Kanchipuram & Tiruvannamalai

Ekambareswarar Temple - This is one of the five significant Shiva temples, known as Pancha Bootha Sthalams, each symbolizing a natural element. This temple embodies the element of Earth. A remarkable feature of the temple is the Aayiram Kaal Mandapam, or the “hallway with a thousand pillars,” constructed by the Vijayanagar Kings. The temple’s inner walls are adorned with 1,008 Siva lingams. The sthala-virutcham is a 3,500-year-old mango tree, whose branches are said to produce four different types of mangoes.

Kailasanathar Temple Road - The Kanchi Kailasanathar temple was constructed in the 7th century AD by a Pallava king named Rajasimha. Remnants of 8th-century mural art still vividly showcase the temple’s architecture. The walls and the Vimanam of this temple are embellished with exquisite paintings and sculptures.

Tiruvannamalai - A 2.5-hour drive leads to Tiruvannamalai, home to the world’s oldest Shiva temple. The temple’s origins trace back to ancient times, with the current structure built by Chola Kings in the 9th century. According to legend, walking the 14 KM path around the temple cleanses sins, fulfills desires, and aids in achieving liberation from the cycle of birth and rebirth!

Srirangam - A 3-hour drive takes us to Srirangam, where we will stay overnight.

Srirangam and Temples for Sun, Venus, and Raghu

Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple - Located in Srirangam is the Lord Ranganatha temple. Covering 630,000 square meters, it is the world’s largest functioning temple. Although Angkor Wat in Cambodia is larger, it is no longer a functioning temple!

We visit this legendary temple, considered the first, foremost, and most significant of the 108 main Vishnu temples. The temple complex spans 156 acres and features seven prakaras or enclosures. These enclosures are formed by thick, massive rampart walls encircling the sanctum. There are 21 magnificent towers in all prakaras, offering a unique sight.

Kumbakonam - A 2-hour drive brings us to Kumbakonam.

1. Suriyanar Koil Temple- Suriyan Temple - Sun Temple - The Sun Temple is renowned for its astrological significance, attracting numerous pilgrims seeking to enhance the effects of planets for wealth and mitigate the adverse effects of planets on their health. The temple was constructed in 1100 AD during the reign of King Kulothunga Chola Deva.

Temples of Saturn and Dancing Shiva

Chidambaram Nataraja Temple - We travel to Chidambaram to explore a unique and possibly the oldest temple in India. The temple is one of the five great Shiva temples dedicated to each of the five elements of nature: Earth, fire, sky, water, and space. This temple is dedicated to Space, with the main deity being empty, representing just Space! It is believed that the original temple was consecrated in 200 BC by Patanjali, the father of modern Yoga, who compiled all the knowledge on Yoga and wrote the Yoga Sutras.
The temple also features Lord Shiva as the renowned dancing Nataraja, in a captivating pose. This image is seen in museums, temples, restaurants, and esoteric shops worldwide, rich in iconography and hidden meaning. The dance performed by the smiling Shiva is the Tandava, the cosmic dance that both creates and destroys the universe.

• Breakfast included
• Private car at your disposal
• Personal guide for the tour

• Lunch & Dinner

Temples of Tamil Nadu offer a captivating glimpse into the cultural heritage of this ancient kingdom. This tour will explore the connections between cosmology, physics, astrology, and religion. Participants will visit 4 of the 9 temples dedicated to the celestial bodies of our solar system.

Our guide will explain the belief that these nine celestial entities have a direct influence on an individual’s life, highlighting their significance. Additionally, visitors will admire some of the finest examples of temple architecture in India, including the world’s largest functioning temple at Srirangam and the enchanting cosmic dance of Lord Shiva at Chidambaram.

This tour is organized by Five Senses Tours, a private limited company recognized by the Ministry of Tourism and a member of the Indian Association of Tour Operators (IATO). The tour is designed to support local livelihoods by employing local guides and supporting local businesses, ensuring that travel dollars benefit the local community.

If you cancel at least 6 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.
If you cancel between 2 and 6 day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a 50% refund.
If you cancel within 2 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.