Luxury Temple Tour of India
Delhi — Varanasi — Khajuraho — Orchha — Madurai — Thanjavur — Mahabalipuram — Chennai | 13 Nights / 14 Days
Discover the timeless beauty of India’s sacred temples on our Luxury Temple Tour of India, an extraordinary journey through the country’s most revered spiritual landmarks, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and architectural masterpieces. Designed for discerning travelers, this private luxury tour blends centuries of history, vibrant traditions, and exceptional hospitality into one unforgettable experience.
From the sacred ghats of Varanasi and the magnificent temples of Khajuraho to the towering Brihadeeswarar Temple in Thanjavur and the colorful Meenakshi Amman Temple in Madurai, every destination reveals a different chapter of India’s rich cultural and religious heritage.
Travel in complete comfort with private chauffeur-driven transportation, stay at carefully selected luxury hotels, and enjoy expert-guided tours that provide fascinating insights into temple architecture, mythology, history, and local traditions. Whether you’re passionate about spirituality, heritage, photography, or Indian art, this journey offers a refined and immersive exploration of India’s most iconic temple destinations.
Tour Overview
The Luxury Temple Tour of India is a carefully curated 14-day private journey covering North and South India’s most celebrated temple towns. The itinerary combines sacred pilgrimage sites, UNESCO World Heritage monuments, heritage cities, and authentic cultural experiences while ensuring the highest standards of luxury, comfort, and personalized service.
Throughout the journey, you’ll experience ancient rituals, remarkable architecture, traditional music and dance, local cuisine, and the living heritage that continues to define India’s spiritual identity.
Tour Highlights
- Visit the sacred Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Varanasi.
- Witness the spectacular Ganga Aarti on the River Ganges.
- Explore the UNESCO-listed Khajuraho Group of Monuments.
- Discover the historic temples and palaces of Orchha.
- Admire the magnificent Meenakshi Amman Temple in Madurai.
- Visit the UNESCO-listed Brihadeeswarar Temple in Thanjavur.
- Explore the iconic Shore Temple at Mahabalipuram.
- Stay in handpicked luxury hotels throughout the journey.
- Travel with experienced heritage guides.
- Enjoy private chauffeur-driven transportation.
Tour Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Delhi
Welcome to India.
Upon arrival at Indira Gandhi International Airport, our representative will greet you and escort you to your luxury hotel.
Spend the remainder of the day relaxing after your international journey or enjoy optional sightseeing depending on your arrival time.
Overnight Stay: Delhi
Day 2: Delhi to Varanasi
After breakfast, fly to Varanasi, one of the world’s oldest living cities and the spiritual heart of India.
Check into your luxury hotel before visiting the famous Dashashwamedh Ghat in the evening to witness the spectacular Ganga Aarti. Watch priests perform synchronized rituals with lamps, incense, and devotional chants as thousands of devotees gather along the sacred River Ganges.
Return to your hotel for an overnight stay.
Overnight Stay: Varanasi
Day 3: Varanasi & Sarnath
Begin the day with a private sunrise boat cruise along the River Ganges, witnessing pilgrims, temples, and centuries-old rituals illuminated by the morning sun.
Later, visit the revered Kashi Vishwanath Temple, followed by a guided heritage walk through the narrow lanes of the old city.
In the afternoon, travel to Sarnath, where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon. Explore the Dhamek Stupa, archaeological ruins, and museum before returning to Varanasi.
Overnight Stay: Varanasi
Day 4: Khajuraho
Fly to Khajuraho, home to one of India’s most celebrated UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Spend the afternoon exploring the magnificent Western Group of Temples, including the famous Kandariya Mahadeva Temple, renowned for its exquisite stone carvings and remarkable Nagara-style architecture.
In the evening, enjoy the optional Sound and Light Show, which narrates the history of the Chandela dynasty and the construction of these extraordinary monuments.
Overnight Stay: Khajuraho
Day 5: Khajuraho to Orchha
After breakfast, continue by road to the heritage town of Orchha, known for its beautifully preserved temples, palaces, and cenotaphs.
Visit the Chaturbhuj Temple, Raja Ram Temple, and the impressive Orchha Fort Complex, where Bundela architecture and royal history come together in a peaceful riverside setting.
Enjoy a leisurely evening at your heritage-style luxury accommodation.
Overnight Stay: Orchha
Day 6: Fly to Madurai
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to Madurai, one of India’s oldest temple cities and a cultural treasure of Tamil Nadu.
Upon arrival, check into your luxury hotel before beginning an introduction to the city’s rich heritage. In the evening, visit the magnificent Meenakshi Amman Temple, famous for its towering gopurams adorned with thousands of colorful sculptures depicting Hindu mythology.
If your visit coincides with the evening rituals, witness the traditional Palliyarai Ceremony, where Lord Sundareswarar is ceremonially taken to the shrine of Goddess Meenakshi, accompanied by devotional music and chanting.
Return to your hotel after an inspiring evening.
Overnight Stay: Madurai
Day 7: Madurai Heritage & Cultural Experiences
After breakfast, continue exploring the architectural and cultural treasures of Madurai.
Visit the beautifully preserved Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace, known for its grand courtyards, towering pillars, and Indo-Saracenic architecture. Continue to the vibrant local flower and spice markets, where you can experience the city’s daily life and centuries-old trading traditions.
In the afternoon, enjoy a curated cultural experience featuring Bharatanatyam, one of India’s oldest classical dance forms, accompanied by traditional Carnatic music.
Guests may also choose from optional luxury experiences:
- Private South Indian cooking session
- Silk weaving demonstration
- Luxury Ayurveda spa treatment
- Heritage photography walk
- Guided local food experience
Overnight Stay: Madurai
Day 8: Madurai to Thanjavur
After breakfast, drive to Thanjavur, the historic capital of the Chola Empire and home to one of India’s greatest architectural achievements.
Visit the UNESCO-listed Brihadeeswarar Temple, often referred to as the “Big Temple.” Built in the 11th century by Emperor Rajaraja Chola I, this granite masterpiece is renowned for its towering vimana, intricate sculptures, and remarkable engineering.
Continue to the Thanjavur Royal Palace Complex and the Saraswathi Mahal Library, which houses an extraordinary collection of ancient manuscripts and historical documents.
In the evening, check into your luxury heritage hotel.
Overnight Stay: Thanjavur
Day 9: Thanjavur to Mahabalipuram
This morning, travel to the coastal town of Mahabalipuram, another UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its remarkable rock-cut temples and seaside monuments.
Explore the iconic Shore Temple, standing proudly along the Bay of Bengal for over a thousand years. Continue to the Five Rathas, Arjuna’s Penance, Krishna’s Butter Ball, and beautifully carved cave temples that showcase the artistic brilliance of the Pallava dynasty.
Spend the evening relaxing at your luxury beach resort overlooking the sea.
Mahabalipuram
Day 10: Mahabalipuram to Chennai
After breakfast, drive to Chennai, the cultural capital of South India.
Visit the historic Kapaleeshwarar Temple, one of Chennai’s most revered Shiva temples, followed by San Thome Basilica, highlighting the city’s multicultural heritage.
Later, explore the Government Museum or enjoy free time for shopping, art galleries, and waterfront experiences along Marina Beach.
Conclude the day with a farewell dinner at one of Chennai’s renowned fine-dining restaurants.
Overnight Stay: Chennai
Day 11: Leisure & Optional Cultural Experiences
Today is designed for relaxation and personalized exploration.
Choose from a selection of exclusive experiences:
- Private yoga session
- Luxury spa and wellness treatment
- Temple architecture photography tour
- Classical music performance
- Visit to artisan workshops
- Silk and handicraft shopping with a personal guide
- Curated culinary experience featuring regional specialties
Overnight Stay: Chennai
Day 12: Explore at Your Own Pace
Enjoy another leisurely day tailored to your interests.
Depending on your preferences, your private guide can arrange additional temple visits, museum tours, or heritage walks. Travelers interested in architecture can delve deeper into Dravidian temple design, while food enthusiasts may opt for a gourmet culinary trail showcasing South India’s diverse flavors.
This flexible day ensures your journey is as personal and enriching as possible.
Overnight Stay: Chennai
Day 12: Farewell Cultural Experience
Spend your final full day reflecting on your journey through India’s sacred landscapes.
Visit local art galleries, interact with traditional craftsmen, or simply unwind at your luxury hotel. In the evening, enjoy a special farewell dinner celebrating the regional cuisines encountered throughout the tour.
Your guide will also share recommendations for future luxury journeys across India.
Overnight Stay: Chennai
Day 12: Departure
After breakfast, your private chauffeur will transfer you to Chennai International Airport for your onward flight.
Depart with unforgettable memories of India’s magnificent temples, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, vibrant traditions, architectural masterpieces, and exceptional luxury hospitality.
Tour Enquiry
Contact information
- +91 981 120 7934
- info@lewisnclarktours.com
- H 44, BSI Business Park, Sector 63, Noida, Uttar Pradesh 201301, INDIA
Included
- Luxury accommodation in handpicked five-star and heritage hotels
- Daily breakfast
- Private chauffeur-driven transportation
- Domestic flights as per itinerary
- Professional English-speaking heritage guide
- Guided sightseeing at all destinations
- Private sunrise boat ride in Varanasi
- Premium Ganga Aarti experience
- Entrance fees to monuments included in the itinerary
- Bottled drinking water during sightseeing
- All applicable taxes
Not Included
- International airfare
- Indian visa fees
- Travel insurance
- Lunches and dinners unless specified
- Personal expenses
- Temple donations
- Camera fees where applicable
- Optional spa and wellness treatments
- Tips and gratuities
Why Choose This Luxury Heritage Tour?
India’s temples are far more than places of worship—they are masterpieces of architecture, centers of living traditions, and windows into thousands of years of history and culture.
This luxury itinerary has been designed for travelers who wish to explore these remarkable monuments at a relaxed pace while enjoying premium accommodations, personalized service, and exclusive cultural experiences. Rather than rushing through destinations, you’ll have time to appreciate intricate carvings, participate in local traditions, meet skilled artisans, and experience India’s spiritual atmosphere in comfort and style.
Luxury Experiences Included
- Private heritage guides
- VIP temple visits where available
- Luxury accommodation
- Chauffeur-driven private transportation
- Heritage walking tours
- Classical dance performances
- Carnatic music experiences
- Luxury spa and wellness options
- Yoga sessions
- Temple architecture tours
- Fine dining featuring regional cuisine
- Curated cultural experiences
- Photography opportunities
- Traditional silk weaving demonstrations
Luxury Hotels & Accommodation
Every property has been selected for its outstanding hospitality, elegant design, and convenient location.
Delhi
Recommended Hotels
- The Oberoi New Delhi
- Taj Palace
- The Imperial
Varanasi
Recommended Hotels
- Taj Ganges
- BrijRama Palace
- Nadesar Palace
Khajuraho
Recommended Hotels
- The Lalit Temple View
- Radisson Jass Khajuraho
Madurai
Recommended Hotels
- Heritage Madurai
- Gateway Madurai
Thanjavur
Recommended Hotels
- Svatma
- Ideal River View Resort
Mahabalipuram
Recommended Hotels
- InterContinental Chennai Mahabalipuram Resort
- Radisson Blu Temple Bay
Chennai
Recommended Hotels
- Taj Coromandel
- The Leela Palace Chennai
Accommodation Note: Hotels are subject to availability. Similar luxury properties may be arranged while maintaining the same premium standards and personalized service.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which temples are included in this tour?
The itinerary features some of India’s most iconic temples, including Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Meenakshi Amman Temple, Brihadeeswarar Temple, Shore Temple, Kandariya Mahadeva Temple, Raja Ram Temple, and Chaturbhuj Temple.
Does the tour include UNESCO World Heritage Sites?
Yes. The journey includes several UNESCO-listed landmarks, including the Khajuraho Group of Monuments, Great Living Chola Temples (Brihadeeswarar Temple), and the Group of Monuments at Mahabalipuram.
Is this a private luxury tour?
Yes. The tour is completely private and includes luxury accommodation, chauffeur-driven transportation, experienced heritage guides, and personalized sightseeing.
Can the itinerary be customized?
Absolutely. The itinerary can be tailored by adding destinations, extending your stay, including wellness experiences, or focusing on specific temple traditions and architectural interests.
Is this tour suitable for senior travelers?
Yes. The itinerary is designed with a comfortable pace, premium transportation, flexible sightseeing, and luxury accommodations, making it well suited for couples, families, and senior travelers.
Will I have an English-speaking tour guide?
Yes. Professional English-speaking local guides are provided in each city. Guides in other languages can also be arranged upon request.
Are monument entrance fees included in the tour price?
Monument entrance fees are typically not included unless specifically mentioned in the package. They can be added to your itinerary upon request.
Book Your Luxury Temple Tour of India
Experience India's most celebrated temples, sacred cities, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites on this exclusive Luxury Temple Tour of India. From the spiritual atmosphere of Varanasi to the architectural brilliance of Khajuraho, Madurai, Thanjavur, and Mahabalipuram, every destination offers a unique insight into India's timeless cultural legacy. Let Lewis n Clark Tours craft a private luxury journey that combines spirituality, history, architecture, and exceptional hospitality into one unforgettable experience.
