10-Day Family-Friendly Itinerary for Tamilnadu

  1. Day 1: Marina Beach
    Located in Chennai
    Time estimate: 3 hours
    Distance from last location: 0 miles

    Enjoy the sunrise at the longest beach in India, take a dip in the Bay of Bengal, and relish the street food while exploring the local markets by the coast.

  2. Day 2: Mahabalipuram
    Located 37 miles south of Chennai
    Time estimate: 5 hours
    Distance from last location: 37 miles

    Explore the Shore Temple, Five Rathas, and the Caves. Shop for unique stone crafts and immerse in the local seafood.

  3. Day 3: Pondicherry
    Located 68 miles south of Mahabalipuram
    Time estimate: 6 hours
    Distance from last location: 68 miles

    Get a glimpse at the French architecture and lifestyle at the quarters of White Town, promenade at Rock Beach and the famous Aurobindo Ashram, do some shopping, and dine at the charming cafes.

  4. Day 4: Thanjavur
    Located 105 miles south of Pondicherry
    Time estimate: 4.5 hours
    Distance from last location: 105 miles

    The land of the Cholas is famous for the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Brihadeeswarar Temple, Thanjavur Palace, and art museums. Relish the traditional south-Indian cuisine.

  5. Day 5: Madurai
    Located 102 miles southeast of Thanjavur
    Time estimate: 5 hours
    Distance from last location: 102 miles

    Visit the iconic Meenakshi Amman Temple, Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace, and Gandhi Museum. Enjoy the lip-smacking food and relax in the peaceful surroundings.

  6. Day 6: Kanyakumari
    Located 91 miles south of Madurai
    Time estimate: 6 hours
    Distance from last location: 91 miles

    Get a mesmerizing view of the sun and sea from the southernmost point of peninsular India, Kanyakumari. Visit Vivekananda Rock Memorial, Thiruvalluvar Statue, Our Lady of Ransom Church, and the enchanting beaches.

  7. Day 7: Rameswaram
    Located 106 miles east of Kanyakumari
    Time estimate: 5 hours
    Distance from last location: 106 miles

    Explore the Ramanathaswamy Temple, Dhanushkodi Beach, Pamban Bridge, and the Adam's Bridge. Don't miss the famous south-Indian delicacies.

  8. Day 8: Coimbatore
    Located 291 miles northwest of Rameswaram
    Time estimate: 8 hours
    Distance from last location: 291 miles

    Visit the popular Marudhamalai Hill Temple, Adiyogi Shiva temple, Kovai Kondattam amusement park and indulge in the delicious local cuisine.

  9. Day 9: Ooty
    Located 57 miles north of Coimbatore
    Time estimate: 4.5 hours
    Distance from last location: 57 miles

    Enjoy the picturesque landscapes, visit the local gardens and parks including Botanical garden, Rose garden, and Pykara falls. Take a ride in the toy train and shop for tea and chocolates.

  10. Day 10: Mysore
    Located 88 miles west of Ooty
    Time estimate: 6 hours
    Distance from last location: 88 miles

    Visit the splendid Mysore Palace, the enchanting Brindavan Gardens, and the popular deity Chamundi Hill Temple. Shop for souvenirs and relish the local cuisine.

Time and Cost Estimates

  • Entrance Fee to National Parks and Museums ($5-10)
  • Average meal cost ($7-10)
  • Taxi fare for 1km ($0.18) and Gas/petrol cost ($0.79/ltr)
  • Total Estimated Costs: $1000-1200

Useful Tips

If you have extra time, try visiting the art-hub of Tamil Nadu, Kumbakonam, and the popular hill station of Tamil Nadu, Kodaikanal while avoiding the peak tourist season.

If you have less time, skip locations such as Coimbatore and Mysore, while shortening your trip to either northern or southern Tamil Nadu.

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