9N/11D
Sacred temple journey through South India
Chennai, Kanchipuram, Madurai, Rameswaram, Bengaluru
Hotels 
Meals
Sightseeing
Transfers
Trip details
Here’s a South India temple tour itinerary that takes you through some of the most historic and beautiful temples, combining spiritual experiences with cultural immersion. This itinerary covers Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, two regions known for their grand temples and intricate architecture.
Highlights of the Itinerary
- Architectural Wonders: Brihadeeswarar Temple, Shore Temple, and Meenakshi Amman Temple.
- Spiritual Hubs: Rameswaram, Srirangam, and Tiruvannamalai.
- Cultural Experiences: Silk markets in Kanchipuram, evening Aarti at Madurai.
Tips
- Best Time to Visit: November to March, when the weather is cooler.
- Dress Code: Many temples require modest clothing, covering shoulders and legs.
This itinerary captures the sacred and architectural essence of South India. Let me know if you’d like any modifications!
Arrival in Chennai
- Morning: Arrive in Chennai, check into your hotel, and relax.
- Afternoon: Visit Kapaleeshwarar Temple in Mylapore, a Dravidian-style temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, and Parthasarathy Temple in Triplicane, one of the oldest temples in Chennai dedicated to Lord Krishna.
- Evening: Stroll along Marina Beach and enjoy some traditional South Indian street food.
- Overnight: Stay in Chennai.
Chennai to Kanchipuram - The City of Thousand Temples
- Morning: Drive to Kanchipuram (approx. 1.5 hours), known as the “City of Thousand Temples.”
- Sites to Visit:
- Kailasanathar Temple: A stunning 8th-century temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.
- Ekambareswarar Temple: One of the five major Shiva temples, representing the element of earth.
- Kamakshi Amman Temple: A major Shakti temple dedicated to Goddess Kamakshi.
- Evening: Explore Kanchipuram’s famous silk markets.
- Overnight: Stay in Kanchipuram.
Kanchipuram to Mahabalipuram - Shore Temples and Rock Carvings
- Morning: Drive to Mahabalipuram (approx. 1.5 hours).
- Sites to Visit:
- Shore Temple: A UNESCO World Heritage Site with magnificent rock-cut architecture on the seashore.
- Pancha Rathas: Five monolithic rock temples shaped like chariots.
- Descent of the Ganges (Arjuna’s Penance): A massive rock relief.
- Evening: Relax on Mahabalipuram Beach.
- Overnight: Stay in Mahabalipuram.
Mahabalipuram to Thanjavur - Architectural Marvels
- Morning: Drive to Thanjavur (approx. 5 hours).
- Afternoon: Visit Brihadeeswarar Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the greatest architectural achievements in India. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and known for its massive tower.
- Evening: Explore the local art, bronze sculptures, and Thanjavur painting shops.
- Overnight: Stay in Thanjavur.
Thanjavur to Madurai - The Temple City
- Morning: Drive to Madurai (approx. 3.5 hours).
- Afternoon: Visit the iconic Meenakshi Amman Temple, a grand temple complex dedicated to Goddess Meenakshi and Lord Sundareswarar, known for its colorful gopurams and intricate carvings.
- Evening: Attend the evening Aarti Ceremony at Meenakshi Temple for a memorable spiritual experience.
- Overnight: Stay in Madurai.
Madurai to Rameswaram - Pilgrimage on the Island
- Morning: Drive to Rameswaram (approx. 3 hours).
- Sites to Visit:
- Ramanathaswamy Temple: Famous for its long corridor and 22 holy wells for ritual bathing. This temple is one of the Char Dhams.
- Agni Theertham: A sacred sea bath site near the temple.
- Evening: Spend time at Dhanushkodi Beach for serene views.
- Overnight: Stay in Rameswaram.
Rameswaram to Tiruchirappalli (Trichy)
- Morning: Drive to Tiruchirappalli (approx. 4 hours).
- Sites to Visit:
- Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple in Srirangam, one of the largest temple complexes in the world, dedicated to Lord Vishnu.
- Rock Fort Temple: A hilltop temple offering panoramic views of the city.
- Overnight: Stay in Tiruchirappalli.
Tiruchirappalli to Tiruvannamalai - Spiritual Experience
- Morning: Drive to Tiruvannamalai (approx. 3.5 hours).
- Sites to Visit:
- Arunachaleswarar Temple: One of the Pancha Bhoota Sthalas, representing the element of fire. This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva.
- Ramana Maharshi Ashram: Visit the ashram of the revered sage for a peaceful experience.
- Overnight: Stay in Tiruvannamalai.
Tiruvannamalai to Bengaluru
- Morning: Drive to Bengaluru (approx. 4 hours).
- Afternoon: Visit ISKCON Temple Bengaluru and Bull Temple in Basavanagudi, two famous landmarks in the city.
- Evening: Explore Commercial Street for shopping and dining.
- Overnight: Stay in Bengaluru.
Departure from Bengaluru
- Morning: Free time in Bengaluru to explore Cubbon Park or Lalbagh Botanical Garden.
- Afternoon: Transfer to Bengaluru Airport for departure.
