Explore the Temples of Kumbakonam, Gangaikonda Cholapuram, and Chidambaram

Day 1: Temple Exploration

Kumbakonam, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day with a hearty South Indian breakfast at your hotel, featuring delightful idlis and vadas served with coconut chutney and sambar.
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast on-site before heading out for the day.
INR 200, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Adi Kumbeswarar Temple

Explore the magnificent Adi Kumbeswarar Temple, known for its stunning architecture and serene atmosphere.
Head southeast towards Melur St; the temple is approximately 3 km from the city centre.
Free, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Explore Mahamaham Tank

Take a stroll around the historic Mahamaham Tank, famous for its significance in Hindu mythology.
Walk 500 meters north from the temple to reach the tank.
Free, 1 hour

11:30AM

Visit Dera Kandi Vinayakar Temple

Adore the unique architecture and vibrant sculptures at the Dera Kandi Vinayakar Temple, dedicated to Lord Ganesha.
Travel about 2 km west by taxi.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Hotel Saravana Bhavan

Enjoy a delicious lunch at Hotel Saravana Bhavan, famed for its vegetarian thali and delectable dosa options.
Return 1 km to the city centre.
INR 350, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Kumbakonam Market

Immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting Kumbakonam Market, where you can shop for traditional brassware and handwoven fabrics.
A short 800 meter walk from the restaurant.
Free to browse, 2 hours

4:00PM

Maha Ganapati Temple

Pay your respects at the Maha Ganapati Temple, known for its beautiful Ganesha idol and tranquil ambiance.
Take a taxi for a 10-minute ride, approximately 5 km north.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Evening Tea at a Local Café

Take a break and enjoy some traditional tea and snacks at a nearby café.
Head back to the city centre, about 2 km away.
INR 150, 1 hour

6:00PM

Evening Explore

Spend your evening relaxed by the Kumbakonam River, savouring the idyllic landscape.
Take a taxi for a quick ride of 4 km.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Hotel Gnanam

Savor a traditional dinner at Hotel Gnanam, featuring thali platters and authentic South Indian dishes bursting with flavour.
Travel back to the city centre, approximately 2 km.
INR 500, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Cultural Heritage

Gangaikonda Cholapuram & Chidambaram, India

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day early with a wholesome breakfast at your hotel featuring upma and coconut chutney.
Enjoy breakfast at your accommodation before checking out.
INR 200, 1 hour

8:00AM

Travel to Gangaikonda Cholapuram

Set out for Gangaikonda Cholapuram, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its architectural grandeur.
Take a taxi for a 30-minute ride, approximately 20 km.
INR 800, 30 minutes

8:30AM

Explore Brihadeeswarar Temple

Marvel at the intricately carved architectural beauty of Brihadeeswarar Temple, one of the finest examples of Tamil architecture.
The temple is located just at the entrance of Gangaikonda Cholapuram.
Free, 2 hours

10:30AM

Visit the Old Temples

Explore several ancient temples scattered throughout this little town, each telling a piece of history.
A short walk of approximately 1 km within the area.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at a Local Restaurant

Indulge in a delicious meal at a local restaurant known for unique regional dishes.
Find a nearby eatery, approximately 500 meters away.
INR 350, 1 hour

1:00PM

Travel to Chidambaram

Proceed towards Chidambaram to explore its vibrant cultural heritage.
Cost a taxi ride of roughly 30 km, taking about 45 minutes.
INR 1200, 45 minutes

1:45PM

Visit Nataraja Temple

Visit the famous Nataraja Temple, renowned for its exquisite sculptures and vibrant displays of classical dance.
The temple is located at the heart of Chidambaram.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:15PM

Explore the Sacred Forest

Stroll around the sacred forest nearby, offering a glimpse into the area's tranquillity and spirituality.
Situated a short walk 1 km from the temple.
Free, 1 hour

4:15PM

Evening Snack at a Café

Take a break at a local café to enjoy traditional snacks and coffee.
Head back into town approximately 1 km.
INR 150, 1 hour

5:15PM

Evening at Chidambaram Beach

Relax at Chidambaram Beach to unwind and enjoy the stunning evening skyline.
A taxi ride of about 10 km will take you to the beach.
Free, 2 hours

7:15PM

Dinner at a Sea View Restaurant

End your day with a delightful dinner at a sea-view restaurant, enjoying fresh seafood delicacies.
Travel back to a coastal restaurant that is approximately 5 km away.
INR 600, 1.5 hours
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