Namaskara – Greetings from Chennai, the Gateway to South India and capital of Tamil Nadu!

Upon arrival at Chennai International Airport, one of our team members will personally welcome you and escort you to your private transportation for a comfortable ride to your accommodation.

Meals:   – | – | –
Accommodation:  The Accord Metropolitan

On day 2, we will fly from Chennai to Madurai. Our driver for the next 10 days will come to receive us at the Madurai airport with his vehicle and then transfer to the hotel.

Madurai, with a history spanning over 2,500 years, is deeply intertwined with India’s ancient heritage. Iconic landmarks like the Meenakshi Amman Temple showcase the city’s historical prominence. Its awe-inspiring architecture features ornate entrance towers and a blend of traditional South Indian design. Madurai’s culture revolves around age-old customs, with festivals like the Meenakshi Thirukalyanam showcasing devotion and heritage. Traditional dance and music forms add to the city’s cultural vibrancy.

Madurai offers a diverse culinary experience for foodies of all kinds. Breakfast includes soft idlis, crispy dosas, and flavourful Pongal. Non-vegetarian options like Chettinadu cuisine, known for its bold and spicy flavours, and fresh coastal seafood dishes, further enrich the culinary landscape. While we are here, we plan to explore Madurai through a street food tour. The cuisine will be prepared right before our eyes and served piping hot, all while being safe to consume. Approach this adventure with an open mind and indulge to your heart’s content, as this will undoubtedly be a unique and unforgettable opportunity.

Madurai is a living heritage where history meets breathtaking architecture, rich traditions, and a vibrant culinary scene. Explore this captivating city to uncover its many facets and flavours.

Option: You can join Joji on an early morning commuter bus trip to the vegetable market, an opportunity to mingle with the locals.

Meals:   B | L(1) | –
Accommodation:  Heritage Madurai

Our next destination is Chettinadu, nestled in the heart of Tamil Nadu, a destination that beckons with its grandeur and flavours that will leave you craving for more. As you explore the opulent Chettinadu mansions, architectural marvels adorned with intricate woodwork, stunning courtyards, and vivid tilework, prepare to be transported back in time. These grandiose residences stand as a testament to the wealth and magnificence of the Chettiar community, offering a glimpse into the past that’s nothing short of breathtaking.

But Chettinadu isn’t just about captivating history; it’s also a gastronomic paradise that promises to tantalise your taste buds. Indulge in the rich and aromatic Chettinadu cuisine, where each dish is a symphony of flavours that dance on your palate. Picture yourself savouring the bold and spicy Chettinadu Chicken Curry or delighting in the fragrant Chettinadu biryani, a dish that weaves a tapestry of spices like no other. The liberal use of aromatic ingredients infuses every bite with a tantalising depth that will leave you craving more.

As you wander the charming streets and savour the delectable Chettinadu cuisine, you’ll discover that this region is not just a destination but a sensory journey through grandeur and flavour. Chettinadu invites you to step into a world where history and cuisine merge seamlessly, creating an unforgettable experience that will linger in your memory and leave you yearning for another visit. Come, indulge your senses and embark on a journey of grandeur and culinary delights in the heart of Chettinadu.

Meals:   B | L(1) | –
Accommodation:  Chettinadu Mansion

During our stay in Thanjavur, we will experience the enchanting city of Thanjavur, where cultural magnificence, stunning architecture, and timeless music blend together. The breathtaking Brihadeeswarar Temple, featuring its towering vimana intricately decorated with carvings, is a masterpiece that seems to touch the heavens.

Besides its impressive architecture, Thanjavur is also renowned for its delicious cuisine, offering a delightful journey into South Indian flavours, from crispy dosas to Tanjore-style sweets that will tantalise your taste buds. This city is also filled with the melodies of Carnatic music, seamlessly blending history and culture to create a sensory voyage through time and tradition. Thanjavur beckons you to immerse yourself in its rich heritage, promising a magical experience that will leave you enchanted and longing for more.

Meals:   B | – | –
Accommodation:  Svatma

Discover Pondicherry, where history and culture meld seamlessly, offering a captivating blend of flavors and artistic inspiration. This former French colonial enclave boasts charming architecture that whisks you back in time, with elegant mansions and lush gardens setting the stage.

However, what truly sets Pondicherry apart is its culinary experience. Here, coastal seafood delicacies infused with aromatic spices coexist harmoniously with exquisite French pastries that will transport your taste buds to new heights of delight. The city’s culinary diversity is a testament to its rich heritage.

Pondicherry is not just about history and cuisine—it’s also a vibrant artist community. Galleries and artistic residences dot the streets, providing endless inspiration. Whether you’re indulging in mouthwatering dishes or immersing yourself in artistic creativity, Pondicherry is where culture, cuisine, and creativity converge to create an unforgettable journey.

Meals:   B | L(1) | –
Accommodation:  Grand Hotel D’Europe

As our culinary journey winds through the 12-day adventure, our second last destination awaits—Mahabalipuram. This coastal gem on India’s east coast promises captivating experiences that will leave an indelible mark on your journey. Explore pristine beaches and savour the tranquil ambience that soothes the soul. Witness UNESCO-protected rock carvings, a testament to ancient artistry etched into massive granite boulders.

Engage with skilled artisans, witnessing their craft come to life in intricate sculptures. Savour mouthwatering seafood cuisine, a symphony of spices and coastal flavours that tantalise the palate.

On the way to Chennai, we will visit Kanchipuram, the “City of a Thousand Temples.” Marvel at its grand temples, each a masterpiece of Dravidian architecture. The region is also known for silk sarees and rich traditions.

Mahabalipuram and Kanchipuram offer a captivating expedition blending history, art, culture, and cuisine, leaving you yearning for more.

Meals:   B | – | –
Accommodation:  Ideal Beach

We have reached the end of our ‘Flavours of Tamil Nadu’ foodie tour. It brings us great joy to take our guests on such journeys and introduce them to the serene pleasures of South India.

This is not merely a culinary expedition but a soul-stirring encounter with Tamil Nadu’s multifaceted flavours and culture, leaving indelible imprints of wonder and enchantment. Join us on this extraordinary odyssey, and let Tamil Nadu’s rich tapestry of experiences captivate your senses and spirit.

We offer an inclusive airport transfer service to Chennai International Airport for those returning home today. We eagerly await your return for another exhilarating ATI Travel experience. Namaskaram!

TOUR EXTENSION
We offer tour extension options for guests who want to stay longer in India. Here are a few suggestions:
Tour Extention 1 – (3N/2D) Chennai city experience from NZ$500
Tour Extention 2 – (6N/7D) Heritage train journey, hills, tribes and village experience from NZ$1200
Tour Extention 1 – (4N/3D) Bangalore city experience from NZ$1000

If you haven’t yet booked your tour extension, kindly get in touch with us for more details.

Meals:   B | – | –