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Pondicherry, Thanjavur & Trichy

Package price On Request

Product Code : AGORA83

Embark on a captivating journey through the cultural and spiritual heartlands of South India with our Pondicherry, Thanjavur & Trichy Exploration tour. Starting from Chennai, our adventure unfolds as we traverse to the charming coastal town of Pondicherry, blending French colonial elegance with Tamil vibrancy. Discover the experimental township of Auroville and wander through the enchanting French Quarters. Delve into the region's rich spiritual heritage with visits to iconic temples in Chidambaram, Thanjavur, and Trichy, including the UNESCO-listed Great Living Chola Temples. Conclude your journey with a return to Chennai, with a stopover in the temple city of Kanchipuram, before bidding farewell to this enchanting land.

 

Day 1: Chennai - Pondicherry (160kms)

Your journey begins with a morning pick-up from your Chennai hotel or airport. We'll set forth towards Pondicherry, a quaint coastal town with a unique blend of French and Indian cultures. En route, we make our first stop at Mahabalipuram. Here, marvel at the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Shore Temple, an architectural gem overlooking the Bay of Bengal. After exploring Mahabalipuram's historical wonders, we continue our drive to Pondicherry. On arrival, check into your hotel and unwind. In the evening, take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque Promenade Beach or explore the vibrant streets of the French Quarter. Overnight in Pondicherry.

 

Day 2: Pondicherry

After breakfast, delve into the spiritual and cultural tapestry of Pondicherry with a visit to Auroville. Founded in 1968, this experimental township aspires to foster global unity and peace. Marvel at the Matrimandir, a golden globe that symbolizes human unity. Next, meander through the French Quarters, characterized by colonial villas, elegant churches, and bustling markets. Visit notable landmarks such as Raj Nivas, Government Square, and local churches, absorbing the town's unique blend of French and Tamil architectural styles. Conclude the day with a relaxing evening at the beach. Overnight stay in Pondicherry.

 

Day 3: Pondicherry - Chidambaram - Gangaikonda Cholapuram - Darasuram - Thanjavur (185kms)

After breakfast, bid adieu to Pondicherry and head towards Thanjavur. En route, stop at Chidambaram to explore the Nataraja Temple, a significant shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. Discover the temple's Chidambara Rahasya, a mystical concept symbolized by a curtain. Continue to the UNESCO-listed Great Living Chola Temples at Gangaikonda Cholapuram and Darasuram. Admire their intricate carvings, majestic architecture, and historical significance. Upon reaching Thanjavur, check into your hotel and relax. Overnight in Thanjavur.

 

Day 4: Thanjavur - Trichy (60kms)

Begin your day with a visit to the Brihadeshwara Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site and an architectural marvel. Explore its grandeur, unique sculptures, and historical significance. Next, delve into history at the Vijayanagar Fort and Thanjavur Palace, housing captivating collections of art and artifacts. Visit the Thanjavur Art Gallery to admire its exquisite bronze and stone sculptures. After soaking in the cultural richness of Thanjavur, drive to Trichy. Upon arrival, explore the towering Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple, one of the largest Vaishnavite temples in South India. Visit the historic Rock Fort, an ancient fortress and temple complex built on a massive rock. Conclude the day with a visit to the serene Jambukeswarar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Overnight in Trichy.

 

Day 5: Trichy - Chennai (380kms)

After breakfast, depart from Trichy and commence your return journey to Chennai. En route, we revisit Kanchipuram, renowned for its ancient temples and illustrious history as a city of a thousand temples. Explore its sacred sites, including the Kanchi Kailasanathar Temple, a magnificent Dravidian architectural marvel. After exploring Kanchipuram's spiritual heritage, continue your drive to Chennai. Upon arrival, you'll be dropped off at your hotel or the airport, marking the conclusion of your memorable journey through Pondicherry, Thanjavur, and Trichy.

- Assistance on arrival at airport.

- 4 Nights' accommodation in selected price category hotels.

- Daily breakfast at hotels.

- Private AC car/van for airport transfers, sightseeing, and excursions as per the program.

- English speaking tour guide on sightseeing days (local guide in each city), as per program.

- Monument entrances and activities charges mentioned in the itinerary.

- Bottled drinking water in car.

- Government taxes.

 

Hotels used or similar for 4 nights accommodation

Pondicherry x 2 night
3* - Shenbaga Hotel/ Annamalai International
4* - Le Pondy/ The Windflower Resort & Spa
5* - Palais De Mahe/ La Villa

Thanjore x 1 night
3* - Grand Gardenia/ Oriental Towers 
4* - Sangam Hotels/ Ideal River View Resort
5* - Svatma

Trichy x 1 night
3* - Red Fox Hotel/ Grand Gardenia
4* & 5* - Sangam Hotels/ Ideal River View Resort

- Any flight tickets.

- Camera charges at monuments if any.

- Meals other than mentioned in the inclusions.

- Expenses of personal nature like liquor, laundry, tips, telephone, fax, internet etc. 

- Gratuities and optional activities.

- Anything not mentioned in inclusions.