Overview
Kumbakonam is one of the oldest towns of the South Indian state of Tamil Nadu. Besides being famous for the ancient 7th century temples that date back to the Chola period, the town is also famous for the mathematical genius, Srinivasa Ramanujan. On this tour visit the house of “The man who knew Infinity” and two ancient Hindu temples dedicated to God Vishnu. Highlights • House of "The Man Who Knew Infinity", Srinivasa Ramanujan • Mahamaham water pond • Sarangapani temple • Uppiliappan Temple
Why travelers book this
What's Included
- 02 bottles of mineral water per person
- Lunch (beverage excluded)
- Local English speaking guide
- Transport by private air-conditioned vehicle
- Hotel pick-up and drop-off
What's Not Included
- Food and drinks, unless specified
- Gratuities
Meeting & Pickup
Meeting point, pickup options and start time are confirmed on Viator before checkout.
Itinerary
Stop 1
You will be picked up from your hotel in Trichy in the morning and driven to Sarangapani Sannidhi Street in the town of Kumbakonam. The drive from Trichy to Kumbakonam takes around 2 hours. Situated on this street is the house of Srinivasa Ramanujan, one of the greatest mathematical geniuses born in the 19th century. A deeply religious Hindu, Ramanujan credited his substantial mathematical capacities to divinity, and stated that the mathematical knowledge he displayed was revealed to him by his family goddess. “An equation for me has no meaning,” he once said, “unless it expresses a thought of God.” The family home has now been converted into a museum. Letters, certificates and descriptions of mathematical results are on display in the central room.
Stop 2
After a tour of the house visit the nearby Sarangapani Temple. Built by the Nayak Kings in the 15th century, this is a majestic twelve storied temple that is 147 feet high. It was the tallest temple of South Asia before the Sri Rangam Temple was built in Trichy. The temple is dedicated to the Hindu God Vishnu. Also, visit the sacred Mahamaham water pond. It is believed that a dip in its water cleanses all your sins.
Stop 3
After lunch, take a short 15 minute drive to the nearby town of Darasuram. Located in the town is one of the Great Living Chola Temples, the Airavatesvara Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The temple was built in the 12th century A.D. by the Chola King, Rajaraja Chola II. The chariot shaped platform of the temple with its carved pillars and a statue of the Nandi bull is still in good shape.This temple is dedicated to the Hindu God Shiva. At the end of the tour you will be driven back to Trichy and dropped off at your hotel.
Stop 4
Next drive to the outskirts of Kumbakonam to visit the 7th century Uppiliappan Temple that is also dedicated to God Vishnu. Both temples are built on the lines of the Chola style of architecture with a multi-tiered gateway tower. After the visit stop at a local restaurant for lunch (beverage excluded).
Important Information
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- Adult pricing applies to all travelers.
- A moderate amount of walking is involved. Comfortable walking shoes, sunglasses, sunscreen and hats are highly recommended.
- Not recommended for pregnant women and people with back problems.
- A dress code is required to enter places of worship and selected museums. No shorts or sleeveless tops are allowed. Knees and shoulders must be covered for both men and women.
- Children must be accompanied by an adult