Tour Description and Agenda:

DAY 1: ARRIVAL CHENNAI

CHENNAI – Formerly known as Madras, the capital of Tamil Nadu & India‟s fourth largest Metropolitan city. The name Madras is derived from Madraspatnam, the site chosen by the British East India Company for a permanent settlement in 1639. It is located on the Coromandel Coast of the Bay of Bengal. The city is large commercial & industrial centre & is know for its cultural heritage & temple architecture. Chennai is the automobile capital of India, with around 40% of the automobile industry having a base there. This 368 year old city is the 36th largest Metropolitan area of the world. Assistance on arrival at Chennai airport by our local representative & transfer to the hotel. Later day free for rest. Overnight stay at Chennai.

DAY 2: CHENNAI SIGHTSEEING

Morning after breakfast depart for sightseeing of Chennai visiting the HIGH COURT - This imposing Indo- Saracenic style building, built in 1892, has beautiful domes, a grand central cupola and many stained glass windows. The building houses the High Court, the Small Cause's Court and the City Civil Court. FORT ST. GEORGE - Built in 1654 and remodeled in 1749, Fort St. George is the first bastion of British power in India. The fort has a six-meter tall wall that withstood many sieges by Mughals in 1701, Marathas in 1741 and Hyder Ali during the late 18th century. The fort now houses the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly. ST. MARY'S CHURCH - built in1678-80 was the first English church in Chennai. There are reminders in the church of Robert Clive who married here in 1753. GOVERNMENT MUSEUM - One of the finest museums in India, the Government Museum has sections devoted to geology, anthropology, botany, zoology, sculpture and numismatics. The relics from the 2nd century AD Buddhist site 'Amaravati' and the prehistoric South India are the most prized possessions of the museum. ST. ANDREW'S CHURCH - Known as the queen of Scottish churches in the East, St. Andrew's Church was built by the British East India Company around 1821. With ornate white Doric columns, tiled marble floors and a high sky blue dome decorated with gold stars, indeed, this is the most beautiful church in Chennai. SRI PARTHASARATHY TEMPLE - Built by the Pallavas in the 18th century, the temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna. The Vijayanagar rulers renovated it in the 16th century. During the 16th and 17th centuries, this temple was the scene of many battles and Golconda, Dutch and French occupied the temple at various times. This is one of the oldest surviving temples in Chennai. After sightseeing return back to the hotel. Later evening free for personal independent activities. Overnight stay at Chennai.

DAY 3: CHENNAI TO MAHABALIPURAM (65KMS – 1½ HRS DRIVE)

Morning after breakfast, check out & depart for Mahabalipuram. MAHABALIPURAM - is one of history's intriguing enigmas. The ancient Mamallapuram, as Mahabalipuram was formerly known, was flourishing port town of the Pallava rulers of south India who chiseled in stone a fabulous "open-air museum" of sculpture under the vault of a burning sky. On arrival in Mahabalipuram, check in to the hotel. Later depart for sightseeing comprising of ARJUNA'S PENANCE - An enormous relief made on two huge boulders, is the universe itself in stone, throbbing with a vastness of conception. This colossus of art, 27 metres long and 9 metres high, is perhaps the world's largest bas-relief. THE VARAHA CAVE - A small rock-cut mandapam (hall), is a faceted and finished gem with two incarnations of Vishnu-Varaha (boar) and Vamana (dwarf). THE PANCHA PANDAVA RATHAS - Are five in number. Out of these, four are carved out of a single rock, while the fifth on the west is scooped out from a small rock. THE KRISHNA TEMPLE - is one of the earliest rock-cut temples of Mahabalipuram. The walls of the temples depict scenes of pastoral life, one with the image of Krishna lifting the Govardhan Hill in his fingertips to protect his people from Indra. SHORE TEMPLE - The windswept and surf-beaten Shore Temple, the mute tireless sentinel of the shore, is the ultimate expression of Mahabalipuram. A threein- one abode of God-a Vishnu temple sandwiched between two Shiva temples-it is a visual delight, its precincts abounding in architectural masterpieces. Return back to the hotel in the evening. Later day free at leisure or personal independent activities. Overnight stay at Mahabalipuram.

DAY 4: MAMALLAPURAM TO PONDICHERRY (100KMS - 2.0HRS)

Morning after breakfast, check out & depart for Pondicherry. PONDICHERRY – This place has a rich French cultural heritage, having been the capital of the French colonies in India since the 17th century. Pondicherry is richly cosmopolitan. This French legacy is visible in the well-Planned town, neatly laid roads, wide and vibrant beaches, beautiful promenades, architecturally imposing churches and public buildings and the statues of JOAN OF ARK and JOSEPH FRANCOIS colonies in India from 1742-54. It is also known as the land of YOGA & Spirituality. On arrival, check in to the hotel. Later day for sightseeing comprising of AUROVILLE - Located 10 kms north of Pondicherry town, Auroville is envisioned as a universal town, where people from different nationalities, faiths and beliefs, can live in peace and harmony. SHRI AUROBINDO ASHRAM - Shri Aurobindo, the great seer, poet and prophet of the twentieth century, made Pondicherry his home from 1910 till his death in 1950. His vision and ideals continue to draw People from all over the world. PONDICHERRY MUSEUM – Here on display are the findings of Arikamedu, The Chola Bronzes and Sculptures, Glimpses Of French Heritage, Specimens of Modern and Traditional Handicraft, Paintings, Armoires, Carvings and many other things of historical interest. Return back to the hotel in the evening. Later day free at leisure or personal independent activities. Overnight stay at Pondicherry.

DAY 5: PONDICHERRY BEACHES

Morning after breakfast full day beach tour of Pondicherry comprising of SERENITY BEACH - A ten-minute drive to the north of the town brings you to these virgin sands. The ambience is well-captured in its name. You can touch the calm. Ideal for a quick dip, a touch of the sun and a cool reprieve in the shade. PARADISE BEACH - At Chunnambar, 8 kms from the town, along Cuddalore Main Road, lies this stretch of tropical paradise. A short, pleasant cruise into the sea from here could reward you with the memorable sight of playful dolphins in natural habitat, horsing around. KARAIKAL BEACH - Sunrise-watchers can catch their magnificent view over the bay, with the pretty Arasalar river reaching out to the sea. Alternatively, you can canoe or kayak in picture-book surroundings. Return back to the hotel in the evening. Later day free at leisure or personal independent activities. Overnight stay at Pondicherry.

DAY 6: PONDICHERRY TO TRICHIRAPALLI (190 KMS - 4 HRS)

Morning after breakfast, check out & depart for Trichirapalli. TRICHIRAPALLI – commonly known as Trichy, formerly known as Trichinopoly under the British rule. It is centrally located on the bank of River Kaveri. Trichirapalli has many historic temples, monuments, churches & mosques. It was an important town in the later days of the Cholas, Nayaks as well as during the early days of the British East India Company. On arrival check in to the hotel. Later day free for sightseeing visiting ROCK FORT TEMPLE - the landmark of the city, is on the shores of the Kaveri. It is perched on a massive rocky outcrop at an altitude of 83 m above sea level. THE SRI RANGANATHASWAMY TEMPLE - situated 6 km north of the city, is among the most revered shrines dedicated to Lord Vishnu in South India, and is the largest temple complex in the world. THE JAMBUKESHWARA TEMPLE - dedicated to Lord Shiva, is situated just 2 km east of Srirangam and houses five concentric walls and seven gopurams. Return back to the hotel in the evening. Later day free at leisure or personal independent activities. Overnight stay at Trichirapalli.

DAY 7: TRICHIRAPALLI TO MADURAI (235 KMS – 5 HRS)

Morning after breakfast check out from hotel & depart for Madurai. MADURAI – is situated on the bank of Vaigai River in Tamil Nadu. It is the second largest city of Tamil Nadu. The Pandya King Kulasekaran built a temple, which would later be known as the Meenakshi Temple, and created a lotus shaped city around the temple. Legend has it that on the day the city was to be named, as Lord Shiva blessed the land and its people, divine nectar was showered on the city from his matted locks. On arrival check in to the hotel. Later day free for sightseeing visiting the famous MEENAKSHI TEMPLE - the landmark of Madurai is the Meenakshi Sundareswarar Temple dedicated to Parvati, the consort of Lord Shiva. Kulasekhara Pandya originally built the temple. MARIAMMAN TEPPAKULAM - This huge temple tank is about 5km from the temple. The mandapam in the center of the tank has an idol of Vinayaka (Lord Ganesh). GANDHI MUSEUM - The museum is housed in an old palace of Rani Mangammal. The government museum is also located on the same grounds. KOODAL ALAGAR TEMPLE - This temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and it is as old as Madurai. Vishnu is depicted in three postures - standing, sitting and reclining one over the other. THIRUPARANGUNDRAM - Located 8km from Madurai, the temple here is one of the six abodes of Lord Subramanya (Murugan). It is believed that Subramanya got married to Deivayani in this place. Return back to the hotel in the evening. Overnight stay at Madurai.

DAY 8: MADURAI TO KODAIKANAL (130 KMS – 3 HRS)

Morning after breakfast check out from hotel & depart for Kodaikannal. KODAIKANAL - popularly known as Kodai, is situated among the Palani Hills at 2133m from sea level. With its enchanting landscape, it is a trekker's delight and nature lover's paradise. Kodaikanal is the only hill station setup by Americans in India. Later the British joined them. On arrival in Kodai, check in to the hotel. Later day free for sightseeing visiting SHEMBAGANUR MUSEUM - The flora and Fauna Museum is devoted to the archeological remains and flora and fauna of the hills. The museum is maintained by the Sacred Heart College and has one of the best orchid collections in the country. The museum is six km from Kodai. SILVER CASCADE - Located 8km from Kodai on the Kodai- Madurai Ghat road, this waterfall falls from a height of 180 feet. The fall is formed by the overflow of water from Kodai Lake. One can take a bath here if the water temperature is to one's liking. KURINJI ANDAVAR TEMPLE - Three km from the lake stands Kurinji Andavar Temple, a small shrine dedicated to Lord Subramanya. You may stumble upon some kurinji shrubs those blossomed and defied the 12-year time schedule. From the temple one can have a great view of Palani and Vaigai Dam. COAKER'S WALK - The Walk is on the steep southern face of the Kodai ridge. It has a telescope house and an observatory. The view of the plains from Coaker's Walk is breath taking. KODAI LAKE - The star attraction of Kodaikanal is the star shaped Kodai Lake that is beautifully landscaped. Boats can be hired from the Kodaikanal Boat and Rowing Club. The tourist department also has rowboats and pedal boats. Sir Vere Hentry Levinge who was the collector of Madurai created the lake in 1863 and settled in Kodai after retirement. PILLAR ROCK - Situated 7km from Kodai is the Pillar Rock, three boulders standing vertically to a height of 120m. The Pillar rock is full of caves and chasms, a delight for the adventure seeker. BRYANT PARK - The part is located on the eastern side of the lake. Named after the British Officer, who landscaped and stocked it, the park has a large verity of flowering shrubs, hybrids and grafts. Flower shows are conducted here as part of Summer Festival during May. Return back to the hotel in the evening. Later day free for personal individual activities. Overnight stay at Kodaikanal.

DAY 9: KODAIKANAL

Morning after breakfast full day free for rest or personal independent activities or shop around the Mall road of Kodai. Overnight stay at Kodaikanal.

DAY 10: KODAIKANAL TO OOTY (264 KMS – 6 HRS)

Morning after b‟fast, check out & proceed to OOTY - also known as Udagamandalam is the "Queen of hill stations" and the capital of Nilgiris district. It is one of the most popular tourist resorts in India. Nilgiris means "Blue Mountains". It is a land of picturesque picnic spots. Used to be popular summer and weekend getaway for the Britishers during the colonial days. It is situated at an altitude of 2,240 meters above sea level. On arrival at Ooty, check in to the hotel. Later day free at leisure. Overnight stay at Ooty.

DAY 11: OOTY SIGHTSEEING

Full day free for sightseeing visiting BOTANICAL GARDENS - laid out in 1847, the picturesque gardens that are maintained by the Horticulture department of the state, cover an area of about 22 hectares. The Gardens have well over 650 species of plants and trees, including a fossil of a tree, which is believed to be more than 20 million years old. OOTY LAKE - built in 1825 and is about 2.5 km long. Visitors to this lake can go for boating on the lake or enjoy their favorite outdoor activity of fishing. DODABETTA PEAK - The Dodabetta Peak stands at an altitude of 2,623 meters. It is the highest point in the district, making it possibly the best vantage point around Ooty. LAMB'S ROCK - is another vantage point that is ideal for taking pictures and is a wonderful picnic spot. It is merely 9kms. KODANADU'S VIEW POINT - is about 16kms from Kotagiri, and is situated on the eastern edge of the Nilgiri range. It is a great vantage point that offers a breathtaking view of the Moyar river and the tea estates. Return back to the hotel in the evening. Later evening free to stroll on the Mall road of Ooty. Overnight stay at Ooty.

DAY 12: OOTY TO MYSORE (170 KMS – 4 HRS)

Morning after breakfast check out from hotel & depart for Mysore. MYSORE – located at 770 metres above sea level, the city is known for its palaces & proximity to several attractions. Situated in the southern part of the Deccan Plateau, Mysore District is an undulating tableland, covered in parts by granite outcrops and fringed by verdant forests. From ancient times, this district has played a significant role in the history of South India. Mysore District is a popular tourist destination, offering several attractions ranging from the royal splendour of Mysore City and its fabulous Dasara Festival to exquisite temples, pilgrimage centres and scenic spots. On arrival in Mysore check in to the hotel. Later day free for rest or leisure. Overnight stay at Mysore.

DAY 13: MYSORE SIGHTSEEING

Morning after breakfast full day sightseeing visiting THE MYSORE PALACE - Designed by the English Architect, Henry Irwin, Mysore Palace dominates the skyline of Mysore. A three storied structure in the Indo-Saracenic style built between 1897-1912, the palace has beautifully designed square towers at cardinal points, covered with domes. CHAMUNDI HILLS - prominent landmark, located at the outskirts of the city, Chamundi Hills can be reached by a 13 kms motorable road or 1000 steps built by the Wodeyars. SRI JAYACHAMARAJENDRA ZOOLOGICAL GARDENS - popularly known as the Mysore Zoo was established in 1892 under the reign of Chamarajendra Wodeyar. A large collection of animals, including exotic species, are housed in lush green surroundings. This zoo is famous for breeding some rare animals in captivity. ST. PHILOMENA’S CHURCH - This is a beautiful gothic structure with twin spires, 175ft. in height, said to have been modeled on the gothic Cathedral at Cologne. Designed by French architects, the foundation stone was laid by Maharaja Krishnaraja Wodeyar-IV in 1933. BRINDAVAN GARDENS - 19 kms North of Mysore is the famous reservoir Krishnarajasagara. This Dam is built across the river Cauvery. Just below the Dam the beautiful Brindavan Gardens are laid out. There are varieties of fountains, illuminated at night by colourful lights. The Musical fountain is of special interest which has spectacular harmony of water, colours and music. JAG MOHAN PALACE - One of Mysore's beautiful buildings, the Jaganmohan Palace was built in 1861 by Maharaja Krishnaraja Wodeyar in a predominantly Hindu style, as an alternative retreat for the royal family. This three storied palace with stained glass shutters and ventilators, in a lovely garden setting, has since 1915, housed the Sri Jayachamarajendra Art Gallery. Return back to the hotel in the evening. Later evening free at leisure or personal independent activities. Overnight stay at Mysore.

DAY 14: MYSORE TO BANGALORE (140 KMS – 3 HRS)

Morning after breakfast, check out from hotel & depart for Bangalore. BANGALORE – Located on the Mysore Plateau, Bangalore is the capital of the Indian State KARNATAKA. An inscription found near Begur reveals that the district was part of the Ganga Dynasty until 1004 CE and was known as Benga-val-oru, the City of Guards in old Kannada. The Cholas of Tamil Nadu ruled over the city from 1015 to 1116 until the town came under the rule of the Hoysala Empire. On arrival in Bangalore, check in to the hotel. Later day free for sightseeing visiting the VIDHANA SOUDHA - It was built by K. Hanumantaiah which is a granite structure built in Neo Dravidian style of architecture and is one of India's most magnificent buildings. Presently, the building houses the state Secretariat, Legislature and other state Government offices. VENKATAPPA ART GALLERY - Close to the Government Museum is Venkatappa art gallery. This is the only gallery of its type in the state. Books and material used by the great artist are exhibited in the main hall. Return back to the hotel in the evening. Later free time for shopping at the famous M.G ROAD. Overnight stay at Bangalore.

DAY 15: BANGALORE SIGHTSEEING & DEPART FOR ONWARD DESTINATION

Morning after breakfast day till evening for sightseeing visiting THE BANGALORE PALACE - It is a quaint architectural creation, an example of the princely dottiness which gave India some of the most interesting buildings in the Raj era. CUBBON PARK - The Cubbon Park was planned in 1864 by Sir Richard Sankey, the then chief Engineer of Mysore. In the cubbon park there is Attara kacheri, The Central Library, The Aquarium, The Jawahar Bal Bhavan with its Mini Theater and Toy train, The Musem. BULL TEMPLE - Built by Kempe Gowda in a typical Dravidian style. It has mammoth, monolithic Bull 15 feet high and 20 feet long. There is a mystery related to this temple, even to this day people celebrate "Kadalekayi Parishe" every year. ULSOOR LAKE - A 1.5 sq.km picturesque lake with a couple of islands, this lake was constructed by Kempe Gowda 2nd. Boating facility is also avalible.Drinking water was also supplied to nearby inhabitants and the Military, when contonment was established. LAL BAGH - The garden was laid during18th century by Hyder Ali and Tipu Sultan. The Bi-annual flower show at Lalbag brings in entrants as well as visitor's from all over the world. It has also a magnificent Glass house built in 1840 on the lines of London's Crystal Palace. TIPU'S SUMMER PALACE AT CHAMARAJPET - It is located opposite to Vani vilas Hospital in the heart of the city and adjustent to fort Venkateshwara temple. Supposed to be built by Tipu Sultan. Attracts people from all over the world. This palace is purely a wooden structure. STATUE OF LORD SHIVA - Gigantic statue of Lord Shiva on the Bangalore Airport Road. A visit to this shrine is a proof enough that certain traditions and values remain timeless in a fast-changing world. After sightseeing return back to the hotel. Later after early dinner, check out & transfer to the International Airport to depart for onward destination.