Best Sightseeing Tours in Tamil Nadu

About the Activity:Grab a mind blowing opportunity to partake in an exciting trekking trip at the earliest and find the beauty of Kotagiri Hill station amazing. A three day happy trip is now on!!!Kotagiri hill station is situated in Nilgiri district at a height of about 5890 feet. The trekkers' wide choice is this hill that brings forth some adventurous trails unexplored.The trails are collected to the vast Nilgiri ranges but prohibited to outsiders by the forest department. This trekking trip has the starting point in Bangalore. Take an overnight journey to the destination on Friday after you get picked up from the different points in the city in the evening.Kotagiri is lying about 330 kilometers away from Bangalore with unending sights of serenity. The trekking trail starts in the huge tea estates and goes through the valley on the river path and ends at Mettupalayam- Kotagiri junction.Another attractions near the hill are the Catherine Falls, Elk Falls, Doddabetta Peak and the Rangaswami Pillar.Wind up your tour on the third day of the tour with a visit to the Catherine Falls which is the second highest waterfall in Nilgiri Mountains.

Particularly known for its centuries old temples, market places, trade fair, and some brilliant architecture, Madurai is beautiful every inch of the way. Over 2.5 hours, experience a slice of history and heritage and get transported to a bygone civilization. The guided tour in a cycle rickshaw begins 10am or 3pm from the famous Meenakshi Temple. You’ll have a short rendezvous with the temple, its architecture, and life at large as it happens around its narrow alleys. Next explore and unravel the city’s other traits such as banana and vegetable markets, bamboo bazaar, dhobi ghat, as well as seat of textile and brass industries to watch locals make metal pots on furnace and spinning yarns. As you end your ride around 5:30pm, you would’ve seen every nook and cranny of this simply gorgeous city. Duration: Around 2.5 hours

On this day trip, which introduces the local flavour and fervour of Thanjavur, you’ll witness why this region is a fascination amongst varied people.  Unfold its rich heritage art and architectural marvels, signs of literature and music, legacy of exquisite handicrafts and a lot more. Brace yourself to an entire day of soaking in the local life and history of Thanjavur. Your guided tour of around 10 hours starts around 9am and stretches across the dominating symbol of Chola Empire, the Brahadeeswara Temple now protected as a heritage site under UNESCO. Understand its glorious past and observe its present day status. Visit one of the oldest libraries in Asia, Saraswathi Mahal Library with a collection of ancient palm-leaf and paper manuscripts and sketches. Stop by at Rajagopalasami Canon, a less visited object of heritage value at the Thanjavur Fort. Spend time at the South Zone Cultural Centre that preserves and promotes traditional cultural heritage. Explore artist workshops and homes specialising in Tanjore Paintings to witness the evergreen style taking shape on hundreds of canvas. Duration: 10 hours

One of the oldest Indian cities, Madurai, has been an ancient metropolis with a vibrant trade history. Visitors have never been alien to this city, which is known to be the soul of Tamil Nadu. For around 10 hours, you’ll experience the popularity of this captivating place through its very many temples, other sanctums, historical monuments and much, much more. You’ll begin the guided sightseeing tour at 8am. First stop is Meenakshi Amman Temple, a 2,000 year-old complex that is literally a city within the city. It’s also one of the greatest and largest temples in India. Undoubtedly this would take over two hours of your visit time. Next, drive to Thiruparankundram, one of the six residences of Lord Subramanya that is located in the city centre. After this tour, you’ll visit the secular, Dravidian-Islamic style Thirumalai Nayakkar Mahal, which is now only a quarter of its original size. Post lunch in a restaurant, drive to Gandhi Museum, a 17th century palace with artifacts of Gandhian movement and highlights freedom struggle. The last leg of the tour takes you to Alagar Koil, a Vishnu Temple on a picturesque wooded hill. You’ll be transferred to the drop point around 6:30pm. Duration: Around 10 hours

The around 2.5 hour guided walk takes you through the various streets of one of the most famous markets of Chennai. Roam around the oldest area of the historic city, unfold its history and amble through the colourful bazaars. The walk starts around 4 pm with a rendezvous outside the Anderson Church opposite to the Madras High Court and takes you directly into the heart of George Town, formerly known as the Black Town. Feel the spirit of the market as you encounter the hustle and bustle of the narrow roads, noise of the hawkers on the old streets and the crowded market. Witness the majestic buildings on either side as you walk down the streets. An expert guide will give the history of the area while also introducing you to the various markets. You have the opportunity to shop here as well. This walk will introduce you to the true flavours of a city-market. The streets are  full of life and exuberance making it a trip worth remembering. Duration: This one day activity would take around 2.5 hours

Take a fascinating trip to two famed sites in Chennai. Visit Fort St. George, the first fortress built by the English in 1644. This structure is also the starting point of the Marina Beach which runs a distance of 13 kms along the city’s coast. This tour takes around 3 hours. You can choose betweentime slots of 10 am -1 pm and 3-6 pm. Be picked from a location of your choice and undertake the journey in a car accompanied by an informed guide. The first stop will be at San Thome. Containing the remains of the Apostle St Thomas, it is an ancient basilica built by the Portuguese and rebuilt in a Gothic style by the British. A drive on the road along the beach gives you a glimpse of the fishermen’s settlements that are built here. There is also an ancient light house on the southern end of the beach, which is a famous landmark in the city and offers splendid views of the ocean. Visit the Fort St. George thathas a museum with many exhibits dating back to the British era. The St. Mary's Church, which is the oldest Anglican church in India and famed as the 'Westminster Abbey of the East', is also situated within its premises. The trip concludes after a tour of the various structures within the fort.Witness public buildings and sculptures along the Marina Promenade, unwind on the beach to delight in the local life and colourful stalls Duration – 3 hours

About the activity: Irrespective of the reason or the season, a combined Ooty-Coonoor day tour package always proves to be the best option to get swayed along with the enchanting beauty of Mother Nature! Two of the jewels of the fascinating Nilgiri Hills; these two hill stations are located merely 19km from each other and can be visited within the same day. With this Ooty-Coonoor package, you will get ample opportunity to get close to the untouched beauty of these two hilly retreats. Originating from the bucolic locales of Ooty at around 09:00AM, this lively tour will make its way towards Coonoor along with taking you to some of the most popular tourist spots and landmarks of both the hill stations. Continuing for around 10 hours, this Ooty Coonoor day tour package will come to an end by around 07:00 in the evening.

About the activity: With this day tour to Avalanche, Ooty, you will be taken around some marvellous wonders in this slice of paradise. Fascinate with the stunning beauty of magnolias, orchids and rhododendrons surrounding this beautiful lake. The Avalanche tour promises you bundles of beautiful sceneries - admire the lush green Shoal thickets enveloping the lake amidst Nilgiris Mountain Ranges. Visit the Deer Park and witness the playful dwellers and curate some of the best memories of your Ooty visit! Also, a visit to the Tree Garden in this day tour to Avalanche, Ooty will add an array of exciting moments! Take a walk through the well famed chocolate factory and tea processing unit, and learn more about their journey from the factory to your home. Everything about this day tour to Avalanche, Ooty: be it the lake or Wax Museum or isolated malls strives for a memorable experience.

About the Stay :  Established in 1974 and located beside the Avarhalla River, the property is one of the scenic holiday destinations in Masinagudi. Standing graciously at the foothills of the Nilgiris since last 40 years, it is surrounded with a stunning range of flora and fauna. This pleasant holiday home is located around 85km from Calicut Airport and 250km from Bangalore Airport. Meant as a getaway spot for couples because of its spectacular surrounding and as a mix of corporate plasticity, the farm house wins the hearts of all its visitors. Family with kids and nature lovers will love this place too because kids enjoy nature as well as adults do. It is open to visitors from different corners of the world. In addition to all the offerings, they also serve delicious foods to its patrons. Starting from breakfast, lunch and dinner, it serves a mixed array of Continental, South and North Indian dishes. Idly, dosa, eggs, toast, jam, chicken, fish fry and mutton are usually served to the visitors. 

About the Destination: Situated in Pamban of Rameshwaram, Kathadi is home to Tamil Nadu’s most exotic waters, therefore, making it an ideal destination for water lovers! Not only for water sport enthusiasts, but the beach and temple lovers can also enjoy splendid moments in the town within Rameshwaram tour. Camping on the shores of the Palk Strait is an affair by itself – after all, what can top crystalline blue waters, the starry night sky and the quietude of the surroundings. There’s also excellent food to be had in these areas.  So, be it kayaking, snorkelling, swimming, camping, relaxing, honeymooning or visiting temples, Kathadi and Rameshwaram tour package provides the perfect tour for you to explore the magic of the places, and take back some warm memories. About the Activity: To enjoy what Kathadi has to offer, the tour starts off with a few water adventure sports such as sea kayaking and stand up paddle boating. This is followed by a more relaxed evening in Rameshwaram, with a visit to the main temple and then soaking your feet in the cool, Dhanushkodi Beach. Back at the campsite, a BBQ dinner and a night under the stars awaits you! The Kathadi and Rameshwaram tour package ends with a snorkeling activity in the midst of the ocean and leisure, which you can use to swim or nap or just take in the natural beauty. Depth of Water: Shallow

About the activity : Beat the blistering heat of the city with a pleasant day tour in Ooty and explore the different wonders of this beautiful hill station on your next holiday! There are beautiful sights for you to explore on your next visit here, some which will leave you mesmerized and in complete awe of this serene and lovely hill station! Pack your bags, get your cameras and get going to one of the most amazing hill stations in South India! Begin your adventure with an early morning pick up around 09:00AM and depart for your sightseeing tour. Enjoy the beauty of the Rose Garden and breathe in the fresh air that surrounds you! Adventurers and trekkers can head to the Doddabetta peak and the Botanical gardens as well. Take in the sun setting beneath the beautiful trees and hills all around. See the work of craftsmen in Wax world and Thread garden. Click photos at the deer park and discover the different types of tea in the tea factory and tea museum. You can collect souvenirs and go shopping in the marketplace as well, to mark the end of your fun day tour in Ooty. 

About the Activity:Unravel the true essence of Pondicherry as you make your way through the quaint markets, the Indian square and the French square.   The  guided walk of around 3 hours starts at 7am in the morning. You can also select a time according to your preference. Spend your time exploring the colonial town as you visit the fish market and the vegetable market. The town of Pondicherry is an amalgamation of Tamil and French architecture. The former is mainly found in the west part and the latter in the east. Visit the Indian Square in the Tamil part of Pondicherry on Vaishali Street where you can witness the symbolic tiled roof buildings running continuously from one building to another. This is succeeded by a visit to the French part of the town. Amble through the French square as your guide takes you to the Ashram. Established nearly a century ago, the Ashram forms a major part of the heritage properties in Pondicherry. The history of Pondicherry is fascinating and the city has a mix of various cultures, Indian and foreign. Get enamoured with the stories as your guide takes you on a walk through the lanes of this beautiful and charming city.

About the activity:It is time for an astonishing experience while you are in this slice of paradise! Arrive and travel around 16kms from Ooty to Kokkal Kota which is a tribal village. Your trek will head-start from this tiny hamlet which is set amidst tea estates. Continue climbing till you reach Pathar Village, which is more of a ghost town but the views that you will get from here will certainly leave you spell-bound! Experience the amazing view from the top, enjoy the panoramic views of Bokkapuram, Masinagudi and Mudumalai Sanctuary. After a refreshing walk through dense forests, halt in the Todas cultivated land. Mesmerize with the stunning views that these fields provide you without any obstruction. Glenmorgan Trek, Ooty takes you through luxurious thickets of Eucalyptus and other hill beauties. Enjoy the magnificent beauty of the Nilgiris from the top. Your trek to Glenmorgan comes to an end at Pykara Junction, which is a tiny halt area for buses and vehicles. Post this amazing experience you can travel back to Ooty which lies 22kms from here as your experience ends here.

Discover a land of archaeological wonders, open-air granite sculptures, and world listed heritage temples with a day trip toMahabalipuram - also known as Mamallapuram, thistown inTamil Nadu was once a busy seaport during the dynasty of the Pallavas. Uncover the past glory with visits toDakshinChitra Craft Foundation and Cholalmandal Artists Village along with the main town area. At around 10:00 am, get picked up from your hotel in Chennai and commence the hour-long journey by car. A well-informed guide will accompany you to this historical south city where the first stop will be the famous Shore Temple, which is among the oldest temples of South India and is carved from a large block of granite. A short distance from this temple is Descent of the Ganges and Arjuna's Penance monument which is one of the world's biggest bas-reliefs depicting the story of the descent of the River Ganges from Heaven to Earth. A visit to stone carvers, who continue to preserve the traditional craft of stone sculpting, is possible at a school of sculpture where you can even buy some of the crafted figurines. On the way to Mamallapuram is DakshinChitra where traditional homes from various parts of South India have been transported and re-built, offering you a genuine insight into the lifestyles of the diverse people of South India. Cholamandal Artists' Village, the largest artists' community in India, is also included in the tour where you can view and buy paintings, sketches, terra-cotta/stone/metal sculptures, batiks and handicrafts made by the artists living the village. Duration – 8 hours

About the Destination:Ooty, also known as ‘Udhagamandalam’ is one of the most gorgeous and tranquil hill stations in the entire of South India. Famed as ‘Queen of Hills’, it was discovered in the late 1800 and is located at around 2,240m. Jotted with lush and evergreen plantations, forests and fascinating hills, it is one such place that cannot be missed! A testimony to the colonial era of India, Ooty truly displays or showcases the aura of its past and captivates its visitors with all its grace! Though this scenic hill station is known for its meticulous beauty, it also entices the adventure junkies in a large number. For the adrenaline junkies, Ooty hosts an array of activities; Ebbanad trek, cycling, trekking and several others. Moreover, the untouched beauty of this hill station, its varied options for its visitors and the wonderful tourist destination in Western Ghats is the indigenous home to the ‘Todas’ and is known for its lush and evergreen tea plantations About the Activity: Conducted throughout the week, the Ebbanad trek is indeed one of the best hiking experience in or around Ooty! Taking you to the scenic locales of Ebbanad, which is located around 18km from Ooty, this 6-7 hours trek will take you through several quaint settlements, scenic patches of forests and other natural marvels. The walk usually begins from the tribal village of Bikkapathymund that sits atop a mountain ridge; the way to this hamlet is in itself a blissful experience! Arriving in the village, hike till the end of its ridge and enjoy the amazing views of the Mayor River along with the Tamil Nadu and Karnataka Border. Descending down further with the Ebbanad trek, you will reach the Toda Conical Temple that is situated amidst dense forests. Following this temple visit, trek through the lush acacia forests and reach a nearby village, where you can have lunch. Post lunch, start hiking towards the Murugan Temple; after this, the trail will continue from Doddabetti to Kothagiri and finally to Kothanad. Hereafter, the trek will descend down and will take you to Ebbanad or the ‘Hidehatty’ village. Spend pleasant moments in the village, interact with the locals and know more about its lifestyle. Post this, board a local bus from within the hamlet and travel back to Ooty.