9 Days South India Spiritual & Heritage Trail

Welcome to South India! Upon arrival at your designated pick-up location (Chennai or Renigunta), our representative will greet you warmly. We’ll journey to Tirupati, one of India’s most sacred pilgrimage towns. After checking into your hotel, unwind before we visit the Srikalahasti Temple, known as the “Kailash of the South.” Famous for Rahu-Ketu dosha remedies, it’s a must-visit for spiritual seekers.

Early morning, we head to Tirumala Hills for an exclusive VIP Darshan at the majestic Lord Venkateshwara Temple, the wealthiest and most-visited religious shrine globally. Feel the divine energy as you stand in front of the deity in the inner sanctum. Afterwards, explore Padmavathi Temple and ISKCON Tirupati, both spiritually uplifting and architecturally splendid.
Note: Dress code is strictly traditional. Women are requested to wear sarees, half-sarees, or salwar kameez with dupatta; men should wear dhoti or pyjama with an upper cloth.

After breakfast, we proceed to Kanchipuram, the ancient city of temples and silk. En route, we stop at Sripuram Golden Temple in Vellore, a marvel covered in real gold leaf and surrounded by lush spiritual pathways. On reaching Kanchipuram, explore its triad of revered temples – Shiva Kanchi, Vishnu Kanchi, and the legendary Kanchi Kamakshi Temple.

Today’s route is a feast of history and natural beauty. First, explore Mahabalipuram, a UNESCO World Heritage site, featuring the Shore Temple, the massive Arjuna’s Penance, and the iconic Five Rathas. Get a glimpse of ancient Pallava architecture. Then stop by the Crocodile Bank, home to rare reptile species. Reach Pondicherry by evening, and relax by the charming Promenade Beach.

After breakfast, visit the awe-inspiring Brihadeeswarar Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an epitome of Chola architecture. Dive into history at the Vyonkoji Palace Museum. Proceed to Trichy, home to the sprawling Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple, which is not only India’s largest functioning Hindu temple but also a marvel of art, devotion, and design.

We set off for Rameshwaram, a sacred island in the Gulf of Mannar. According to the Ramayana, Lord Rama built a bridge here to rescue Sita from Lanka. Visit the Dhanushkodi ruins, the mythical endpoint of the Rama Setu, and the Vibhishan Temple. Also stop by the APJ Abdul Kalam Memorial, dedicated to India’s beloved scientist-president.

After an early breakfast, we drive to Madurai, often called the Athens of the East. This city is a treasure trove of ancient Tamil culture and spirituality.

The highlight of the day is your visit to the Meenakshi Amman Temple – a visual and spiritual masterpiece. With 14 towering gopurams adorned in over 33,000 colorful sculptures, the temple is a poetic representation of South India’s Dravidian heritage. You’ll be guided through the temple complex, where every corridor echoes centuries of devotion. Discover the sacred pond, the Hall of Thousand Pillars (with musical pillars!), and experience the rich rituals of the evening aarti. If time permits, take a cultural stroll through Puthu Mandapam Bazaar, famous for handicrafts, antiques, and traditional South Indian jewelry. Dinner and overnight stay in Madurai.

Wrap up your spiritual journey with a final visit to the Mahatma Gandhi Museum, where you’ll learn about India’s freedom struggle and Gandhi’s influence in Tamil Nadu. After this cultural stop, you’ll be transferred to the airport or railway station for your journey home.