Culinary Treasures Of India

You will be met by our representative on arrival at Delhi airport and transferred to the hotel.

Delhi, the capital of India, is a city that offers a glimpse of both ancient and modern-day India.  It is the third largest city in India and one of the fastest growing in Asia. This city is rich in culture, always changing with time but never hiding its splendid past.  The various ancient ruins seen in the city are silent witnesses to its magnificent history.

Optional: Dinner at one of the city’s famous restaurants on direct payment (Depending on the arrival time of the international flight):

Option 1:

Option 2:

Option 3:

Option 4:

Option 5:

Stay overnight in Delhi.

Meal Aloft

After breakfast, proceed for a sightseeing tour of Delhi. 

The tour starts with Humayun’s tomb, which is one of the best-preserved Mughal monuments.  This spell-binding mausoleum is the first example of Mughal architecture in India. After a century from its construction Humayun’s tomb inspired the construction of the more famous Taj Mahal. A must-do in any Delhi itinerary, Humayun’s Tomb is a favorite for any Dilliwala (Person from Delhi), most even prefer it to the Taj. 

Once you’re done with the bustling neighborhood, it’s time to move to possibly an oasis of service, solitude, and syncretism: The Bangla Sahib. Part of our Sound element of your senses.

The magic that the Gurudwara envelopes you into is undeniable. What ties together this beautiful experience is the sweet sound of the Gurbani playing in the background as you reflect on the experience your senses have gone through.

We drive past British structures, and we learn about how the British envisaged its new capital. The palpable architecture along with the deep contrast to Mughal buildings make this stop not only one for colonial stories but also a look into its architecture. 

Our Mughal Conversation continues with a walk towards Shahjahanabad – the beautiful Mughal city built by one of the strongest rulers of the Taj fame: Shahjahan. 

You will try a quintessential Old Delhi snack that has been part of the culinary history of the area for centuries. 

Then, Take a Rickshaw to Chandni Chowk: 

In their glory years, the streets of Chandni Chowk were adorned with silver and gold jewelry in the midst of shops selling the most delectable food. Today, chaos thrives in the area, but as you cycle down the street you’re transported by the magic in the air to the era of Mughals. After this: You enter the Jama Masjid: a beautiful pocket of calm at the heart of Old Delhi’s mayhem, The capital’s largest mosque is built on a 10m elevation. It can hold over 25,000 people. The marble and red-sandstone structure, known also as the ‘Friday Mosque’, was Shah Jahan’s final architectural triumph, built between 1644 and 1658. A walk here takes you back in time with conversations that talk about various cultural, religious, and historical aspects, including the uprising of 1857. (Please dress conservatively for the mosque)

Late afternoon proceed for – The Potlucks And Partition Tour.

We start our tour with Old Delhi and travel back in time to the 17th century when the city was called Shahjahanabad. We learn how the British rule and years of partition altered the capital’s cultural fabric and food significantly. Exquisite architecture and extravagance defined Delhi then and that was also reflected in the cuisine that was elaborate and artful and represented the close living of many communities such as the Mughals, Kayashths, Baniyas, etc.  We nibble on delectable kebabs, learn about the influence of the Mughal leadership on the food of a Hindu community, or the fascinating story of chaat that is seeped in the legend that it was developed as a result of a medical prescription given to the emperor Shah Jahan.

We move toward New Delhi and take a tea break aptly at a restaurant, established in the 1940s, that still serves food from the British Raj. Chai or milk tea which today is most definitely India’s most beloved beverage was popularised by the British. We learn about the influences on food during British rule and the birth of a new cuisine of Anglo-Indian food.

Our food walk then continues with the stories of partition in Butter Chicken, Dal, Naan, and Chole Bhature which have today become iconic transcontinental dishes. Delhi saw an overnight transformation with the partition with Muslims fleeing the city for Pakistan and the arrival of Hindu refugees. After partition, Punjabi refugees along with their tandoor (ovens) carried their grit, enterprise, and hardiness to Delhi. Small eateries established by them started the Indian restaurant food, established the culture of eating out in India and Delhi’s food predominantly became ‘tandoori.’

The tour takes you on Delhi’s culinary history so you must bring an appetite. As we try the most iconic food delights of Delhi, marvel at the change in landscape as you pass by the Jama Masjid and Red Fort of Old Delhi to New Delhi.

Laden with history and stories and so much taste – this is a food tour you won’t want to miss!

Return to your hotel.  

Stay overnight in Delhi.

Meal (B)

After breakfast at an appropriate time, you will be driven to Jaipur (Approx. 5 hrs).

Jaipur: The capital city of the state of Rajasthan, also known as “Pink City” owes its name, foundation, and planning to the great warrior astronomer Maharaja Jai Singh II. The city sits on a dry lakebed in a wild and somewhat arid landscape, surrounded by barren hills surmounted by fortresses and crenelated walls.

Upon arrival, check-in at the hotel.

Enjoy a cooking session followed by dinner at Dera Mandawa with the owner’s family.

The cooking demonstration and meal involves the cooking instructor working and demonstrating to the guests all ingredients and techniques neatly typed cooking recipes in a Sanganeri handmade paper folder given as a takeaway to every guest. This cooking demonstration is unique in that it covers ingredients and recipes of Rajasthan which the guest easily replicates. The guest also works hands-on and can cook on the cooking station.

Thakur Durga Singh is an exceptional narrator and host. A proud, aristocratic Rajput, Durga brings his culture and country vibrantly alive.  Thakur Durga Singh was educated at the Mayo College Ajmer which is called the “Eton of India”. He developed a keen interest in history, folk music, Sanskrit, Dramatics, and comparative religious study. As Thakur Durga Singh takes great pride in his history, cultural traditions, folk traditions, and eastern religions, he likes to present Rajasthan and India to visitors. The current custodian of Dera Mandawa is an exceptional host. He is a Renaissance man who is a keen observer of history, culture, religion, and current affairs and is a bank of knowledge so vast that he has a point of view on anything under the sun. He is what one could call a modern traditionalist, actively seeking the use of modern technology and methods to support the principles of traditional living. The inquisitive can have endless conversations with him on a number of his projects like rainwater harvesting, biogas plant, solar heating, and, even, healthy cooking.

Stay overnight at Jaipur.

Meals (B, D)

Morning, Amber Heritage Trail – Beyond the Fort: Amer was a flourishing settlement as far back as 967 A.D, originally occupied by the Meena. This caste claims their descent from the Matsya Avatar or the fish incarnation of Vishnu, until it was conquered by the Kachwaha clan of Rajputs.  Older than the famous Amber fort and palace complex the now sleepy town of Amber is rarely visited by tourists.  This atmospheric ancient town is dotted with numerous historic temples, Haveli’, and water harvesting structures. Our carefully designed two-hour walk is a perfect accompaniment and antidote to any visit to the busy Amber Fort and explore the town’s rich heritage and enjoy the natural beauty of the Aravali mountain range, away from the tourist crowd. For those with a love of the outdoors, beautiful scenery and fresh air, we can combine this walk with some gentle trekking in the surrounding Aravali hills. Visit a ruined fort, and hidden shines and meet the local Meena community to learn about their daily lives. This will be right behind the Fort – a hike to a traditional village with no other tourists around. 

We are particularly not visiting the fort from inside but if you want to visit the Amber Fort then our guide will take you inside. 

Later, join us on this memorable private guided tour to visit City Palace, the residence of the present Royal family who have opened their gates to visitors and converted a part of their palace into a museum. The Palace of Jaipur is full of brilliant architecture and intricately carved walls and pillars. Visit the beautiful Chandra Mahal or Chandra Niwas which is the most commanding building in the City Palace complex. It is a seven-storeyed building and each floor has been given a specific name such as the Sukh-Niwas, Ranga-Mandir, Pitam-Niwas, Chabi-Niwas, Shri-Niwas and Mukut-Mandir or MukutMahal. It contains many unique paintings, mirrorwork on walls and floral decorations. There is a beautiful peacock gate at the entry to the Mahal. It has screened balconies and a pavilion on the roof from where a panoramic view of the city can be seen. It is set amidst well-laid-out gardens and a decorative lake in the foreground.

Afterwards, proceed to Bazaars, Crafts & Cuisine Walk

Jaipur offers a dazzling immersion into the riches of traditional India. Since its foundation in 1727, the royal family and nobles of Jaipur had been patronizing various craftsmen and artisans in Pink City. Many of these traditions continue to this day, making modern-day Jaipur a favourable destination to witness India’s rich Art and craft. Traditional methods are still used to produce valuable and highly prized items.

On this fascinating evening walking Tour mingle and talk with locals whilst sampling some of the region’s culinary delights; try Samosa Kachori, Kulfi and Lassi. Sample sweets from some of the city’s most popular Mithai Wala’s. Observe local artisans like Silversmiths and bangle makers, at work. Meet a local family and experience Indian hospitality. It’s a great way to explore Jaipur like locals do and learn about the rich art traditions of this fascinating city.

Optional: Dinner at one of the city’s famous restaurants on direct payment:

Option 1

Option 2

Option 3

Stay overnight at Jaipur.

Meal (B)

After breakfast, you will be driven to Deogarh (Approx. 5 hrs).

Upon arrival, check in at Devshree.

Shatrunjai Singh Chundawat, a scion of the Deogarh family decided to re-build heritage by the way of a home for his family. There were many discussions on the style and design. But a couple of things that he was sure of was, that it had to have plenty of room for a regular flow of friends, he wanted to showcase the local craftsmanship in his home and provide an opportunity for the local boys and girls to learn the tenets of hospitality.

​Deogarh being a principality of Mewar wanted influences of Mewar heritage architecture to suffuse his home so he looked to Udaipur and drew elements of inspiration from the charming Bagor ki Haveli at Udaipur, the City Palace of Udaipur, and the artists who worked on these properties and that’s how Dev Shree came to be.

Built of Nimbahera stone the local artisans clinked away at blocks of stone for almost 2 years, transforming them into intricately carved pillars that adorn the deep veranda overlooking the Ragho Sagar Lake. An ideal spot to relax, read a book, or watch the local migratory birds on the lake.

Evening proceeds for Sundowner Rural Ramble: An evening jeep drive into the countryside lends an insight into the life of the people of the area. The drive is tailored to suit the interest of the guests; whether they are keen on the farming and agricultural side of the village, the temples and cultural aspects, or the birds and natural scenic part of the area. We set out in an open hooded jeep equipped with a packed tea, snacks, and a pair of binoculars.

Stay overnight at Devshree.

Meals (B, L, D)

Breakfast at the hotel and get ready for the rural train ride. 

Dev Shree offers a train ride – a magical experience to traverse down the Aravalli hill section in a small meter gauge train. The journey begins after breakfast when your guide will meet you at Dev Shree at 10:00 am and take you to the charming Kamblighat station. He will purchase the tickets and help you board the train which arrives at 10:30 am. It’s a local train and one is seated on wooden seats along with the locals who can be a wedding party, pilgrims, daily travelers, children, and sometimes even their cattle. 

The Phulad to Khamblighat journey by a local train across the Aravalli range is a pleasant experience. The train traverses the hills in one gradual giant right turn switchback, all the while gaining gently in elevation. In the process of negotiating the sharpest part of the railroad track the train crosses a couple of viaducts. The ride then continues slowly uphill offering fine views of a vast valley, small deep gorges, and distant ridges, before easing into the plateau of Khamblighat. The train stops only once in a vague station in the middle of a sparsely wooded expanse of virgin landscape, where monkeys descend upon the windows expecting and getting their treat of biscuits, while a handful of passengers get off and board. 

Back to the hotel for lunch and afternoon free to enjoy the relaxed natural environs of Dev Shree and surrounding villages, an afternoon with a family member through Villages and the rough country going past some farms and village huts, you may visit the cave temple largely depending on the season but each day a drive goes out ending on a lakeside with tea and biscuits.  

Evening enjoy a private cooking session with the family.

Stay overnight at Devshree.

Meals (B, L, D)

After breakfast around 1000 hrs, transfer to Udaipur airport (Approx. 3 hrs) to board the flight for Mumbai.

UK-614 (Vistara Airline) Udaipur/Mumbai 1420/1555hrs

Mumbai was given by the Portuguese as a dowry to Charles II of England when he married Catherine. The group of seven islands was leased to the East India Company which offered freedom of business and religion to persons who came and settled here. Initially, a few Parsis and Gujarati came but soon a sizeable population began to thrive here. This was way back in the 17th century. Today also Mumbai is a city of migrants. People from all over the country have come and settled here. This gives the society of Mumbai multi-lingual and multi-cultural

Met upon arrival and transferred to the hotel for check-in.

Optional: Dinner at one of the city’s famous Ekaa restaurants (Chef tasting menu) on direct payment:

Nestled in the old-world charm of Fort, Mumbai, Ekaa sports a new-age dining experience with an experiential menu and a carefully woven ingredient-led story. Instead of cuisine, the hero at Ekaa is the ingredient–pushed to its full potential to give you something unique and unexpected. An homage to the memories, journeys, and travels of Ekaa’s diverse team, each dish on the menu tells you a story. 

Ekaa, meaning ‘One’, ‘Unique’, or ‘Matchless’, is the inception of interpreted cuisine inspired by ingredients, people, and cultures. An ode to our motherland, Ekaa is a culmination of seasons, childhoods, and the journey of all our chefs to this point. Ekaa is for our people and by our people, for the world to see.  Inspired by the cultures and seasons of India, Ekaa showcases an interpretation of food that is new and creative. “It’s very exciting when you go to markets, look for seasonal things, and when you get a new ingredient. It’s all about what you can do with it and in how many ways can you troubleshoot it”, says Chef Rao. Since Ekaa is cuisine agnostic, the dining experience is broken down into three menus–the À la carte that remains constant, the Tapas menu, and a Chef’s tasting menu that changes seasonally.

Stay overnight in Mumbai.

Meal (B)

After breakfast, proceed for the Colonial to Contemporary tour.

Gateway of India to Regal Circle

Tour the UNESCO award-winning heritage district with us, starting with a walk that appropriately begins from the Gateway of India, the emblem of Mumbai tourism. This victory arch was built to welcome the British Queen to the city, and it’s only befitting to have it as our first stop. Post this, we will walk past the Royal Bombay Yacht Club, the beautiful Dhanraj Mahal, the Police Headquarters, and the iconic Regal Cinema.

Drive to Dhobi Ghat, Cuffe Parade

It is an area where the laundrymen, more popularly known as the Dhobhis, wash the clothes of Mumbai folks. You will see the Dhobhis at work, flogging and beating the clothes tirelessly to ensure it is devoid of any stain. With nearly most of Mumbai’s washing done here, it comes as a little surprise that these guys can be safely christened as the ‘Washing Machines’ of Mumbai.

Kala Ghoda to Churchgate

A heritage walk from Kala Ghoda to Churchgate covering the Bombay High Court and the University building.

Dabbawalas at Churchgate

The 6 Sigma workers of Mumbai send over 5, 00, 000 boxes of lunch to their rightful owners with extreme precision. Studied by consultants and business schools for the secrets of their proclaimed near-flawless efficiency, the dabbawalas have been feted by British royals (Prince Charles) and titans of industry (Richard Branson) alike. Even FedEx, which supposedly knows something about logistics, has paid them a visit.

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus

Further driving down to what’s presently called the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT), this station has a unique place in Indian history. The first train of India departed from CSMT and travelled a distance of 40 km. Today, the station sees a footfall of nearly a million people daily.

Train to Byculla

A local train experience from the station where the first train of Asia departed from. Instead of tracing its entire route, get down at Byculla for a wholesome lunch.

Lunch in Byculla

Lunch at a trendy and traditional restaurant where you will learn about Indian Mithai and try their Kachoris and Jalebis.

Drive to the Spice Market

Take a stroll through Mumbai’s famous Spice Market, where the aroma of spices fills the air. Purchase a variety of spices and witness the fascinating process of dry roasting and grinding them into customised masala mixes. Immerse yourself in Mumbai’s flavours and traditions.

Drive back to Kala Ghoda

The guests can have some me-time around the art district of Mumbai. At this point, the guide will take their leave, but the driver will still be around. The guests can meet with the driver at a designated time and spot to go back to the hotel.

Optional: Dinner at one of the city’s famous Masque restaurants on direct payment:

The Masque Lab is a physical manifestation of a hashtag and a chef’s dream conceived in 2020; a dedicated space to break away, research, and experiment with a whole host of seasonal ingredients and techniques that draw out the best in them. The 1,250-square-foot lab seeks to take this ethos and explore the boundaries of those very ingredients. How do they age? How do they respond to contrasting flavours? How does one use them nose-to-tail or root-to-stem? Ultimately, how do they help bridge food cultures?  While the Masque Lab serves the primary function of research, it has two alter egos: that of a private dining space and a freestyle kitchen.

Stay overnight in Mumbai.

Meals (B, L)

The early morning tour, called Mumbai by Dawn (0530-0830), to witness a large city wake up and its daily life including fish auctions, vegetable and fruit markets, milk and flower markets, newspaper distribution, etc.

Mumbai by Dawn is a detour that pays homage to the people of Mumbai and venerates all those who go about their business obstinately with one purpose – a better life.

At the start of this detour you will find yourself at the clamorous and chaotic docks, where amidst understanding the life and times of the Koli fisher-folk (the original inhabitants of Mumbai), you will see the arrival and grading of 25 tonnes of fish. You will also be privet to a one-of-its-kind fish auction of the famous Bombay Duck. You will be right in the centre of all the action, as thousands of illiterate vendors sort out newspapers of 7 different languages, that too in the middle of the road. You will understand the logistics of the food distribution in the city as 100 tonnes of meat, fruits, and vegetables enter the various markets. These markets are not only a great introduction to the people of Mumbai, but also a photographer’s dream come true.

Milkmen driving past with Milk canisters; delivery of freshly baked bread, to the melee of color and fragrance at the flower market, all these bazaars add to the frenzy of Mumbai. Another highlight is the ‘all herb mandi’ spread across a popular bridge. Possibly the only market of its kind in the world, this green market has a thousand vendors sitting atop a bridge selling various leafy vegetables. What’s interesting is that when you walk the same lanes a few hours later, you won’t find any evidence of the morning’s flurry.

We end this detour with a walk across a cricket ground and learn about the game that has captured the hearts of a billion.

Return to your hotel for breakfast.

Optional: Later, enjoy a simple but very famous seafood restaurant, Trishna for lunch on direct payment.

Late afternoon, enjoy a Street-food tour of Mumbai, called the Khau Gully tour (There will be a sampling of food on the tour, so no need for a dinner by the end of this tour!). A tour dedicated to the street food of Mumbai! If you are in the mood to tickle your taste buds or are looking for an excuse to ditch that diet and indulge in some gluttony – then look no further! This tour takes you through the by-lanes and enjoy a cultural joyride through food.

Return to your hotel.

Stay overnight in Mumbai.

Meal (B)

After breakfast, transfer to Mumbai airport to board a flight to Hyderabad.

6E-5267 (Indigo Airline) Mumbai/Hyderabad 0910/1035hrs

Met upon arrival and transferred to the hotel for check-in.

Later in the afternoon, you will do a tour of the Golkonda Fort and Qutb Shahi Tombs. The Qutb Shahi Tombs are probably the most magnificent of the tombs in the city. Built by the Qutb Shahi rulers prior to their death, each ensured that their tomb was better than their ancestors! This intense competition of course resulted in a more than happy situation for us today when we are able to stare in awe at their magnificence.  The elaborate architecture in the hammams (or baths) is reflective of the rituals that were followed before the burial of the kings.

Evening enjoy a cooking demonstration followed by dinner at a local home where you will learn more about Biryani, a dish of rice and meat cooked together and is synonymous with Hyderabad.

Stay overnight at Hyderabad.

Meals (B, D)

No place can give you a glimpse of Hyderabadi life like the Charminar area can. It is a brilliant mosaic of history, culture, modernity, crafts, business, and old-world charm – a perfect slice of this city’s life. Walk through Laad Bazar and get dazzled by the shiny lac bangles that Hyderabad is known for, take the by-lanes, and meet the craftsmen who create ‘bling’, one at a time. Walk into the chaos of fluttering pigeons in the Mecca Masjid courtyard to the simplicity of the Nizam’s tombs.

On this walk, you will get a deeper understanding of the history of this city and also get a first-hand experience of the cultural mix of the city. In the narrow bye-lanes of the city, discover the local streetside stalls selling piping hot food, feel the heat from the ovens that turn out the traditional melt-in-the-mouth Osmania biscuits perfect for dunking in sweet and milky tea, and take in the colorful and chaotic vegetable and food market. After filling your senses with the colors and bling of the old city and satisfying your appetites, head back to the Falaknuma Palace for a well-deserved rest in the afternoon.

Stay overnight at Hyderabad.

Meals (B, L)

After breakfast, transfer to Hyderabad airport to board a flight for Kochi.

6E-6707 (Indigo Airline) Hyderabad/Cochin 0900/1040hrs

Kochi (formerly known as Cochin) is a city in the Indian state of Kerala. Kochi is located in the district of Ernakulam, about 220 km north of the state capital Thiruvananthapuram. Old Kochi loosely refers to a group of islands including Willingdon Island, Fort Kochi, and Mattancherry. Today Kochi includes Ernakulam, old parts of Kochi, Kumbalangi, and outlying islands. For many centuries up to and during the British Raj, the city of Kochi was the seat of the eponymous princely state. Kochi traces its history back many centuries, when it was the center of Indian spice trade for many centuries, and was known to the Yavanas (Greeks and Romans), Jews, Arabs, and Chinese since ancient times. Kochi earned a significant position on the world trading map after the port at Kodungallur (Cranganore) was destroyed by massive flooding of the river Periyar in 1341 AD. The earliest documented references to Kochi occur in the books written by Chinese voyager Ma Huan, during his visit to Kochi in the 15th century as part of the treasure fleet of Admiral Zheng He.

Met upon arrival and transferred to the hotel for check-in.

Evening enjoy a private Cooking session followed by dinner with a local family.

Stay overnight at Kochi.

Meals (B, D)

After breakfast, you will be introduced to the highlights of the city of Kochi.

The tour begins with a visit to the Jewish Synagogue (closed on Friday & Saturday), built in 1568 by the prosperous Jewish trading community. The oldest synagogue in India, it was partially destroyed in the war of 1662 and was rebuilt by the Dutch. In the mid-18th century, the clock tower was added and the floors were paved with exquisite hand-painted blue willow tiles from China – no two tiles are alike.

Continue on to the Dutch Palace (closed on Friday), originally built by the Portuguese in the middle of the 16th century. The structure was taken over in 1663 by the Dutch, who added some improvements before presenting it to the Rajas of Cochin, who made further improvements. This palace is notable for some of the best mythological murals in India.

The next stop will be St. Francis Church, the oldest European church in India, originally built in 1503. The Portuguese explorer, Vasco da Gama, died in Kochi in 1524 on his third visit to India, and his body was originally buried in St Francis Church before his remains were returned to Lisbon 14 years later. Close by is the Santa Cruz Basilica, considered to be one of the finest and most impressive churches in India.

Post-sightseeing, you will be driven to Philipkutty’s Farm (Approx. 1 ½ hrs)

Staying at Philipkutty’s Farm is an excellent opportunity to enjoy the real Keralan experience in a fascinating location, with a caring family to look after you. It is a special place, as it provides something different, especially for those who prefer small, friendly places, and it is the perfect hideaway for the bespoke traveler. 

Enjoy a sunset cruise on a vallam (country boat) out on the open backwaters, the sights, breezes, sounds, and smells of the late evenings are indeed very soothing. If you are lucky you might also catch the moonrise.

Stay overnight at Philipkutty’s Farm.

Meals (B, L, D)

After your breakfast, take a canal cruise through the narrow, winding canals on a motor boat and catch a glimpse of the unique backwater villages and way of life

After lunch, proceed on an escorted farm walk with one of our family or staff and learn about farming below lake level as well as the different crops cultivated.

In the evening cooking class from mummy and learn the nuances of the local cuisine.

Stay overnight at Philipkutty’s Farm.

Meals (B, L, D)

After your breakfast, transfer to Periyar (Approx. 3 ½ hrs).

Upon arrival, check in to the hotel.

Periyar National Park is situated in the hills of the Western Ghats. The centerpiece of the Park is the 5500-hectare Periyar Lake – a rich habitat for large mammals – providing excellent cover and an abundance of succulent shoots and grasses for grazers. Here it is possible to see large herds of Indian elephants as well as Nilgiri langur. There are more than 30 species of mammals including tiger, gaur (Indian bison), and sloth bear. The birdlife is vibrant and includes numerous aquatic birds and the great Indian hornbill. Game viewing is only allowed by boat rides on the lake.

Afternoon, visit the plantation area, this region is famous for spices like cardamom, cinnamon, and pepper after a visit back to the hotel.

Stay overnight at Periyar.

Meal (B)

After breakfast, you will be driven to Madurai (Approx. 4 hrs).

On arrival in Madurai, check-in at the hotel and relax.

Madurai (formerly Madura) is the third largest city in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu and one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. It served as the capital city of the Pandyan Kingdom. It is the administrative headquarters of Madurai District and is famous for its temples built by Pandyan and Madurai Nayak kings in the Dravidian style of architecture. It is also one of India’s prominent Hindu pilgrimage centers.

In the evening, enjoy a Food walk in the local market.

Stay overnight at Madurai.

Meal (B)

After breakfast, visit Shree Meenakshi Temple.

Meenakshi Temple: Synonymous with Madurai, is Meenakshi Sundareswarar twin Temples, pivot around which the city has evolved. The temple complex is literally a city, one of the largest of its kind in India and undoubtedly one of the oldest too. The temple grew with the contribution of each dynasty and victorious monarch, into an enormous complex extending over an area of 65000 Sqm. The temple first came into being 2000 years ago and was substantially expanded during the regime of Thirumalai Nayak (1623-55 AD). Lord Siva in his incarnation as Sundareswarar and his fish-eyed spouse, Meenakshi, are enshrined in this twin temple. There are four massive gateways enclosing these two shrines.  Even a casual visitor is fascinated by the many paintings and sculptures

In the afternoon, you will be driven to Chettinad (Approx. 2 hrs).

Upon arrival in Chettinad, check in to the hotel.

Chettinad is a place for those who value lost grandeur over glitter, who choose elegance over-excitement, and who would much prefer an evening’s walk-through of history’s shadows to a night at the nearest club. Deep in the heart of Southern India is a secluded land of gracious mansions, dating back a half-century and more. And a culture of vigor and trade, rooted in the ancient soil of Chettinad, yet open to the four winds of the world. The Chettinad region is well known for its 18th-century mansions, whose wide courtyards and spacious rooms are embellished with marble and teak.

Stay overnight at Chettinad.

Meal (B)

Today enjoy a tour called Glimpses of Chettinad. This is an introductory tour to Chettinad. This three-hour tour aims to give you a feel of the region and its culture. It starts with the temples. Lord Ayyanar is the protector of the villages, crops, and people alike. He is a local form of Shiva and his shrines are a happy assembly of terracotta horses leading to a simple shrine. A visit to the Athangudi Tile unit will show you how floor tiles are still crafted by hand like 200 years ago. We stop at two of the most beautiful mansions, built with courtyards so big, that they actually cover the entire ground between two roads. Burmese teak, Italian marble, Portuguese and Chinese tiles, and architectural influences from all over the world were displayed as part of their trading wealth. We then move on to the weekly market, a daily moving colourful, and happy bantering village experience. One stop that you’re sure to love is the “Murukku” and Snacks Bakery, a flourishing enterprise that sustains more than 40 women. Towards the end, we’ll go for a stroll along the Antique market, which is great to explore. And if antiques pique your interest, Karaikudi still promises possibilities for a rare find.

In the evening, enjoy hands-on cooking where guests can take part in the cooking session and cook themselves along with the chef.

Stay overnight at Chettinad.

Meals (B, D)

After breakfast, you will be driven to Pondicherry (Approx. 5 hrs)

Pondicherry, a former French enclave maintains its colonial charm and Gallic feel but is unmistakably Indian at the same time. In the afternoon we will take a heritage walking tour to explore some of the history of the town. Afternoon visit to Aurobindo Ashram, Aurobindo Ashram – This place, situated on Rue de la Marine, is the most accepted magnetism in Pondicherry. The Ashram was founded by Sri Aurobindo Ghose in 1926. Sri Aurobindo, the poet and philosopher founded the Ashram to lend a hand man to reach the pinnacle of his development through spiritual aerobics and yoga, combined with physical activity and productive work.

Upon arrival, check in to the hotel.

Optional: Dinner in one of the cafes/ restaurants in French quarters to enjoy the fusion cuisine on direct payment.

Stay overnight at Pondicherry.

Meal (B)

A half-hour’s drive from Pondicherry is the experimental township of Auroville. This fascinating society is based on the concepts of sustainable and holistic living. Auroville is located in a forest that was planted and nurtured from barren land, by the Aurovilleans themselves. Auroville (City of Dawn) is an experimental commune made up of people from over 50 countries. It aims to be an ideal society, a place of human unity where people can live and work, irrespective of creed and nationality. Auroville is a utopian and compelling idea, where collective ownership and sustainable living are central concepts. Your guide is a local Aurovillean, who will give you an insider’s view of its history, economy, decision-making processes, ecology, and technology.

Your Expert was raised in Auroville amongst both visiting and local communities. With a master’s in media and history in documenting traditional livelihoods in rural Tamil Nadu an enthusiasm for storytelling and 7 years in tourism, he has formed relations with valuable networks that inspired the concept behind sustainable tourism. Creating meaningful connections between people, places, and products is what allows Gopi to serve as a neighborhood concierge.

Gopi facilitates tours that work towards his vision through a variety of activities including introductions to localities through farm visits, experiences with food, and involvement with local livelihood. These unique exposures offer the opportunity for people to reconsider systems we take for granted. Gopi engages visitors to reconnect to social and environmental values and revive local economies and has also been working on children’s tourism.

Later, proceed for Pondicherry city sightseeing.

Pondicherry was the largest French colony in India. The city has a long and interesting history of trade and war. There is a strong French influence in the city, especially in the old quarters, with Rues and Boulevards lined with Mediterranean-style houses and bakeries, although the city remains very much Indian. French is still understood, and the whole city makes for rather a pleasant mix of East and West. It is also known as The French Riviera of the East (La Côte d’Azur de l’Est). If you’ve spent some time in Tamil Nadu and approached Pondicherry by land, you’ll very likely experience mild culture shock on discovering French architecture and restaurants serving steak and good wine. Pondicherry is very much a city with a dual personality: crossing from East to west of the central canal reveals two cities with very different characters.

Close to a century of French occupation has left a distinct stamp on the cultural inheritance of Pondicherry. Sri Aurobindo Ashram is an integral part of the town. Its associated organizations & buildings as well as several cultural organizations & private residences make up what is remaining of the White Town or Pondicherry’s French Quarter. Many of these structures are colonial buildings. Some of been deemed as heritage sites and many are breathtakingly beautiful. In addition to an engaging introduction to the French influence, this walk is also about the journey of Sri Aurobindo. He was a revolutionary freedom fighter from East India who introduced integral yoga to the world. Also learn about The Mother, who followed her vision to reach Pondicherry.

Afternoon relax or explore the town with plenty of options for nice cafes.

Stay overnight at Pondicherry.

Meal (B)

After breakfast, you will be driven to Chennai airport (Approx. 3 hrs) for flight to onward destination.

Meal (B)