Tamil Nadu Singing Holiday with Ali Orbaum & Suus Gooch

Arrival at Chennai International Airport and transfer to Mahabalipuram. Our first hotel sits right in the heart of this historical temple town in Tamil Nadu. Settle in and find your feet; relax by the pool and enjoy the beautiful beach by the hotel. By early evening we will be ready to meet, sing and dine together to celebrate the start of our holiday in Tamil Nadu.

Start your morning with the ultimate luxury: time. You are free to enjoy a peaceful start to the day at the beach—take a refreshing swim in the warm waters of the Bay of Bengal or simply enjoy a quiet stroll along the shore. In the afternoon, we gather back at the hotel for a dedicated singing session, allowing the morning’s tranquility to inspire our voices. For those wishing to explore further, an optional evening visit to a local temple is available to witness the twilight rituals.

Explore the 1,400-year-old history of Mahabalipuram, featuring the Thirukadalmallai Temple, the oldest structure in the area. The morning tour includes the Sculpture Museum, Pancha Rathas, Arjunar Penance, and the iconic Butter Ball. After a local lunch, return to the hotel for a singing session and time to relax or explore.

Formerly known as Pondicherry, this Union Territory was formed from territories of former French India. This quiet coastal town is famous for its tree-lined boulevards, quaint colonial heritage buildings, and spiritual scenery. Visitors can enjoy a melange of cuisines and explore unspoilt beaches and backwaters. During our visit, we will stay at a beautiful beach hotel.

Begin with sunrise singing and a refreshing swim at the beach, followed by a leisurely breakfast. After a local lunch, we explore the heart of Pondicherry to visit the historic White Town. Wander through picturesque European-style streets adorned with beautiful yellow walls, lush greenery, and vibrant flowers. This “Glimpse of France” offers a peaceful atmosphere to soak in colonial heritage and spiritual scenery before returning to the hotel by evening to relax.

Conceived as a “Universal Town,” Auroville is India’s first experimental township — a place that belongs not to any individual, but to humanity as a whole. People from across the world come together here, united by a shared vision of harmony and peaceful co-existence. The stillness and sense of peace that greet you are truly incomparable. After a leisurely lunch, return to the hotel for a relaxed afternoon before an enchanting evening of singing by the beach.

Known as the Temple City of India, Madurai is one of the oldest and most vibrant cities in Tamil Nadu. Steeped in ancient tradition and rich cultural heritage, it truly embodies the spirit of the region. Every temple and monument tells a story, bearing witness to centuries of history, architectural brilliance, and devotion. A city that awakens all the senses, Madurai is a deeply memorable and soulful experience that will stay with you long after you leave.

After breakfast, visit the magnificent Meenakshi Amman Temple — one of India’s largest and most celebrated sacred sites. Dedicated to Goddess Parvati and Lord Shiva, this architectural marvel forms the very heart of Madurai’s 2,500-year-old heritage and was shortlisted among the top 30 nominees for the New Seven Wonders of the World. Following the visit, enjoy some leisurely shopping and lunch in the city before returning to the hotel for an evening of singing and a captivating cultural dance performance.

Begin the morning with a vibrant visit to Madurai’s famous flower market — a feast for the senses. Continue to the magnificent Thirumalai Nayak Palace, built in 1636 in the striking Indo-Saracenic style by the visionary Italian-influenced architect commissioned by King Thirumalai Nayak. Declared a national monument after Independence, it remains one of Southern India’s most spectacular heritage sites. After a delicious traditional Tamil Nadu Thali lunch, return to the hotel for an afternoon of singing and a refreshing swim in the pool or enjoy free time.

Day to experience the India Train Journey Take a Tuk Tuk ride to Madurai Railway station and we begin our 4-hour train journey to Kanyakumari. Bags transfer by bus. In the evening time to sing and relax together.

Begin the day with a magical early morning walk to witness the famous Kanyakumari sunrise and where three seas meet on the horizon. After breakfast, visit the iconic Vivekananda Rock Memorial and temple, set dramatically on a small island just off the shore. The afternoon is dedicated to singing at the hotel, before an evening stroll to the sunset viewpoint to watch the sun dip into the sea.

En route, visit the magnificent PadmanabhapuramPalace — a masterpiece of indigenous Kerala architecture. This beautifully preserved wooden palace captivates visitors with its stunning murals, intricate floral and rose carvings, sculpted décor, and striking black granite floors, all standing as a remarkable testament to a bygone era. After lunch, embark on a serene boat trip through the tranquil Poovar backwaters before checking in to your hotel. The evening is spent singing by the sea.

Tucked at the southern tip of Kerala, Poovar is a hidden gem where the river, backwaters, and Arabian Sea converge in breathtaking harmony. A gentle boat ride through its serene golden waterways, fringed by swaying coconut palms and lush mangroves, offers a moment of pure tranquillity. Spend a blissful day at our beautiful hotel with a singing session by the pool, time to explore the Arabian Sea, and an optional rejuvenating Ayurvedic massage – before gathering together for a warm and memorable farewell dinner.

After a wonderful journey through the heart of South India, it is the International Airport — just a short 30-minute drive — for your departure home. As with all great adventures, you will carry with you a treasure trove of beautiful memories, new friendships, and the soulful echoes of music and song that made this holiday truly unforgettable.