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Maestro Jrnys

A Shiva Shakti Retreat with Vinita Rashinkar

Madurai to Thanjavur

LED BY

Vinita Rashinkar

TRIP DATES

25 Jan 25 - 30 Jan 25

PRICE PER PERSON

$ 813.20

WELLNESS

Overview Stay Itinerary FAQs

Bookings Closed

A Shiva Shakti Retreat with Vinita Rashinkar: Madurai to Thanjavur

TRIP DATES

25 Jan 25-30 Jan 25

PRICE PER PERSON

$ 813.20

Bookings Closed

About this Jrny

This JRNY is part of our SERENE INDIA series, where we embark on transformative journeys. Our focus is to nurture your spiritual well-being as you immerse yourself in the tranquillity of yoga, meditation, and immersive workshops, complemented by visits to sacred sites and serene landscapes.

Travel with Vinita & JrnyOn through the spiritual heartland of Tamil Nadu and delve deep into the essence of "Shiva and Shakti" as you explore revered temples dedicated to the divine masculine and feminine energies. In the Tantric cosmology, the whole universe is perceived as being created, penetrated and sustained by two fundamental forces, which are permanently in a perfect, indestructible union. These forces or universal aspects are called Shiva and Shakti.

Madurai, the cultural heartland of Tamil Nadu, boasts the illustrious Meenakshi Amman Temple, a masterpiece of Dravidian architecture dedicated to Goddess Meenakshi, the divine consort of Lord Shiva. In Trichy, the Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple reigns supreme, dedicated to Lord Ranganatha, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, and his consort, Goddess Ranganayaki. Kumbakonam, known for its rich heritage and architectural splendor, hosts the revered Sarangapani Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu and his consort, Komalavalli Thayar. Further, in Thanjavur, the Brihadeeswarar Temple stands as a testament to Chola grandeur and architectural brilliance.

Here is an opportunity to engage in enlightening workshops and meditation classes led by experienced practitioners, immersing yourself in ancient techniques for holistic wellness. From the sacred shores of the Kaveri River to the majestic halls of Chola architecture, every moment of this journey is designed to nurture your spiritual growth and inner peace. Join us on this soul-stirring odyssey and unlock the secrets to profound wellbeing amidst the timeless heritage of Southern India.

Highlights

Experience the connect to self through the lens of Shiva and Shakti
Immerse yourself in the principles of Sri Vidya, Kundalini, Chakras and Tantra in this JRNY
Feel the existence of energy flows at the Madurai Meenakshi Temple
Learn to trust your intuition and guide yourself to your inner wisdom at the temples in Thanjavur
Practice chanting in the Sri Vidya tradition

Led by Jrny Maestro

Vinita Rashinkar

A best-selling author with her own powerful and transformative healing technique.

4 Jrnys

14 Happy Travellers

Overview

Dates

25Jan’25 - 30Jan’25

Suggested Ages

Any

Duration

6 days

Activity Level

Moderate

Group Size

Travel Style

comfort

Price per person

$813.20

Itinerary

Sat 25 Jan

Arrival at Madurai

Sun 26 Jan

A Day in Madurai

Mon 27 Jan

Madurai - Trichy - Kumbakonam

Tue 28 Jan

Kumbakonam to Thanjavur

Wed 29 Jan

A Day in Thanjavur

Thu 30 Jan

Departure from Madurai

From A Shiva Shakti Retreat with Vinita Rashinkar's Jrny

I am so glad we decided to go for this trip with JrnyOn. We were so comfortable and felt safe throughout the journey as everything was taken care of so well. I think the group size too was perfect—if it was even a little bit bigger, it would not have felt as intimate as it was. Still reeling from the lovely time we had. Overall a memorable trip, that will forever remain a very cherished memory. Thank you JrnyOn!

Krishna Panikar

A Shiva Shakti Retreat with Vinita Rashinkar

Stay

CHECK IN 25 Jan

2 N

CHECK OUT 27 Jan

Grand Madurai by GRT Hotels

Madurai

CHECK IN 27 Jan

1 N

CHECK OUT 28 Jan

CGH Mantra Koodam

Kumbakonam

CHECK IN 28 Jan

2 N

CHECK OUT 30 Jan

Great Trails Riverview Resort by GRT

Thanjavur

Your Daily Itinerary

Sat 25 Jan

Arrival at Madurai

Welcome to Madurai, one of the oldest cities in India along the banks of Vaigai River, a metropolis that traded with Ancient Rome and Ancient Greece which dates back to 300 BC. The city is believed to be a significant antiquity and has been ruled by various dynasties such as Cholas, Pandyas, Vijaynagar kingdom among others. The town has been patterned as a lotus flower, with the temple of Goddess Meenakshi at the centre.

Upon your arrival, our representative will warmly welcome you at the airport and assist with your transfer to the hotel. The remainder of the day is yours to enjoy at leisure, allowing you to settle into your new home-away-from-home experience.

Meals Included: Dinner

Activities

Meet and Greet in Madurai

00:00 - 23:59

Arrive at Madurai International Airport (Airport code: IXM). Once you retrieve your luggage, proceed to the arrival gate, please look for JrnyOn representative holding a placard with your name. Proceed to your hotel in a pre-arranged transfer vehicle.

Introduction to your JrnyMaestro

17:00 - 19:00

Welcome to Madurai. Meet your JrnyMaestro, Vinita Rashinkar where she will introduce you to the theme of the retreat.

Welcome Dinner

19:00 - 20:00

In the evening, savour a delightful Welcome Dinner that introduces you to the cultural richness of Tamil Nadu. Indulge in a fusion of local flavours and contemporary dining, all while surrounded by stories of the past.

Evening Ceremony at Meenakshi Temple

20:30 - 22:00

Become part of the magical Madurai Meenakshi Amman Temple Night Ceremony, where ancient traditions unfold beneath the starlit sky. This exclusive experience invites you to witness the vibrant rituals and spiritual devotion that fill the temple with life after dusk. As the sanctum radiates with colorful lights and echoes with sacred chants, you’ll feel a deep connection to the divine. Step into this luminous sanctuary and immerse yourself in its timeless allure—what stories will you discover as you become part of its living legacy?

Sun 26 Jan

A Day in Madurai

Begin your day with a delectable breakfast, setting the stage for a cultural journey in Madurai. Visit the iconic Meenakshi Amman Temple, immersing yourself in its spiritual ambiance. Explore the opulent Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace, a testament to Nayak dynasty grandeur.

Enjoy a free afternoon.

As evening descends, you have the option to take a leisurely stroll through vibrant temple streets, embracing the city's dynamic blend of tradition and modernity. Conclude your day with a delightful dinner at a recommended restaurant, savouring the diverse flavours of Madurai.

Meals Included: Breakfast & Lunch

Activities

Meditation

06:00 - 08:00

Introduction to the Chakras, Sri Yantra, chanting and meditation

Walking Tour of Madurai

09:30 - 10:30

Morning, discover the Pulse of Madurai. A bustling town home to many dynasties, Madurai is a cultural extravaganza. And hidden within its vibrant streets are many stories. This private walking tour offers a unique and genuine experience to immerse your senses in Madurai’s local traditions and everyday life. As you saunter around the ancient city you will dive into age-old customs, and habits of local people, see their humble abodes, marvel at the towering monuments, enjoy authentic street food, and get acquainted with this eclectic city, at your pace. Our expert guide will give you a glimpse into the heart of the city as you uncover its historic tales and myths.

Meenakshi Temple

10:30 - 12:00

Afterward, visit the most impressive and iconic temples of South India - the Meenakshi Temple which dates back more than 2500 years! Spread over 14 acres, with 4500 pillars and 14 towers this majestic temple has two shrines - one dedicated to Goddess Meenakshi and the other to Lord Shiva. The temple is the epitome of classic architecture with murals so gorgeous that they will take your breath away.

Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace

12:00 - 12:30

Following your visit to the temple, the tour continues to the majestic Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace, a testament to the city's royal past. Here, you'll wander through grand halls adorned with ornate ceilings, marvelling at the exquisite Indo-Saracenic architecture that exudes opulence and grandeur. The palace gardens provide a tranquil oasis amidst the hustle and bustle of the city, offering a serene retreat to soak in the beauty of your surroundings.

Lunch in Local restaurant

13:00 - 14:00

Enjoy lunch at a local eatery

Shiva Shakti Session

17:00 - 19:00

A session on the significance of Shiva Shakti in Sri Vidya

Mon 27 Jan

Madurai - Trichy - Kumbakonam

The journey unfolds as you bid farewell to Madurai and embark on a scenic drive to Kumbakonam via Trichy. The day begins with a visit to the Sri Ranganatha Swamy Temple in Trichy, an architectural marvel that stands as a testament to South Indian spirituality. Later, we break for a lunch in Trichy, savoring regional flavors. Continuing the scenic drive, reach the town of Kumbakonam, renowned for its sacred Navagraha temples. Upon arrival, check into your chosen accommodation and take a moment to relax. As the day concludes, immerse yourself in Kumbakonam's vibrant atmosphere, perhaps exploring local markets or enjoying a serene evening by the Mahamaham Tank. This concludes the day & an overnight stay at Kumbakonam.

Meals Included: Breakfast Lunch & Dinner

Madurai - Trichy - Kumbakonam - Day 3 image

Activities

Morning Meditation

06:00 - 08:00

Sri Vidya chanting and meditation

Madurai to Trichy Drive

09:30 - 11:30

Embark on a picturesque journey from Madurai to Trichy, a city that is situated on the banks of the Cauvery river.

Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple

11:30 - 13:30

Next we’ll visit the one of India's biggest temple complexes is the site of sprawling Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple, whose seven concentric boundary walls (prakarams) enclose 240 hectares (600 acres) devoted to the Hindu faith. There are temples here as well as the Thousand Pillared Hall. Also within the walls of the complex, is a web of lanes lined with houses, shops, and businesses, which retains the feel of a medieval village. A climb up to the rooftop of the complex is rewarded with a memorable view over the entire complex.

Lunch at a Local Eatery

13:30 - 14:30

Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant in Trichy

Trichy - Kumbakonam Drive

15:30 - 17:00

Enjoy a scenic drive from Trichy to Kumbakonam.

1:1 Sessions with Vinita

17:00 - 20:00

Every day in your JRNY you will have the opportunity for one on one Interactive sessions with Vinita on integrating spiritual practices into daily life.

Tue 28 Jan

Kumbakonam to Thanjavur

As per folklore, Kumbakonam was the place where a pot containing the seed of all living beings on Earth came to rest after the dissolution of the Universe. Over the past thousand centuries, Kumbakonam has been ruled by numerous empires and dynasties of south India, rising to prominence as a center for European education and Hindu culture under the British regime. With a 12-yearly celebration of the ‘legend of the pot’ and over a thousand temples, Kumbakonam has earned the epithet ‘temple town’ and witnesses tides of pilgrims all year round.

Morning visit the temples in Kumbakonam and we drive to Thanjavur in the afternoon.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Activities

Meditation

06:00 - 08:00

Morning chanting and meditation for grounding and center-ing.

Adi Kumbeswarar Temple

10:00 - 11:00

You will go to the Lord Shiva-dedicated Adi Kumbeswarar Temple, popularly known as Thirukudamooku. It was constructed in the ninth century CE under the Chola dynasty and refurbished in the sixteenth century AD by Govinda Dikshitar, the chieftain of the Achutha Nayakar of Thanjavur.

Kumbakonam to Thanjavur

14:00 - 16:00

Depart for a scenic journey from Kumbakonam to Thanjavur.

1:1 Sessions with Vinita

17:00 - 19:00

Every day in your JRNY you will have the opportunity for one on one Interactive sessions with Vinita on integrating spiritual practices into daily life.

Wed 29 Jan

A Day in Thanjavur

Thanjavur, was formerly termed as “Tanjore”. The cultural hub was once the capital city of the erstwhile Kingdom of Cholas. It was during the Cholas Dynasty, the city attained its pompous and glory. The city houses world-famous temples, enormous Museums, and Maratha Palace etc. Thanjavur is the cradle for Carnatic Music and Bharatanatyam, a classical dance form. Every year during October, the annual Birthday festival of Erstwhile King Rajaraja Chola (the king who built Brihadeeswara Temple) is celebrated as “Sathaya Thiruvizha”. Also “Carnatic Music Festival” is also organized in a town called “Thiruvaiyaru” near Thanjavur.

A full day of exploration awaits today.

Meals Included: Breakfast & Dinner
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Activities

Morning Meditation

06:00 - 08:00

Morning chanting and meditation for grounding and center-ing.

Brihadeeswara Temple

10:00 - 11:30

Morning, head to the Brihadeeswara Temple, one of Thanjavur's most iconic landmarks and a revered site of Hindu pilgrimage and architectural wonder. As you step into its hallowed precincts, you'll be greeted by the awe-inspiring sight of the temple's towering vimana, a testament to Chola craftsmanship and devotion. Delve into the intricate carvings adorning its walls, each telling a story of myth and legend. Feel the palpable aura of spirituality as you wander through its halls, absorbing the rich history and significance of this sacred sanctuary dedicated to Lord Shiva.

Thanjavur Palace

11:30 - 12:15

Later explore the Royal Palace. Together with a collection of manuscripts and sculptures portraying the Chola dynasty, the palace has a collection of well-known Thanjavur paintings.

Sarasvati Mahal Library

12:30 - 13:15

The Sefoji Sarasvati Mahal Library is one of the few remaining medieval libraries in the world. It has extremely rare and priceless collections of books, paintings, maps, and manuscripts on all facets of art, culture, and literature.

Satsang and Dasamahavidya

17:00 - 19:00

Satsang and Dasamahavidya session

Thu 30 Jan

Departure from Madurai

After breakfast, we head to the airport for your departure, carrying the serenity and balance nurtured through the morning practice, ensuring a peaceful transition to your next destination.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Activities

Departure from Thanjavur to Madurai Airport

08:00 - 11:00

Today, your JrnyOn journey comes to an end. Wrap up your experience with a smooth departure transfer to Madurai Airport (IXM), ensuring a hassle-free connection to your onward flight back home. Until we meet again, farewell from India, and may your life's journey be filled with endless discoveries and boundless happiness.

Frequently Asked Questions

- You are ready for journey of self exploration and Introspection through travel

- You are a traveller keen to connect your energies with these ancient civilizations

- You are eager to explore the world from the lens of Yoga, Spirituality and Wellbeing

- And if you will like to learn and practice Yoga

- Initiation into Sri Vidya with personal beeja mantra

- Learn in detail about the Sri Yantra

- Study the Mantras of Sri Vidya

- Introduction to the Dasa Mahavidya

- Healing the Chakras

- One-on-one interaction to resolve your spiritual queries

- Develop self-awareness, self-acceptance and self-responsibility

The tour starts and ends in Madurai. So you should arrive in Madurai International Airport (Airport code: IXM)

Yes, private arrival and departure airport transfers are included in all JrnyOn tours between the airport and the tour hotel. These transfers will be shared with other members of your tour.

Your first activity is scheduled for 3pm on Day 1. So please be in the lobby of the hotel 15 mts before.

You can depart anytime. Generally there are no inclusions on tour on the last day. The hotel check out time is usually 11am or 12noon.

Many of our travellers do travel alone as our JRNYs provide an opportunity to meet and share experiences with like-minded people. We normally pair up solo travellers, but if you would like to have your single room, we offer that. There will be a supplement cost for the single room.

You will have to be 12 yrs or above to join this JRNY. Anyone 12 - 17 should be accompanied by an adult above 18 years old.

Absolutely, please rest assured. From flavourful vegetarian dishes deeply rooted in local culinary traditions to specially curated menus, we ensure a delightful array of vegetarian choices on all our tours.

We try and cater to other diet restrictions as much as possible. But, we do focus on regional local cuisine. So there will be limitations. Please write to [email protected] with you booking number in the subject line to inform us well in advance of any such restrictions.

Overall for the tour on a scale from 1 - 5, a fitness level of 2 would be ideal for this trip.

Please refer to the daily activities in the itinerary, where the driving distance and duration for each day is given. The longest drive in this tour appx 4 hrs (depending on traffic) between Patna and Bodhgaya, which includes many stops for sightseeing and lunch.

In general, lightweight and breathable clothing is advisable as the weather tends to warm up by the end of March. Please do make sure you pack your yoga clothes as well.