Swarajya Heritage Tour
A Week In Chettinad
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Explore the cultural treasures of Tamil Nadu—Karaikudi and Thanjavur, two regions rich in timeless heritage and vibrant traditions. Join us on a journey that unveils the grandeur of Chettinad mansions and the artistic marvels of the Chola Empire!
This March 2025, travel with us for an exclusive four-day, four-night cultural odyssey designed to immerse you in the rich traditions, artistry, and history of these extraordinary destinations.
Travel Dates:
Departure Date: 20-Mar-2025
Tour End Date: 24-Mar-2025
Departure From: Bengaluru
Pick-up Point: Sandal Soap Factory, Bengaluru
Pick-up Time: 10:30 PM IST
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features
Experience the grandeur of Chidambara Vilas, a 128-year-old Chettiar heritage mansion, where intricate craftsmanship and spacious courtyards reflect the timeless legacy of Chettinad architecture.
Soak yourself in exclusive cultural workshops led by master artisans, and learn the delicate artistry of Athangudi tile-making, Kandangi saree weaving, and bronze casting—crafts that have been passed down through generations.
Savor authentic Chettinad feast served traditionally on banana leaves, embark on a temple trail exploring spiritual marvels, and engage in interactive experiences like terracotta pottery and Murukku-making.
An unforgettable journey into the living heritage of Karaikudi and Thanjavur awaits!
Trip Itinerary
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Day 0 & 1 - Departure and Arrival in Chettinad
Begin your journey with a luxurious overnight drive from Bengaluru to Chettinad.
Upon arrival, enjoy a scenic ride to Karaikudi with breakfast en route. Check in at the stunning Chidambara Vilas - Explore the heritage mansion on a guided tour and participate in a Chettinad cooking workshop to discover the secrets of its acclaimed cuisine.
Savor a lavish feast served on banana leaves, followed by a temple trail to Pillayarpatti Temple and an exciting antique hunt.
Conclude your day with fine dining at Chidambara Vilas, submerging yourself in the essence of Chettinad culture.
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Day 2 - Discover Craft and Culture of Chettinad
Begin your day with a bullock cart ride through Karaikudi's charming villages, followed by a hearty breakfast. Visit the Athmanathar Kovil and Ayyanar Kovil, known for its colourfully painted terracotta horses.
Enjoy a traditional Chettinad sapadu lunch at The Visalam and explore the grand Chettiar mansions. Partake in hands-on workshops for terracotta pottery, Kandangi saree weaving, and Murukku-making, experiencing Chettinad’s craftsmanship.
Conclude the day with a relaxing dinner at Chidambara Vilas, cherishing the cultural essence of Chettinad.
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Day 3 - Vanakkam Thanjavur
Begin the day with a hearty breakfast before departing to the cultural heart of Tamil Nadu, Thanjavur.
Explore the Thanjavur Museum & Library, delving into its ancient archives and lost idols.
Witness traditional artistry with Veena-making and bronze casting workshops, followed by a hands-on session on creating Thanjavur paintings.
After lunch, visit the majestic Brihadeeswarar Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Wrap up your journey with a delightful dinner before embarking on your return, carrying cherished memories of Thanjavur’s timeless legacy.
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Day 4 - Farewell to Tamil Nadu
Start your day with an optional sunrise visit to the Brihadeeswarar Temple, followed by a leisurely breakfast.
After checkout, enjoy a scenic drive to Tiruchirappalli for a delicious local meal.
If time permits, visit the renowned Srirangam Temple, a spiritual and architectural marvel.
Reflect on your enriching journey as you head home with unforgettable memories of Karaikudi and Thanjavur, steeped in heritage and culture.

HIGHLIGHT
A Journey Through Tamil Nadu’s Timeless Heritage
Marvel at the architectural brilliance of the mighty Brihadeeswarar Temple and stroll through the splendid streets of Kanadukathan, where every corner tells a story of artistry and tradition.
In Thanjavur, dive into the city’s artistic legacy with Thanjavur painting, Veena-making, and bronze sculpture workshops. Beyond heritage, this journey offers unforgettable cultural experiences, from a bullock cart ride through Karaikudi’s charming villages to an interactive Murukku-making session.
A professional cinematographer will accompany the trip, ensuring your cherished moments are beautifully captured. This is more than just a tour—it’s an enriching voyage through history, culture, and craftsmanship, offering a once-in-a-lifetime connection to Tamil Nadu’s living heritage.
Secure your spot now for this unmissable experience!

About Aatri - The Tour Partners
Founded by Shanthala Govardhan and Goutham Divakar, Aatri began as casual travel story exchanges, embarked on curating boutique tours spanning cultural, spiritual, heritage, and corporate travel domains, exploring landscapes across India and internationally.
Aatri is now an experiential travel company specialising in offering tailor-made travel episodes and is known for its unique approach of curating tours that are not only visually stunning but also provide a deep understanding of the local traditions, heritage, and history.
Derived from Atri, one of the revered Saptarishis mentioned in ancient Indian epics, the name Aatri symbolises overcoming challenges and voyaging through life—a perfect metaphor for their transformative approach to travel.
All Your Questions
FAQ
Accommodation and Culinary Experience
- Guests will stay in twin-sharing rooms at the luxurious Chidambara Vilas, a 128-year-old restored Chettiar heritage mansion in Karaikudi, and at the elegant Sangam Hotel in Thanjavur. Both accommodations offer a perfect blend of heritage charm and modern comfort, providing a relaxing retreat after immersive cultural explorations.
- As part of the tour package, all three meals—breakfast, lunch, and dinner—along with refreshments are included for the full duration of the retreat. Relish a variety of authentic and carefully curated dishes, including a traditional Chettinad feast, showcasing the rich and diverse culinary flavors of Tamil Nadu.
Payment
The tour is priced at Rs. 44,999 per person. This all-inclusive package covers luxury accommodation, all meals and refreshments, guided tours, workshops, and entry fees, ensuring a seamless and enriching experience as you explore the cultural treasures of Karaikudi and Thanjavur.
Cancellation
- Cancellation by the Customer: If the customer cancels the tour booking up to 15 days prior to the tour start date, the customer will receive a 50% refund. Cancellations made after 05-Mar-2025 will not be eligible for a refund.
- Cancellation due to acts of God: In case of a cancellation of the tour due to “acts of God” or other problems beyond our control, a full refund would be issued.
Itinerary
View the Detailed Itinerary Here
Day 1: Arrival and Introduction to Chettinad
- Morning: Departure with breakfast en route and arrival in Karaikudi
- Afternoon: Check-in at Chidambara Vilas, guided mansion tour, and a Chettinad cooking workshop
- Evening: Traditional Chettinad feast and a temple trail to Pillayarpatti Temple, concluding with fine dining
Day 2: Exploring the Crafts and Culture of Chettinad
- Morning: Bullock cart ride, breakfast, and temple visits to Athmanathar Kovil and Ayyanar Kovil
- Afternoon: Chettinad sapadu lunch at The Visalam, mansion-hopping, and hands-on workshops in pottery, saree weaving, and Murukku-making
- Evening: Relaxed dinner at Chidambara Vilas
Day 3: Immersion in Thanjavur’s Heritage
- Morning: Breakfast and journey to Thanjavur to explore the Thanjavur Museum & Library
- Afternoon: Workshops in bronze casting, veena-making, and Thanjavur painting, followed by lunch
- Evening: Visit to Brihadeeswarar Temple and a delightful dinner
Day 4: Farewell and Final Exploration
- Morning: Optional sunrise visit to Brihadeeswarar Temple, breakfast, and checkout
- Afternoon: Lunch in Tiruchirappalli and optional visit to Srirangam Temple
- Evening: Depart with cherished memories of Karaikudi and Thanjavur
Contact Information
- Please write to us at heritage@swarajyamag.com for any tour-related queries
- We are available at the following contact numbers too:
+91 9606081010
+91 8861764469
+91 9945513606