Essential Tamil Nadu & the Andamans
Featured Journey16 DaysIndia

Essential Tamil Nadu & the Andamans

Mamallapuram, Pondicherry, Tanjore, Chettinad, Palani Hills, Madurai, Chennai, The Andamans

16
Days
8
Destinations
Private
Your party only
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Absolute Asia/India/Essential Tamil Nadu & the Andamans

Overview

This 16-day itinerary takes you from Tamil Nadu’s Coromandel Coast, through ancient towns with colourful and intricately carved temples, via former colonial enclaves, and into scenic rural spots. Taste speciality cuisines, and experience the art, music and traditional crafts of this fascinating region, home to one of the only remaining living classical civilisations. Finish your trip with time to chill on the beach in a true barefoot paradise, Havelock Island.

Route

Mamallapuram, Pondicherry, Tanjore, Chettinad, Palani Hills, Madurai, Chennai, The Andamans

Travel style

Moderate

Trip Snapshot & Inclusions Standard100% Private & Tailor-Made
Service ModelStrictly private chauffeured air-conditioned vehicle with dedicated English-speaking certified guide throughout.
Pacing & FlexibilityAdaptive itinerary pacing with unhurried daily departures, tailored specifically to your party.
Commercial PurityStrictly zero compulsory tourist shopping stops or commission traps. 100% focused on authentic cultural discovery.
24/7 ConciergeDedicated local country specialist reachable around the clock from arrival through departure.

“India is the cradle of the human race, the birthplace of human speech, the mother of history, the grandmother of legend, and the great grandmother of tradition.”

— Mark Twain
Celebrated American Author & Humorist
Source: Following the Equator: A Journey Around the World ↗
✓ Verified Geographic & Heritage FactsOfficial records from UNESCO, National Authorities & Geological Surveys
Taj Mahal Monument of Love
White marble mausoleum completed in 1648 by Emperor Shah Jahan on the Yamuna riverbank (UNESCO 1983)
Source: Archaeological Survey of India ↗
Hill Forts of Rajasthan
6 majestic stone forts across Chittorgarh, Kumbhalgarh, Ranthambore, Amber, Jaisalmer and Gagron (UNESCO 2013)
Source: UNESCO World Heritage Centre ↗
Kerala Backwaters Estuarine Network
Over 900 km of interconnected brackish lagoons, rivers, and canals fringed by palm groves
Source: Kerala Tourism Department ↗
UNESCO World Heritage Sites Across India
42 designated cultural, natural and mixed World Heritage properties spanning subcontinental history
Source: UNESCO World Heritage Centre ↗

Itinerary ideas

Trip Highlights

Personalised design — We'll help plan your trip based on you like and want to do. We know a lot about the place you're gomg. so we can give you good advice. WIIether you're into history, food, or culture, ue'll make sure your trip is just right for you. With us. your travel will be easy and fun! Authentic Experience — We carefully choose our expert guides and travel concierges to make sure you have an authentic experience. They're passionate about their work and will bring your destination to life with care and enthusiasm. Responsible Travel — We design our luxury trips with responsible travel principles in mind. This means we prioritize experiences that benefit both you and the planet.

Why Choose Absolute Asia

English-speaking guides who live in the country you're visiting

A private travel designer reachable throughout your trip

Hand-selected hotels chosen for character, not chain

Private transfers and drivers for a seamless day-to-day

Interested in this itinerary but want to join a small group instead?

Our small group departures follow a similar route at a lower per-person cost.

Learn More

Day by Day

Itinerary

||
Chennai

Private airport reception and transfer to your luxury heritage hotel in Chennai. Afternoon tour of Fort St. George and San Thome Cathedral.

Mamallapuram
Pondicherry
Tanjore
Chettinad
Madurai
Andamans
Havelock
Port Blair
Chennai

Good to Know

Frequently Asked Questions

Price Includes

English speaking, local guide All accommodation listed Land transportation by private air-conditioned vehicles Any domestic flights listed (unless marked otherwise) All admission fees at attractions, temples and activities as mentioned in the itinerary All meals listed

Price Excludes

Entry visas International airport departure taxes Any meals not listed in the itinerary Drinks, other than water on activity days Personal expenses (laundry, telephone, drinks, tip…) Travel insurance All other services not listed in ‘inclusive’ Please note: During high season periods (such as Christmas and New Year) hotels often levy a surcharge and these are not included in the above prices. Your consultant will be happy to advise you of these.

Tailor-Made Journey Guidance

Speak to a Travel Specialist

Every journey is private, tailor-made, and planned around your pace, interests, and preferred style of travel. Connect with a destination specialist to begin designing your itinerary.

Emily Nguyen
Emily NguyenSenior Asia Specialist