Classic Tamil Nadu

Explore colonial Madras, visiting St Mary’s Church in Fort St George, where Clive was married in 1753 and also Elihu Yale in 1680 (who went on to found Yale University). Visit the Fort Museum, an interesting place containing objects from the East India Company. See some of the colonial architecture such as the High Court and Ripon Building. For those with an interest in Chola history, then a visit to Chennai Museum is a must. In the afternoon, either relax at leisure or drive to the town of Kanchipuram to see the 7th century Pallava temples.

Fly to Madurai and drive into the hills for a two-night stay in the delightful Rajakkad Estate. It is perfect as a base to take leisurely walks in the countryside, or simply sit back and relax for a few days.

Drive back down to Madurai for the night. You can explore the city before seeing the impressive Meenakshi Temple during the afternoon pooja ceremony.

Drive into the interesting region of Chettinad, famous for its impressive mansions, constructed by wealthy merchants in the 19th century. Explore the local area, probably best done just exploring on foot. Maybe try your hand at learning a few cooking techniques.

Drive north to the interesting city of Trichy (now known as Tiruchirapalli), once a Chola capital and home to the stunning Srirangam temple, with 21 gateway towers. Continue the the 19th century St John’s Church before driving onto Tanjore.

Spend the morning exploring the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Tanjore, seeing the Brihadeeshwarar temple complex and the Chola bronzes in the nearby 16th century palaces of the Nayaks and Marathas. You’ll be able to learn a little about the bronze casting before continuing to see Tanjore’s local markets.

Drive through the Cauvery Delta, stopping in Kumbakonam to taste the exceptionally strong local coffee. See the superb temple complex at Darasuram and Kumbeswaran Temple where you can feed the temple elephant. Drive north to Pondicherry, stopping at the beautiful Gangai Konda Cholapuram Temple.

Take a walking tour through the old town of Pondicherry. You’ll begin by walking through the French quarter, seeing the amazing architecture, many painted in vivid colours. Stop at the Cafe des Arts for crepes. Walk past the Raj Niwas and Legislative Assembly towards Bharathi Park. Continue to Eglise de Notre Dame des Agnes before walking along the Promenade. End you day at one of Pondicherry’s amazing restaurants.

Drive north, passing the superb rock-temples at Mahabalipuram for a beach stay at Covelong, just south of Chennai.

Drive to Chennai Airport and fly home