From Temples to Tropics: Tamil Nadu & The Andaman Islands
Dive into the rich cultural tapestry of Tamil Nadu before escaping to the idyllic Andaman Islands on this thoughtfully curated itinerary. From ancient Dravidian temples and colonial charm to turquoise waters and Robinson Crusoe vibes, this journey perfectly blends heritage and serenity for the discerning traveller.
Journey highlights
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A 15-night itinerary, offering both culture and relaxation
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Spend time in picturesque Pondicherry, a former French colonial town
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Some of the best diving can be found off the nearby shores of Havelock Island
- Delight in the rich architectural history of Tamil Nadu before heading to the Andamans
Our tailor made journeys include:
- Your dedicated Travel Consultant who will take care of arrangements
- Private international airport transfers in destination
- Your own private, English-speaking local guides
- Unique experiences, hand-picked by our Journeys team
- Entrance to must-see local sites
- Dedicated 24/7 team providing in-country support and guidance
- Complimentary access to My Scott Dunn – industry-leading travel app providing pre-departure information and in-journey support
When to visit
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- F
- M
- A
- M
- J
- J
- A
- S
- O
- N
- D
Tropical climate- hot during the day. Summer (April-June) temperatures can get as high as 43-44°C, while early mornings and evenings are pleasant (18-24°C). Night time winter temperatures vary between 02-20°C, whereas days are sunny and pleasant (October-March). Rainfall is heavy in the monsoon season (mid June to September) and average rainfall is 1400 mm. The best time to travel is November to April.
Itinerary
Madurai: The Soul of Tamil Nadu
This enchanting itinerary begins in the town of Madurai, which sits on the banks of the river Vaigai. Dating back to the Pandyan kingdom around 600BC, it is a city rich in heritage during your two nights here, your private guide will bring to life the many Dravidian style temples and unique heritage.
Accommodation: The Gateway Hotel Pasumalai, Madurai ( 2 nights )
Chettinad: Culture in Every Corner
From Madurai your next stop is in the heart of Chettinad, which you will reach with a drive of just over two hours. Here you’ll get the chance to get a real feel for the Chettinad traditions and we have included a visit to the local bazaars and artisan's workshops. The surrounding countryside is also a great place to go birdwatching, horse riding and enjoy boating trips should that be of interest.
Accommodation: Visalam ( 2 nights )
Tanjore: Temples and Legacy
Then you will head to Tanjore, where you will spend the next two nights. Tanjore was once the capital of the Chola empire and is home to more impressive temples including the Brihadeeswarar Temple. You’ll have a flexible private guide here to show you the highlights of this fascinating region.
Accommodation: Svatma ( 2 nights )
Pondicherry: A French-Indian Fusion
No trip to Tamil Nadu is complete without a stay in Pondicherry, which will be your last stop on the India mainland. To reach Ponicherry from Tanjore your private chauffeur will again drive you which will take just under four hours. Here your private guide will lead you through the streets of Pondicherry. Under French rule until 1954, there is an interesting atmosphere here with a distinctly spiritual feel and streets lined with bougainvillea and beautiful townhouses.
Accommodation: Palais de Mahe ( 2 nights )
Havelock Island: Tropical Bliss
Your journey then takes you down to the remote Andaman Islands, which you will reach with a two hour and a half hour car transfer followed by a two-hour flight to Port Blair and finally a three hour boat transfer to Havelock Island. It is a long journey but definitely the highlight of the trip. The island is somewhere few ever think of heading. However this tropical retreat offers some of the best diving in the world and with its Robinson Crusoe way of life; it’s hard to beat.
Accommodation: Jalakara ( 4 nights )
Chennai: A Grand Finale
After enjoying four blissful nights on Havelock Island, upon returning to Chennai, you will spend one night in the city before connecting to your onward flight or to your next exciting destination.
Our itineraries are completely bespoke and can easily be adjusted to suit you. Add on more time in the Andaman Islands to completely switch off. Our specialists visit all the places we sell, so know the properties we sell and the local area inside out.
Accommodation: The Leela Palace Chennai ( 1 night )
Call us on 020 3918 3595 to start planning your holiday.
Price Guide: (per person based on double occupancy and includes international flights)
| Departing |
Price from*
|
Deposit from * | Enquire |
|---|---|---|---|
| December 2024 | GBP £6,400 | GBP £1,000 | plan your trip |
| January 2025 | GBP £6,400 | GBP £1,000 | plan your trip |
| February 2025 | GBP £6,400 | GBP £1,000 | plan your trip |
| March 2025 | GBP £6,400 | GBP £1,000 | plan your trip |
| April 2025 | GBP £5,400 | GBP £800 | plan your trip |
| May 2025 | GBP £5,400 | GBP £800 | plan your trip |
| June 2025 | GBP £5,400 | GBP £800 | plan your trip |
| July 2025 | GBP £5,400 | GBP £800 | plan your trip |
| August 2025 | GBP £5,400 | GBP £800 | plan your trip |
| September 2025 | GBP £5,400 | GBP £800 | plan your trip |
| October 2025 | GBP £6,400 | GBP £1,000 | plan your trip |
| November 2025 | GBP £6,400 | GBP £1,000 | plan your trip |
-
December 2024
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public holidays) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveller pricing is available upon request.
GBP £6,400
Deposit from*GBP £1,000
-
January 2025
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public holidays) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveller pricing is available upon request.
GBP £6,400
Deposit from*GBP £1,000
-
February 2025
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public holidays) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveller pricing is available upon request.
GBP £6,400
Deposit from*GBP £1,000
-
March 2025
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public holidays) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveller pricing is available upon request.
GBP £6,400
Deposit from*GBP £1,000
-
April 2025
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public holidays) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveller pricing is available upon request.
GBP £5,400
Deposit from*GBP £800
-
May 2025
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public holidays) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveller pricing is available upon request.
GBP £5,400
Deposit from*GBP £800
-
June 2025
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public holidays) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveller pricing is available upon request.
GBP £5,400
Deposit from*GBP £800
-
July 2025
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public holidays) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveller pricing is available upon request.
GBP £5,400
Deposit from*GBP £800
-
August 2025
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public holidays) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveller pricing is available upon request.
GBP £5,400
Deposit from*GBP £800
-
September 2025
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public holidays) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveller pricing is available upon request.
GBP £5,400
Deposit from*GBP £800
-
October 2025
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public holidays) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveller pricing is available upon request.
GBP £6,400
Deposit from*GBP £1,000
-
November 2025
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public holidays) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveller pricing is available upon request.
GBP £6,400
Deposit from*GBP £1,000
- plan your trip