Vision of India Tour

01 Day: Arrival Delhi

Welcome at Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi, assistance on arrival, our representative escorts you by a/c car and transfer to the pre-booked hotel. After your check in, you will be given all the required documents related to your tour plan; he will explain all your queries about the entire tour plan. After relaxation in the evening witness Light and Sound show at Red fort. The show projects splendid history of 5000 years old city, a truly memorable experience. Return to the hotel for overnight stay.

Light and Sound Show: A spectacular sound and light show at the Red Fort. Which makes the 5,000 years old history of the city come alive. Amidst the tranquility of the splendidly panoramic and historic environs of the Red Fort, select episodes from the annals of Delhi's historic and legendary past are vividly brought to life. Special effects combine with the unique ambience to make this show a hauntingly unforgettable experience.

02 Day: Delhi

Today morning after breakfast, take a sightseeing tour & explore the historic city, starting with Old Delhi: (Shahajahanabad) the majestic Red Fort, a marvel in red sandstone, Jama Masjid, the largest and most splendid mosque in India, both built by Emperor Shah Jahan of Taj Mahal fame; Rajghat, the memorial of Mahatma Gandhi, where he was cremated. Later take a cycle rickshaw ride through the bustling and colourful bazaar of Chandani Chowk. The sightseeing continues to explore the best tourist attractions of New Delhi including President House (Rashtrapati Bhawan), the regal residence of British rulers; a palace built for British Viceroys. India gate; built to honour and pay a tribute to the Indian soldiers who sacrificed themselves during the Afghan war, then visit Birla Mandir (Laxmi Narayan Temple) built by the Birla family. Humayun’s Tomb, lotus shaped Bhai’s Temple, Qutub Minar; built by Qutub-ud-din Aibek of the Slave Dynasty. Afterwards return to the hotel for overnight stay.

Delhi, the towering capital city of the independent and largest democratic country in the world: India. It is one of India's modern and fastest developing cities with a charismatic charm on its visitors. Delhi is located and sprawled on both banks of Yamuna River. The city is enriched with culture, architecture and human diversity, Delhi city is a blend of the ancient past of India with the vibration of the modern world. It houses some of India’s finest museums, historical monuments, sightseeing places, and temples. The city designed by the British architect Sir Edwin Lutyens (1869-1944) & is tree-lined & spacious.

03 Day: Delhi – Patna (By Air)

After breakfast check out the hotel and transfer to airport to board the flight for Patna. On arrival, transfer to the hotel. Later take a sightseeing tour of the city visiting the Har Mandir The second most important gurudwara in India, the Takht Har Mandir was built by Guru Gobind Singh, the 10th guru of the Sikhs. Golghar built for the purpose of storing grains to be used in the times of famines. Also visit Jalan Museum situated over the ruins of the Qila House, the site of Shershah’s fort. It is a private collection containing Chinese paintings and an invaluable collection of silver and jade filigree work of the Mughal period and Bihar Institute Of Handicraft and Design, the institute is trying to revive the old crafts and art of Bihar to modern use, especially Mithila paintings. After visit drive back to hotel for overnight stay.

Patna: Situated on the southern bank of the holy river Ganges, Patna is a large city with a considerable population and quite a few places of interest. A typical tropical city of northern India, Patna is famous for its glorious past, especially the period of Magadh and the Mauryan rule. The historical monuments and beautiful countryside make it an interesting place to visit. It is the capital city of the Indian state of Bihar. Patna is a part of the Buddhist Circuit of Bihar, as it is the ideal gateway for all the places on this circuit.

04 Day: Patna – Nalanda – Rajgir – Bodhgaya (190 kms: 5 hrs)

After breakfast, check out the hotel and drive to Bodhgaya. Enroute visiting Rajgir and Nalanda. Rajgir, a great center of Buddhist learning and one of the most famed university citadels of ancient times. Rajgir, it was once the ancient capital of the powerful Kingdom of Maghada. From the out - skirts of Rajgir, a historic road leads to Gridhakuta. Nalanda Mahavihara an institute for the study of Pali literature houses rare Buddhist manuscripts. Though Buddha visited Nalanda several times during his lifetime, this famous centre of Buddhist learning shot to fame much later, during 5th - 12th centuries. Then proceed for Rajgir the ancient capital of Magadha kings. The Buddha often visited Rajagriha to retreat at the Jivkamaravana monastery, preaching and meditating on the Gridhakuta Hill. The disciples of the Buddha built many structures here. Rajgir is also sacred to Jains as Lord Mahavira studied and meditated here. Later continue to drive to Bodhgaya. On arrival, transfer to the hotel for overnight stay.

Nalanda: is believed to be the oldest university in the world. Founded in the 5th century BC, it became a renowned centre of Buddhist and Jain learning. Hiuen Tsang, the Chinese traveller, spent several years here in the 7th century AD. Nalanda Archaeological Museum has a magnificent collection of Pali and Mauryan statues, bronze and manuscripts. Nalanda Mahavihara an institute for the study of Pali literature houses rare Buddhist manuscripts. Though Buddha visited Nalanda several times during his lifetime, this famous centre of Buddhist learning shot to fame much later, during 5th - 12th centuries.

Rajgir: the ancient capital of Magadha kings. The Buddha often visited Rajagriha to retreat at the Jivkamaravana monastery, preaching and meditating on the Gridhakuta Hill. The disciples of the Buddha built many structures here. Rajgir is also sacred to Jains as Lord Mahavira studied and meditated here. The first Buddhist Council was held here after the Buddha's nirvana.

05 Day: Bodhgaya

After breakfast take a sightseeing tour of the Buddhist city: visiting Mahabodhi temple - The temple is an immense attraction to the Buddhists, and stands near the Maha Bodhi tree under which Tathagat, or Gautama attained enlightenment, Mahabodhi Tree. Bodhgaya, placed in the state of Bihar is one of the most respected pilgrimage centres of the Buddhists all over the world. Here Lord Buddha achieves Nirvana or enlightenment, after forty days of harsh sacrament, under a pipul tree. Ajapala Nigrodha Tree, Great Buddha Statue, Rajayatna Tree, Muchalinda Lake, Animesh Lochana Chaitya, Cankamana, Chinese Temple, Indosan Nippon JapaneseTemple, Ratnaghara, Royal Bhutan Monastery, Thai Monastery, Vietnamese Temple. Afterwards return to the hotel for overnight stay.

Bodhgaya: is one of the sacred places for the Buddhists as well as for the Hindus. Here under the Bodhi Tree, Gautama attained supreme knowledge to become Buddha, the `Enlighted One'. The Buddha attained enlightenment in Bodhgaya, under the Bodhi tree, which still stands in the temple premises. The magnificent Mahabodhi temple in Bodhgaya is an architectural amalgamation of many centuries’ cultures and many heritages that came to pay their homage here. The temple definitely has architecture of the Gupta and later ages, inscriptions describing visits of pilgrims from Sri Lanka, Myanmar and China between 7th and 10th century AD.

06 Day: Bodhgaya – Varanasi (250 kms: 6 hrs)

After breakfast check out the hotel and drive to Varanasi, en route visit to Sarnath, located at 10 Kms from Varanasi where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon to the five holy men; visit at Dharmarajika Stupa The 110 ft tall Dhamekh Stupa marks the place where Buddha preached first sermon., also visit to Archaeological museum, the collection of ancient Buddhist relics and antiques comprising numerous Buddha and Bodhisatva images, also see the Ashok Pillar with 4 lions, built in 3rd Centaury BC., symbolize both Ashoks's imperial rule and the kingship of the Buddha. The four-lion capital was adopted as the emblem of the modern Indian republic. After visit continue to proceed to Varanasi. On arrival, transfer to the hotel for overnight stay.

Varanasi: Sandwiched between the rivers Varuna and Ashi as they join the Ganges, Varanasi takes its name from its location. It is also called Kashi, the city of light, but the British, in an endeavor to simplify matters, had coined their own name for the place—Benaras. Varanasi is the city of a thousand temples. The main object of all devotees is the Kasi Vishwanath Temple. According to Hindu belief, Benaras or Varanasi as it is known, is the cosmic center of the Universe. The renowned American novelist Mark Twain once wrote, "Benaras is older than history, older than tradition, older even than legend and looks twice as old as all of them put together.

07 Day: Varanasi

Early morning, take a BOAT RIDE at holy river Ganges, during the sunrise the city and river come alive, in the magical rays of the Sun; the city looks so exotic and lively: People bathe early in the morning to offer the prayers to the rising sun. Later return to the hotel for breakfast, afterward take sightseeing tour of the city visiting various ghats of Varanasi: two main cremation ghats are Manikarnika & Harishchandra, sightseeing continues with visiting the Bharat Mata temple, houses a huge relief map of the whole of Indian subcontinent and Tibetan plateau. Sankat Mochan temple, Tulsi Manas Mandir, the most famous temple is the Kashi Vishvanath known as Golden Temple due to 15.5 meters high golden spire, though off-limits to non-Hindus, can be seen from the top floor of the oldhouse opposite it. Durga temple also called Money Temple, Banaras Hindu University: the largest residential university in Asia, with over 12,000 students living on its campus, the campus spread over 1350 acre (5.5 km?). In the evening visit at the bank of Ganga River to witness speculative Aarti (worship) ceremony, as this beautiful ritual process with brass lamps with chanting of Mantra in presence of crowd, every moment fills you with spiritual thoughts and feelings. Afterwards return to the hotel for overnight stay.

08 Day: Varanasi – Khajuraho (By Air)

After breakfast check out the hotel and drive to the airport, to board the schedule flight for Khajuraho. On arrival transfer to the hotel, after refreshment visit Raneh Falls is one of the prominent tourist attractions, which is named after King Rane Pratap, the erstwhile ruler of the region, situated in close vicinity of the destination, the waterfall emerged at the confluence of Ken and Khuddar rivers. Also visit Archaeological museum with its collection of stone sculptures of the Chandela dynasty. In the evening enjoy the speculative light and sound show. Afterwards return to the hotel for overnight stay.

Light and Sound Show: This fascinating light & sound spectacle evokes the life and times of the great Chandela Kings and traces the story of the unique temples from the 10th Century to the present day. The 50 minutes sound and light show is conducted by tourism department in the garden of western group of temples. The show is entertaining and informative about the construction, history and importance of the temples. The life and times of the great Chandela kings and the legend and grandeur of the unique temples from the 10th century to the present day are narrated in the voice of Amitabh Bachchan– the Bollywood legend.

09 Day: Khajuraho

After breakfast explore Khajuraho, is worldly known for its magnificent temples of erotica built between 950 A.D. and 1050 A.D. Khajuraho - the very name, Khajuraho, arouses strange dreams even in daytime of full bodied feminine forms frozen in stone, so real that you wonder whether they might come alive at a touch. Khajuraho is world heritage town, the temples are scattered in an area of 8 sq km. take a sightseeing tour visiting Western group of Temples consisting of the massive Laxman Temple dedicated to lord Vishnu, the Laxmi and Varaha temples dedicated to Vishnu’s consort Laxman, the Kandariya Mahadev temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and the Chausath Yogini temple dedicated to goddess Kali. Later take a sightseeing tour of Eastern group of Temples which consists of 3 Hindu and 3 Jain temples, their proximity attests to the religious tolerance of the times in general and of the Chandela rulers in particular, visit the Jain temples of Parsvanath, Adinath, and Shanti Nath. Also visit the temples of Vamana and Brahma/Hanuman both dedicated to lord Vishnu. Afterwards return to the hotel for overnight stay.

Khajuraho: The fascinating temples of Khajuraho, India's unique gift of love to the world, in the state of Madhya Pradesh, were built between 950 and 1050 A.D. It derives its name from the Khajur tree (the date palm tree) which can be found in abundance in the area. The divine sculptures in these temples are a tribute to Life itself, embodying everything that is sublime and spontaneous about it. With the wane of the Chandela Empire, these magnificent temples lay neglected, and vulnerable to the ravages of Nature. It was only in this century, that they were rediscovered, restored and granted the recognition that they justly deserve. Originally there were 85 temples, of which only 22 still exist. These magnificent temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, Lord Vishnu and the Jain Tirthankaras.

10 Day: Khajuraho – Orchha (175 kms: 4 hrs)

After breakfast check out the hotel and drive to Orchha, on arrival transfer to the hotel, after refreshment drive to the historic city of Jhansi is 18 km from Orchha. It is a famous tourist destination and is known for the exploits of Rani Jhansi, who played an important role in fighting the British during the revolt of 1857. A number of monuments belonging to this period including Jhansi Fort and Rani Jhansi's Palace are important tourist attractions of Jhansi. Later enjoy the speculative light and sound show: depicting the history of Orchha, return to the hotel for overnight stay.

Orchha: The medieval city of Orchha, in the state of Madhya Pradesh, seems to have frozen in time, its palaces and temples still retaining their original grandeur. Orchha had the distribution of being the capital of one of the largest and most powerful kingdoms of Central India. The Bundela Rajput chieftain, Rudra Pratap, founded the city, located by the side of the beautiful Betwa River, in the 16th century. The word Orchha means 'hidden'. When the Tughlaqs, who were ruling Delhi in the 15th century, pushed the Bundelkhand rajas out of Garkhundar, they retreated to distant Orchha.

11 Day: Orchha – Gwalior – Agra (250 kms: 5 - 6 hrs)

After breakfast, enjoy the scenic beauty of Betwa River Surrounded by Sheesh Mahal, & Chattaris and Ram Temple. Afterwards check out the hotel and drive to Agra, enroute stop over at Gwalior (120 kms from Agra) and take sightseeing of the majestic Gwalior fort is one of the largest and mightiest forts in India. Also visit Sas-Bahu Temples are 11th-century temples of Lord Vishnu while Teli-ka-Mandir is a 300-metre-high Vishnu temple of the 9th Century, Man Singh Palace, later proceed to Agra. On arrival, transfer to the hotel, in the evening one should visit Oswal Emporium to watch  the replica of Taj Mahal it took 10 years for the artists to build this artistic epitome, also enjoy light and sound show “Mohabbat-the-Taj: the saga of love”, the only show of its kind in India! Afterwards return to the hotel for overnight stay.

Gwalior: Steeped in the splendour of its past, the ancient capital of Gwalior has yet made a successful transition into a modern Indian city, vibrant and bustling. A multitude of reigning dynasties, of the great Rajput clans of the Pratiharas, Kacchwahas and Tomars have left indelible etchings of their rule in this city of palaces, temples and monuments. Gwalior's tradition as a royal capital continued until the formation of present day India, with the Scindias having their dynastic seat here. The magnificent mementoes of a glorious past have been preserved with care, giving Gwalior an appeal unique and timeless.

Agra is famous as being home to one of the Seven Wonders of the World-the Taj Mahal. Built by the great Mughal emperor Shahjahan, an eternal love story written on the shimmering marble for his wife Mumtaz. Agra is pleasant town with comparatively slow pace, Agra is known for its superb inlay work on marble and soapstone by craftsmen who are descendant of those who worked under the Mughals. The city is also famous for its carpets, gold thread embroidery and leather shoes. Agra, and the nearby city of Fatehpur Sikri, is conveniently close to Delhi.

12 Day: Agra

Early morning visit world’s most popular and beautiful monument: Taj Mahal with its’ fabulous view at the time of sunrise. Taj Mahal, a beautiful architectural monument is one of the 7 wonders of the world. This historical masterpiece is an illustration of the fusion of diverse architectural styles. Taj Mahal is the crown of all the lovely buildings in the world and a symbol of eternal love. The tour continues with a visit to Agra Fort. The fort was built in 1576 AD by great Mughal Emperor Akbar, structured and designed with red stoned barricaded; here you will find the splendid Pearl Mosque and various other classic example of art: Jahangir Mahal, Moti Masjid, Macchhi Bhawan, Nagina Masjid, Diwan-i-Khas, Sheesh Mahal, Diwan-e-Am, and Meena Bazaar and Musamman Bhurj. Emperor Shahjahan imprisoned by his rebellious son Aurangzeb in the Musamman Bhurj, would see his love reflecting through the Taj Mahal, where his dear wife was cremated. Afterwards visit Tomb of Itamad-ud-Daula, 35 kms from Agra, built by Empress Noor Jahan daughter of Shahjahan, this monument a tribute to her great father. Later return to the hotel for overnight stay.

Note: Taj Mahal is closed on every Friday.

13 Day: Agra – Fatehpur Sikri – Jaipur (240 kms: 5 - 6 hrs)

Today morning after breakfast check out the hotel and drive to Jaipur. Enroute stop over at Fatehpur Sikri, the old deserted town of the Mughal kingdom, built in red sandstone in honour of Saint Salim Chisti who blessed birth of 3 sons to Emperor Akbar. It is an example of robust stability combined with originality. Each important structure here represents a type by itself. Notable among them is the Diwane e Khas; Punch Mahal, the Tomb of Salim Chisti, and the Buland Darwaza, one of the largest and tallest gateways in the world. Also stop over at Abhaneri near Jaipur, and visit Step Well, it was built by King Chanda of the Chauhan Dynasty, and was dedicated to Hashat Mata, Goddess of Joy and Happiness upon completion. Afterwards continue drive to Jaipur. On arrival, transfer to the hotel for overnight stay.

Jaipur is widely known as the ‘Pink City’ of India. The walls, houses and buildings of the entire city were washed with pink colour for a grand and royal welcome of Prince Albert and Queen Victoria of Britain, who visited Jaipur in 1853 A.D. This splendid city as was founded in 1727 A.D by one of the greatest ruler Jai Singh II. Jaipur is surrounded by hills on three sides. Jaipur is the only city in the world, which is designed in accordance with Hindu architectural science called Shilpa Shastra. The city had been designed in rectangular shape of 9 blocks, depicting the 9 partition of the universe.

14 Day: Jaipur

Today morning after breakfast, explore the Pink City with an excursion to splendid Amber Fort, situated just outside the city, built in the 15th Century by Rajput King Man Singh. Later visit another mighty and majestic Nagargarh fort, close to Amber fort. Drive back to the main city to visit the imperial City Palace - present residence of the royal family of Jaipur. The incredible Jantar Mantar was innovated and constructed by Jaipur King Swai Jai Singh. Splendid Hawa Mahal, also known ‘Palace of Winds’ Birla Temple, with its white shimmering marble glittering in the night. You can visit to Amber fort to see the Light and Sound Show: holds the history of a citadel, pulsating with a legendry past of 600 years & 28 kings of the Kachhwaha dynasty, before their capital moved to Jaipur. Later you can explore the bustling market by hoping onto a cycle rickshaw ride. Enjoy your evening at the most authentic and ethnic village resort: called Chokhi Dhani, designed on the theme of an ethnic village of Rajasthan with lots of traditional environment with entertainment like folk dances, puppet shows, astrology, music, camel ride, Here you can enjoy the traditional Rajasthani food. Afterwards return back to hotel for overnight stay.

15 Day: Jaipur – Neemrana – Delhi (260 kms: 6 hrs) – Aurangabad (By Air)

Today morning after breakfast check out the hotel and drive to Delhi, en route visit to the one of the magnificent fort of Rajasthan, Neemrana; now converted into the luxury heritage hotel, you may opt to have lunch and Zip Tour over here, an exciting and adventurous activity. The Zip tour is an amusement ride wherein the person hangs his weight through a harness which is suspended via pulley from a cable. Afterwards continues drive to Delhi airport to board the scheduled flight for Aurangabad. On arrival, transfer to the hotel for overnight stay.

Neemrana Fort- It was a tributary chiefship of the former Alwar state. The track is sandy and bleak and is known as Rath. The place is said to be the home of chauhan Rajput claiming descent from Prithvi Raj the last Hindu emperor. One of the descendents of Prithvi Raj the, embraced Islam and settled here. That is why the old lineage is shown by the title Rao and was recognized so by the ruler of Alwar. Lord lake in 1803, as a punitive measure for the shelter and assistance given by then chief to the Marathas, confiscated the villages of the estate and made them over to Alwar. However, about one third of state was subsequently restored to the cheif, who remained a tributary of Alwar state.

16 Day: Aurangabad – Ajanta – Aurangabad (105 kms: 2 hrs one way)

After an early breakfast take an excursion to the famous Ajanta caves. Recognized as the World Heritage Site today, it was discovered during the 19th century by a group of British officers who were on a tiger hunt. Later if time permit you may opt to visit Jami Masjid, Bharatmata Mandir, the Chand Minar, Elephant Tank and 'Chini Mahal' or Chinese Palace are the important monuments inside the fort. Khuldabad ("Heavenly Abode"), Many historical figures are buried here including Aurangzeb, the last major Mughal emperor. Afterwards drive back to Aurangabad and visit Bibi ka Maqbara; tomb of Begum Rabia Durani, queen of Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb. Due to its resembling Taj, this is called Taj Mahal of Deccan. Followed by visit at Panchakki, an intriguing water mill, popular underground water channel which pass through more than 8 kms to its source away in the mountains. Overnight stay at the hotel.

Ajanta, It was only in the 19th century, that the Ajanta group of caves, located deep in mountain range of Sahyadri, built into the curved mountain side, on the top of Waghora River. These caves were discovered unexpectedly by some British officers, who were on hunt in Sahyadri Hills. Ajanta caves enchants the great period of Buddhism during 200 BC till 650 Ad. There 29 caves were built as sheltered retreats of the Buddhist monks, who educated and performed rituals in the Vihara and Chaitya, the ancient place of religious and spiritual learning, and key hub of the Buddhist era and it’s cultural movement.

Note: The Ajanta Caves are closed to public on all Monday.

17 Day: Aurangabad – Ellora (30 kms: ½ hr) – Mumbai (By Air)

After breakfast take a sightseeing tour of Ellora, one of the highly visited World heritage sites of India. It houses 34 monasteries and temples with some exclusive uninterrupted sequence of monuments that date back from 600 to 1000 AD. The temples of Ellora are dedicated to Brahmanism, Jainism, and Buddhism. Afterwards check out of the hotel and drive to the airport to board the flight for Mumbai. On arrival, transfer to the hotel for overnight stay.

Ellora, The Ellora caves, 34 in number, are carved into the sides of a basaltic hill, 30 kms away from Aurangabad city. The optimum specimens and masterpiece of cave temple architecture, Ellora caves elaborates frontage and elegantly decorated ancient interiors. These structures define the era of 3 religions Buddhism, Hinduism and Jainism, these caves were cut and carved between 350 AD to 700 AD. In the South side there are 12 Buddhist caves, 17 Hinduism caves are in the centre and 5 Jain caves are in the north side.

Note: The Ellora caves are closed to public on all Tuesday.

18 Day: Mumbai

Today morning after breakfast take a sightseeing tour of Mumbai city, firstly visit to Gateway of India and cruise by motorboats to Elephanta Caves -ancient rock cut cavesdedicated to Lord Shiva. Later cruise back to Gate Way of India. And sightseeing continues visiting Prince of Wales Museum- A heritage museum exhibits ancient artifacts. Parliament house- (From outside), Nariman Point- Commercial Hub, Marine Drive-a most beautiful laid boulevards of the city. Dhobhi Ghat- a famous open air laundry, Mani Bhawan- Known also Gandhi Bhawan.Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (CST), formerly Victoria Terminus, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an historic railway station in Mumbai, Bandra Worli Sealink, which crosses the Arabian Sea, linking the Mumbai suburbs with south Mumbai, is viewed as an engineering marvel. Later return to the hotel. You may also opt to enjoy Mumbai night life visiting pub, bars and restaurants of the city. Overnight stay at the hotel.

Mumbai a cluster of Seven Islands and derives its name from Mumbadevi, the patron goddess of the koli fisher folk, its oldest inhabitants. Mumbai pulsates with activity. It is a city that is disciplined by no time frame, neither day nor night. It is also the country's financial powerhouse, the nation's industrial heartland, and its economic nerve center. Dazzling shopping arcades, exciting sport activity, nightclubs & discotheques, theatre & music, gourmet restaurants and interesting sightseeing. It offers visitors a heady mix of all this and more.

Note: Elephanta Caves and Prince of Wales museum are closed on every Monday.

19 Day: Mumbai – Chennai (By Air)

After breakfast, check out of the hotel and drive to the airport to board the flight for Chennai. On arrival, transfer to the hotel. Rest of your day is free for relaxation and individual activities. Evening optionally you can visit flower and fruit market. Overnight at the hotel in Chennai.

Chennai (Madras): the capital of the state of Tamil Nadu is the most convenient point of entry. Chennai has an international airport, a seaport and a rail and road network that links it to all major towns and cities of the region. Tamil Nadu is a bastion of Hinduism, whose past endures into the present. Temples with towering spires called gopurams are a common feature of this state, seldom seen anywhere else in the country. Temples in Tamil Nadu were the fulcrum of society and even today art forms that have their origin in religious worship continue to colour daily life.

20 Day: Chennai

After breakfast, take a sightseeing tour of Chennai; visit The St. George Fort, built in 1653 & is currently used as the state government’s secretariat. Santhome Cathedral was built around 14th - 15th centuries and is another colonial structure. Visit Kapaleeswara Temple; the oldest temple in Chennai dedicated to lord Shiva. Another important temple in the city is Parthasarthy Temple; dedicated to Lord Krishna. The Snake Park has a large collection of snakes and many other reptiles. Overnight at the hotel.

21 Day: Chennai – Kanchipuram – Mahabalipuram (130 kms: 4 hrs)

After an early breakfast, check out the hotel and drive to Kanchipuram (74 kms) to explore the ancient capital of the Pallavas famous for its 1000 temples, of which 124 shrines still remain. Visit the most famous temple: Kailasnathar; built during 685 A.D. to 705 A.D. Visit other temples like Vaikuntaperumal, Ekambareshwara, Kamakshiamma and Sakiswarar. Go shopping at the world famous silk cloth markets. Afterwards drive to Mahabalipuram and check into the hotel. In the afternoon, take a sightseeing tour of Mahabalipuram; a sculptor's delight boasting of some of India's most sublime rock-cut art falling under the UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built in the 7th century, in this ancient seaside town, one can see shrines & huge sculptures cut-out of rocks more than 1200 years back lashed by the waves of the sea and the seven rathas or temple chariots, a group of monolithic monuments & animal figures carved out of solid rock, the original identified example of Dravidian architecture & the reign of Pallava Kings. Visit the seven pagoda-style Shore temples, Rathas, Arjuna's Penance, Krishna Mandapa, Shore Temple, Mahishasurmardini Cave, Varaha Mandapa and Mandapams. Afterwards return to the hotel for overnight stay.

Kanchipuram is known as one of India's Seven Sacred cities and the historical capital of the Pallavas. It was under the Pallavas from 6th to 8th century A.D and later became the citadel of Cholas, Vijayanagar Kings, the Muslim and the British. It has been a centre of Tamil learning, cultural and religious background for centuries. Kanchi is also known as the centre of the finest silk sarees made in the country. Kanchi has magnificent temples of unique architectural beauty bearing eloquent testimony to its glorious Dravidian heritage. Adi Sankara established his Episcopal seat (Kamakotipeetam) here in the city.

Mahabalipuram with its picturesque location on a rocky outcrop between the beach and a lagoon is a happy combination of history, good beaches, hassle-free tourism and fabulous fish and lobster! Despite the many visitors, drawn by the former Pallava dynasty town, the place is friendly, relaxed, and the villagers are remarkably unperturbed by their crowds of visitors. Mahabalipuram is renowned for its series of charming rathas and the spectacular carved relief depicting Arjuna's Penance.

22 Day: Mahabalipuram – Pondicherry (100 kms: 3 hrs)

After an early breakfast, check out from the hotel and drive to Pondicherry. On arrival transfer to the hotel. Later take a sightseeing tour of Pondicherry, visiting the Sri Aurobindo Ashram and the Ecole Françoise d’Extreme Orient, which is nearly 100 years old and offers programs in Sanskrit, Tamil and Archaeological studies. The French Catholic influence is evident in a number of churches, notably the Jesuit Cathedral (Notre Dame de la Conception’ 16941-1765), The Church of Our Lady of Angels (1855), famous for an oil painting of our Lady of Assumption given to the Church by King Louis Napoleon III, and the 17th century Chapel of Our Sisters of Cluny. Also visit Auroville, the planned city of Dawn of the new world. In the evening take a walk at the promenade by the beach. You will find here some of the most significant landmarks like the statues of Mahatma Gandhi, Jeanne d'Arc, Duplex, the elegant War Memorial raised by the French, the heritage building "Mairie", the 27m tall old Lighthouse. After sightseeing return to the hotel for overnight stay.

Pondicherry: This attractive, former French colony exudes a Mediterranean aura with its sophisticated streets, elegant houses, ornamental gardens and the Hotel de Ville. History of Pondicherry: A former French colonial cit, located along the Bay of Bengal didn't come under Indian rule until 1954. You can still hear a fair bit of French being spoken as you stroll along its remaining seaside villas and cobblestone streets.

23 Day: Pondicherry – Chidambaram – Tanjore (165 kms: 4 hrs)

After an early breakfast, check out from the hotel and drive to Tanjore. En route visit Chidambaram– one of the major Hindu pilgrimage places famous for the Nataraja Temple. It is one of the oldest temples of Tamil Nadu. The temple is located in the heart of the city, and covers an area of 40 acres, towers at a height of over 40 metres in height with the roofs covered with gold plates. The presiding deity in the temple is Akasha Lingam and is represented by air, one of the five elements of the universe. After visit proceed to Tanjore. On arrival transfer to the hotel. Rest of the evening is free for rest and relaxation. Overnight at the hotel.

Tanjore or Thanjavur as it was earlier called, was the capital of the chola empire from the 10th century to the 14th century A.D. later is become part of the Vijayanagar kingdom political. Literary and religious centre of the South. The celebrated temple Brihadeshra built by the Chola King during the 11th century is its major attraction. The Saraswati Mahal library, dating back from the time of the Marathas, containing rare collections of books and manuscripts on paper and palm leaves.

Chidambaram (also Thillai) literally means the sky permeated by an atmosphere of intelligence and wisdom. According to legend, it was once a forest of tillai, a mangrove species of trees. There was once a small shrine on the banks of a tank. The saints Vyagrapada and Patanjali are said to have worshipped at this shrine, now called Thirumoolanathar. It is believed that their penance attained fruition with the revelation of Shiva's cosmic dance by Lord Nataraja on the auspicious Thai Poosam day.

24 Day: Tanjore – Trichy – Madurai (190 kms: 5 hrs)

After breakfast take a sightseeing tour of the city visiting Brihadeshwara temple built by Raja and is termed as the crowning glory of Chola temple architecture and falls under the World Heritage sites. Also visit the Thanjavur Palace, which was constructed in 1550 with huge corridors, spacious halls, observation and arsenal towers. The Saraswati Mahal Library - housing some of the most important oriental manuscripts collections in India. After visit drive to Madurai, en route visit Trichy; the most famous landmark of this bustling town is the Rock Fort Temple, a spectacular monument perched on a massive rocky outcrop. The Sri Ranganathanswami Temple is one of the largest and most interesting temple complexes in India, built on an island in the middle of the Cauvery River and covers a staggering 2.5 sq km followed by a visit to Jambukeshwara temple. Later proceed to Madurai. On arrival, transfer to the hotel for overnight stay

Trichy is a city surrounded by the rock fort. On the top of the rock there is a fort and a temple. After crossing 434 rocks cut steps, there is a temple called Mathrubhutewarar temple, which is dedicated to Lord Siva. There is another temple called Ucchi Pillar temple, which is dedicated to Lord Ganesha and located at the top of the rock. The entire city can be seen from this place. Srirangam temple and Sri Jambukeswarar temple are famous in Trichy.

Madurai, the cultural capital and second largest city of Tamil Nadu is one of the oldest cities of southern India. Madurai has been a centre of learning and pilgrimage, for centuries. It is believed that, the divine nectar falling from Lord Shiva's locks, gave the city its name - Madhurapuri, now known as Madurai. Known as the temple city, Madurai is situated on the banks of the River Vaigai. Madurai is also an important pilgrimage center. The 985 beautiful pillared Meenakshi Amman Temple is the major attraction of Madurai.

25 Day: Madurai

After breakfast visit, the Meenakshi Sundareshwar, one of the largest temple complexes in India built between the 16th and 18th centuries. Apart from the estimated 33 million sculptures there, the temple is absolutely absorbing with the endless rounds of ceremonies, prostration of countless devotees and glittering market stalls. Later visit Tiruparankundram Murugan Temple, Palamuthirsolai Murugan Temple. Also visit the Tirumal Nayak’s Palace; a highly decorative monument. Its enormous roofed arcade supported by 48 – foot high stone pillar, still stands. In the evening visit the famous Meenakshi Sundareshwar Temple to attend the Aarti (Prayers) witnessing interesting rituals and ceremonies. Overnight at the hotel.

26 Day: Madurai – Bangalore (By Air)

After breakfast check out the hotel and drive to airport, to board the schedule flight for Bangalore, assistance on arrival and transfer to the hotel. After refreshment, take a sightseeing tour of the city visiting ISKCON Temple, Hare Krishna Hill is the Hill on which this temple is situated. The Bull Temple – The 4.57 m high and 6.10 meters long image is carved out of single granite rock. Later followed by visit to Sri Gavi Gangadhareshwara Temple– The temple is natural monolith carved cave temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Also visit, Vishweshwaraiah Technological Museum, Vidhana Soudha. In the evening you can visit Ulsoor Lake. Overnight at the hotel in Bangalore.

Bangalore: Capital of Karnataka State, Bangalore is famous as the city of gardens. It is one of the most attractive cities in India with its beautiful parks avenues and impressive buildings. Bangalore is renowned as much for its industrial plants as for its silk saris, and for the sprawling Cubbon Park, which lies at the heart of the city, as also its prestigious race course. It is now part of the great Silicone Valley, is a beautiful city filled with the tranquillity of its greenery. The Lalbagh garden is particularly beauliful and well laid out.

27 Day: Bangalore – Srirangapatna – Mysore (150 kms: 4 hrs)

After an early breakfast check out the hotel and drive to Mysore. Enroute visit the Srirangapatna (20 kms from Mysore) to visit Fort and The Ranganthaswamy temple is dedicated to the Hindu god Ranganatha. is dedicated to the Hindu god Ranganatha, a manifestation of the god Vishnu. After sightseeing continues drive to Mysore, on arrival transfer to the hotel. After relaxation take a sightseeing tour of the city visiting Brindavan gardens & spectacular musical fountains, followed by flower and sandal wood market, handicraft museum. Overnight at the hotel.

Srirangapatna: Srirangapatnam is the biggest of the three islands in the river Kaveri. The island, five kilometers long and two kilometers wide, derives its name from the deity of the temple located on its western side. The island has something for everyone. For those who are turned on by history, there are many monuments here spanning a thousand years. All the major dynasties of the South have left their relics and monuments here-the Hoysalas of the 11th century, the Vijayanagar kings of Chandragiri in the 17th century, the Hyder Ali-Tipu Sultan clan that came after them, and finally the French & the British.

Mysore, the capital city of the Wodeyars has always enchanted its admirers with its quaint charm, rich heritage, magnificent palaces, beautifully laid-out gardens, imposing buildings, broad shady avenues and sacred temples. Mysore races its history back to the mythical past, when Goddess Chamundeshwari of Chamundi Hills killed the wicked buffalo-headed demon, Mahishasura. Mysore Dasara is the celebration of this victory of good over evil.

28 Day: Mysore

After breakfast visit the Palace of the Maharaja (Emperor) built in 1911 – 1912. The palace is a harmonious synthesis of the Hindu and saracenic styles of architecture with magnificent archways, domes, turrets, colonnades and sculptures. Also visit the St. Philomenas cathedral followed by a drive up to Chamundi hill to see Chamundeshwari Temple and a panoramic view of Mysore. On the way back, see the Nandi Bull. Evening is free for leisure, or you may opt to visit to the local market to enjoy the local food, offered by various restaurants. Overnight stay at the hotel.

29 Day: Mysore – Bangalore (140 kms: 3 hrs) – Hometown (By Air)

After breakfast, check out the hotel and drive to Bangalore airport to board the flight for hometown. Tour concludes here with happy memories.