Sacred Stones Exploring South India
Package price On Request
Product Code : AGORA953
Discover the timeless beauty of Karnataka with Heritage & Wildlife Expedition: Unveiling Karnataka's Treasures. This journey blends architectural splendor with natural wonders as you explore the state’s iconic heritage sites and wildlife havens. Begin in Hassan, home to the ancient Jain temples of Shravanabelagola and the magnificent Hoysala temples of Belur and Halebid. Immerse yourself in nature at Kabini, where thrilling jeep and boat safaris in Nagarhole National Park reveal the region’s rich biodiversity, from majestic tigers to serene riverbanks teeming with life. Conclude with a visit to the royal city of Mysore, showcasing its grand palace and cultural charm.
Day 1: Bangalore to Pondicherry via Tiruvannamalai (320km/ 7hrs)
- Begin your journey with a pickup from your hotel/Airport in Bangalore.
- Depart for Pondicherry, stopping en route at Tiruvannamalai Arunachaleshwar Temple, one of South India's most significant and ancient temples dedicated to Lord Shiva.
- Visit the nearby Ramana Ashram, a serene retreat known for its spiritual practices and tranquil ambiance, ideal for meditation.
- Continue your journey to Pondicherry and check in at your hotel.
- Overnight stay at the hotel.
Day 2: Pondicherry to Chennai via Mahabalipuram (160km/ 3hrs)
- Enjoy breakfast at the hotel.
- Visit Auroville, an experimental township dedicated to unity and spirituality, featuring the iconic Matrimandir meditation center.
- Explore the Sri Aurobindo Ashram, a peaceful sanctuary for spiritual seekers and a hub for meditation.
- Stroll through the French Quarter, renowned for its colonial charm, colorful facades, and quaint cafes.
- Visit Manakula Vinayagar Temple, famous for its divine blessings and vibrant rituals.
- Enjoy a leisurely walk along the Pondicherry Beach Promenade, taking in the scenic views of the Bay of Bengal.
- Explore the Pondicherry Museum, which houses artifacts reflecting the region's cultural and historical heritage.
- After sightseeing, drive to Chennai with a stop at Mahabalipuram, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Visit the Shore Temple, an exquisite 7th-century structure overlooking the sea.
- Admire Arjuna's Penance, a massive rock relief depicting scenes from Indian mythology.
- Continue to Chennai and check in at your hotel.
- Overnight stay at the hotel.
Day 3: Chennai to Vellore via Kanchipuram (150km/ 3.5hrs)
- Begin the day with breakfast at your hotel.
- Explore Chennai's highlights:
- Kapaleeshwarar Temple, a vibrant example of Dravidian architecture adorned with intricate sculptures.
- San Thome Basilica, a historic church built over the tomb of St. Thomas, one of Jesus' apostles.
- Fort St. George, a colonial-era fortress featuring a museum that chronicles British-era history.
- Drive past architectural landmarks like the Madras High Court Building and Ripon Building, showcasing the Indo-Saracenic style.
- Drive to Vellore with a stop in Kanchipuram, known as the "City of Thousand Temples."
- Visit Kailasanathar Temple, an architectural gem dedicated to Lord Shiva, known for its intricate carvings and serenity.
- Explore Ekambareswarar Temple, featuring a vast temple complex and sacred mango tree believed to be over 3,500 years old.
- Visit Varadharaja Perumal Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, famed for its grand architecture and intricate carvings.
- Admire Kamakshi Amman Temple, dedicated to Goddess Kamakshi, a significant pilgrimage site with rich spiritual and cultural heritage.
- Upon arrival in Vellore, check in at your hotel and relax.
- Overnight stay at the hotel.
Day 4: Vellore to Bangalore (220km/ 5hrs)
- After breakfast, visit:
- Sri Lakshmi Narayani Golden Temple, a stunning architectural marvel adorned with intricate gold details and spiritual significance.
- Vellore Fort, a historical fortress known for its massive granite walls and impressive moat.
- Jalakandeswarar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, located within the fort premises.
- After sightseeing, drive to Bangalore.
- Arrive by evening and be dropped off at your hotel or the airport, marking the end of your memorable tour.
- 3 nights' accommodation in selected price category hotels.
- Daily breakfast at all hotels.
- Private AC sedan car transfers, sightseeing, and excursions as per the program (on disposal service).
- English-speaking local tour guide during sightseeing tours.
- Monument entrance fees and activity charges mentioned in the itinerary.
- Bottled drinking water in the car.
- Government taxes.
Hotels used or similar for 3 nights accommodation
Pondicherry x 1 night
3* - Shenbaga Hotel/ Anandha Inn Convention Centre
4* - Le Pondy/ Accord Puducherry
5* -Palais De Mahe/ La Villa
Chennai x 1 night
3* - ZONE By The Park/ Raj Park
4* - Accord Metropolitan/ The Park Chennai
5* - Radisson Blu Hotel GRT Chennai/ Hilton Chennai
Vellore x 1 night
3*/4* - Regency Sameera Vellore by GRT Hotel
5* - Fortune Park Vellore
- Any flight tickets.
- Camera charges at monuments, if applicable.
- Meals other than those mentioned in the inclusions.
- Personal expenses such as liquor, laundry, tips, telephone, internet, etc.
- Gratuities and optional activities.
- Anything not mentioned in the inclusions.