8-Person High Budget Itinerary: Tirupati, Mahabalipuram, Rameshwaram, Kanyakumari, and Kerala
Wednesday, September 27: Arrival in Tirupati
In the morning, visit the famous Sri Venkateswara Temple in Tirupati, known for its stunning architecture and spiritual significance. Afternoon can be spent exploring the picturesque Kapila Theertham waterfalls. In the evening, take a leisurely walk around the serene Sri Venkateswara Zoological Park.
Sri Venkateswara Temple: Free, Approx. 2 hours
Kapila Theertham: Free, Approx. 1 hour
Sri Venkateswara Zoological Park: INR 1000 per person, Approx. 2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Hotel Bliss located near Sri Venkateswara Temple. They serve a delicious South Indian breakfast with options like idli, vada, and dosa. The average cost for a meal is about ₹150 per person.
For lunch, try the authentic Andhra cuisine at The Grand Gardenia. They offer a variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes with options like biryani, curry, and tandoori. The average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
For dinner, dine at Minerva Grand Restaurant, known for its delightful multi-cuisine menu. They serve a range of Indian, Chinese, and continental dishes. The average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
Thursday, September 28: Mahabalipuram
Start your day by exploring the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Mahabalipuram. Marvel at the intricately carved rock-cut temples, including the famous Shore Temple. In the afternoon, relax on the beautiful Mahabalipuram Beach and enjoy water activities. As evening approaches, visit the Five Rathas, a group of monolithic rock temples.
Shore Temple: INR 600 per person, Approx. 2 hours
Mahabalipuram Beach: Free, Approx. 3 hours
Five Rathas: INR 400 per person, Approx. 1 hour
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious South Indian breakfast at Hotel Saravana Bhavan. This popular restaurant offers mouth-watering dosas, idlis, and vadas. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
For lunch, head to Moonrakers. This beachfront restaurant serves fresh seafood dishes and offers stunning ocean views. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
In the evening, dine at The Fisherman's Wharf. This waterfront restaurant specializes in seafood delicacies and offers a cozy and relaxed atmosphere. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Friday, September 29: Rameshwaram
In the morning, visit the iconic Ramanathaswamy Temple in Rameshwaram, one of the holiest Hindu pilgrimage sites. Explore the grand architecture and take a dip in the holy waters. Afternoon can be spent at Agnitheertham Beach, known for its pristine beauty. In the evening, witness the mesmerizing Pamban Bridge sunset.
Ramanathaswamy Temple: Free, Approx. 2 hours
Agnitheertham Beach: Free, Approx. 3 hours
Pamban Bridge: Free, Approx. 1 hour
Restaurants
A popular option for breakfast is Hotel Tamilnadu, located near Rameshwaram Temple. They offer a variety of South Indian breakfast dishes such as idli and dosa. The average cost for a meal here is about Rs. 100 per person.
If you're looking for a great lunch spot, head to Sea Shell Restaurant. Situated near Agnitheertham Beach, they serve delicious seafood dishes like fish curry and prawns fry. The average cost for a meal here is about Rs. 300 per person.
For a satisfying dinner, try Hotel Saravana Bhavan. They offer a wide range of vegetarian delicacies and authentic South Indian dishes. The average cost for a meal here is about Rs. 200 per person.
Saturday, September 30: Kanyakumari
Start your day by watching the mesmerizing sunrise at the Vivekananda Rock Memorial. Visit the Thiruvalluvar Statue and explore the historic Kanyakumari Temple. In the afternoon, relax at Kanyakumari Beach and experience a breathtaking sunset. Don't miss the unique opportunity to witness the confluence of the Arabian Sea, Bay of Bengal, and Indian Ocean.
Vivekananda Rock Memorial: INR 200 per person, Approx. 2 hours
Kanyakumari Temple: INR 30 per person, Approx. 1 hour
Kanyakumari Beach: Free, Approx. 3 hours
Sunday, October 1: Kerala Backwaters
Embark on a serene houseboat cruise along the enchanting Kerala backwaters. Enjoy the lush green surroundings, traditional cuisine, and tranquil atmosphere. In the afternoon, explore the charming Alleppey town and visit the Alleppey Beach. In the evening, witness a Kathakali dance performance, a traditional art form of Kerala.
Kerala Houseboat Cruise: INR 10,000 per person, Approx. 6 hours
Alleppey Beach: Free, Approx. 2 hours
Kathakali Dance Performance: INR 500 per person, Approx. 3 hours
Restaurants
Kashi Art Cafe: A charming art cafe in Fort Kochi, offering a delightful breakfast menu with options like pancakes, waffles, and eggs. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
Maharaja Bhog: A popular vegetarian restaurant in Kochi, serving a traditional thali with a wide variety of dishes. Average cost for a meal is about ₹400 per person.Trilogi: Located in Alleppey, this waterfront restaurant offers a fine dining experience with a fusion of Indian and international cuisines. Average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.
Monday, October 2: Kochi
Start your day by visiting the historic Fort Kochi, known for its colonial architecture and Chinese fishing nets. Explore the charming streets lined with art galleries and spice markets. In the afternoon, take a relaxing boat ride to see the scenic beauty of the backwaters. In the evening, watch a mesmerizing traditional Kathakali performance.
Fort Kochi: Free, Approx. 3 hours
Boat Ride in Backwaters: INR 1000 per person, Approx. 2 hours
Kathakali Performance: INR 500 per person, Approx. 3 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to the famous Kayees Rahmathullah Hotel and try their delicious Malabar parotta and beef curry. The average cost for a meal is about INR 150 per person.
For lunch, visit Dhe Puttu and savor their authentic Kerala-style puttu with a variety of side dishes. The average cost for a meal is about INR 200 per person.
For dinner, dine at Oceanos Restaurant and indulge in their delectable seafood specialties like grilled lobster and fish curry. The average cost for a meal is about INR 500 per person.
Tuesday, October 3: Departure
Enjoy a leisurely morning exploring the vibrant markets of Kochi, perfect for souvenir shopping. In the afternoon, bid farewell to the beautiful South Indian region as you head to the airport for your departure.
Kochi Markets: Cost as per shopping preferences, Approx. 2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious South Indian breakfast at Hotel Saravana Bhavan. Enjoy crispy dosas and fluffy idlis. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
For lunch, head to The Fat Fanny's Cafe, a charming restaurant known for its mouthwatering seafood dishes. Try their freshly caught fish curry with steamed rice. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
In the evening, dine at North East Kitchen, a cozy restaurant specializing in authentic North Eastern cuisine. Indulge in their flavorful momos and spicy pork curry. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For off the beaten path attractions, consider visiting the stunning Chidambaram Temple in Tamil Nadu, known for its intricate carvings and spiritual significance. Another hidden gem is the vibrant spice market in Thekkady, Kerala, where you can experience the aroma and flavors of South Indian spices. Locals also love the tranquil Varkala Beach, an unspoiled coastal paradise offering breathtaking views and relaxation.