Thanjavur is the core of the great Chola Empire which bequethed to India a veritable treasure-trove of sculptures and carvings from the 9^th to the 13^th Centuries. Some of India’s most important Archaeological sites are found here and the Brihadeshwar Temple is one of the most magnificent.

Madurai is the center of the Tamil Sangams or academies for learning and Tamil culture.  It was a thriving center when Augustus ruled in Rome.  The 16th century Meenakshi Temple is a magnificent example of Dravidian temple architecture lavishly covered with carvings of the Hindu pantheon painted in bright polychrome colors, a maze of activity that warrants leisurely enjoyment of a major religious pilgrimage site.  There are several festive processions each day, and the most important escorts the God Shiva to visit his consort the Goddess Meenakshi. See devotees offer a traditional Puja-offering to propitiate this powerful goddess and take home her blessings.