From cultural discoveries to breathtaking natural wonders, this itinerary is designed to inspire every type of traveller. Each experience has been carefully selected to offer meaningful insight, memorable stories, and a deeper connection to the places you visit.
Fly from UK to Chennai.
Arrive Chennai. Meeting and assistance on arrival by Novaturient’s representative and transfer to Mahabalipuram. Check-in at The Intercontinental Chennai Mahabalipuram Resort for 3 nights stay. Rest of the day is at leisure.
Morning sightseeing of UENSCO World Heritage Site of Mahabalipuram- an open-air museum of sculpture in living rock. The piece de resistance is Arjuna’s Penance or the Descent of the Ganga, the world’s largest bas-relief. It’s a breathtaking composition of hundreds of celestial beings, human and animals all hurrying to a natural rock cleft that divides the giant stone. The delightful Shore Temple is utterly stunning and the twin spires almost poetical in their beauty. Afternoon at leisure.
After breakfast cycle towards Kadumbadi Village. Ride through the country roads, visit the local potters and try your hand at throwing your own pot. Then cycle in the beauty of rural India. Afternoon at leisure.
Morning drive to Pondicherry. On arrival check-in at the Maison Perumal for 2 nights. Afternoon Heritage Walk of the French quarter’ Note particularly the architecture which is an enduring legacy of the French period – ornate gateways, garden courtyards strewn with bougainvillea and buildings painted in lovely shades of lime and peach.
After breakfast drive to Sadhana Forest, a reforestation project and a sustainable living community in Auroville. The main aim of Sadhana Forest is to develop awareness about responsible and a sustainable way of living. Afternoon visit Aurobindo Ashram which has played a significant role in the socio-economic and spiritual fabric of Pondicehrry (now known as Puducherry) since its establishment almost a century ago. In the evening walk to the beach and relax at a local Café.
Morning drive to Thanjavur, en-route visit Darasuram with its numerous architecturally important ancient temples. The Airavateswara temple is the most significant of them all. On arrival check in at Svatma for 2 nights stay.
After breakfast sightseeing of Thanjavur (Tanjore) includes visiting the Brahadeeswarar Temple, built in 1010 AD by the Chola King Raja Raja I. The Temple has been listed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. The Palace, surrounded by magnificent walls, for fortification, was an important centre for both the Nayak dynasty and the Maratha kingdom. Also visit the local Thanjavur market. Afternoon at leisure.
Morning drive to Chettinad and check in at hotel Visalam for 2 nights. Afternoon visit a cotton saree weaving centre in Karaikudi (Chettinad). Chettinad was also famous for the cotton sari- ‘kandaangi’. It is unique in the dramatic and spontaneous use of colour and pattern with bold checks, stripes and contrasting hues. Also visit the Athangudi tile units to watch tiles being made.
After breakfast explore the Chettinad Architecture, visiting the palatial 18th C. mansions built using materials imported from East Asian countries and Europe roughly a 100 years ago. Evening Culinary Experience. Chettinad cuisine highlights the complex blending of spices: star anise, cinnamon, black pepper, red chilli, fennel seed and tamarind. Visalam has an open kitchen where guests are invited to watch and join in the preparation of all the meals of the day. Chettinad cuisine is one of the spiciest and the most aromatic in India.
Morning drive to Madurai. Check in at the Heritage Madurai for 3 nights. In evening visit the stunning Meenakshi Temple, the crowning glory of Madurai and one of India’s finest temples. Watch the nightly closing ceremony where the Lord Shiva is carried to his wifes chamber – the Goddess Parvati- for the night to celebrate their celestial union.
Morning visit to the flower and vegetable market. Madurai is an exporter of jasmine and roses to many European countries and America. Perfumiers often visit to gain inspiration for new fragrances. In the afternoon take a heritage walk around the Meenakshi temple. The temple complex and the surrounding area is a unique example of South Indian architecture and temple art.
At leisure until an evening Street Food Tour of Madurai. The tour takes you to different restaurants to sample the flavours of the city. Also visit some popular road-side eateries/kiosks frequented by the locals and known for their tasty snacks. The tour is a mix of walk and drive and takes you to the city’s most authentic eateries; giving a delicious gastronomic experience of Madurai.
Morning fly to Chennai. Stay at Vivanta by Taj- Connemara for 1 night. Afternoon sightseeing of Chennai visiting Fort St George and the Government Museum. Drive along the Marina, an elegant promenade and onto the old Indian section of Mylapore. Visit San
Thome Basilica a beautiful pristine white Roman Catholic cathedral, with Portuguese origins, and dates to the 16th C. It was rebuilt in Neo-Gothic style in 1896 and is said to be the final resting place of St Thomas, the Apostle.
Transfer to the airport to board your return flight back home.
Our India itineraries are designed to showcase the country’s richness without feeling overwhelming. Travel at a considered pace, with expert guides who bring history, culture, and everyday life into focus. From classic routes such as the Golden Triangle to lesser-known regions and thematic journeys, every tour is personalised to reflect your interests and preferred style of travel.
To help you plan your journey with confidence, the FAQs below provide essential travel information for UK travellers visiting India, including visa requirements, passport validity, health guidance, and practical advice for travelling around the country.
Yes. UK passport holders must obtain a visa in advance to travel to India. Most travellers apply for an e-Visa, which can be arranged online prior to departure.
The length of stay depends on the visa type issued. Tourist e-Visas typically allow stays of up to 30, 90, or 180 days, depending on the visa selected.
Your passport must be valid for at least six months from your date of arrival in India and contain at least two blank pages.
Yes. India can be enjoyed by first-time visitors when travel is well planned. Guided tours, private drivers, and carefully paced itineraries help ensure a comfortable and rewarding experience.
The local currency is the Indian Rupee (INR). Credit and debit cards are accepted in hotels and larger establishments, but cash is widely used, particularly in smaller towns and markets.
India is generally safe for tourists, particularly when travelling with reputable operators and guides. As with any destination, travellers should take standard precautions, especially in busy urban areas.
No mandatory vaccinations are required for entry, but travellers are advised to be up to date with routine vaccinations. Medical advice should be sought before travel, particularly for longer stays.
Lightweight, modest clothing is recommended. Covering shoulders and knees is advised, especially when visiting temples, mosques, and rural areas. Comfortable footwear is essential for sightseeing.
The best time to visit most regions of India is between October and March, when temperatures are cooler and conditions are ideal for travel. Climate varies by region.
Yes. India has an extensive network of domestic flights, trains, and private road transport. Guided travel and private drivers are commonly used for comfort and convenience.
Yes. Comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended, covering medical treatment, cancellations, and any planned activities.
Yes. India offers a wide range of experiences suitable for families, couples, and honeymooners, from cultural tours and wildlife safaris to heritage stays and scenic retreats.
