7 Day South India Motorcycle Riding Itinerary in July 2023

1. Day 1: Chennai
   Starting Point
   Estimated Distance: 0 km

   Begin the trip by exploring Fort St. George, an iconic 17th-century fortress. Visit the Kapaleeshwarar Temple to experience the Dravidian-style architecture. End the day with a visit to Marina Beach, the longest natural urban beach in the country.

2. Day 2: Mahabalipuram
   Distance from Chennai: 60 km (1 hour)

   Start with a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Shore Temple. Spend the afternoon exploring the intricately carved rock-cut temples of Arjuna's Penance, the Pancha Rathas and Krishna's Butterball. End the day with a relaxing stroll along the Mahabalipuram Beach.

3. Day 3: Pondicherry
   Distance from Mahabalipuram: 100 km (2 hours)

   Begin with a heritage walk of the French Quarter to explore the colonial architecture. Visit the Aurobindo Ashram and Auroville to experience the spiritual side of Pondicherry. Spend the evening at the Promenade Beach and enjoy the French delicacies at the local cafes and restaurants.

4. Day 4: Thanjavur
   Distance from Pondicherry: 170 km (3 hours)

   Visit the iconic Brihadeeswara Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a testimony to Dravidian architecture. Explore the Thanjavur Palace complex and the Saraswathi Mahal Library. End the day with a visit to the Thanjavur Maratha Palace.

5. Day 5: Madurai
   Distance from Thanjavur: 170 km (3 hours)

   Visit the Meenakshi Amman Temple, a historic Hindu temple adorned with intricate carvings and life-sized sculptures. Spend the afternoon exploring the Thirumalai Nayak Palace and the Gandhi Museum. End the day with a visit to the Madurai Market which offers a variety of local delicacies.

6. Day 6: Kodaikanal
   Distance from Madurai: 120 km (3 hours)

   Start with a visit to the Kodaikanal Lake, a man-made lake that offers boating facilities. Explore the beautiful Bryant Park and enjoy the scenic views from the Coaker's Walk. End the day with a visit to the Pillar Rocks, offering stunning views of the surrounding valleys.

7. Day 7: Ooty
   Distance from Kodaikanal: 280 km (6 hours)

   Start with a visit to the Botanical Gardens, home to a variety of exotic plants and trees. Take a ride on the Nilgiri Mountain Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most scenic train journeys in India. End the trip with a visit to the Doddabetta Peak, offering breathtaking views of the Nilgiri Mountains.

Recommendations

Consider visiting the Rameshwaram Temple and Dhanushkodi Beach for a day trip from Pondicherry. Another option is to visit the Mudumalai National Park for a wildlife safari on the way to Ooty. To maximize your fun, try the local cuisine and interact with the friendly locals.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Fort St. George (2 hours, INR 15)
• Kapaleeshwarar Temple (1 hour, Free)
• Marina Beach (2 hours, Free)
• Shore Temple (2 hours, INR 500)
• Arjuna's Penance (1 hour, INR 30)
• Pancha Rathas (1 hour, INR 30)
• Krishna's Butterball (30 minutes, Free)
• Heritage Walk of French Quarter (2 hours, Free)
• Aurobindo Ashram and Auroville (3 hours, Free)
• Promenade Beach (2 hours, Free)
• Brihadeeswara Temple (2 hours, INR 250)
• Thanjavur Palace complex (1 hour, INR 50)
• Saraswathi Mahal Library (1 hour, INR 20)
• Meenakshi Amman Temple (2 hours, Free)
• Thirumalai Nayak Palace (1 hour, INR 50)
• Gandhi Museum (1 hour, INR 10)
• Kodaikanal Lake (2 hours, INR 30)
• Bryant Park (1 hour, INR 30)
• Coaker's Walk (1 hour, INR 20)
• Pillar Rocks (1 hour, INR 10)
• Botanical Gardens (2 hours, INR 30)
• Nilgiri Mountain Railway (5 hours, INR 250)
• Doddabetta Peak (2 hours, INR 10)
• Total Estimated Costs: INR 1440

To check hotel and flight prices, please visit https://booking.tp.st/VhZsadPo