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 traveler.
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
- J
- 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
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At a Glance
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.
Where to stay
Gateway Madurai (2 nights)
Alternative Places to Stay Nearby
More Experiences in This Area
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At a Glance
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.
Where to stay
Visalam (2 nights)
Alternative Places to Stay Nearby
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At a Glance
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.
Where to stay
Svatma (2 nights)
Alternative Places to Stay Nearby
More Experiences in This Area
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At a Glance
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.
Where to stay
Palais de Mahe (2 nights)
Alternative Places to Stay Nearby
More Experiences in This Area
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At a Glance
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.
Where to stay
Jalakara (4 nights)
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At a Glance
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 personalized 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.
Where to stay
The Leela Palace Chennai (1 night)
Alternative Places to Stay Nearby
More Experiences in This Area
Price Guide: (per person based on double occupancy and excludes international flights)
| Departing |
Price from*
|
Deposit from * | Enquire |
|---|---|---|---|
| October 2025 | $9,500 | $2,400 | plan your trip |
| November 2025 | $9,500 | $2,400 | plan your trip |
| December 2025 | $9,500 | $2,400 | plan your trip |
| January 2026 | $9,500 | $2,400 | plan your trip |
| February 2026 | $9,500 | $2,400 | plan your trip |
| March 2026 | $9,500 | $2,400 | plan your trip |
| April 2026 | $9,000 | $2,300 | plan your trip |
| May 2026 | $9,000 | $2,300 | plan your trip |
| June 2026 | $9,000 | $2,300 | plan your trip |
| July 2026 | $9,000 | $2,300 | plan your trip |
| August 2026 | $9,000 | $2,300 | plan your trip |
| September 2026 | $9,000 | $2,300 | plan your trip |
| October 2025 | $9,500 | $2,400 | plan your trip |
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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 vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$9,500
Deposit from*$2,400
-
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 vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$9,500
Deposit from*$2,400
-
December 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 vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$9,500
Deposit from*$2,400
-
January 2026
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 vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$9,500
Deposit from*$2,400
-
February 2026
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 vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$9,500
Deposit from*$2,400
-
March 2026
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 vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$9,500
Deposit from*$2,400
-
April 2026
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 vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$9,000
Deposit from*$2,300
-
May 2026
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 vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$9,000
Deposit from*$2,300
-
June 2026
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 vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$9,000
Deposit from*$2,300
-
July 2026
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 vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$9,000
Deposit from*$2,300
-
August 2026
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 vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$9,000
Deposit from*$2,300
-
September 2026
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 vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$9,000
Deposit from*$2,300
-
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 vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$9,500
Deposit from*$2,400
- plan your trip
Experiences in this tour
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![Madurai]()
View ExperienceCity Tour Of Madurai
After an early breakfast head out to enjoy a tour of Madurai, one of the oldest cities in India and the second largest city in Tamil Nadu.
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![French Quarter]()
View ExperienceGuided tour of the French Quarter
Walk around the French Quarter with your guide and learn about this unique part of Pondicherry and how the French legacy is still preserved.
We design each itinerary around you, so this suggested itineraryis a starting point that we can tweak or transform into something completely personalized to you. Call us on 858 345 1762 to start planning your vacation.
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