Taj Tigers and Temples of Tamil Nadu Tour

On arrival at the New Delhi airport, Alkof Holidays representative will meet you and transfer you to the hotel. The rest of the day is at leisure to explore the city's bustling streets or wander its wide tree-lined boulevards to get your first taste of India. Overnight stay at the hotel.

After breakfast at the hotel, embark on a full-day sightseeing tour of Delhi, a city with a rich history dating back to the 6th century BC. Begin your tour at Rajghat, the memorial site where Mahatma Gandhi was cremated in 1948. Next, visit Jama Masjid, India's largest mosque, commissioned by Emperor Shah Jahan. Experience the vibrant atmosphere with a rickshaw ride through Chandni Chowk, Old Delhi's busiest market. Drive past the Presidential House and India Gate in Edwin Lutyen's Delhi. Explore Humayun's Tomb, built in 1562 by his wife, Hamida Banu Begum. Conclude your day with a visit to the Qutab Minar, the world's tallest brick minaret, commissioned by Qutbuddin Aibak. In the evening, return to your hotel for an overnight stay.

After breakfast at your hotel, leave for Agra. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, visit the beautiful Itmad-ud-Daulah and the grand Agra Fort. Later, head to Mehtab Bagh, located across from the Taj Mahal, to admire a stunning sunset view of the monument. Afterward, explore marble inlay workshops and enjoy shopping in Agra’s vibrant markets. Overnight stay at the hotel in Agra.

Early in the morning, visit the Taj Mahal at sunrise and admire its breathtaking beauty. Later return to the hotel for breakfast. After breakfast at the hotel, leave for Ranthambore. On the way visit Fatehpur Sikri, a UNESCO World Heritage site located 37 kilometers from Agra. Built in 16th century, it was once the capital of Mughal Emperor Akbar. After sightseeing at Fatehpur Sikri, proceed to Ranthambore for an overnight stay.

Start your day early with a morning jeep safari in Ranthambore National Park. As the sun rises, venture into the wilderness, where you might spot Bengal tigers, leopards, sloth bears, and a variety of deer species like sambar and chital. The park is also home to Indian wild boars, marsh crocodiles, and over 300 species of birds. After the safari, return to the resort for a hearty breakfast, followed by some leisure time to relax or enjoy the resort's amenities. Lunch is served at the resort, offering a taste of local flavors. In the afternoon, embark on your second jeep safari, where the late-day light enhances your chances of spotting wildlife such as the Indian leopard, hyenas, and jungle cats. You may also see more of the park's vibrant birdlife, including kingfishers, parakeets, and eagles. After the safari, return to the resort for dinner and overnight stay.

After enjoying breakfast at the resort, depart for Jaipur. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and take some time to relax. In the evening, explore the charming markets of Jaipur's historic walled pink city, where you can witness the timeless traditions and vibrant local culture. Return to your hotel for an overnight stay.

After enjoying breakfast at the hotel, embark on a comprehensive guided tour of Jaipur. Begin your exploration with Rajasthan's iconic attraction, the "Amber Fort and Palace," a UNESCO World Heritage Site constructed by Raja Man Singh in 1592 using red sandstone and marble. This majestic fort complex is perched atop a hill, offering panoramic views of Maota Lake and the surrounding landscapes. Explore its extensive palace sections and intricate architecture, which blend seamlessly with the natural terrain. Following your visit to Amber Fort, continue your Jaipur sightseeing with a visit to Jal Mahal, City Palace, Jantar Mantar, Hawa Mahal, and the Albert Hall Museum. After an enriching day of sightseeing, return to your hotel for an overnight stay in Jaipur.

After breakfast at the hotel, our driver will transfer you to Jaipur Airport to board a flight to Chennai. Upon arrival check-in at the hotel. Rest of the day at leisure. Overnight stay at the hotel in Chennai.

After breakfast at the hotel, set out to explore Chennai. Begin the day with a visit to Marina Beach, one of the longest beaches in the world, where you can enjoy the refreshing sea breeze. Continue to the historic San Thome Church, followed by a visit to the colorful Kapaleeshwarar Temple, renowned for its fine South Indian architecture. Later, visit Kalakshetra and the Theosophical Society, both known for their peaceful settings and cultural significance. Return to the hotel in the evening for an overnight stay in Chennai.

After breakfast, drive towards Mahabalipuram with a stop at Kanchipuram, one of the seven sacred cities of India, famous for its ancient temples and silk weaving tradition. Visit the Ekambareswarar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, and the Kailasanathar Temple, the oldest temple in the city, known for its fine carvings. Also visit the Varadaraja Perumal Temple, an important Vishnu temple admired for its grand architecture. Later, continue your drive to Mahabalipuram and check in at the hotel. Overnight stay in Mahabalipuram.

After breakfast at the hotel, set out to explore Mahabalipuram, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its ancient rock-cut monuments built by the Pallava dynasty. Visit the Shore Temple, the Pancha Rathas (Five Rathas), the impressive stone relief of Arjuna’s Penance, and Krishna’s Butterball, a giant natural rock balanced on a slope. Later, drive to Pondicherry. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel for an overnight stay.

After breakfast at the hotel, set out to explore Pondicherry. Start with the charming French Quarter, known for its colonial buildings, tree-lined streets, and relaxed atmosphere. Visit the Sri Aurobindo Ashram, walk along the Seaside Promenade, and see beautiful churches and temples that reflect the town’s rich cultural heritage. Later continue your drive to Thanjavur. Upon arrival, check-in at the hotel for overnight stay.

After breakfast, visit the Brihadeeswarar Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a masterpiece of Chola architecture, known for its massive tower and detailed sculptures. Later, drive to Gangaikonda Cholapuram (approx. 70 km / 1.5 hours), the former capital of the Chola dynasty, and visit its grand Shiva temple. After sightseeing, return to Thanjavur in the evening. Overnight stay at the hotel in Thanjavur.

After breakfast, leave for Madurai with a stop in Trichy (Tiruchirappalli). In Trichy, visit the Rock Fort Temple, perched on a rocky outcrop with panoramic views and ancient shrines. Explore Jambukeshwara Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva and known for its architectural grandeur. Also visit Srirangam Temple, one of the largest and most important Vaishnavite temples in South India. Later, continue your drive to Madurai. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel for overnight stay.

After breakfast, set out to explore the vibrant city of Madurai, renowned for its rich cultural heritage and architectural wonders. Begin with a visit to the magnificent Sree Meenakshi Amman Temple, a stunning example of Dravidian architecture, known for its intricate carvings and towering gopurams. Continue to Thirupparankundram Murugan Temple, one of the six sacred abodes of Lord Murugan, set against a scenic rocky hill. Later, visit the Gandhi Memorial Museum, which provides valuable insights into India’s freedom struggle. Proceed to the Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace, a fine blend of Dravidian and Islamic architectural styles that reflects the grandeur of a bygone era. End the day at Vandiyur Mariamman Teppakulam, a peaceful temple tank famous for its annual float festival. Return to your hotel for a comfortable overnight stay in Madurai.

After breakfast at the hotel, drive to Kanyakumari, the southernmost tip of India. Upon arrival, visit the Vivekananda Rock Memorial, built on the rock where Swami Vivekananda is believed to have meditated. Continue to the Shri Bhagavathy Amman Temple,  a 3,000-year-old shrine dedicated to Goddess Kanya Kumari. Later, see the Triveni Sangam, where the Arabian Sea, Bay of Bengal, and Indian Ocean meet, and visit the Gandhi Mandapam, built in memory of Mahatma Gandhi. If time permits, visit the Suchindram Temple, known for its fine carvings and musical pillars. In the evening, check in at your hotel for an overnight stay in Kanyakumari.

After breakfast at the hotel, our driver will transfer you to Trivandrum International Airport for onward journey.