In the morning after breakfast we drive to Pondicherry. The Union Territory of Pondicherry is situated on the Coromandel Coast of South India, about 160 kms south of Chennai. Pondicherry traces its origin to Saint Agasthya, the revered sage of the south. It was also the site of many a battle between the British and the French, and was the capital of French India, before it attained its independence. Being a small and quiet enclave of Tamil Nadu, it has imbibed Tamilian culture. Apart from the charming atmosphere, excellent restaurants, and cheap beer, what attracts most travelers to Pondicherry is the Sri Aurobindo Ashram. The ashram, founded by Sri Aurobindo in the year 1926, has brought international reputation to this coastal town. Tours of the ashram, the spiritual tenets of which combine yoga and modern science, are popular within India and abroad.
Overnight: The Sunway Manor(1 Night) (Breakfast, Dinner)

 

 

In the morning after breakfast we drive to Mahabalipuram. We visit the World Heritage Site of Mahabalipuram. This group of sanctuaries, founded by the Pallava kings, was carved out of rock along the Coromandel Coast in the 7th and 8th centuries. It is known especially for its rathas (temples in the form of chariots), mandapas (cave sanctuaries), giant open-air relief's such as the famous 'Descent of the Ganges', and the temple of Rivage, with thousands of sculptures to the glory of Shiva. After lunch, we continue our journey to Chennai. On arrival we check in our Hotel. Rest of the day is free to relax.
Overnight: ITC Grand Chola (2 Nights) (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

 

 

We tour of Chennai starts with visit to The National Art Gallery & Museum. The museum was established in 1857 and contains one of the best collections of bronzes in the country, including the famous icon of Natraja. Our Next stop is at St. Mary's Church-built in 1680. This was first English Church in Chennai and is India's oldest surviving British church. In the church there are reminders of Clive, who was married here in 1753, and Elihu Yale, the early governor of Madras. We end our tour with a visit to People's Park and the beautiful Marina Beach, the second longest beach in the world, and the clock towers. (Breakfast, Dinner)

 

Early morning we are transferred to railway station to embark on the luxury first class train to Mysore. This is a very comfortable train journey. It offers air-conditioned "executive class airline" seating with meal services on board. On arrival, we are transferred to our Hotel. Mysore has never failed to mesmerize with its quaint charm, rich heritage, magnificent palaces, beautifully laid-out gardens, imposing buildings, broad shady avenues and sacred temples. Our afternoon tour includes the Maharajah's Palace, the Shri Chamundeswari Temple and the Nadi Shiva's Mount. The evening is free to enjoy the Vrindavan Garden and City Palace, which is beautifully lit on certain days.
Overnight: Royal Orchid Metropole(1 Night) (Breakfast, Dinner) )