Chennai (formerly Madras), gateway to the rich and varied cultural South India – the least exposed region of India to outside cultures. Hindus have built here very ornate and intricately carved temples in the Davidian style with their towering Gopurams colourfully sculpted with Hindu figures.

Puducherry – built in the 7th Century by the Pallava Kings this world heritage site is a feast of rock cut caves monolithic shrines and fabulous temples.

Chettinad – feast in the cuisine, the spiciest and most aromatic in all India.

Madurai – one of India’s biggest pilgrimage sites the Meenakshi Temple.

Trichy – Tamil Nadu’s 2nd largest city dominated by the Fort has a great history reflected in not just temples but
a cathedral, a heritage of British rule.

Mysore – has a rich history but the modern city is the creation of Tipu Sultan who, in 1793, levelled the Old City and built the present town. Here is the place to shop for ivory work, silks sandalwood and carvings.

Bangalore – capital of the state of Kamataka, Bangalore is the 3rd most populous city in India. Whilst it has its fair share
of temples and palaces, its main claim to fame is as the Silicon Valley of India; its nations leading IT exporter.