Start your adventure at the world's second-largest urban beach in Chennai, bordered by the Bay of Bengal. Watch the gorgeous sunrise or explore the vendors and food stalls that line the boardwalks.
Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Mahabalipuram Temple, built-in the 7th century. An ancient town/fishing village home to breathtakingly carved temples and monuments, including the Shore Temple, Cave Temple, and Arjuna's Penance.
Treat yourself to the French-inspired architecture and food in the former French colony of India, Pondicherry. The Promenade Beach, Paradise Beach, and Auroville are must-visit tourist hotspots here.
Known as the "Rice Bowl of Tamil Nadu," the city is famous for the intricate architectural marvels of Brihadeeswarar Temple, which features Shiva's massive lingam, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Hindus flock to worship Ramanathaswamy Temple, located on Pamban Island and home to 22 water bodies, as it's believed to be the first temple of Lord Rama's Char Dham Pilgrimage. Take a stroll across the Pamban Bridge, India's longest sea bridge.
Witness the unison of three seas (Bay of Bengal, Arabian Sea, and Indian Ocean) at India's southernmost tip's Kanyakumari, featuring the spectacular sunrise and sunset-viewing points and Vivekananda Rock Memorial. Enjoy the stunning views all around.
The Venice of the East, Alleppey, is known for backwater cruising with mesmerizing views of coconut plantations and paddy fields. Explore the local lifestyle and taste a variety of seafood.
Get lost in Munnar's stunning tea gardens, mountains, and valleys. Indoors, visit the Tea Museum, and outdoors, enjoy activities like trekking, camping, and bird watching.
Coorg, also known as Kodagu, is a paradise on earth, surrounded by lush green valleys, coffee plantations, and stunning mountain ranges. Enjoy activities like trekking, rafting, and camping. To experience their lifestyle, visit Dubare Elephant Camp or Bylakuppe's Golden Temple.
The lush greenery-filled, Bangalore, also known as the Garden city, is home to jaw-dropping botanical gardens, such as Lal Bagh Botanical Garden and Cubbon Park. Visit the Bangalore palace, an architecture masterpiece built-in 1884 by King Chamaraja Wodeyar.
Travel via government buses for the cheapest option. Ridesharing, such as Uber or Ola, is also available but slightly expensive. Take a train or overnight sleeper bus for longer journeys. The estimated cost of transportation is INR 3000-5000.
If you have less than 15 days, cut short your visits without sacrificing more for less. For example, skip Coorg Hill Station and Bangalore Gardens. Add on Kodaikanal's hill station or Ooty Hill Station. If you have more than 15 days, consider a journey to the historic ruins of Hampi, the coastal town of Gokarna or Goa, or the Ajanta Caves.
The primary international and domestic airport in South India is Chennai International Airport (MAA). The airport is located 20 minutes (8.9 km) from Chennai Marina Beach. Cochin International Airport (COK), located 1 hour 45 minutes (83.9 km) from Alleppey Backwaters, is a secondary airport option in the region.