Tamil Nadu in South India is renowned for its fascinating array of ancient temples and palaces, many of which are World Heritage Sites.
Tamil Nadu holidays & temple tours of India usually start in the state capital of Chennai, which has been a bustling port on the eastern Coromandel Coast since the 1st century. Formerly known as Madras, it has given us one of the world's most popular curries. From here head south to the ancient port of Mahabalipuram to view the amazing Shore Temple.
Puducherry (previously known as Pondicherry) was one of the last footholds of the retreating French in the 19th century. Wander through the French Quarter before continuing south to Chidambaram, known for its famous Thillai Nataraja Temple.
Thanjavur (previously known as Tanjore) is an important centre of South Indian religion, art and architecture. It is home to the three amazing Great Living Chola Temples, which are World Heritage Sites. The famous towered Brihadisvara Temple, known locally as 'The Big Temple', is one of the largest in India and enclosed within its two courtyards is an exquisitely decorated shrine. Built using granite, the tower above the shrine is one of the tallest in South India.
In Tiruchirappalli (known locally as Trichy) you can visit museums and art galleries, as well as the Rock Fort and Sri Jambukeshwara Temple – one of the five major Shiva temples of Tamil Nadu.
Chettinad Palace was constructed in 1912 with contributions from all around the world and Vairavanpatti Temple is full of wonderful paintings from the Ramayana and Mahabharata epics. There is a natural spring behind the temple, which is believed to have miraculous healing properties.
The ancient city of Madurai on the banks of the Vaigai River is the cultural capital of Tamil Nadu and will be a highlight. Its skyline is dominated by the 14 colourful ‘gopurams’ (gateway towers) of the amazing Meenakshi Temple, which is covered in bright carvings of Hindu gods. Madurai is a major pilgrimage site visited by millions of Hindus from around the world, particularly during the Chithirai Festival each April/May, which celebrates Meenakshi and Lord Vishna. Observing the evening aarti prayer ceremony at the temples is simply unforgettable.
A trip on the narrow gauge train to Ooty (or 'Toy Train') is another wonderful experience, after which you can relax at this hill station, surrounded by tea plantations, which is a great way to end Tamil Nadu holidays & private temple tours.
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We have been arranging Tamil Nadu holidays & temple tours of India, including Chennai, Pondicherry & Ooty for over 20 years.