Trichy
Accommodation Standard
Prices
Included
Not Included
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Itinerary
Day 1 - Exploring Madurai
Upon arrival at Madurai airport, our representative will warmly greet you and assist with your smooth transfer to the hotel.
After check-in, immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Madurai as you embark on a captivating sightseeing tour. Explore the iconic Meenakshi Amman Temple, a breathtaking architectural marvel adorned with intricate sculptures and vibrant paintings.
Wander through the bustling streets of the Meenakshi Temple complex, experiencing the sights, sounds, and scents of this cultural hub. Marvel at the grandeur of the Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace, an exquisite blend of Indo-Saracenic architecture and intricate detailing. Experience the lively ambiance of a local market, where the vibrant hues of spices, the aroma of street food, and the chatter of vendors create an unforgettable sensory experience.
As dusk descends, witness the ethereal beauty of the evening Aarti ceremony at the Meenakshi Temple, a divine spectacle that ignites the soul with its fervent devotion and celestial atmosphere. Overnight at Hotel
Day 2 - Madurai to Rameshwaram
Madurai - Rameshwaram (170kms/ 3hrs approx). Enjoy a delicious breakfast at the hotel before embarking on a scenic journey to Rameshwaram, a sacred town steeped in spirituality.
Upon arrival, check-in at the hotel and prepare for a day of exploration. Visit the revered Ramanathaswamy Temple, one of the holiest shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva, known for its impressive architecture and sacred rituals.
Take a holy dip in the cleansing waters of Agni Theertham, believed to purify the soul and grant blessings. Explore the mystical landscapes of Dhanushkodi, where the meeting of the Bay of Bengal and the Indian Ocean creates a mesmerizing vista. Marvel at the engineering marvel of the Pamban Bridge, which connects Rameshwaram to the mainland and offers stunning views of the surrounding seascape.
Day 3 - Chettinad & Tanjore
Rameshwaram - Chettinad - Tanjore (250kms/ 5hrs approx). Depart Rameshwaram this morning and travel to Tanjore - a journey of around 250 km taking approximately five hours. En route, you stop in the Chettinad region, known for its distinctive heritage and grand merchant homes.
You explore the impressive Chettinad mansions, noted for their ornate woodwork, intricate carvings and colourful tiled interiors. These residences reflect the wealth and global connections of the Chettiar community during the 19th and early 20th centuries.
There is also an opportunity to experience Chettinad cuisine, known for its bold use of spices and regional flavours, offering insight into one of South India’s most distinctive culinary traditions. You then continue your drive to Tanjore, arriving later in the day.
Day 4 - Exploring Tanjore & Journey to Trichy
Tanjore - Trichy (60kms/ 1.3hrs approx). Today you explore Tanjore, beginning at the UNESCO-listed Brihadeshwara Temple. Its soaring vimana dominates the skyline, while intricate carvings and centuries-old inscriptions reflect the power and devotion of the Chola dynasty.
You continue to the historic Vijayanagar Fort, where grand gateways and expansive courtyards reveal layers of South India’s imperial past. The setting offers a sense of the region’s strategic and cultural importance over time.
Later, you visit the Tanjore Art Gallery and the Saraswathi Mahal Library. Here, a remarkable collection of sculptures, rare manuscripts and artworks highlights Tamil Nadu’s rich intellectual and artistic heritage.
You then travel to Trichy, with time to take in the changing landscape along the way. On arrival, you check in to your hotel for an overnight stay.
Day 5 - Trichy
Your tour ends after breakfast and hotel check-out. Our representative will accompany you to Trichy or Madurai airport, ensuring a seamless transition to your onward journey.
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Tour Reviews
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Extras and add-ons
If you'd like to add extras or add-ons to your booking, you can do this easily during checkout. Just review the available options and select any additional services or upgrades you'd like before completing your purchase.
Accommodation Standard
Prices
Hotels
The hotels listed below are examples which we frequently use on this tour. Alternative hotels of a similar standard may be used instead.

Accommodation Standard
Prices
Prices & Dates
The prices you see below are a guide, with final prices per person being determined by the number of travellers in your booking party, desired hotel standard and the rooming arrangements required. To see an accurate price, please click "Book Dates" and enter the details for your booking party.
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