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Exploring South India with Family: 7-Day Itinerary

Saturday, December 16: Arrival in Chennai

Welcome to South India! Start your trip in Chennai with a visit to Marina Beach in the morning. Enjoy the serene view and take a leisurely walk along the shoreline. In the afternoon, visit the Government Museum, known for its fascinating exhibits. In the evening, explore the vibrant streets of Mylapore, filled with temples, markets, and delicious street food.

  • Marina Beach: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Government Museum: INR 100 per person ($1.35), 2-3 hours
  • Mylapore: Free, 2-3 hours
Sunday, December 17: Pondicherry

Head to the charming town of Pondicherry. Spend the morning exploring the French Quarter with its beautiful colonial architecture and boutiques. In the afternoon, visit the serene Aurobindo Ashram, known for its spiritual ambiance. End the day at Paradise Beach, where you can relax and enjoy the sunset.

  • French Quarter: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Aurobindo Ashram: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Paradise Beach: INR 300 per person ($4), 2-3 hours
Monday, December 18: Madurai

In the morning, explore the magnificent Meenakshi Amman Temple, known for its intricate architecture and vibrant colors. Afterward, discover the Gandhi Memorial Museum, dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi's life and teachings. In the evening, take a stroll along the Vandiyur Mariamman Teppakulam tank and enjoy the tranquil surroundings.

  • Meenakshi Amman Temple: INR 50 per person ($0.68), 2-3 hours
  • Gandhi Memorial Museum: INR 10 per person ($0.14), 1-2 hours
  • Vandiyur Mariamman Teppakulam: Free, 1-2 hours
Tuesday, December 19: Thekkady

Embark on an unforgettable wildlife experience at Periyar National Park in the morning. Take a boat cruise on Periyar Lake and spot various wildlife species. In the afternoon, visit a spice plantation and learn about the region's aromatic spices. Enjoy a serene evening by the lake, surrounded by lush greenery.

  • Periyar National Park: INR 450 per person ($6), 4-5 hours
  • Spice Plantation: INR 200 per person ($2.70), 1-2 hours
  • Periyar Lake: Free, 1-2 hours
Wednesday, December 20: Munnar

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Munnar in the morning. Visit the iconic Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. Enjoy panoramic views from the Top Station viewpoint. In the afternoon, take a scenic tea plantation tour and witness the tea-making process. End the day with a relaxing walk in the tea gardens.

  • Eravikulam National Park: INR 120 per person ($1.62), 2-3 hours
  • Top Station: INR 30 per person ($0.40), 1-2 hours
  • Tea Plantation: INR 150 per person ($2), 2-3 hours
Thursday, December 21: Alleppey

Indulge in the serene backwaters of Alleppey. Start your morning with a charming houseboat cruise through the picturesque canals, surrounded by lush greenery. In the afternoon, embark on a village tour to experience the local culture and traditions. Enjoy a peaceful evening watching the beautiful sunset over the backwaters.

  • Houseboat Cruise: INR 5,000 to 10,000 ($68 to $135) total for a 4-person houseboat, 6-8 hours
  • Village Tour: INR 500 per person ($6.75), 2-3 hours
  • Sunset at Backwaters: Free, 1-2 hours
Friday, December 22: Cochin

Discover the vibrant city of Cochin, also known as Kochi. In the morning, explore the historic Fort Kochi area, famous for its Chinese fishing nets and colonial architecture. Visit the Mattancherry Palace to admire its exquisite murals. In the evening, enjoy a Kathakali dance performance, showcasing traditional Kerala art forms.

  • Fort Kochi: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Mattancherry Palace: INR 5 per person ($0.07), 1-2 hours
  • Kathakali Performance: INR 400 to 600 per person ($5.40 to $8.10), 2-3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a family-friendly off the beaten path experience, visit the hill station of Kodaikanal. Enjoy boating in the serene Kodaikanal Lake and take a leisurely stroll in Coaker's Walk for mesmerizing views. Don't miss the Pillar Rocks, natural rock formations that offer breathtaking panoramas. Kodaikanal also has a delightful selection of homemade chocolates to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Check here for hotel and flight prices.

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