Rachel has curated this journey to the Great Element Temples of South India a Spiritual Pilgrimage - from July 25-August 06:2026.
"Namaste , welcome to this pilgrimage.
This is a pilgrimage where we will dive into this divine energy of the south.
The journey winds through Tamil Nadu discovering and exploring South India.
I experienced this journey a few years back walking the Girivalam and journeying into these magnificent temples in awe of there size and potency of energy.
The food, land, the culture.
Starting in Chennai and moving South we weave our way to some of the Element temples all Shiva temples .
Kanchipuram where the Ekambareswarar Temple is which is the temple of earth.
Also here is a Shakti Temple.
As we move down to Tiruvannamalai Arunachaleswarar the temple of Fire.
Girivalam - Full Moon very Auspicious this walk is 14km and at each point on the journey we visit different temples as we circle the mountain. This is to be done at your own pace.
We then have a day of rest .
Then onto Pondicherry visit Auroville this is a conscious community and Tour Sri Aurobindo Ashram, as well as many other beautiful places in this town.
Kumbakonam where some of the planet temples are, where we get to take some time .
Visit Sri Nataraja Temple (Akasha Lingam) & Sri Vaitheeswaran Koil.
Each temple brought to life through temple rituals, local culture, and elemental energy.
This is your journey your discovery hope you join.
With Love Rachel"
🌿🔥☁️ SOUTH INDIA TEMPLE TOUR:
Curated & Led by Ms Rachel Hunter Dates: 25 July – 06 August 2026 A sacred journey through South India's most elemental and powerful Shiva temples—where Earth grounds, Fire transforms, and Sky expands. Prepare to be moved. Amy of the Cotour will also be with you on this tour and your point of contact from time of registration.
✨ Overview
This transformational tour explores the mysticism and meaning of Pancha Bhoota, the five elements of nature represented through sacred temples of Lord Shiva. In this immersive experience, we dive deep into three: Earth, Fire, and Sky—each brought to life through temple rituals, local culture, and elemental energy.
The journey winds through Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh with spiritual highlights, luxe stays, and expert guidance every step of the way.
🔱 ITINERARY SNAPSHOT
Days 1–13 | From Chennai to Kanchipuram, Tiruvannamalai, Pondicherry, Chidambaram, Kumbakonam, Tanjore & Trichy Explore temples dedicated to:
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🌍 Bhumi (Earth) – Sri Ekambareswarar Temple
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🔥 Agni (Fire) – Sri Arunachaleswarar Temple
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☁️ Akasha (Sky) – Sri Varadaraja Temple & Sri Nataraja Temple Along with visits to sacred Shakti shrines and transformative destinations like Auroville and Sri Aurobindo Ashram.
🛏️ HOTELS ENVISAGED
| 🗓️ Dates |
📍 City |
🏨 Hotel |
🛌 Room Type |
🌙 Nights |
🍽️ Meal Plan |
| 25–26 Jul ’26 |
Chennai |
Trident |
Deluxe Room |
1 |
Breakfast |
| 26–28 Jul ’26 |
Kanchipuram |
Regency Kanchipuram by GRT Hotels |
Standard Room |
2 |
Breakfast |
| 28–31 Jul ’26 |
Tiruvannamalai |
Sparsa Resort |
Standard Room |
3 |
Breakfast |
| 31 Jul–02 Aug ’26 |
Pondicherry |
Palais de Mahe |
Palais Chambre Deluxe |
2 |
Breakfast |
| 02–05 Aug ’26 |
Kumbakonam |
Mantra Koodam |
Mantra Cottage |
3 |
Breakfast |
| 05–06 Aug ’26 |
Chennai |
Trident |
Deluxe Room |
1 |
Breakfast |
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Itinerary details and payment plan details can be seen here:
Elements Tour Itinerary: July 25-August 06:2026 and Payment Plan optio – The Cotour
✅ Cost Includes:
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Accommodation on single/double sharing basis in the hotels mentioned or similar
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Meal Plan: as specified above
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Transport in air-conditioned Large Coach
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Arrival & departure transfers in Chennai
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Meet & Greet services in Chennai
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One-time temple visit at each destination
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Services of a dedicated Tour Escort from 25 July to 5 August
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All currently applicable government taxes
❌ Cost Excludes:
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Services beyond those listed above
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Local guides
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Donations and puja/special puja charges
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Domestic flight tickets in India
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Visa, airport taxes, drinks, calls, tips, camera fees, international airfare
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Ayurvedic treatments, laundry, or personal expenses
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Any costs arising from unforeseen events or chan
Please note this is not a fitness retreat - but you will need a certain level of fitness. One of the walks on this tour - is a 14km round trip - around a hill. We will be walking each day.
POINTS TO NOTE:
- There are Cultural, Religious and Regional protocols that will need to be read, understood, and signed off on as part of the official tour registration.
- Scheduling may change
- Payment plans are available - 10 payments for those who confirm in July: July, August, September, October, November and December:2025, and January, February, March and April:2026.
- Confirmation of your space on the tour is contingent on all terms and conditions and documents provided to you by The Cotour - being signed off on.
- This tour is open to anyone over the age of 21 - friends, family, couples or single travellers - this tour is a wonderful option for any traveller.
- A minimum number of guests will be required for the Elements Temple Tour to proceed. Should this number not be met - we do reserve the right to postpone or cancel.
- Please make any flight or associated bookings with the view of flexibility.
- All terms and conditions, and relevant documents will be sent separately. Completion of all documentation is required in order for you to be able to participate in the tour.
- Twin Share/Double Options are available:- however to avail yourself of this option you must have someone to share with - we will not be matching people for sharing rooms
- If you are wanting to register for the tour and would like a payment plan - please email amy@thecotour.com
