4-Day Family-Friendly Itinerary: From Kanchipuram to Kerala

  1. Day 1: Kanchipuram - Mahabalipuram
    1 hour 20 minutes (41.8 km) from Kanchipuram

    Visit the Kanchi Kailasanathar Temple, an architectural marvel with intricate carvings. Afterward, head to the Dakshinachitra Heritage Museum to explore South Indian art and architecture, crafts, and cultural performances. Finally, head to Mahabalipuram to see the UNESCO-listed Shore Temple and the famous stone carvings depicting scenes from Hindu mythology.

  2. Day 2: Puducherry
    2 hours 32 minutes (98.0 km) from Mahabalipuram

    Start the day in Auroville, an experimental town dedicated to human unity and founded on the principles of universal brotherhood. Explore the Matri Mandir, a golden globe-shaped meditation center. Later head to the French Quarter of Pondicherry to take a stroll along the charming Promenade Beach, visit the Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the Pondicherry Museum to learn about the city's rich history.

  3. Day 3: Thekkady
    8 hours 2 minutes (305 km) from Pondicherry

    Drive to the picturesque hill station of Munnar and explore its verdant tea plantations and scenic viewpoints while enjoying a relaxing morning walk. Later, drive to Thekkady to witness the beauty of Periyar National Park and Tiger Reserve and enjoy a boat ride on Periyar Lake to spot elephants, deer, and other wildlife.

  4. Day 4: Alleppey - Kochi
    3 hours 10 minutes (145 km) from Thekkady

    Embark on a houseboat ride in Alleppey to explore the famous backwaters of Kerala. Enjoy scenic views of coconut groves, paddy fields, and local villages while enjoying traditional cuisine and the cool sea breeze. Later head to the vibrant city of Kochi to explore the historic Mattancherry Palace and the spice market at Jew Town before ending the trip with a sunset walk along the Fort Kochi Beach.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Kanchi Kailasanathar Temple (1 hour, INR 30)
  • Dakshinachitra Heritage Museum (2 hours, INR 250)
  • Shore Temple Mahabalipuram (1 hour, INR 50)
  • Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus (30 minutes, free)
  • Pondicherry Museum (1 hour, INR 10)
  • Periyar National Park and Tiger Reserve (4 hours, INR 335)
  • Houseboat ride in Alleppey (5 hours, INR 7,000)
  • Mattancherry Palace (1 hour, INR 5)
  • Spice Market at Jew Town (1 hour, free)
  • Total Estimated Costs (excluding accommodation and transport): INR 7,930

Useful Tips

If you have more time, consider taking a detour to Kodaikanal to enjoy the scenic beauty of the Western Ghats or Wayanad to experience the lush green forests and wildlife. If you have less time, you can skip visiting Mahabalipuram or Alleppey and spend more time in Pondicherry or Thekkady.

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