The Indian Heritage of Religion, Culture and Architecture
- Location
Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh & Karnataka
- Nearest Airports
Madurai (RMM), Trichy (TRZ), Bangalore (BLR), Hubli (HBX)
- Nearest Railway Stations
Rameshwaram, Kumbakonam, Hindupur (near Lepakshi), Hospet (for Hampi)
- Highlight
A cultural and architectural journey across South India’s most iconic temples. The long corridors of Rameshwaram, the UNESCO-recognized Airavatesvara, the unique pillars of Lepakshi, the surreal stone symphony of Hampi and the ornate carvings of Mysore temples.
- Duration
10D/9N
The Southern States of India have a perfect blend of spirit, creativity and innovation, chiseled across centuries. This temple trail takes you through the distinct architectural fervor of the Southern States and introduces you to Rameshwaram, artistry of the Chola dynasty in Darasuram’s Airavatesvara temple, mural-rich Lepakshi temple, the surreal boulder terrain of Hampi, and the intricate stonework of Mysore temples.
Highlights of the Tour:
- Walk barefoot on the 1000-pillared corridor of Rameshwaram Temple, one of the Char Dhams, four sacred pilgrimage sites in Hinduism,
- Be amazed by the delicate stone chariot and musical steps of Airavatesvara Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site
- Gaze up at the massive hanging pillar and mural paintings in the lesser visited but striking Lepakshi Temple
- Wander through the ruins of Hampi, where boulders and temples create an eerie sense of mystery for spiritual seekers
- Trace dynastic histories across centuries of temple building, from Chola to Vijayanagara
A Ten-Day Itinerary of the Temple Tour across the Southern States
Day 1: Madurai - Rameshwaram
Distance: 170 km
Take an early morning flight or /train to Madurai. From there, board a bus or shared cab to Rameshwaram. After check-in, walk to the seashore for a sunset view near Agni Theertham. Adventurers can explore the ghost town of Dhanushkodi and walk along the picturesque Pamban Bridge, facing the sea. Stay overnight in Rameshwaram.
Day 2: Explore Rameshwaram
Towering gopurams (spires) and finely carved stone corridors – the Ramanathaswamy Temple has the longest corridor among all Hindu temples in India. There are 22 sacred teerthams (ponds of sacred water) inside the temple complex, each with water that tastes different and is believed to have healing properties. Pilgrims traditionally bathe in all 22 before entering the inner sanctum. Even though Rameshwaram had no granite quarries, the massive granite blocks were transported from far-off places, highlighting the mastery of the builders.
Day 3: Rameshwaram - Kumbakonam
Distance: 240 km
Take half a day and explore Brihadeeswarar Temple, an architectural and engineering marvel. Brihadeeswarar Temple was built by Chola emperor Raja Chola I in the 11th century. The temple is renowned for its massive sixty-six meters-tall vimana (tower) and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site as part of the “Great Living Chola Temples”.
Then continue to Kumbakonam, a temple town wrapped in the Chola (dynasty) influence. Rest awhile and sip traditional South Indian filter coffee at a local “kaapi” stall while watching life go by in the thriving marketplace. You can pair it with a crispy dosa or vada (popular snacks) under the temple shade.
Day 4: Airavatesvara Temple & Kumbakonam Temples
Explore the stone sculptures of Airavatesvara Temple in Darasuram, a smaller but intricately built masterpiece of the era of the Chola dynasty. Built by King Rajaraja Chola II in the 12th century, the temple is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site group known as the “Great Living Chola Temples”. Observe the miniature friezes and carved steps that echo to musical notes when tapped.
The temple features a remarkable stone chariot mandapam (hall), constructed like a chariot drawn by horses, akin to the one at Hampi but smaller and carved in exquisite detail.
Return to Kumbakonam and explore nearby temples like Sarangapani, Adi Kumbeswarar and Nageswaran.
Day 5: Kumbakonam - Lepakshi
Distance: 400+ km
You can either take an overnight train via Chennai or a flight to Bangalore, then drive up to Lepakshi in Andhra Pradesh, 120 km from Bangalore. If you arrive late, take it slow and do not rush to explore the town immediately. Consider it a buffer day and restore your energy for the day ahead.
Day 6: Lepakshi Temple
Day 7: Bangalore - Hampi
Distance: 350 km (6-7 hours by train or car)
Catch an early morning train or cab to Hospet, and from there a short auto ride to Hampi. It’s always recommended to stay at a riverside guesthouse. Rest or take a slow evening walk across the market area near Virupaksha Temple.
Day 8: Hampi Ruins and Temples
Hampi’s sacred and royal precincts are a mindful reminder of forgotten time. This boulder-landscape, almost barren-like, is a living example of the intricate artwork of masters who left their indelible mark on the Virupaksha Temple, Hemakuta Hills, Vittala Temple with the stone chariot and musical pillars, and the Queen’s Bath.
After a whole day of exploration, you can end your day atop Matanga Hill with one of the most surreal sunsets over bouldered ruins. The river in Hampi is the Tungabhadra River, which flows through the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hampi. Circular boats used on the river are called coracles, made of bamboo and plastic or tar, traditionally used for short river crossings.
Day 9: Hampi - Mysore
Visit Mysore Palace, the city’s iconic royal residence, famous for its lavish interiors and intricate woodwork.
Later on, you can explore the Jaganmohan Palace Art Gallery nearby to admire traditional and modern Indian paintings. Head to Brindavan Gardens, just outside Mysore, to enjoy the beautiful landscaping and the spectacular musical fountain show at sunset.
Day 10: Explore Mysore
Visit Chamundi Hill Temple, dedicated to Goddess Chamundeshwari; to enjoy the panoramic views of Mysore city from the hilltop. Explore the nearby Nandi Bull statue, carved out of a single granite rock.
Head to St. Philomena’s Cathedral, a stunning example of Neo-Gothic architecture in Mysore.
In the evening, you can walk through the bustling Devaraja Market for a taste of local life, spices, flowers, and souvenirs.
Best Time for the Temple Tour of Southern States
The best time for the South Indian temple tour is October to March, when the southern heat gives way to cool winds and temple stones remain warm underfoot, not scorching.
How Ruhani Guides Your Trip
We at Ruhani provide self-guided packages, where you have the freedom to customize your tour according to your needs. Reach out to our team via the contact form below for more details.
Contact a Ruhani Travel Advisor Right Away
In case of any emergency, medical or otherwise, you can contact the Ruhani support team at any point in your travels. We are here to assist you throughout.
- (+1) 301-250-6943
- contact@ruhaniindia.com
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