Christian Pilgrimage Tour

CHENNAI – MAHABALIPURAM – KANCHIPURAM - PONDICHERRY - VELLANKANNI – MADURAI - PERIYAR – KUMARAKOM - ALLEPPEY – COCHIN - GOA – MUMBAI

Duration

16 Days

Tour Type

Pilgrimage Tour

Group Size

100 persons

Location

India

Overview

The Christian Pilgrimage India is filled with several examples that showcase that unity in diversity prevails in the roots of Indian Culture since prehistoric times. The plethora of Hindu temples ornamented with wonderful architecture is situated in various parts of south India. These temples are apt places for religious travelers who want to soak themselves in sacred vibes coming from these holy spots. In addition, the primeval churches founded by Europeans are present there in South India that are a display of beautiful sculpture and architect as well. This 15 Nights and 16 Days itinerary allows the traveller to explore various sacred temples of Hindus and churches of Christians in a comprehensive and gratifying manner. South India boasts some of the most stunning churches in India. Mostly built during the colonial era these Christian places of worship are not only divine but has architectural grandeur unlike other. In our Christian Pilgrimage Tour in South India, we will take you to some extremely sacred and architecturally spectacular churches. Ensuring that each church is given full time to be explored and that the essence of spirituality is not missed. where we shall also take leisure cities tour.

Know before you go

Meeting and assistance by our representative, Airport to hotel & vice versa transfers as per the itinerary.
Welcome with garlands on arrival.
Sightseeing services using air-conditioned transport with the driver as per the tour programme.
Accommodation to choose from in standard hotels offering 3-star facilities or superior hotels offering good 4-star facilities or deluxe hotels offering 5-star standard facilities with breakfast in all the places. Double or twin sharing shall be provided as per your preference.
Parking fees, fuel charges, driver allowance are all included.
Services of an English speaking local guide is included only during the sightseeing tour as per the programme.
A small group size of a minimum of 4 people is required for any particular date and in case of fewer numbers on any particular date, we will give you the option of date change or still travel on the same date by paying a slight supplement.
Rates are based on using standard hotels offering 3-star facilities with the option of upgrading to superior and deluxe categories offering 4 star and 5-star facilities respectively at a slight supplement.
All taxes are included.

Included/Excluded

Return Airport transfers with Meeting and assistance

Hotel accommodation on twin sharing with breakfast

Airconditioned Transport with driver

One Lunch or dinner with our compliments

Guide services during sightseeing

All taxes, Toll, Parking Charges

Entrance fees to the Monuments

Any items of personal nature like laundry, Tips, Camera fees etc.

Any Domestic or International Airfare

Travel Insurance

Any item not mentioned in Inclusion

Itinerary

DAY 01 : ARRIVE CHENNAI

Welcome. On arrival you will be greeted & provided with warm assistance by our representatives to get transferred to the hotel. Check in at the hotel.Afternoon take an orientation tour of Chennai. Overnight at Hotel.

DAY 02 : IN CHENNAI

Morning sightseeing tour of Chennai, the Capital city of Tamil Nadu state, Chennai is India's Southern Gateway city and one of the biggest centres of trade, and communications. Santhome Cathedral Church - Santhome Cathedral Basilica is situated on the southern tip of Marina in Chennai. It is a towering basilica built on the spot where St. Thomas (an apostle of Jesus Christ) was buried. It is the church of the Archbishop of Chennai - pastoral head of the Catholic community in the region. St. Thomas Mount - St. Thomas Mount church is located near Meenambakkam airport in Chennai. The Portuguese built it in 1523. It is a small relic-filled church, which stands at the summit of the 300 foot high St. Thomas Mount. Fort St. George - Fort St. George is located on the Rajaji Salai road in Chennai. The fort was one among the first few bastions that were built by the East India Company in 1640 to protect its interests in India from rival companies. This fortification also marks the making of Madras (Chennai) as a modern city. Overnight at Hotel.

DAY 03 : CHENNAI – MAHABALIPURAM – KANCHIPURAM - PONDICHERRY (160 kms/2 hrs – Total 6 ½ hrs approx including the visit)

Morning depart for Pondicherry enroute visiting Mahabalipuram & Kanchipuram. Mahabalipuram - a quite seaside resort with a unique and glorious 7th century Shore Temple and some of the most beautiful rock-cut caves in the world. Visit the Krishna, Varaha and Mahishasura Mardhini Mandapas besides the famous stone bas-relief, Arjuna's Penance. Kanchipuram - was under the Pallavas from the 6th to 8th century AD and later became the citadel of the Cholas, Vijayanagar Kings, the Muslim and the British. It has been a centre of Tamil learning, cultural and religious background for centuries. Kanchipuram has magnificent temples of unique architectural beauty bearing eloquent testimony to its glorious Dravidian heritage. All the religious cities in India support one of the two sects in Hinduism - Vaishnavism and Shaivism, but Kanchipuram has blended itself equally to both the sects, dividing itself into Vishnu Kanchi, surrounding the Varadaraja Temple, and Shiva Kanchi, surrounding the Ekambareshwar (also spelt as Ekambareshwa) Temple, while the Kamakshi Amman Temple stands in between as a place of Shakti worship. Continue drive to Pondicherry, On arrival check-in at Hotel. Overnight at Hotel.

DAY 04 : IN PONDICHERRY

Full City tour & surroundings. Pondichery - a former French colony oozes a Mediterranean aura with classy streets, stylish houses and ornamental gardens, is famous for pleasant weather and easy paced life. Visit the serene atmosphere of Aurobindo Ashram, which was founded by Sri Aurobindo in 1926 and has attained international reputation for its spiritual tenets including yoga and modern science of living. The Botanical Gardens, conceived in 1826, boast a variety of rare and exotic plants from India and abroad, and take a stroll on the beaches of Pondichery. Overnight at Hotel.

DAY 05 : PONDICHERRY – VELLANKANNI (B L D) (170 kms/4½ hrs approx)

After breakfast depart by surface to Vellankanni. On arrival check-in at the Hotel. Velankanni - It is the site of the famous Roman Catholic Church of Our Lady of Good Health. People of all religions flock to this Church. The Velankanni Shrine was elevated to a Basilica on November 3, 1962 by Pope John XXIII. Until 1964, it was under the protection of Portuguese missionaries. We do not know where the statue was made, but it is draped in a sari to make it appear uniquely Indian. The original chapel no longer exists, but the original altar and the mosaic pieces on porcelain tiles from China have been retained. In its place, a modern and spacious church was consecrated in 1933 and renovated in 1975. Overnight at Hotel.

DAY 06 : IN VELLANKANNI

After Breakfast, Full day visit to the church. Overnight at Hotel.

DAY 07 : VELLANKANNI – MADURAI (B L D) (210 kms/5 hrs approx)

Morning after breakfast, depart by surface to Madurai enroute visiting Tanjore. (235 kms/5 hrs approx) and upon arrival check-in at the hotel. Afternoon sightseeing tour of Madurai city. Visit the great Meenakshi Temple, an excellent example of Dravidian Architecture, dedicated to the consort of Lord Shiva with its towering Gopurams (rising high above the surrounding country side). Also Visit the Tirumala Nayak Palace - A gracious building in the Indo Saracenic style, famous for the Stucco work on its domes and arches. Evening witness the night ceremony at the Meenakshi Temple. Overnight at Hotel.

DAY 08 : MADURAI – PERIYAR (B L D) (205 kms/5 hrs approx)

Morning depart by surface to Periyar (137 kms/4 hrs) crossing over the Tamil Nadu-Kerala boarder to enter into the Gods own Country. Upon arrival check-in at the hotel. Thekkady located in central Kerala, is a popular hill station and a wildlife centre. This town, which is an important plantation centre, conjures up images of elephants, unending chains of hills and spice scented plantations. Periyar Forest of Thekkady is one of the finest wildlife reserves of India and spread across the entire district are picturesque plantations and hill towns that hold immense opportunities for treks and mountain walks. The Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary offers a fairly good chance of seeing the great Indian tiger in its natural habitat. Afternoon take game viewing boat-ride on the Artificial Periyar Lake. Amongst the animals spotted here are wild elephants, which can be seen and photographed at close quarters, wild boar, sambar, tier, leopard, and wild dog and languor monkeys. Overnight at Hotel.

DAY 09 : PERIYAR – KUMARAKOM (B L D) (190 kms/5 ½ hrs approx)

Morning after breakfast, depart by surface to Kumarakom en route visiting Valiyapally and Cheriyapally (St. Mary's Churches), which is built in 1515 and is famous for its Persian cross and Phalavi inscriptions. This also has some exquisite murals paintings on biblical and non-biblical themes. Upon arrival check-in at the hotel. Kumarakom an unbelievably beautiful paradise of mangrove forests, emerald green paddy fields, and coconut groves interspersed with enchanting waterways and canals adorned with white lilies. Situated on the Vembanad Lake, in this small water world, you will come across plenty of traditional country crafts, boats and canoes. Kumarakom has also a Bird Sanctuary, which is ornithologist's paradise, with favourite haunt of migratory birds like the Siberian stork, egret, darter, heron and teal. Other common varieties like woodp0ecker, skylark, crane, water hen and parrots can also be spotted here. Evening take an Optional sunset Cruise - there can be few better ways to adjust to the pace of backwater life than to spend the waning hours of the afternoon just watching the sun go down. Visit to Mannanam, which is an important Christian pilgrimage centre, situated 10 kms west of Kottayam city. The St. Joseph's monastery here is an old institution and is associated with Fr. Kuriakose Elias of Chavara (1805-71), who has been recently pronounced blessed. The mortal remains of Fr. Kuriakose are preserved in this monastery. Overnight at Hotel. Overnight at Hotel.

DAY 10 : KUMARAKOM – ALLEPPEY – COCHIN (B L D) (60 kms/ 1 ½ hrs approx)

Morning after breakfast, board a country boat to cruise through on the Vembanad Lake (backwaters of Kerala) to the beautiful Island destination - Kumarakom (approx 3 hours) to Alleppey. Upon arrival at Alleppey drive to Cochin en route exploring the rustic ways of rural Kerala. You glide past coir processing villages, waterfront shrines and paddy fields. Afternoon half day sightseeing tour of Kochi (Cochin) - an important port city with a famous Jewish settlement and Synagogue, the Dutch Palace, the Chinese Nets, the Church of St Francis and the Tomb of Vasco da Gama. We will also include a visit to a School in Cochin during your sightseeing tour to show you and explain how the education system prevails in India. Evening witness a Kathakali Dance drama performance at one of the auditoriums. This is an age old traditional art form of Kerala, where the artists paint their faces with colours and narrate the story of the Indian epics such as Ramayana or Mahabarat by way of their actions. Overnight at Hotel.

DAY 11 : IN COCHIN

Morning after breakfast full day excursion to Kodungallore, where St. Thomas has landed first. Later visit the Church at Mylattur, where there are two churches - the one on top of the hill was where he meditated and his footsteps are there on the rock over there. Overnight at Hotel.

DAY 12 : COCHIN – GOA

In time transfer to airport to board flight for Goa, On arrival meeting and assistance by our representative, welcome and escort you by a private car and then transfer to Hotel. and assist with check in Hotel. Goa: located in the west coast of India is one of the most popular tourist destinations of India. Blessed with a coastal climate, the best time to visit Goa is from mid July to September end or November end to mid February. Goa referred as the ‘Pearl of the Orient” personifies sun kissed beaches, lofty palms, majestic churches and spectacular monuments. Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary located at island of Chorao, is a delightful retreat for the bird watchers. The warmhearted joyous Goans celebrate the festival of Carnival with gay abandon. The huge parades are organized in Panjim the capital city accompanied with bands, floats and dances, and balls during evenings. The fair concludes with the famous Red-and-Black dance on behalf of the Clube Nacional in the capital of Goa. Overnight at Hotel.

DAY 13 : IN GOA

Full day city tour of North Goa. Day to visiting Catholic Churches in north Goa. North Goa has churches, markets and beaches teeming with people. Goa’s Catholic Church is taking note of this significant section that makes up a chunk of migrants and has set up special counseling services for seamen and their families. “These are to be organized from various points in Goa, from various parishes and institutions,” said an announcement from the Church. The counseling could focus on anything, from personal family problems to health and religious issues. For the moment, churches at Mapusa in north Goa, Chinchinim, Mormugao and Bom Jesus (around central coastal Goa) will be taking up the challenge. Overnight at Hotel.

DAY 14 : GOA – MUMBAI IT 513

After breakfast transfer to airport to board flight for Mumbai, On arrival meeting and assistance by Our representative, welcome and escort you by a private transport and then transfer to Hotel. and assist with check in Hotel. Mumbai formerly Bombay, is the capital of the Indian state of Maharashtra. As of 2009, Mumbai is the largest city in the world in terms of population, with the city proper having a population of approximately 14 million inhabitants, and along with the neighbouring cities of Navi Mumbai and Thane, it forms an urban agglomeration with around 19 million people. Mumbai lies on the west coast of India and has a deep natural harbour. As of 2009, Mumbai was named an Alpha world city. Overnight at Hotel.

DAY 15 : IN MUMBAI

After breakfast take morning half day city tour visiting St. Michael's Church & Mary Church Mani Bhavan : A memorial to Mahatma Gandhi, Flora Fountain : Now called Hutatma Chowk or Martyrs Square . This cherished but undistinguished fountain stands at the established business centre of Mumbai. land reclaimed form Back Bay in 1920, Marine Drive runs along the shore of the Arabian Sea from Nariman Point past Chowpatty Beach to the foot of Malabar Hill. Chowpatty Beach : Situated at the northern end of Marine Drive, it is a stretch of sandy beach and attracts hordes of people during the weekends and on holidays. Kamla Nehru Park : Situated across the road, this park is very popular with children. Laid out in 1952, it was dedicated to the memory of the wife of India's first Prime Minister. Overnight at Hotel.

DAY 16 : DEPART MUMBAI

Meeting and assistance for your departure transfer to the airport for your flight to your onward journey.

Travel Styles

Cultural

Nature & Adventure

Meeting & Assistance

Independent

Activities

Festival & Events

Special Interest

Sightseeing

Facilities

Wifi

Gymnasium

Restaurant

Reception

Room Service

Dinning & Bar

Experiential Options

Activities

FAQs & Important Travel and Package Info

Exclusions

Return international flights, Visas, Insurance and items of personal nature.

Age restrictions

This visit is focused on guests aged 18 years or more seasoned For youngsters and child accompanied by the adults.

Tour occupancy

Minimum number for any tour date is 2 persons travelling together.
For solo travellers a single occupancy room is allocated.

Passport and Visa Requirements

All guests require a visa with a minimum validity of 6 months which should be beyond your return travel date is required for all passengers.
All Guests need visa and same should be applied in advance, do contact us for any assistance you may need.
It is the visitors responsibility to ensure they are holding the correct and current visa for the countries they are visiting.
Important: We suggest to arrange your visa at least 2-8 weeks prior to departure just incase for any delays due to consulate operating hours and processing times.

Travel Insurance

We recommend you purchase travel insurance as soon as possible after purchasing this package.

Health & vaccination

Travellers are advised to check with their local health professional at least 45 days prior to departure, as some vaccinations require 30 days or more to be effective.
Health care such as a doctor’s surgery, dentist and optometrists may not always be accessible on this tour. It is advised that you ensure you have adequate health insurance cover as part of your travel insurance.

Tipping

Tipping or porterages are not included and are entirely on your discretion while on tour.

Fitness requirements

Travellers should have a good level of physical fitness and mobility. They must be able to partake unaided in their chosen activities/package tours/cruise etc. as outlined in the itinerary.

Dietary Requirements

Any dietary necessities should be received by ToursZoo atleast 7 days prior your scheduled departure date. Failure to provide these details by this date may result in an inability to cater for your requirements.
By and large ToursZoo tries to cater for your pre booked dietary requirements but please note that on occasion, this may not be possible due to location, lack of availability of ingredients, and other extenuating circumstances. It is always advised to carry supplies with you.

Transfers

All airport and hotel transfers are included in the tour from the day of your arrival as per the package.

Documentation

Any applicable pre trip or tour documentation will be emailed to you prior to travelling. Should you have any queries regarding this please feel free to contact us directly via email at [email protected].

TZ savings

The value and comparative savings have been determined based on published rack rates and the value of inclusions. Please be advised that rack rates may not be reflective of actual rates being charged, dependent on the timing and manner of your booking and therefore are only indicative of the level of saving.

Itinerary amendments & changes

Occasionally our itineraries are updated prior to departure to incorporate improvements stemming from past travellers’ feedback as well as updates from our ground operators. Please note that while we operate successful tours in this region throughout the year, some changes may be necessary due to inclement weather, public holidays, common seasonal changes to timetables and transport routes, and unforeseen circumstances. This can happen with little notice so please be prepared for modifications to the route. The order and timing of included activities may also vary from time to time.

Availability

ll TZ trips are available on a request only basis and are subject to availability. Once booked you should receive a payment confirmation and receipt via email, followed by a booking confirmation normally within 48hrs of making a booking, sometimes this can take a little longer subject to supplier delay.
If you have not received your confirmation within 2 business days of payment confirmation please contact us immediately by email at [email protected].
In the event that your trip is unavailable for the dates you have chosen we will contact you by telephone to advise the next available dates.

Surcharges

Any prices quoted exclude specific costs/measures which may be introduced at a later stage as a result of Government changes due to COVID-19 health and safety restrictions. ToursZoo will inform its guests of these changes as soon as possible, these additional charges will be passed on by ToursZoo to the guest.

Name change or corrections

Name corrections or corrections may incur a fee.
After bookings are fully paid, any amendment has to be requested in writing and may incur a fee per person plus any additional costs and administrative expenses incurred in arranging the amendment.

Date changes

Date changes perhaps allowed at a slight fees.

Refunds

Kindly refer to our booking conditions for all information on refunds.
ToursZoo reserves the right to modify prices for marketing and commercial reasons. Please note that full terms and conditions apply. Refer to the website's terms and conditions.

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