Situated on the Coromandel Coast of the Bay of Bengal, Chennai, the capital city of Tamil Nadu, stands as a dynamic metropolis and gateway to the South. Chennai is home to a vibrant cultural scene, thriving business hubs, and the soothing embrace of the coastal breeze. From the ancient temples that dot the cityscape, such as the Kapaleeshwarar Temple and Parthasarathy Temple, to the classical dance forms like Bharatanatyam performed with grace, the city is a living canvas of South Indian traditions.

Founded in 1968 by Mirra Alfassa, known as “The Mother,” and designed by architect Roger Anger, Auroville is an experimental township in Pondicherry, India, that transcends conventional notions of urban living. Auroville is home to a global community that transcends national boundaries. Residents, known as Aurovilians, come together to contribute to the city’s development, guided by the principles of sustainability, equality, and mutual respect.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site in Karnataka, Hampi is an open-air museum of history and architecture. Once the capital of the Vijayanagara Empire, it’s famed for its vast ruins, magnificent temples, and unique landscape full of boulders and palm trees. Thanjavur stands as a living museum of architectural marvels, primarily showcased in the form of its majestic temples.The Maratha rulers, especially the Nayaks and the Bhonsles, have left an indelible mark on Thanjavur. The grand Thanjavur Palace, with its Durbar Hall and the Saraswathi Mahal Library, showcases the opulence of the royal court. The city’s markets and bazaars are a sensory delight, offering a myriad of traditional crafts, silk sarees, and Tanjore paintings. 

Madurai, a city with ancient Tamil culture still alive, is where the Dravidian heritage mingles with the Pandyan, Chola, and Nayak dynasties. The city’s very essence lies in the convergence of diverse traditions that has withstood the sands of time. Madurai is located on the banks of the Vaigai River and it has been a center of learning for centuries including its Tamil Sangam, an ancient academy of poets.

Thekkady is a serene town, embraced by the Periyar National Park and cradled by the Western Ghats, it has a captivating blend of lush landscapes and diverse wildlife. The crown jewel of Thekkady is the Periyar National Park, a sprawling wildlife sanctuary with majestic elephants, elusive tigers, and a myriad of other species. The town is also home to many spice gardens and serene backwaters.

Situated along the Malabar Coast of Kerala, Alappuzha is renowned as the “Venice of the East”. This enchanting town has an intricate network of canals, the age-old traditions of houseboat living, and the gentle rhythm of coastal life. The famed annual Nehru Trophy Snake Boat Race is held in the backwaters of Alleppey. Majestic snake boats, each manned by a team of rowers, race with fervor in this thrilling event.

On the southwest coast of Kerala, Kochi is an active port city with bustling maritime activities and beautiful backwaters for short cruises. It has it all– vibrant bazaars with the famous spice markets and historic places including Fort Kochi. Skyscrapers, high-end hotels, and state-of-the-art infrastructure complement the historic charm of the city. Kochi is also a hub for cultural events and artistic expressions, hosting many festivals including the Kochi-Muziris Biennale.

Bangalore, a vibrant metropolis on the Deccan Plateau, is a captivating blend of tradition and technology. Renowned as the “Garden City,” its landscape is adorned with lush parks, tree-lined boulevards, and a temperate climate. Bangalore has also earned the moniker “Silicon Valley of India” for its thriving IT industry, hosting global tech giants and startups alike. Heritage sites like the Bangalore Palace and Bull Temple stand tall amid modern skyscrapers.

Mysuru is renowned for its rich cultural heritage and also its well-planned layout and clean streets. Formerly known as Mysore, the city is famous for the opulent Mysuru Palace, a masterpiece of Indo-Saracenic architecture. The city is a hub of traditional arts and crafts, with a vibrant silk industry and the annual Dasara festival attracting visitors from around the world. Mysuru also boasts the Chamundi Hills, housing the Chamundeshwari Temple, with panoramic views of the city.