Chennai to Kumbakonam via Vaitheswarankovil and Thirunallarsaneswarankovil: A Spiritual South India Journey

Day 1: Spiritual Temple Tour

Chennai to Vaitheswarankovil to Thirunallarsaneswarankovil to Kumbakonam, India on April 28, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Saravana Bhavan, Chennai

Start your day with a traditional South Indian breakfast of idlis, dosas, and filter coffee at this famous Chennai restaurant. Opens at 7:00am.
INR300, 1h0m

8:30am

Travel from Chennai to Vaitheswarankovil

Embark on a scenic 3-hour drive south from Chennai to visit the revered Vaitheswarankovil temple dedicated to Lord Shiva as Vaitheswaran, the divine healer.
INR0, 3h0m

11:30am

Visit Vaitheswarankovil Temple

Explore this ancient temple known for its healing powers, where devotees seek relief from ailments. Open 6:00am to 12:00pm, then 4:00pm to 8:00pm.
INR0, 1h0m

12:30pm

Travel to Thirunallarsaneswarankovil

Drive approximately 45 minutes to Thirunallarsaneswarankovil to visit another ancient Shiva temple with wonderful architecture and spiritual significance.
INR0, 0h45m

1:15pm

Lunch at local eatery near Thirunallarsaneswarankovil

Enjoy a wholesome South Indian vegetarian meal featuring rice, sambhar, rasam, and seasonal vegetables at a nearby authentic local restaurant.
INR250, 1h0m

2:15pm

Visit Thirunallarsaneswarankovil Temple

Spend time admiring the temple’s carvings and participate in the peaceful atmosphere of this lesser-known but spiritual site. Open generally 6:00am to 12:00pm and 4:00pm to 8:00pm.
INR0, 1h0m

3:15pm

Drive to Kumbakonam

Depart for the historic town of Kumbakonam, approximately a 1.5-hour drive, known for its numerous revered temples and cultural heritage.
INR0, 1h30m

4:45pm

Check-in to hotel in Kumbakonam

Relax and refresh at your hotel, readying yourself for an evening exploring Kumbakonam or resting after the day's pilgrimage.
INR0, 1h15m

6:00pm

Evening stroll and dinner at Hotel Sri Saravana Bhavan, Kumbakonam

Sample delicious South Indian meals such as thali and sweets like Mysore pak. The restaurant is open until 10:00pm and is a great way to end the day.
INR350, 1h30m