Family-Friendly 4-Day Itinerary: Chennai to Kerala in August 2023

  1. Day 1: Mahabalipuram
    1 hour 35 minutes (56.3 miles) from Chennai

    Start your journey with the UNESCO World Heritage site of Mahabalipuram, famous for its ancient temples and rock-cut sculptures. Explore the famous Shore Temple, Rathas, and the stone carvings of Arjuna's Penance. Relax at the Mahabalipuram Beach and indulge in some local seafood delicacies. The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat.

  2. Day 2: Pondicherry
    2 hours 25 minutes (100.6 miles) from Mahabalipuram

    Head to the French-influenced city of Pondicherry, home to picturesque beaches, colonial architecture, and a vibrant food scene. Visit the famous Aurobindo Ashram and Auroville, a unique experimental township. Relax at the Promenade Beach and indulge in some French cuisine. Don't forget to pick up some handmade paper products and pottery from the local markets.

  3. Day 3: Alleppey
    7 hours (223.7 miles) from Pondicherry

    Travel to Alleppey, known as the "Venice of the East," and experience the backwaters of Kerala. Take a houseboat ride through the tranquil canals and enjoy the scenic views of coconut groves, paddy fields, and local life. Visit the Alleppey Beach and the Krishnapuram Palace. Indulge in some traditional Kerala cuisine like appam, puttu, and fish curry.

  4. Day 4: Kochi
    1 hour 30 minutes (37.7 miles) from Alleppey

    End your trip in the vibrant city of Kochi, a melting pot of cultures and traditions. Visit the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets, the Mattancherry Palace, and the Jewish Synagogue. Watch a Kathakali performance, a traditional dance-drama of Kerala. Indulge in some delicious seafood and shop for spices, handicrafts, and silk sarees at the local markets.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Entry fee for Shore Temple in Mahabalipuram (1 hour, INR 40)
  • Boating at Chunnambar Backwaters in Pondicherry (2 hours, INR 900)
  • Houseboat ride in Alleppey (5 hours, INR 8000)
  • Kathakali performance in Kochi (2 hours, INR 300)
  • Total Estimated Costs: INR 9340
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