Classic South India

Arrive in Chennai. Meet and greet by our representative and transfer to your hotel. Rest of the day is free.
The East India Company established its presence in southern India on the Bay of Bengal in 1639 with the establishment of Fort St. George. The city of Chennai, formerly known as Madras, grew up around the fort
area. It now serves as the capital of Tamil Nadu and is the fourth largest city in India, with over six million inhabitants. It sprawls over a large area yet, in spite of recent industrial growth, seems less congested than
other large Indian cities. Its role as a trade center is furthered by rail, road, and air connections in addition to its seaport. It presents both modern and traditional charm, its many British influences juxtaposed with TamilHindu traditions.

This morning embark on a guided city tour of Chennai. Visit the museum with its bronze gallery for its superb collection of Chola art. Drive through the flower and fruit market, past the High Court, the Fort Museum with its collection of colonial memorabilia and Marina Beach. Visit the San Thome Cathedral said to house the remains of St Thomas the Apostle, Kapaleeshwara temple and the Snake Park. Later drive to Mahabalipuram. Upon arrival, check-in for your stay. Mahabalipuram or Mamallapuram as it was called earlier was the port city of the Pallavas in the 7th century. In this picturesque setting, amidst sand beaches and the sea, can be seen some of the most important temple forms that influenced temple architecture in Tamil Nadu for centuries to follow. There are seventy monuments, rock-cut monoliths displaying fine sculpture. The most important group is the Five Rathas, named after the five heroes of the epic. On arrival, check in for your stay (check in time 1400 hour). (B)

This morning start your visit with the Shore Temple, which symbolises the heights of Pallava architecture and the maritime ambitions of the Pallava kings. Its small size belies its excellent proportion and the supreme
quality of the carvings, many of which have been eroded into vaguely Impressionist embellishments. Arunja’s Penance is a relief carving on the face of a huge rock that depicts animals, deities and other semi
divine creatures. Also visit the Five Rathas. Carved from single pieces of rock, the Five Rathas are low-laying monoliths that huddle in more ancient subtlety than grandeur. Rest of the day is at leisure. (B)