Private Day Tour to Trichy Tanjore Chettinad from Madurai

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14 hours (approximately)
Pickup offered
Offered in: English

Embark on a captivating full-day private tour from Madurai that takes you through the cultural gems of Trichy, Tanjore, and Chettinad. Discover the sacred grandeur of Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple and witness life along the holy Kaveri River. Marvel at the UNESCO-listed Brihadeeswarar Temple in Tanjore, an architectural wonder of the Chola dynasty, and explore the royal heritage of the Thanjavur Palace. Savor authentic South Indian cuisine that reflects centuries of culinary tradition. Step into the opulent Chettinad mansions and watch artisans craft the famous Athangudi tiles, a living art passed down through generations. What makes this journey unique is the seamless blend of spiritual devotion, royal history, and cultural craftsmanship—all in a single day, ending with a comfortable return to Madurai.

What's Included

Bottled water
Entry Fees: All entry fees to the attractions mentioned in the itinerary are included.
Air-conditioned vehicle
24/7 Customer Service: Access our dedicated customer service team at any time, day or night.
Professional English-Speaking Guide
Lunch - Expenses incurred for lunch will not be covered or reimbursed.
Personal expenses such as shopping, leisure, or non-business travel are not covered.
Tips and gratuities are not covered unless included in a pre-approved expense policy.

Meeting and pickup

Pickup points
You can choose a pickup location at checkout (multiple pickup locations are available).
Pickup details:

Pick-up and Drop-off: Pick-up and drop-off services are available from designated locations. Ensure you confirm your pick-up point when booking. Language: This tour is conducted in English. If you require a guide who speaks another language, please notify us in advance to check availability. Local Currency: Ensure to carry some local currency for personal expenses, as not all locations may accept credit or debit cards. Dress Code: Comfortable clothing and footwear are recommended, especially for activities involving walking. For visits to religious sites, modest attire is required. Behavior and Conduct: All participants are expected to behave respectfully towards fellow travelers, the guide, and local communities. Any disruptive behavior may result in removal from the tour without a refund.

Itinerary

Duration: 14 hours (approximately)
  • 1

    Our knowledgeable driver will meet you at your hotel or Madurai Airport. After a warm welcome, you'll be comfortably seated in our air-conditioned vehicle for your journey. Departure to Trichy; Trichy, set on the banks of the sacred Kaveri River, is one of South India’s oldest cities with a history that dates back to the Chola dynasty. The city is celebrated for its monumental temples, vibrant traditions, and serene riverbanks that serve as a center for faith and culture.

    2 hours • Admission ticket free
  • 2

    Arrival in Trichy. Step into one of the largest temple complexes in the world, dedicated to Lord Vishnu in his reclining form. Spread over 150 acres, this sacred site boasts 21 towering gopurams, intricately carved pillars, and sprawling courtyards filled with pilgrims and chants. The main sanctum is a spiritual highlight, and the temple’s colorful sculptures showcase centuries of devotion and craftsmanship.

    1 hour • Admission ticket included
  • 3

    The Kaveri River, known as the “Ganges of the South,” is a lifeline for Tamil Nadu. At Srirangam, the river branches beautifully, forming sacred islands. Stop to watch devotees performing ablutions, lighting lamps, and offering prayers. The calm waters and spiritual aura here create a moment of peace and reflection before continuing your journey.

    30 minutes • Admission ticket included
  • 4

    Known as the cultural heart of Tamil Nadu, Tanjore is where art, architecture, and classical music flourished under the mighty Cholas. The city is famous for its bronze sculptures, Tanjore paintings, Carnatic music traditions, and grand monuments that narrate a thousand years of history.

    1 hour 30 minutes • Admission ticket free
  • 5

    A true jewel of the Chola Empire and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the “Big Temple” of Tanjore is an engineering marvel built over 1,000 years ago. Its 66-meter-high vimana tower, carved entirely of granite, dominates the skyline, while the massive Nandi bull carved from a single stone stands guard at the entrance. Intricate frescoes, sculptures, and inscriptions bring alive the grandeur of Chola art. Walking through its vast courtyards, you’ll feel the spiritual energy that has drawn pilgrims here for centuries. Lunch Break : Savor the flavors of authentic South Indian cuisine in Tanjore, with traditional rice-based dishes, sambar, rasam, and crispy dosas. The culinary experience here is as rich as its cultural legacy.

    2 hours • Admission ticket included
  • 6

    Built by the Nayaks and expanded by the Marathas, the Thanjavur Palace reflects a blend of royal grandeur and cultural treasures. The complex includes the Durbar Hall with painted ceilings, the Saraswathi Mahal Library containing rare manuscripts, and a museum filled with bronze idols, sculptures, and murals. This stop brings alive the legacy of kings who patronized art and architecture in the region.

    1 hour • Admission ticket included
  • 7

    Chettinad is a region that flourished under the wealthy Chettiar trading community, famed for their palatial mansions, unique cuisine, and handcrafted artistry. The area still resonates with the charm of a bygone era, making it a living museum of culture and heritage.

    1 hour • Admission ticket included
  • 8

    Explore the grandeur of traditional Chettiar mansions, known for their ornate wooden pillars, spacious courtyards, Italian marble floors, and Belgian glass windows. These sprawling homes reflect the opulence of merchant families who traded across Southeast Asia. Walking through their echoing halls gives you a sense of the global connections and cultural refinement of 19th-century Chettinad.

    45 minutes • Admission ticket included
  • 9

    Witness the artistry of Athangudi tile-making, where skilled hands pour natural pigments into molds, creating vibrant, glossy tiles that decorate Chettinad mansions. Alongside, explore a traditional bronze casting workshop, where artisans use ancient lost-wax techniques to craft exquisite bronze idols and household items. This stop offers a rare glimpse into living heritage crafts still thriving today.

    45 minutes • Admission ticket included
  • 10

    Relax during your return drive. Arrive back in Madurai, where you will be dropped off at your hotel or the airport, completing your full-day journey through Tamil Nadu’s architectural and cultural wonders.

    3 hours 30 minutes • Admission ticket free

Additional info

  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Specialized infant seats are available
  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Supplied by Treasure Tours

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Tags

Day Trips
Full-day Tours
Bus Tours
Private Sightseeing Tours
Cultural Tours
Historical Tours
Car Tours
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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