Pongal
04 Nights – 05 Days
About the Festival
Pongal is a harvest festival dedicated to the Sun God and is observed as a thanksgiving for a bountiful harvest. It is a four-day-long festival celebrated in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu
The second day of Pongal, is the most important day of the festival. On this day, a special dish called “Pongal”is prepared using newly harvested rice, jaggery, and milk. The dish is cooked outdoors in earthen pots, and as it starts to boil and overflow, people shout, “Pongalo Pongal” in joy. It is a gesture of gratitude for a good harvest.
On the third day is called Mattu Pongal, which is dedicated to cattle, especially cows and bulls, as they play a vital role in agricultural activities. The cattle are bathed, decorated with colourful garlands, and worshipped. They are also paraded on the streets, and various games and contests involving cattle are organized for entertainment.
Throughout the festival, homes are decorated with colorful kolams (intricate patterns drawn on the floor using rice flour) and adorned with fresh mango leaves. People wear new clothes, participate in cultural programs, and engage in traditional games and sports.
Duration
5 days
Tour Type
City Tours, Cruises
Itinerary
- Explore the city’s landmarks such as Lalbagh Botanical Garden, Bangalore Palace, and Tipu Sultan’s Summer Palace
- Arrive in Mysore and check into your hotel.
- Enjoy an evening stroll around the flower market
- In the evening, drive past the Mysore Palace to witness the illumination of the palace
- Drive to Chikmagalur en route visit The Tibetan Golden Temple and Monastry at Bylakuppe .
- Continue to Chikamagalur the land of coffee and spend the night at a coffee plantation.
- Day at leisure to enjoy a walk in the plantation or relax by the pool amidst serene environment, lush green forests and tall mountains
- Start the day with visits of the famous temples of Belur and Halebidu . Then continue to Bangalore . Depart from Bangalore for your onward journey.
Suggested extensions : Kabini Wildlife sanctuary , Hampi UNESCO Heritage site
Note: This itinerary is just a suggestion, and you can customize it as per your preference and availability of time. Keep in mind that Mysore Dussehra attracts huge crowds, so make sure to plan in advance and book your accommodations and transportation ahead of time.
The duration of the trip can be extended or shortened depending on your preferences and time constraints.
EXTENTIONS : COORG / CHICKAMAGALUR / OOTY
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