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A three-week tour through Karnataka, Hampi and Tamil Nadu will allow you to experience the rich culture, ancient history, exquisite architecture, majestic temples and varied landscapes of these southern regions from India. Here is a suggested itinerary for your trip:
Week 1: Karnataka
Day 1: Bengaluru (Bangalore)
• Arrive in Bengaluru, the capital of Karnataka.
• Visit Bangalore Palace, Lalbagh Park and Karnataka Folklore and Crafts Museum.
• Explore the city's vibrant areas, such as MG Road and Indiranagar.
Day 2-3: Mysuru (Mysore)
• Travel to Mysuru (Mysore), known for its lavish palace.
• Visit Mysore Palace, Chamundeshwari Temple and Brindavan Gardens.
• Explore the bustling markets of Mysuru and taste the delicious local delicacies.
Day 4-5: Coorg (Kodagu)
• Head to Coorg, a lush mountainous region famous for its coffee plantations.
• Enjoy the pleasant climate, waterfalls and picturesque landscapes of Coorg.
• Visit the Omkareshwara temple and take a walk through the coffee plantations.
Day 6-7-8: Hampi
• Travel to Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with ancient ruins and unique rock landscapes.
• Explore the temples and remains of the ruined royal city.
• Enjoy the beautiful sunset from the banks of the Tungabhadra River.
Day 9: Mahabalipuram
• Travel to Mahabalipuram, a coastal town known for its ancient monuments and sculptures.
• Visit the famous monuments such as the Shore Temple, the Shore Temple and the rathas.
• Enjoy Mahabalipuram Beach and witness the beautiful sunset over the coast.
Day 10 : Kanchipuram
• Take a day trip to Kanchipuram, known as the “City of a Thousand Temples”.
• Visit historic temples such as Kailasanatha Temple, Ekambareswarar Temple and Vaikunta Perumal Temple.
Day 11-12 : Pondicherry
• Go to Pondicherry, a former French colony with a unique charm.
• Explore the French Quarter with its cobblestone streets, colorful houses and quaint cafes.
• Visit Auroville, an international community dedicated to human unity.
Day 13-14 : Cholapuram and Kumbakonam
• Travel to Cholapuram to visit Brihadeeswarar Temple, another UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Head to Kumbakonam, known for its ancient temples and sacred ponds.
• Visit the temples of Kumbakonam such as Adi Kumbeswarar Temple and Sarangapani Temple.
Day 15 : Thanjavur (Tanjore)
• Travel to Thanjavur, home to the famous Brihadeswara Temple.
• Visit the Brihadeswara Temple, another UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Explore Thanjavur Palace and Saraswathi Mahal Museum.
Day 16: Srirangam and Trichy (Tiruchirappalli)
• Take an excursion to Srirangam, located near Trichy, to visit the Ranganathaswamy Temple, one of the largest Hindu temples in India.
• Visit Trichy and explore the famous Tiruchirappalli rock, on which the Ganapati temple is located.
Day 17-18 : Madurai
• Travel to Madurai, a historic city known for the Meenakshi Amman Temple.
• Explore Meenakshi Amman Temple, one of the largest and most famous temples in South India.
• Visit Thirumalai Nayak Palace and Koodal Azhagar Temple.
• Take advantage of your last day to shop in Madurai's bustling markets and sample delicious South Indian cuisine.
This itinerary will allow you to discover the cultural diversity, ancient temples, opulent palaces and magnificent landscapes of Karnataka, Hampi and Tamil Nadu. Be sure to enjoy local cuisine, traditional dances, and warm hospitality throughout your trip. South India offers a unique and memorable experience for travelers looking for cultural discoveries and relaxation.