Mystical Tamil Nadu... Our Sacred South India Tour

14 days from £6,820 for 2023 per person

• Madurai
• Chettinad
• Tanjore
• Tranquebar
• Pondicherry
• Mahabalipuram
• Chennai

This itinerary is one of Ampersand's Top 10 Cultural Holidays.

Exploring the myths and legends of the sacred south east, this journey encapsulates the very essence of mystical Tamil Nadu, providing a comprehensive insight into its Dravidian roots, imperial past and rural charms.

Begin by exploring the colonial centre of Chennai, formerly Madras, the soul of South India, and keeper of artistic, religious and culinary Tamil traditions. From Chennai fly down to Madurai, one of the oldest cities in India and often referred to as ‘the city that never sleeps’. At the heart of it all is the dazzling Meenakshi Temple, a maze-like structure ranking among India's greatest temples. The unusual Chettinad region, with the extraordinary Art Deco mansions will capture your heart, before being swept off your feet with more magnificent Hindu temple complexes in Tanjore. Capital of the great Chola empire during its heyday, the past is still very much present with thousands of people flocking to worship at the Cholas' grand Brihadeeswarar Temple daily. Head to the quiet former Danish settlement of Tranquebar and then onto the historic French town of Pondicherry, both of which still holding onto their charming colonial roots. Finish with a few days in the relaxed town of Mahabalipuram, where you can combine the impressive UNESCO sites with some relaxing time on the beach.

This tour of Tamil Nadu is purely a suggested itinerary; it can be booked as it is or alternatively used as a starting point for creating your own ideal tour of India. If you'd like to see similar trips, take a look at our collection of Epic Journeys, as well as our favourite Active and Family-Friendly itineraries.

I can't think of anything that excites a greater sense of childlike wonder than to be in a country where you are ignorant of almost everything.
Bill Bryson