Tamil Nadu to Andaman: A Cultural & Coastal Adventure

Day 1 · Arrival in Chennai and City Tour (Approx. 20–30 km local)

1. 1

   Fort St. George

   30 min Admission included

   Upon arrival at Chennai Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by our representative outside the exit gate of terminal. Begin your journey with a panoramic drive through the city, Fort St. George is a historic landmark in Chennai, built by the British East India Company in 1644. It was the first British fortress in India and played a key role in the development of the city. Today, it houses the Tamil Nadu government offices and a museum with old weapons, documents, and other colonial-era items. Fort St. George is an important symbol of Chennai's history and British heritage.

2. 2

   Marina Beach

   30 min

   Marina Beach is one of the longest urban beaches in the world, stretching along the Bay of Bengal in Chennai. It's a popular spot for locals and tourists, known for its scenic sunsets, lively atmosphere, and historical monuments along the promenade. Swimming is restricted, but visitors enjoy walks, street food, and cultural events.

3. 3

   Santhome Beach

   30 min Admission included

   Santhome Church, located in Chennai, is a historic Roman Catholic church built over the tomb of St. Thomas the Apostle. Known for its stunning neo-Gothic architecture, it is one of only three churches in the world built over an apostle’s burial site and is an important pilgrimage site for Christians.After the city tour, proceed to your hotel for check-in (after 2:00 PM) . Enjoy a comfortable overnight stay in Chennai.

   Important Information:

   ** Hotel Check-in: Available after 2:00 PM.

3* - La Woods / The Lotus / Similar 4* - Taj Club House / The Residency / Similar 5* - Trident / Taj Connemara/ Similar

Day 2 · Chennai to Tiruvannamalai via Kanchipuram (Approx. 205 km / 5.5–6 hrs)

1. 1

   Stop 1

   30 min

   After breakfast, drive approximately 75 km to Kanchipuram, the “City of a Thousand Temples.” Arrive and visit the intricately carved Kailasanathar Temple is a 7th-century Hindu temple located in Kanchipuram, near Chennai. Built by the Pallava dynasty, it is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is known for its beautiful stone carvings and early Dravidian architecture.

2. 2

   Ekambareswarar Temple

   30 min

   Ekambareswarar Temple is a major Hindu temple in Kanchipuram, dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is one of the Pancha Bhoota Stalas, representing the element earth, and is known for its massive gopuram (tower) and ancient mango tree believed to be over 3,000 years old.

3. 3

   Stop 3

   30 min

   Arunachaleswarar Temple is a grand Hindu temple in Tiruvannamalai, dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is one of the Pancha Bhoota Stalas, symbolizing the element fire, and is famous for its towering gopurams and the sacred Annamalai hill behind it, where devotees perform the ritual walk called Girivalam

4. 4

   Sri Ramana Ashram

   one hour Admission included

   Sri Ramana Ashram is a spiritual retreat located at the foot of Arunachala Hill in Tiruvannamalai. It was the home of the revered sage Sri Ramana Maharshi and is now a peaceful place for meditation, prayer, and study. The ashram attracts visitors from around the world seeking spiritual guidance and inner peace.Overnight at Tiruvannamalai.

   Important Information:

   ** Hotel Check-in: Available after 2:00 PM.

3* - Sterling Arunai Anantha/Royal Residency 4* - Scattered/ Sparsa/Athena /Similar 5* - Sri Aruna Residency AC/Similar

Day 3 · Tiruvannamalai to Madurai via Trichy (Approx. 325 km / 7.5–8 hrs)

1. 1

   Stop 1

   30 min Admission included

   Breakfast in the hotel and embark on a longer journey, of around 190 km to Tiruchirapalli (Trichy). Arrive and visit the massive Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple in Srirangam is one of the largest Hindu temples, dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Known for its grand architecture and spiritual significance, it's a major pilgrimage site and the foremost of the 108 Divya Desams.

2. 2

   Stop 2

   30 min

   The Nayaka Palace, located in Madurai, Tamil Nadu, is a historic royal residence built by King Thirumalai Nayak in the 17th century. Known for its impressive Dravidian and Rajput architectural blend, the palace features majestic pillars, grand courtyards, and stunning stucco work. It offers a glimpse into the opulence of the Nayak dynasty and remains a key attraction for its historical and cultural significance.

3. 3

   Madurai Meenakshi Amman Temple

   30 min Admission included

   Meenakshi Amman Temple in Madurai is a historic and vibrant Hindu temple, famous for its towering gopurams, intricate carvings, and devotion to Goddess Meenakshi and Lord Shiva, a living center of Tamil culture and devotion. Be sure to witness the evening ceremony where the divine couple is symbolically reunited—a beautiful blend of ritual, music, and light. Overnight at Madurai.

   Important Information:

   ** Hotel Check-in: Available after 2:00 PM.

3* - Madurai Residency / JC Residency / Similar 4* - Fortune Pandyan / Similar 5* - Heritage Madurai / Similar

Day 4 · Madurai to Kumbakonam via Chettinad and Tanjore (Approx. 230 km / 5.5–6 hrs)

1. 1

   Stop 1

   one hour

   After breakfast, 90 km drive to Chettinad. Discover the charm of Chettinad with its grand palatial mansions, intricate antique tile work, and rich, flavorful cuisine—offering a unique glimpse into Tamil Nadu's architectural elegance and culinary heritage.

2. 2

   Stop 2

   30 min Admission included

   Continuing onward, you’ll travel another 100 km to Tanjore (Thanjavur),Brihadeeswarar Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a masterpiece of Chola architecture. Built in the 11th century, it is dedicated to Lord Shiva and known for its towering vimana, massive Nandi statue, and intricate carvings.

3. 3

   Thanjavur Royal Palace and Art Gallery

   one hour Admission included

   Tanjore Palace and Art Gallery, showcases the rich legacy of the Nayak and Maratha rulers. The palace features grand halls, royal artifacts, and a renowned art gallery with ancient bronze statues, paintings, and sculptures.Finally, a short 40 km drive brings you to Kumbakonam, a temple-studded town known for its spiritual fervor and ancient traditions.

   Important Information:

   ** Hotel Check-in: Available after 2:00 PM.

3* - Vinayaga by Poppys / Similar 4* - Indeco Hotels Swamimalai / Similar 5* - Indeco Hotels Swamimalai / Similar

Day 5 · Kumbakonam to Pondicherry (Approx. 130 km / 3.5 hrs)

1. 1

   Adi Kumbeswarar Temple

   30 min

   In the morning, you’ll explore two of Kumbakonam’s sacred sites - Adi Kumbeswarar Temple in Kumbakonam, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is known for its Dravidian architecture and is an important pilgrimage site. It is believed to be the guardian of water sources.

2. 2

   Sarangapani Temple

   30 min

   Sarangapani Temple is a major Vishnu temple, known for its stunning architecture and detailed carvings.

3. 3

   Sri Aurobindo Ashram

   30 min

   Later, embark on a serene drive of around 130 km to the coastal town of Pondicherry. Arrive at Pondicherry and take a waliing tour in the French part of Pondicherry, and visit the tranquil Sri Aurobindo Ashram is a spiritual center for yoga and meditation, founded by Sri Aurobindo. And the centuries old churches. Overnight in Pondicherry.

   Important Information:

   ** Hotel Check-in: Available after 2:00 PM.

3* - Annamalai International / The Rishmond / Similar 4* - Accord / Similar 5* - The Residency Tower /Similar

Day 6 · Pondicherry to Chennai via Mahabalipuram (Approx. 160 km / 4–4.5 hrs)

1. 1

   Stop 1

   30 min Admission included

   Breakfast in hotel and continue to Mahabalipuram. After driving about 100 km, you’ll reach Mahabalipuram, an ancient port city that now stands as an open-air museum of rock-cut art. Here, explore the Shore Temple in Mahabalipuram, an 8th-century UNESCO site, is renowned for its Dravidian architecture and sea-facing views, dedicated to Lord Shiva and Vishnu.

2. 2

   Pancha Rathas

   30 min Admission included

   The Pancha Rathas in Mahabalipuram are five monolithic temples, carved in the 7th century, showcasing Dravidian architecture and dedicated to the Pandavas.

3. 3

   Arjuna's Penance

   30 min Admission included

   Arjuna’s Penance in Mahabalipuram is a famous rock sculpture depicting Arjuna's penance to Lord Shiva, featuring intricate carvings of gods and mythological scenes.

4. 4

   Stop 4

   30 min Admission included

   Don't forget to snap a photo at the gravity-defying Krishna’s Butterball is a giant, naturally balanced boulder perched on a slope. A popular attraction, it is associated with Lord Krishna’s love for butter and defies gravity with its mysterious position.

   After the sightseeing, continue to Chennai. Arrive and overnight stay in Chennai.

   Important Information:

   ** Hotel Check-in: Available after 2:00 PM.

3* - La Woods / The Lotus / Similar 4* - Taj Club House / The Residency / Similar 5* - Trident / Taj Connemara/ Similar

Day 7 · Chennai to Havelock Island (Andamans)

1. 1

   Havelock Island

   one day

   Transfer to the airport and flight to Port Blair. Arrive at Port Blair and meet our representative outside the airport. He will guide you to take the ferry to to Havelock Island, a tropical paradise in the Andamans. After a long day of travel, you’ll arrive and check in at your beach resort. The rest of the day is yours to rest, breathe in the island air, and get ready for the relaxing days ahead.

   Important Note: Please ensure you book an early morning flight from Chennai to Port Blair, as the last ferry to Havelock Island departs at 1:00 PM

3* - White Coral Beach Resort /Similar 4* - Aquays Hotels & Resorts / Similar 5* - SeaShell Havelock / Similar

Day 8 · Radhanagar Beach, Havelock

1. 1

   Radhanagar Beach

   one day Admission included

   Post-lunch, you’ll visit the stunning Radhanagar Beach, ranked among Asia’s best. This Blue Flag-certified beach offers crystal-clear waters and soft white sand—ideal for swimming, sunbathing, or just laying back and soaking up the sun. Please remember to bring spare clothes and a towel, as wet clothes aren’t allowed in vehicles. After enjoying one of the most beautiful sunsets of your trip, you’ll return to your resort for the evening. Overnight in Havelock.

3* - White Coral Beach Resort /Similar 4* - Aquays Hotels & Resorts / Similar 5* - SeaShell Havelock / Similar

Day 9 · Elephanta Beach Adventure

1. 1

   Stop 1

   one day

   After breakfast, you’ll set out by shared boat to Elephanta Beach, a favorite spot for snorkeling. The clear, shallow waters here reveal vibrant coral reefs and tropical fish—perfect for beginners and pros alike. Optional water sports like jet skiing and banana boat rides add thrill to the day. Bring water, snacks, and extra clothes for a full day of beachside adventure. You’ll return to your resort in the afternoon. Overnight in Havelock.

3* - White Coral Beach Resort /Similar 4* - Aquays Hotels & Resorts / Similar 5* - SeaShell Havelock / Similar

Day 10 · Leisure Day in Havelock

1. 1

   Havelock Island

   one day

   Today is yours to enjoy however you like. You could simply unwind at your resort, stroll along the beach, or choose an optional activity like scuba diving, glass-bottom boat rides, or visiting the serene Kalapathar Beach. It’s your perfect island day to rest, reflect, or revel in more exploration.

3* - White Coral Beach Resort /Similar 4* - Aquays Hotels & Resorts / Similar 5* - SeaShell Havelock / Similar

Day 11 · Havelock to Port Blair, Departure

1. 1

   Stop 1

   4 hours

   Your island adventure comes to a close as you ferry back to Port Blair. Arrival at Port Blair and transfer to the international airport for your onward journey.