Day 1: Vizag Arrival
Arrive in Vizag and be welcomed by our representative for a smooth transfer to your hotel. Begin your exploration with the Kursura Submarine Museum, an extraordinary display of India’s naval history housed inside a decommissioned submarine. Delve further into the region’s heritage at the Visakha Museum, which showcases ancient artifacts, sculptures, and remnants of the city’s colonial and cultural past. Seek blessings at the Kali Temple, a revered shrine dedicated to Goddess Kali, reflecting the spiritual traditions of the city. Conclude the day with a serene evening at Ramakrishna Beach, enjoying the sun setting over the Bay of Bengal while strolling along the scenic shoreline. Overnight stay at your hotel in Vizag.
Day 2: Araku Valley Excursion
After breakfast, drive to the picturesque Araku Valley, nestled in the lush Eastern Ghats. Explore the mystical Borra Caves, renowned for their awe-inspiring stalactite and stalagmite formations that create a surreal natural cathedral. Visit the Tribal Museum to gain fascinating insights into the customs, attire, and lifestyle of the indigenous communities. Stop at Galikonda Viewpoint to soak in panoramic views of verdant valleys and terraced hillsides. Conclude your day with a tour of the aromatic coffee plantations at Ananthagiri Hills, learning about cultivation and harvesting techniques while enjoying the lush green surroundings. Return to Vizag for overnight stay.
Day 3: Vizag to Kakinada
Depart for Kakinada, a bustling port city on Andhra Pradesh’s eastern coast. En route or upon arrival, enjoy a boat safari at the Coringa Wildlife Sanctuary, spotting mangroves, migratory birds, and estuarine ecosystems. Visit Shri Bhavanarayana Swamy Temple, an ancient and revered shrine dedicated to Lord Vishnu, reflecting traditional South Indian architecture. Stroll through local markets in the evening, where fresh seafood, colorful handicrafts, and lively street life create a vibrant cultural experience. Overnight stay in Kakinada.
Day 4: Kakinada to Machilipatnam
Drive to Machilipatnam, a historic Dutch-influenced port town. Explore iconic temples such as Sri Panduranga Swamy Temple and the Saibaba Temple, noted for their architectural elegance and spiritual significance. Relax on the pristine Machilipatnam beaches, enjoying the rhythmic waves and serene coastal atmosphere. Stroll through local markets, absorbing the town’s mix of colonial history, traditional craft, and commerce. Capture photographs of the waterfront and vibrant townscape before returning to your hotel for overnight stay.
Day 5: Machilipatnam to Nellore
Travel to Nellore, renowned for its religious heritage and vibrant culture. Visit the magnificent Ranganatha Temple, an exquisite example of Dravidian architecture dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Wander through the bustling bazaars, sampling local delicacies like ‘Nellore Chepala Pulusu’ (fish curry) and browsing handloom sarees and handicrafts. End your day with a peaceful walk along Nellore Beach, watching the sunset over the Bay of Bengal and reflecting on the day’s experiences. Overnight stay in Nellore.
Day 6: Nellore to Chennai
Embark on a scenic drive to Chennai, the vibrant capital of Tamil Nadu. Pause at the historical Venkatagiri Fort, home to the beautiful Kashi Vishwanath Temple. Continue to the renowned Sri Venkateshwara Temple in Tirupati, a major pilgrimage site. Arrive in Chennai and explore landmarks such as Fort St. George, Marina Beach, and Kapaleeshwarar Temple, each representing facets of the city’s colonial and spiritual heritage. Immerse yourself in Chennai’s lively culture, cuisine, and bustling streets before checking into your hotel for the night.
Day 7: Chennai to Mahabalipuram via Kanchipuram
Begin with a tour of Chennai, including Fort St. George and the historic Kapaleeshwarar Temple, highlighting Dravidian architecture. Drive to Kanchipuram, the City of Thousand Temples, visiting Kailasanathar Temple and Ekambareswarar Temple, marveling at their ancient carvings and grandeur. Conclude your journey at Mahabalipuram, a UNESCO World Heritage site famed for rock-cut temples, monolithic sculptures, and intricate bas-reliefs. Enjoy the coastal breeze and scenic views before settling at your hotel for overnight stay.
Day 8: Mahabalipuram to Pondicherry
Explore Mahabalipuram’s architectural gems, including the Shore Temple, Arjuna’s Penance, and Pancha Rathas. Each monument tells stories of ancient kings, mythology, and artistic brilliance. Continue your journey to Pondicherry, a serene coastal town with a strong French colonial influence. Stroll through the French Quarter with its quaint streets and pastel buildings. Visit Aurobindo Ashram and unwind at Pondicherry Beach, enjoying a peaceful sunset along the Bay of Bengal. Overnight stay in Pondicherry.
Day 9: Pondicherry to Thanjavur
Drive to Thanjavur, the cultural and temple heart of Tamil Nadu. En route, visit the sacred Chidambaram Nataraja Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, known for its intricate carvings and spiritual significance. Explore Gangaikonda Cholapuram and Darasuram, remarkable Chola dynasty temples showcasing architectural brilliance and sculptural art. Immerse yourself in Thanjavur’s rich history, heritage, and artistic traditions. Overnight stay in Thanjavur.
Day 10: Thanjavur to Trichy
Visit Brihadeeswara Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, renowned for its monumental vimana and Chola architecture. Explore the Thanjavur Royal Palace and Art Gallery, housing rare sculptures, paintings, and artifacts. Drive to Trichy and visit the iconic Rock Fort Temple, perched atop a rocky outcrop with panoramic city views. Wander the vibrant streets surrounding the temple complex and experience local markets and cuisine. Overnight stay in Trichy.
Day 11: Trichy to Madurai
Travel to Madurai, famed as the ‘Athens of the East’ for its historic and cultural importance. Visit the Meenakshi Amman Temple, marveling at its towering gopurams, intricate sculptures, and vibrant mandapams. Witness the evening Aarti ceremony, a mesmerizing ritual illuminating the temple with devotional chants and lamps. Explore Madurai’s bustling bazaars for handicrafts, textiles, and local delicacies. Overnight stay in Madurai.
Day 12: Madurai to Rameshwaram
Drive to Rameshwaram, one of the revered Char Dham pilgrimage sites. Visit the Ramanathaswamy Temple, famous for its long corridors, ornate pillars, and religious rituals. Cross the engineering marvel, Pamban Bridge, linking the mainland with Rameshwaram Island. Pay homage at the Five-faced Hanuman Temple and explore the sacred town, absorbing its spiritual ambiance. Overnight stay in Rameshwaram.
Day 13: Rameshwaram to Kanyakumari
Journey to Kanyakumari, the southernmost tip of mainland India. Marvel at the confluence of three seas – the Arabian Sea, Bay of Bengal, and Indian Ocean. Explore the Vivekananda Rock Memorial, commemorating Swami Vivekananda’s meditation. Visit the towering Thiruvalluvar Statue, an iconic monument celebrating the poet-saint. Relax on the pristine beaches, enjoying panoramic views and capturing memorable photographs. Overnight stay in Kanyakumari.
Day 14: Kanyakumari to Kovalam
Spend the morning at Vivekananda Rock Memorial and Thiruvalluvar Statue, soaking in the spiritual ambiance. Later, drive to Kovalam, renowned for its tranquil beaches, lighthouse, and palm-fringed shores. Enjoy leisure time by the sea, basking in the sun and swimming in the gentle waves. Explore the local market for handicrafts and souvenirs or take a coastal walk to watch the sunset. Overnight stay in Kovalam.
Day 15: Kovalam & Trivandrum Tour
Explore Kovalam’s cultural and scenic highlights, starting with the majestic Padmanabhaswamy Temple, an architectural and spiritual marvel. Visit Napier Museum and Kuthira Malika Palace, showcasing Kerala’s royal history and exquisite craftsmanship. Stop at the Sri Chitra Art Gallery to admire rare paintings and artifacts. Walk along Kovalam Beach or Lighthouse Beach for panoramic views. Enjoy leisure time experiencing local cuisine and markets before returning to your hotel. Overnight stay in Kovalam.
Day 16: Departure from Trivandrum
Spend some leisure time exploring Kovalam’s beaches or shopping for souvenirs. Reflect on the journey along the East Coast, from Andhra’s cultural hubs to Tamil Nadu’s temples and Kerala’s tranquil coastlines. Transfer to Trivandrum Airport for your onward flight, concluding a memorable and diverse 16-day tour through India’s eastern and southern coastal treasures.
