Make this trip your own
Create your own free, personalized itinerary in seconds — then sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version
Viewed by 58 travelers

A Week in South India: Family-Friendly Adventure

Thursday, August 31: Arrival in Chennai

Welcome to Chennai, the bustling capital of Tamil Nadu! Start your trip by exploring the iconic Marina Beach in the morning. Take a leisurely stroll along the sandy shores, enjoying the refreshing sea breeze. In the afternoon, visit the Government Museum, which houses a fascinating collection of archaeological and historic artifacts. As the evening sets in, head to the Mylapore neighborhood and visit the Kapaleeshwarar Temple, an ancient Hindu temple known for its stunning architecture.

  • Marina Beach: FREE, 2 hours
  • Government Museum: INR 250 ($3.5) per person, 2-3 hours
  • Kapaleeshwarar Temple: FREE, 1-2 hours
Friday, September 1: Pondicherry

Embark on a day trip to the charming coastal town of Pondicherry. In the morning, explore the French Quarter, known for its beautiful colonial architecture and vibrant streets. Visit the Sri Aurobindo Ashram, a spiritual community founded by Sri Aurobindo and The Mother. In the afternoon, head to Auroville, an experimental township where people from around the world come together to live in harmony. Enjoy a peaceful walk through the Matrimandir, a golden spiritual center. In the evening, relax by the Promenade Beach and witness a beautiful sunset.

  • French Quarter: FREE, 2-3 hours
  • Sri Aurobindo Ashram: FREE, 1-2 hours
  • Auroville: FREE, 2-3 hours
  • Promenade Beach: FREE, 1-2 hours
Saturday, September 2: Mysuru

Travel to Mysuru, known for its rich heritage and palaces. Start your day by visiting the magnificent Mysuru Palace, a stunning example of Indo-Saracenic architecture. In the afternoon, explore the lush Brindavan Gardens, famous for its musical fountains. Take a boat ride on the picturesque Karanji Lake and spot various bird species. As the evening approaches, witness the grand illumination of the Mysuru Palace.

  • Mysuru Palace: INR 200 ($2.8) per person, 2-3 hours
  • Brindavan Gardens: INR 20 ($0.3) per person, 2-3 hours
  • Karanji Lake: INR 30 ($0.4) per person, 1-2 hours
Sunday, September 3: Coorg

Head to the picturesque hill station of Coorg, also known as the "Scotland of India". Start your day with a visit to the breathtaking Abbey Falls, surrounded by lush greenery. In the afternoon, explore the Dubare Elephant Camp and interact with elephants while learning about their conservation. Enjoy a scenic drive to Raja's Seat, a garden with panoramic views of the surrounding hills, in the evening.

  • Abbey Falls: INR 15 ($0.2) per person, 1-2 hours
  • Dubare Elephant Camp: INR 30 ($0.4) per person, 2-3 hours
  • Raja's Seat: INR 5 ($0.07) per person, 1-2 hours
Monday, September 4: Wayanad

Explore the natural beauty of Wayanad, a district located in the Western Ghats of Kerala. In the morning, visit the stunning Banasura Sagar Dam, the largest earthen dam in India. Take a boat ride on the reservoir and enjoy the serene surroundings. In the afternoon, trek to the breathtaking Meenmutty Falls, cascading down from a height of 300 meters. As the evening sets in, visit the ancient Edakkal Caves, known for their prehistoric rock art.

  • Banasura Sagar Dam: INR 30 ($0.4) per person, 2-3 hours
  • Meenmutty Falls: INR 50 ($0.7) per person, 2-3 hours
  • Edakkal Caves: INR 40 ($0.6) per person, 1-2 hours
Tuesday, September 5: Kochi

Travel to Kochi, a coastal city known for its rich colonial history and diverse culture. In the morning, explore Fort Kochi, a charming neighborhood with Dutch, Portuguese, and British influences. Visit the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets and stroll through the vibrant Jew Town, known for its antique shops. In the afternoon, witness a Kathakali dance performance, a traditional art form of Kerala. Enjoy a relaxing boat ride through the scenic backwaters in the evening.

  • Fort Kochi: FREE, 2-3 hours
  • Chinese Fishing Nets: FREE, 1-2 hours
  • Jew Town: FREE, 1-2 hours
  • Kathakali Performance: INR 300-500 ($4.2-$7) per person, 2 hours
  • Backwater Boat Ride: INR 500-1000 ($7-$14) per person, 2-3 hours
Wednesday, September 6: Return to Chennai

Head back to Chennai for your departure. In the morning, visit the beautiful Arignar Anna Zoological Park, one of the largest zoos in India. Explore the diverse wildlife and enjoy a safari experience. In the afternoon, shop for souvenirs at the vibrant Pondy Bazaar and explore the bustling T. Nagar neighborhood. As the evening approaches, take a peaceful walk along the Marina Beach one last time and bid farewell to South India.

  • Arignar Anna Zoological Park: INR 50 ($0.7) per person, 2-3 hours
  • Pondy Bazaar: Prices vary, 2-3 hours
  • T. Nagar: Prices vary, 2-3 hours
  • Marina Beach: FREE, 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a unique family-friendly experience, consider visiting the Crocodile Bank in Chennai, where you can observe various species of crocodiles up close. In Mysuru, explore the beautiful Chamundi Hills and visit the Chamundeshwari Temple for panoramic views of the city. In Coorg, indulge in a traditional Kodava meal and experience the warm hospitality of the local people. In Kochi, take a ferry to the tranquil island of Vypeen and enjoy the pristine beaches away from the city's hustle and bustle.

Before finalizing your itinerary, make sure to check hotel and flight prices to find the best deals for your South India adventure. Have a fantastic trip!

0
Like this trip? Make your own version.
A free, personalized itinerary in seconds — sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version