Duration : 26 Nights / 27 Days
Places Covered : Delhi – Patna – Nalanda – Rajgir – Bodhgaya – Varanasi –Khajuraho – Agra – Jaipur – Delhi – Aurangabad – Ajanta – Ellora – Mumbai – Chennai – Mahabalipuram – Kanchipuram – Pondicherry – Tanjore – Trichy -Madurai – Bangalore –Mysore – Bangalore
Day 1: Arrival Delhi
Upon your arrival at Delhi Airport, You will be greeted by our airport representative and transfer to the hotel. Representative will assist to furnish the check-in formalities at hotel reception. Check-in at the hotel Remaining day is free at your own leisure.
Delhi is a perfect blend of ancient historic legacy and paced up life with modern lifestyle and treats its visitors with tempting Indian delicacies and desserts. Old Delhi is like an old reel playing before your eyes and New Delhi flashes your eyes with its modern lifestyle. Explore the nearby areas and enjoy the local food.
Day 2: Delhi
After breakfast take sightseeing tour of historic city visiting Old Delhi visiting the majestic Red Fort, a marvel in red sandstone, Jama Masjid, the largest mosque in India, both built by emperor Shah Jahan of Taj Mahal fame, Rajghat – memorial of Mahatma Gandhi & a Rickshaw ride past through the silver street in Chandani Chowk, the city tour continues covering New Delhi, visiting Rashtrapati Bhawan, one-time imperial residence of the British viceroys; the India Gate, a memorial raised in honor of the Indian soldiers martyred during the Afghan war; the Laxmi Narayan Temple, built by the Birlas, one of India’s leading industrial families; Humayun’s Tomb, lotus shaped Bhai’s Temple , Qutub Minar , built by Qutub-ud-din Aibek of the Slave Dynasty; in the evening you can visit to see speculative Light and Sound Show at Red Fort. Return to the hotel for overnight stay.
Light and Sound Show: A spectacular sound and light show at the Red Fort. Which makes the 5,000 years old history of the city come alive. Amidst the tranquility of the splendidly panoramic and historic environs of the Red Fort, select episodes from the annals of Delhi’s historic and legendary past are vividly brought to life. Special effects combine with the unique ambience to make this show a hauntingly unforgettable experience.
Day 3: Delhi – Patna (By Air)
After breakfast check out the hotel and transfer to airport to board the flight for Patna.
On arrival, transfer to the hotel. Later take a sightseeing tour of the city visiting the Har Mandir The second most important gurudwara in India, the Takht Har Mandir was built by Guru Gobind Singh, the 10th guru of the Sikhs. Golghar built for the purpose of storing grains to be used in the times of famines, this round building was completed in 1786 though never used. The construction of Golghar was necessitated following famines like the one that took place in the region in 1770. Also visit Jalan Museum situated over the ruins of the Qila House, the site of Shershah’s fort. It is a private collection containing Chinese paintings and an invaluable collection of silver and jade filigree work of the Mughal period and Bihar Institute Of Handicraft and Design, the institute is trying to revive the old crafts and art of Bihar to modern use, especially Mithila paintings. After visit drive back to hotel for overnight stay.
Patna: Situated on the southern bank of the holy river Ganges, Patna is a large city with a considerable population and quite a few places of interest. A typical tropical city of northern India, Patna is famous for its glorious past, especially the period of Magadh and the Mauryan rule. The historical monuments and beautiful countryside make it an interesting place to visit. It is the capital city of the Indian state of Bihar. Patna is a part of the Buddhist Circuit of Bihar, as it is the ideal gateway for all the places on this circuit. The magnificent monuments standing in and around the city take one down the passages of history to the glorious past of the city. One of the best views in Patna is that from the Mahatma Gandhi Setu, one of the longest bridges in the world at 7.5 km, which crosses the Ganges 5 km west of the city centre. Moreover, the nearby sites have several special local products, which act as an added incentive for the tourist.
Day 4: Patna – Nalanda – Rajgir – Bodhgaya (190 kms: 4 hrs)
After breakfast, check out the hotel and drive to Bodhgaya. Enroute visiting Rajgir and Nalanda. Rajgir, a great center of Buddhist learning and one of the most famed university citadels of ancient times. Rajgir, it was once the ancient capital of the powerful Kingdom of Maghada. From the out – skirts of Rajgir, a historic road leads to Gridhakuta. Nalanda Mahavihara an institute for the study of Pali literature houses rare Buddhist manuscripts. Though Buddha visited Nalanda several times during his lifetime, this famous centre of Buddhist learning shot to fame much later, during 5th – 12th centuries. Then proceed for Rajgir the ancient capital of Magadha kings. The Buddha often visited Rajagriha to retreat at the Jivkamaravana monastery, preaching and meditating on the Gridhakuta Hill. The disciples of the Buddha built many structures here. Rajgir is also sacred to Jains as Lord Mahavira studied and meditated here. The first Buddhist Council was held here after the Buddha’s nirvana. Later continue to drive to Bodhgaya. On arrival, transfer to the hotel. Overnight at the hotel.
Nalanda: is believed to be the oldest university in the world. Founded in the 5th century BC, it became a renowned centre of Buddhist and Jain learning. Hiuen Tsang, the Chinese traveller, spent several years here in the 7th century AD. Nalanda Archaeological Museum has a magnificent collection of Pali and Mauryan statues, bronze and manuscripts. Nalanda Mahavihara an institute for the study of Pali literature houses rare Buddhist manuscripts. Though Buddha visited Nalanda several times during his lifetime, this famous centre of Buddhist learning shot to fame much later, during 5th – 12th centuries.
Rajgir: the ancient capital of Magadha kings. The Buddha often visited Rajagriha to retreat at the Jivkamaravana monastery, preaching and meditating on the Gridhakuta Hill. The disciples of the Buddha built many structures here. Rajgir is also sacred to Jains as Lord Mahavira studied and meditated here. The first Buddhist Council was held here after the
Buddha’s nirvana.
Day 5: Bodhgaya
After breakfast visit at Mahabodhi Temple. Bodhgaya – the place where Lord Buddha attained Enlightenment under the sacred Bodhi Tree followed by visit to Chinese Temple. In the afternoon visit Niranjana Temple and River. Evening is free at leisure or you can explore the surroundings on your own. Overnight at the hotel.
Bodhgaya: is one of the sacred places for the Buddhists as well as for the Hindus. Here under the Bodhi Tree, Gautama attained supreme knowledge to become Buddha, the `Enlighted One’. The Buddha attained enlightenment in Bodhgaya, under the Bodhi tree, which still stands in the temple premises. The magnificent Mahabodhi temple in Bodhgaya is an architectural amalgamation of many centuries’ cultures and many heritages that came to pay their homage here. The temple definitely has architecture of the Gupta and later ages, inscriptions describing visits of pilgrims from Sri Lanka, Myanmar and China between 7th and 10th century AD.
Day 6: Bodhgaya – Varanasi (190 kms: 4 hrs)
After breakfast morning is free at leisure. Then check out the hotel and drive to Varanasi, en route visit to Sarnath, located at 10 Kms from Varanasi where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon to the five holy men; visit at Dharmarajika Stupa The 110 ft tall Dhamekh Stupa marks the place where Buddha preached first sermon., also visit to Archaeological museum, the collection of ancient Buddhist relics and antiques comprising numerous Buddha and Bodhisatva images, also see the Ashok Pillar with 4 lions, built in 3rd Centaury BC., symbolize both Ashoks’s imperial rule and the kingship of the Buddha. The four-lion capital was adopted as the emblem of the modern Indian republic. After visit continue to proceed to Varanasi. On arrival, transfer to the hotel. Evening is free for leisure. Or you may opt to visit the Ganga River at the time of sunset. Overnight at the hotel.
Varanasi: Sandwiched between the rivers Varuna and Ashi as they join the Ganges, Varanasi takes its name from its location. It is also called Kashi, the city of light, but the British, in an endeavor to simplify matters, had coined their own name for the place—Benaras. Varanasi is the city of a thousand temples. The main object of all devotees is the Kasi Vishwanath Temple. According to Hindu belief, Benaras or Varanasi as it is known, is the cosmic center of the Universe. The renowned American novelist Mark Twain once wrote, “Benaras is older than history, older than tradition, older even than legend and looks twice as old as all of them put together.
Day 7: Varanasi – Satna (By Train)
Early morning take a boat ride for a pilgrimage from ghat to ghat. People bathe early in the morning to offer the prayers to the rising sun. The two cremation ghats are Manikarnika & Harishchandra where funeral pyre burns day and night. , every pious Hindu believes that to die in Kashi and to be cremated on banks of the Ganges is to attain release from the cycle of birth and death. Then take a sightseeing tour visiting the Bharat Mata temple with a big relief map of India in marble, Durga temple, Tulsi Manas Mandir, Banaras Hindu University which has an Art Gallery and the Mosque of Mughal Emperor Aurangazeb built on the site of an ancient Hindu temple. In the evening a walk through the myriad of narrow lanes in the old city, past the many ancient temples, shrines and little shops crammed with customers looking for the famous silver & gold brocades for weddings or even for cremation cloth. The most famous temple is the Kashi Vishvanath or Golden temple which, though off-limits to non-Hindus, can be seen from the top floor of the old house opposite it, strolling in narrow lanes of the colorful bazaar of ancient city. Later check out of the hotel and drive to the railway station to board the train for Satna. Overnight on board.
Day 8: Satna – Khajuraho (118 kms: 2 ½ hrs)
Assistance on arrival at the station and drive to Khajuraho. On arrival, transfer to the hotel. After relaxation explore Khajuraho, is worldly known for its magnificent temples of erotica built between 950 A.D. and 1050 A.D. Khajuraho – The very name, Khajuraho, arouses strange dreams even in daytime. Of full bodied feminine forms frozen in stone, so real that you wonder whether they might come alive at a touch. Khajuraho is world heritage town, the temples are scattered in an area of 8 sq km, take a visit at fascinating western group of temples. The temples of Khajuraho have been declared a ‘world heritage’ site by UNESCO in order to preserve the rich legacy of architecture, bequeathed to future generations by the Kings of the Chandela dynasty. Temples consisting of the massive Laxman Temple dedicated to lord Vishnu, the Laxmi and Varaha temples dedicated to Vishnu’s consort Laxman, the Kandariya Mahadev temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and the Chausath Yogini temple dedicated to goddess Kali. Also visit Archaeological museum with its collection of stone sculptures of the Chandela dynasty. Return to the hotel for overnight stay.
Khajuraho: The fascinating temples of Khajuraho, India’s unique gift of love to the world, in the state of Madhya Pradesh, were built between 950 and 1050 A.D. It derives its name from the Khajur tree (the date palm tree), which can be found in abundance in the area. The divine sculptures in these temples are a tribute to Life itself, embodying everything that is sublime and spontaneous about it. With the wane of the Chandela Empire, these magnificent temples lay neglected, and vulnerable to the ravages of Nature. It was only in this century, that they were rediscovered, restored and granted the recognition that they justly deserve. Originally there were 85 temples, of which only 22 still exist. These magnificent temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, Lord Vishnu and the Jain Tirthankaras. The three main compartments are the entrance (ardhamandapa), assembly hall (mandapa), and the actual sanctum (garbha griha). The temples are grouped into three geographical divisions: western, eastern and southern.
Day 9: Khajuraho – Jhansi (Approx 180 kms) – Agra (By Train)
Early morning visit Eastern group of Temples and visit the Jain temples of Parsvanath, Adinath, and Shanti Nath. Also visit the temples of Vamana and Brahma/Hanuman both dedicated to lord Vishnu. Later drive to Jhansi . On arrival, transfer to the railway station to board the train for Agra. Arrive, Assistance on arrival at the railway station and transfer to the hotel Agra and transfer to hotel
Day 10: Agra
Morning visit the incomparable Taj Mahal with its’ speculative view. Taj Mahal, the architectural modern day wonder of the world; this monument is a fine example of the fusion of many architectural styles is one of the wonders of the modern world. Taj, endowed it with some of the loveliest buildings in the world. The tour continues with a visit to the Agra Fort from where one can get the most moving view of the Taj from the little octagonal tower in the Agra Fort, which lies, across the river Jamuna. Later visit the Pearl Mosque and the Tomb of Itamad-ud-Daula built by Empress Noorjehan in memory of her father. In the evening you may visit to the souvenirs market of Agra, one should visit Oswal Emporium where they have built a Mini Taj Mahal inside their showroom and it took 10 years for the artists to complete the mini replica of the Taj. Overnight at the hotel.
Note: Taj Mahal is closed on every Friday.
Agra is famous as being home to one of the Seven Wonders of the World-the Taj Mahal. A pleasant town with comparatively slow pace, Agra is known for its superb inlay work on marble and soapstone by craftsmen who are descendant of those who worked under the Mughals. The city is also famous for its carpets, gold thread embroidery and leather shoes. Agra, and the nearby city of Fatehpur Sikri, is conveniently close to Delhi. Besides the Taj Mahal are Agra Fort, Sikandra, Ram Bagh and Itmad-Ud-Daulah.-35 kms away are the imperial ruins of the Mughal city, Fatehpur Sikri. Agra is an old city and it is said that its name was derived from Agra, a forest that finds mention in the epic Mahabharata.
Day 11: Agra – Jaipur (240 kms: 4 hrs)
After breakfast checkout and drive to Jaipur enroute visit Old deserted town of Mughal Dynasty – Fatehpur Sikri built in red sandstone in honour of Saint Salim Chisti who foretold the birth of 3 sons to Emperor Akbar, is an example of robust stability combined with originality. Each important edifice here represents a type by itself. Notable among them is the Diwane Khas, Punch Mahal, the Tomb of Salim Chisti, and the Bulund Darwaza. Later continue to precede Jaipur. On arrival, transfer to hotel. After a relaxation in the evening visit to Birla Temple, speculator white marble temple, glitters in the in the night, at the time of dinner visit to Chokhi Dhani – an ethnic 5 star resort serving Rajasthani & Continental cuisine with live music, astrology, games, folk dances and music, puppet shows in an ambiance of an ethnic village. Return to the hotel for overnight stay.
Jaipur: Widely known as the ‘Pink City. This city is color washed pink to welcome Prince Albert, the consort of Queen Victoria of England who visited India in 1883 A.D. The city was founded in 1727 A.D by one of the greatest ruler Jai Singh II. Jaipur is surrounded by hills on three sides, crowned by formidable forts and majestic palaces, mansions and gardens. Jaipur is the only city in the world, which is sub-divided in to nine rectangular sectors symbolizing nine divisions of universe. Jaipur is the first planned city designed in accordance with ‘Shilpa Shastra’- epochal treatise of Hindu architecture.
Day 12: Jaipur
Today after breakfast explore the Pink City with an excursion to Amber Fort, situated just outside the city, enjoy the experience of ride on elephant back to and from the top of the hill on which the fort is situated. Afternoon sightseeing tour of City Palace in the heart of Jaipur is known for its blend of Rajasthani and Mughal architecture. Not far away is the Central Museum. Jantar Mantar is the largest of the five observatories built by Sawai Jai Singh. The Hawa Mahal or the Palace of Winds was constructed for the royal ladies to watch the royal processions without being seen, all monuments are located in the vicinity of City Palace Complex of Jaipur. Later late afternoon is kept free to visit the famous Markets of Textiles, Gems, Carpets, and handicrafts. Jaipur is an ideal place for buying souvenirs. In the evening explore the colorful market of Jaipur by Cycle rickshaw ride. Return to the hotel for
Ajanta: It was only in the 19th century, that the Ajanta group of caves, lying deep within the Sahyadri hills, cut into the curved mountain side, above the Waghora river, were discovered. A group of British officers on a tiger hunt, stumbled on these ancient works of art. They depict the story of Buddhism, spanning the period from 200 BC to 650 AD. The 29 caves were built as secluded retreats of the Buddhist monks, who taught and performed rituals in the Chaityas and Viharas, the ancient seats of learning, and nerve – centers of the Buddhist cultural movement.
Aurangabad: Malik Ambar, the Prime Minister of Murtaza Nizam Shah II, founded the city of Aurangabad in 1610 A.D, on the site of a village, Khirki. When Fateh Khan, Malik Ambar’s son succeeded the throne in 1626, he named the city ‘Fatehpur’. In 1653, when Aurangzeb became the Viceroy of the Deccan, he made it his capital, and renamed it Aurangabad. Maurya rule heralded the advent of Buddhism in the state of Maharashtra. The earliest caves at Ajanta and Pithalkora were excavated in the 2nd century BC, during the Satvahana era. Paithan, then known as Pratishthana, was an important trade centre at the time Aurangabad, 400 kms from Mumbai, is linked by air too. Spectacular rock cut caves and cave paintings exist at two nearby places, Ajanta and Ellora.
15 Day: Aurangabad – Ellora – Aurangabad (Excursion 30 kms: ½ hr) – Mumbai (By Air)
After breakfast take a sight seeing tour of Ellora, one of the highly visited World heritage sites of India. It houses 34 monasteries and temples with some exclusive uninterrupted sequence of monuments that date back from 600 to 1000 AD. The temples of Ellora are dedicated to Brahmanism, Jainism, and Buddhism. It also has some of the excellent stonework depicting the legends related to Lord Shiva. After visit, return to Aurangabad and check out of the hotel and drive to the airport to board the flight for Mumbai. On arrival, transfer to the hotel. Rest of the evening is free for shopping in the local markets. Overnight at the hotel.
Note: The Ajanta Caves are closed to public on all Monday and Ellora caves on Tuesday.
Ellora: The Ellora caves, 34 in number, are carved into the sides of a basaltic hill, 30 kms from Aurangabad. The finest specimens of cave – temple architecture, they house elaborate facades and exquisitely adorned interiors. These structures representing the three faiths of Hinduism, Buddhism and Jainism, were carved during the 350 AD to 700 AD period. The 12 caves to the south are Buddhist, the 17 in the centre dedicated to Hinduism, and the 5 caves to the north are Jain.
16 Day: Mumbai
Today morning after breakfast take a sightseeing tour of Mumbai drive to Gateway of India and from here cruise by motorboats to Elephanta Caves. A flight of 100 steps takes you to the top of the hill where it is set. The caves houses large pillars that seem to hold the ceiling, which is made, have crossbeams. The picturesque presentations of the 9 marvelous sculptured panels, set on the walls are awe-inspiring. The most famous of the panels is the Trimurthi, or triple-headed Shiva, where the God is depicted as the destroyer, the preserver and the creator. Later in the afternoon cruise back to Gateway of India, one can have lunch at the hotel or other several good Restaurants like Leopold & Mondegar serving continental cuisines. Later visit Prince of Wales Museum, Taraporewala Aquarium, Parliament House, Marine Drive, Jain Temple, and Hanging Garden. Return back to the hotel for overnight stay.
Note: Elephanta Caves and Prince of Wales museum are closed on every Monday.
Mumbai: is a cluster of Seven Islands and derives its name from Mumbadevi, the patron goddess of the koli fisher folk, its oldest inhabitants. Mumbai pulsates with activity. It is a city that is disciplined by no time frame neither day nor night. It is also the country’s financial powerhouse, the nation’s industrial heartland, and its economic nerve center. Dazzling shopping arcades, exciting sport activity, nightclubs & discotheques, theatre & music, gourmet restaurants and interesting sightseeing. It offers visitors a heady mix of all this and more.
17 Day: Mumbai – Chennai (By Air)
After breakfast, check out of the hotel and drive to the airport to board the flight for Chennai. On arrival, transfer to the hotel. Chennai is the gateway of South India will put you in touch with a different phase of India – Classical, Ancient, Gentle. Chennai, the 4th largest city in India. Spread over 50 miles and features a large and beautiful waterfront on the Bay of Bengal. The British East India Company established its first trading post at Chennai, and in 1653 the company built Fort Saint George to protect its position. Later take a sightseeing tour of Chennai visiting The St. George Fort, built in 1653, is currently used as the state government’s secretariat, Santhome Cathedral was built around 14th-15th century and is another colonial structure worth visiting. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the Kapaleeswara Temple is the oldest temple in Chennai. Another important temple in the city dedicated to Lord Krishna is Parthasarthy Temple. Evening optionally you can visit flower and fruit market or Marina Beach, the second longest beach in the world. Overnight at the hotel.
Chennai (Madras): the capital of the state of Tamil Nadu is the most convenient point of entry. Chennai has an international airport, a seaport and a rail and road network that links it to all major towns and cities of the region. Tamil Nadu is a bastion of Hinduism, whose past endures into the present. Temples with towering spires called gopurams are a common feature of this state, seldom seen anywhere else in the country. Temples in Tamil Nadu were the fulcrum of society and even today art forms that have their origin in religious worship continue to color daily life. Notable among these are splendid bronzes of deities, painting on glass and Bharatnatyam, and an evocative dance form.
18 Day: Chennai – Mahabalipuram (65 kms: 1 ½ hrs)
After breakfast check out the hotel and drive to Mahabalipuram. Later explore the city built in the 7th century, this ancient Pallava port, is today the sight of several antique sculptural marvels. In this ancient seaside town, shrines and huge sculptures cut-out of rocks more than 1200 years back during the reign of Pallava Kings in the region can be seen .this ancient city is said to be a sculptor’s delight, boasting of some of India’s most sublime rock-cut art, for which it is now a World Heritage site, visit the seven pagoda-style Shore temples, Rathas, Arjuna’s Penance, Krishna Mandapa, Shore Temple, Mahishasurmardini Cave, Varaha Mandapa and Mandapams, lashed by the waves of the sea and the seven rathas or temple chariots, a group of monolithic monuments & animal figures carved out of solid rock, the earliest known examples of Dravidian architecture. The rock carvings depicting mythological
episodes – of demons, Gods and animals in battle and others – are truly poems in stone. The only shore temple which remains here is the spectacular two – spired shrine, unique because it houses both Lord Shiva and the Lord Vishnu in its sanctum-sanctorum. After visit return to the hotel for overnight stay.
Mahabalipuram: with its picturesque location on a rocky outcrop between the beach and a lagoon is a happy combination of history, good beaches, hassle-free tourism and fabulous fish and lobster! Despite the many visitors, drawn by the former Pallava dynasty town, the place is friendly, relaxed, and the villagers are remarkably unperturbed by their crowds of visitors. Mahabalipuram is renowned for its series of charming rathas and the spectacular carved relief depicting Arjuna’s Penance. The magnificent Shore Temple, built by king Rajasimha in the seventh century, is a unique temple that houses the shrines of both Shiva and Vishnu while the Varaha Cave is one of the many rock-cut caves in Mahabalipuram. The Krishna Mandapam has a bas-relief of Lord Krishna lifting the Govardhan hill in his fingertips.
19 Day: Mahabalipuram – Kanchipuram – Mahabalipuram (65 kms: 1 ½ hrs)
After breakfast, take an excursion to Kanchipuram, explore the ancient capital of the Pallavas famous as a city of 1000 Temples and still has 124 shrines. The first temple dedicated to Shiva was built in the 7th and 8th century and has paintings on the walls. Visit the most famous temples: Kailasnathar, Vaikuntaperumal, Ekambareshwara, Kamakshiamma and Sakiswarar, you may opt to do visit to the silk cloth markets and wears fame, as Kanchipuram is world fame for silk cloth. Then drive back to Mahabalipuram. On arrival, transfer to the hotel. Overnight at the hotel.
Kanchipuram: is known as one of India’s Seven Sacred cities. Kanchipuram was, one of India’s seven sacred cities. Kanchipuram was the historical capital of the Pallavas. It was under the Pallavas from 6th to 8th century A.D and later became the citadel of Cholas, Vijayanagar Kings, the Muslim and the British. It has been a centre of Tamil learning, cultural and religious background for centuries. Kanchi is also known centre of the finest silk sarees made in the country. Kanchi has magnificent temples of unique architectural beauty bearing eloquent testimony to its glorious Dravidian heritage. Adi Sankara established his episcopal seat (Kamakotipeetam). Kanchipuram is the birthplace of C.N. Annadurai, former Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu affectionately called as “Anna” by the people of Tamil Nadu.
20 Day: Mahabalipuram – Pondicherry (135 kms: 3 hrs)
After breakfast check out the hotel and drive to Pondicherry. On arrival, transfer to the hotel. The capital of the French colonies in India since the 17th century. Later take a sightseeing tour of Pondicherry visiting the Aurobindo Ashram, which has been a seat of learning and Vedic cultures since ancient times proceed to Auroville, the planned city of Dawn of the new world. Evening you can visit local market and colonies. Overnight at the hotel.
Pondicherry: This attractive, former French colony exudes a Mediterranean aura with its sophisticated streets, elegant houses, ornamental gardens and the Hotel de Ville. History of Pondicherry: A former French colonial city, located along the Bay of Bengal didn’t come under Indian rule until 1954. You can still hear a fair bit of French being spoken as you stroll
along its remaining seaside villas and cobblestone streets. The city is really two towns in one: La Ville Blanche, the colonials’ former playground, and La Ville Noire, the crowded inland area where the native Indian population was forced to live.
21 Day: Pondicherry
After breakfast take a sightseeing tour of Pondicherry visiting the Ecole Françoise d’Extreme Orient, which is nearly 100 years old, with programs in Sanskrit, Tamil and Archaeological studies. The French Catholic influence is evident in a number of churches, notably the Jesuit Cathedral (Notre Dame de la Conception’ 1691-1765), The Church of Our Lady of Angels (1855), famous for an oil painting of Our Lady of Assumption given to the Church by King Louis Napoleon III, and the 17th century Chapel of Our Sisters of Cluny. Overnight at the hotel.
22 Day: Pondicherry – Tanjore (170 kms: 4 hrs)
After breakfast, check out of the hotel and drive to Tanjore. On arrival, transfer to the hotel. Later visit Brihadeshwara temple, which was built by Raja and is termed as the crowning glory of Chola temple architecture. This temple is one of the monuments in India with World Heritage listing. Also visit the Thanjavur Palace, which was constructed in 1550 and has huge corridors, spacious halls, observation and arsenal towers. Followed by a visit to visit Saraswati Mahal Library: This library has one of the most important oriental manuscripts collections, in India. Established around 1700 AD, the library contains a collection of over 44,000 palm leaf, and paper manuscripts in Indian and European languages. Overnight at the hotel.
Tanjore or Thanjavur: as it was earlier called, was the capital of the chola empire from the 10th century to the 14th century A.D. later is become part of the vijayanagar kingdom political. Literary and religious centre of the South. The celebrated temple Brihadeshra built by the Chola King during the 11th century is its major attraction. The saraswati Mahal library, dating back from the time of the Marathas, containing a rare collections of books and manuscripts on paper and palm leaves.
23 Day: Tanjore – Trichy – Madurai (158 kms: 3 hrs)
After breakfast, check out of the hotel and drive to Madurai. Enroute visit Trichy; visit most famous landmark of this bustling town – the Rock Fort Temple, a spectacular monument perched on a massive rocky outcrop, the Sri Ranganathanswami Temple. This temple is one of the largest and most interesting temple complexes in India, built on an island in the middle of the Cauvery River and covering a staggering 2.5 sq km and Jambukeshwara – Mysore Temples. Later drive towards Madurai. On arrival, transfer to the hotel. In the evening visit the Meenakshi temple for the special evening Aarti. Overnight at the hotel.
Trichy: The city is surrounded by the rock fort. On the top of the rock there is a fort and a temple. After crossing 434 rocks cut steps, there is a temple called Mathrubhutewarar temple which is dedicated to lord Siva. There is another temple called Ucchi Pilliar temple, which is dedicated to lord Ganesh and located at the top of the rock. The entire city can be seen from this place. Srirangam temple and Sri Jambukeshwara temple are famous in Trichy.
24 Day: Madurai – Bangalore (By Air)
After breakfast, visit to Meenakshi Sundareshwar, one of the largest temple complex in India
built between the 16th and 18th centuries. Apart from the estimated 33 million sculptures there, the temple is absolutely absorbing with the endless rounds of ceremonies, prostration of countless devotees and glittering market stalls, later visit Tiruparankundram Murugan Temple, Palamuthirsolai Murugan Temple. Also visit the Tirumal Nayak’s Palace, which is in a highly decorative monument. Its enormous roofed arcade supported by 48 – foot high stone pillar, still stands.
Later check out of the hotel and drive to the airport to board the flight for Bangalore. On arrival, transfer to the hotel. Evening is free for leisure. Overnight at the hotel.
Madurai: with 2500 Years old history is the oldest city in Tamilnadu both historically and myth logically. Legend says, Madurai was originally called a forest Kadambavanam. Once a merchant saw INDRA the king of Devas worshipping a Swayambhulingam under a kadamba tree in the forest. This incident was informed by Dhananjayan (the merchant) to the king Kulasekara Pandian. The king immediately cleared the forest and built a temple around the lingam. And a city was planned around the temple. On the day the city built by the king was to be named Lord Shiva made his appearance. Drops of nectar from his hair fell on the town so the place was named Madurai, the necta
Day 25 : Bangalore – Mysore (Approx 140 kms)
After breakfast proceed for a half day city tour of Bangalore. Visit Lalbagh, Cubbon Park, ISKCON Temple, Vidhana Soudha and finally at Commercial Street for a bit of shopping.
Later proceed to Mysore on the way visit Srirangapatna which was the capital of King Hyder Ali and his son Tippu Sultan.
Arrive Mysore , Mysore and check in to the hotel. Overnight at Hotel
Day 26 : Mysore – Bangalore (Approx 140 kms)
Morning visit Mysore Palace, one of the major attractions of Mysore. Then to Mysore Zoo were you can see some of the rare species of wildlife.
Later drive back to Bangalore , upon arrival , get transfer to airport to board flight for onward destination
“END OT THE TOUR WITH PLEAENT MEMORIES “