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Tamil Nadu & the Andaman Islands... Cultural Tour & Beach Holiday in South India

15 days from £9,240 for 2025 per person

This itinerary offers a chance to experience two very different aspects of India; one renowned for its impressive and ancient temples, and the other for its pristine nature and stunning beaches. Travel through centuries of fascinating history and monuments left behind by three major dynasties – the Cholas, Pallavas and Vijayanagars, before relaxing on the untouched hidden beaches of the Andaman Islands.

Tamil Nadu is an enchanting land, where towering temples bustling with devotees dominate the flat landscape. Madurai is home to the majestic and impressive Meenakshi Temple, and will be the first sighting of many beautiful south Indian temples. Explore the ‘city that never sleeps’ and all it has to offer, from the food markets, to the old palace, and Meenakshi Temple. Leave behind the chaos of Madurai and travel north to the splendid mansions sprinkled across arid Chettinad. The ancient capital of the powerful Chola dynasty, Tanjore is the centre for south Indian religion, art and architecture; explore the city whilst staying and the ultra-luxe Svatma. Venture further north to bohemian Pondicherry, a small slice of France on India’s south eastern coast, before heading to the ancient site of Mahabalipuram, 1,300 years old and still standing strong. Leaving the rich and vibrant culture of Tamil Nadu behind you, fly to the Andamans, where powder-white sand beaches, gin-clear waters and untracked jungle awaits you.

This luxury holiday is purely a suggested itinerary; it can be booked as it is or used as a starting point for creating your perfect tailor-made tour of India. If you would like to see similar trips, take a look at our collection of Epic Journeys, Honeymoons and Family Holidays; as well as our favourite Beach and Culinary Tour itineraries.

Itinerary details

15 days from £9,240 for 2025 per person

Day 1 - The Gateway Hotel Pasumalai - Madurai
Fly to Madurai via Chennai. Afternoon at leisure.
Day 2 - The Gateway Hotel Pasumalai - Madurai
Full day city sightseeing, including the Meenakshi Temple, the Palace and Flower Market. Evening "Going to Bed Ceremony" at Meenakshi Temple.
Day 3 - Visalam - Chettinad
Morning drive to Chettinad for regional sightseeing, including the Tile Factory and the Mansions of Chettinad.
Day 4 - Svatma - Tanjore
Morning drive to Tanjore. Afternoon at leisure.
Day 5 - Svatma - Tanjore
Full day sightseeing of Tanjore.
Day 6 - Palais de Mahe - Pondicherry
Morning drive to Pondicherry. Afternoon at leisure.
Day 7 - Palais de Mahe - Pondicherry
Morning city sightseeing tour. Afternoon at leisure.
Day 8 - Taj Fisherman's Cove - Mahabalipuram
Morning drive to Mahabalipuram to explore the sites.
Day 9 - Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, Andamans - Havelock Island
Early morning transfer to Chennai for the flight to Port Blair. Transfer by boat to Havelock Island.
Day 10 - Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, Andamans - Havelock Island
Day at leisure.
Day 11 - Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, Andamans - Havelock Island
Day at leisure.
Day 12 - Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, Andamans - Havelock Island
Day at leisure.
Day 13 - Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, Andamans - Havelock Island
Day at leisure.
Day 14 - Taj Connemara - Chennai
Morning boat transfer to Port Blair and fly to Chennai.
Day 15 - In transit.
Morning flight home.

Key

The traveller sees what he sees, the tourist sees what he has come to see.
G. K. Chesterton

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Client Testimonials

I had a very lovely time and was looked after splendidly. My first visit to India could not have been better, save for being longer! But I shall return at some point and I shall look to you to make the arrangements.
- Matthew Nicklin, North India

We have just returned back from a wonderful trip. Thank you very much for organising everything. The transfer was excellent – for once they had perfect car seats. The villa was lovely, just what we needed and the hotel had helpfully put us as far away as possible from everyone else. The breakfast buffet was the best I have ever seen – and I am slightly obsessive over breakfast!! There was an incredible choice, something for everyone and so beautifully presented. A real highlight of the trip. Thank you again for sorting everything - and at such short notice!
- Redmayne family, Phuket

We had a wonderful holiday - everything was perfect. Thank you for helping us to make a thoughtful plan to enjoy and make most out of our trip. The places we visited, the guides, the transportation and driver, the hotels selected... Everything was great!
- Jaime Benitez, South India

So many highlights to choose from! The hotels were amazing but Maya Villa was a highlight… I loved just hanging out in the hammock reading my book and watching the peacocks chase the cows!
- Krista Weir, Sri Lanka

I thought the Ampersand team was outstanding. We couldn’t have hoped for anything more.
- Mr Geoffrey Johnson, India

Getting to Amanpulo from Manila was very simple and the beach was the most beautiful I’d ever been on; pristine white sand, not a single piece of rubbish in sight. You get your own solar powered golf buggy to drive around resort (and a butler at request). The views from the Hillside Casita were spectacular!
- Mr Wyburd, Philippines

Ampersand provided a bespoke and flexible holiday, tailored to my every whim. Their highly professional staff had only one goal which was to arrange an exceptional holiday and some unforgettable experiences in India. I have no hesitation in fully recommending them and they will be the first company I approach in the future - 10/10
- Anonymous, India

Ballyfin was great - we loved it! Best things were the amount of space, it felt like you had the whole place to yourself, the history of the house, and the staff. We'd definitely recommend it. Thanks very much for all the help getting it booked!
- Mr Wyburd, Ireland

We really enjoyed the trip and were happy that we squeezed so much into a few short days. The Burmese people were lovely and the sites were fantastic. We really enjoyed the balloon ride and would highly suggest it to others in the future. The trip went super smoothly and a good time plus learning happened for all. Yangon was nice as the Strand was quite amazing and we of course loved the giant gold temple. Many thanks for all of your help and look forward to future travel with you.
- Wallace Family, Burma

Everything you did for us whilst we were away was hugely appreciated, and Ampersand has been exemplary in every way. I'll always recommend you!
- Mr Richard Stoughton, Sri Lanka

Difficult to choose the highlight of the trip, can’t choose between… 1) Taj Mahal & Oberoi Amarvilas. 2) Ranthambore. 3) Lake Palace. We have to say a particular thank you for selecting Parmod as our driver. He is a delightful and kind man who took our holiday and our enjoyment as his responsibility. Thank you for putting together such an amazing trip for us. The balance of city and rural destinations was perfect for us and the variety of rooms and hotel types brilliant. Our driver and guides also added so much to the trip with their knowledge of India’s history and culture and their willingness to discuss it both from a professional and personal angle.
- Carruthers family, North India

I would recommend Ampersand without any hesitation!!! The best travel agent that I’ve ever had. Everything – from the individual care and attention in planning the trip, through to the efficiency of the agents on the ground in India – was handled brilliantly. An absolutely first-class service all round!
- Matthew Annable, Rajasthan, India

Without question, you put together the best trip I have ever taken. We were shown around like visiting dignitaries, the hotels were fantastic and the itinerary was just right. Everybody I know will hear about how amazing Ampersand is!
- Leslie Siben, India

I barely know where to begin... though a sincere 'thank you' would be the best. You have organised this trip perfectly. May was an inspiring and delightful companion in Myanmar – thoroughly professional and friendly at the same time. My accommodation throughout has been superb, especially The Governor's Residence and The Mandarin Oriental. The view from the cottage at Inle Lake was beautiful and I loved every moment of being there. And here I am now on the last leg of this extended holiday at my favourite place. I could stay here for ever, the peace, silence and surroundings all amazing, plus the people and the whole aura of Vana. Thank you for much, and I look forward to speaking to you on my return.
- Ms Margulies, Burma, India & Thailand

Difficult to articulate just how good the service from you and your team really was. We know you will continue to do well and hope we have the chance to seek your assistance again before long.
- Mr & Mrs Manson, North India

Ampersand’s preparation, attention to detail and interaction before and during our trip show exactly why good travel agents have a role in today’s internet booking age. They were a delight to deal with!
- Mr David Wallace, North India

Tamil Nadu & the Andaman Islands... Cultural Tour & Beach Holiday in South India

15 days from £9,240 for 2025 per person

Itinerary details

15 days from £9,240 for 2025 per person

Key

Client Testimonials

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