7-Day South India Motorcycle Riding Itinerary (February 2024)

1. Day 1: Mahabalipuram
   1 hr 30 min (35.3 miles) from Chennai

   Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Mahabalipuram and marvel at the impressive rock-cut temples and sculptures. In the afternoon, explore the quaint town and its famous beach.

2. Day 2: Pondicherry
   2 hr 30 min (98.4 miles) from Mahabalipuram

   Ride to the charming French town of Pondicherry and discover its unique blend of Indian and European culture. Explore the stunning French Quarter and enjoy some delicious seafood in the evening.

3. Day 3: Thanjavur
   4 hr (122 miles) from Pondicherry

   Visit the Brihadeeswara Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the largest temples in India. In the afternoon, visit the Thanjavur Palace and Art Gallery to learn about the town's rich history and culture.

4. Day 4: Madurai
   2 hr 50 min (90.6 miles) from Thanjavur

   Explore the famous Meenakshi Amman Temple, a magnificent temple dedicated to the Hindu goddess Parvati. Visit the Gandhi Memorial Museum and learn about India's freedom struggle in the afternoon.

5. Day 5: Munnar
   4 hr 30 min (106 miles) from Madurai

   Ride to the beautiful hill station of Munnar and enjoy the stunning views of the Western Ghats. Visit the Tata Tea Museum and learn about India's tea industry. In the evening, relax and enjoy the cool climate and scenic beauty of the town.

6. Day 6: Kochi
   3 hr 30 min (87.8 miles) from Munnar

   Explore the historic city of Kochi and its famous landmarks, including the Chinese Fishing Nets, St. Francis Church, and the Jewish Synagogue. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Kathakali performance.

7. Day 7: Varkala
   4 hr 30 min (129 miles) from Kochi

   Relax on the beautiful beaches of Varkala and soak in the stunning views of the Arabian Sea. Visit the Janardhana Swamy Temple and the Sivagiri Mutt for some spiritual enlightenment. In the evening, enjoy some delicious seafood and watch the sunset over the sea.

Recommendations

Consider taking a detour to the beautiful backwaters of Alleppey or spending an extra day in Munnar for some trekking. Also, don't miss out on trying some of the local delicacies, such as appam and stew in Kochi or the famous filter coffee in Tamil Nadu.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Mahabalipuram entrance fee (2 hours, INR 30)
• Pondicherry seafood dinner (2 hours, INR 800)
• Thanjavur Palace entrance fee (2 hours, INR 200)
• Madurai temple donation (2 hours, INR 50)
• Munnar tea museum entrance fee (2 hours, INR 200)
• Kochi Kathakali performance (2 hours, INR 500)
• Varkala seafood dinner (2 hours, INR 800)
• Total Estimated Costs: INR 2,580