How many days do you need in South india?

This itinerary covers 9 days in South india, which is a great amount of time to explore the main highlights. Depending on your pace and interests, you could extend or shorten the trip.

What is the best itinerary for South india?

Plan your perfect 9 days trip to South india. This detailed travel itinerary includes daily activities, local recommendations, and insider tips to make your journey unforgettable.

Family Friendly 6-Day South India Itinerary

Day 1: Explore Chennai

Chennai, Tamil Nadu

9:00AM

Marina Beach

Start your day with a relaxing walk along Marina Beach, one of the longest urban beaches in the world.

Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Kapaleeshwarar Temple

Visit the historic Kapaleeshwarar Temple to admire its stunning Dravidian architecture and vibrant surroundings.

Free, 1 hour

1:30PM

Lunch at Murugan Idli Shop

Enjoy a delicious South Indian meal at Murugan Idli Shop known for its authentic and flavourful dishes.

£10, 1 hour

3:00PM

Government Museum

Explore the Government Museum to learn about South India's art, culture, and history through its extensive collection of artefacts.

£3, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Ente Keralam

Indulge in a traditional Kerala-style dinner at Ente Keralam, offering a range of authentic dishes amidst a welcoming ambience.

£20, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in Chennai

Day 2: Discover More of Chennai

Chennai, Tamil Nadu

9:00AM

Arignar Anna Zoological Park

Spend the day at Arignar Anna Zoological Park, home to a diverse range of wildlife species and lush greenery, perfect for a family day out.

£5, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Annalakshmi Restaurant

Enjoy a vegetarian buffet lunch at Annalakshmi Restaurant, offering a variety of South Indian and North Indian dishes in a serene setting.

£15, 1 hour

3:00PM

Birla Planetarium

Head to Birla Planetarium for an educational and interactive experience, learning about astronomy and space through engaging presentations.

£4, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Southern Spice

Experience a culinary journey through South India with a dinner at Southern Spice, known for its authentic regional dishes and warm hospitality.

£25, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Chennai

Day 3: Pondicherry's Coastal Charms

Pondicherry, Tamil Nadu

9:00AM

Paradise Beach

Spend a relaxing morning at Paradise Beach, known for its pristine shores and serene atmosphere, perfect for family fun and relaxation.

£3, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Tanto Pizzeria

Enjoy a delightful lunch at Tanto Pizzeria, known for its delicious wood-fired pizzas and a variety of Italian dishes.

£20, 1 hour

2:00PM

Auroville

Explore the unique township of Auroville, known for its spiritual significance and diverse community, offering a peaceful and enlightening experience.

Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Promenade Beach

Take a leisurely stroll along Promenade Beach, witnessing the scenic views and vibrant atmosphere of this popular waterfront promenade.

Free, 1.5 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Rendezvous

Enjoy a delectable dinner at Rendezvous, offering a blend of Indian and Continental cuisines in a charming setting by the sea.

£30, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Pondicherry

Day 4: Explore More of Pondicherry

Pondicherry, Tamil Nadu

9:00AM

Sri Aurobindo Ashram

Visit Sri Aurobindo Ashram for a tranquil and spiritual experience, reflecting on the teachings of Sri Aurobindo and The Mother.

Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Auroville Bakery

Indulge in a delightful breakfast at Auroville Bakery, known for its organic and freshly baked goods, perfect for a quick bite or takeaway snacks.

£5, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Le Dupleix

Experience a sumptuous French-inspired lunch at Le Dupleix, offering a blend of traditional and contemporary dishes in a charming setting.

£30, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Shopping at Mission Street

Explore the vibrant Mission Street for souvenir shopping, where you can find a variety of handicrafts, textiles, and local products.

Variable, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Carte Blanche

Enjoy a leisurely dinner at Carte Blanche, known for its fusion of French and Indian cuisines, offering a unique and flavourful dining experience.

£35, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Pondicherry

Day 5: Discover the Rich Heritage of Madurai

Madurai, Tamil Nadu

9:00AM

Meenakshi Amman Temple

Begin your day with a visit to the iconic Meenakshi Amman Temple, known for its stunning architecture and sacred significance in Hindu culture.

Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Murugan Idli Shop

Indulge in a classic South Indian lunch at Murugan Idli Shop, savouring the authentic flavours of local cuisine.

£10, 1 hour

2:00PM

Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace

Explore the grandeur of Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace, known for its architectural splendour and historical significance, offering insights into the royal past of Madurai.

£5, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Gandhi Memorial Museum

Visit the Gandhi Memorial Museum to delve into the life and legacy of Mahatma Gandhi through its various exhibits and artefacts.

£3, 1.5 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Amma Mess

Enjoy a traditional Tamil Nadu dinner at Amma Mess, known for its authentic and homely dishes, offering a taste of local cuisine.

£15, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in Madurai

Day 6: Immerse in Madurai's Culture

Madurai, Tamil Nadu

9:00AM

Gandhi Memorial Museum

Start your day with a visit to the Gandhi Memorial Museum to gain a deeper understanding of Mahatma Gandhi's principles and contributions to India's independence.

£3, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Murugan Idli Shop

Enjoy another delightful meal at Murugan Idli Shop, known for its authentic South Indian delicacies and warm hospitality.

£10, 1 hour

2:00PM

Madurai Meenakshi Temple Art Gallery

Explore the art and artefacts at the Madurai Meenakshi Temple Art Gallery, showcasing the rich cultural heritage and artistic traditions of the region.

£2, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Shopping at Puthu Mandapam

Spend time shopping at Puthu Mandapam, a bustling market where you can find an array of handicrafts, textiles, and souvenirs to take home.

Variable, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Konar Mess

Indulge in a scrumptious dinner at Konar Mess, known for its authentic Chettinad cuisine and aromatic South Indian dishes.

£20, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Madurai

Day 7: Experience the Serenity of Munnar

Munnar, Kerala

9:00AM

Tea Gardens

Embark on a serene morning exploring the lush tea gardens of Munnar, witnessing the picturesque landscapes and learning about tea cultivation.

£5, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Saravana Bhavan

Relish a delicious South Indian meal at Saravana Bhavan, known for its authentic flavours and comforting dishes amidst a tranquil setting.

£15, 1 hour

2:00PM

Mattupetty Dam

Visit Mattupetty Dam for a serene experience amidst the hills and water, offering boating and stunning views of the surrounding nature.

£3, 2 hours

5:00PM

Shopping at Munnar Market

Explore the local markets of Munnar, where you can find a variety of spices, tea, and souvenirs to take back home.

Variable, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Sree Krishna Hotel

Enjoy a wholesome dinner at Sree Krishna Hotel, known for its comforting and flavourful South Indian dishes, perfect for a relaxed evening.

£20, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in Munnar

Day 8: Experience the Backwaters of Alleppey

Alleppey, Kerala

9:00AM

Houseboat Cruise

Embark on a mesmerising houseboat cruise through the scenic backwaters of Alleppey, offering a tranquil and picturesque experience for the whole family.

£100, 5 hours

2:00PM

Lunch on Houseboat

Enjoy a delicious Keralan lunch prepared on the houseboat, savouring the authentic flavours amidst the serene backwater surroundings.

Included in cruise, 1 hour

3:30PM

Relax at Marari Beach

Spend a relaxing afternoon at Marari Beach, unwinding by the shores and enjoying the tranquillity of this pristine coastal stretch.

Free, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Thaff Restaurant

Indulge in a delightful dinner at Thaff Restaurant, offering a variety of seafood and local delicacies in a charming beachside setting.

£30, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Alleppey

Day 9: Depart from Cochin

Cochin, Kerala

10:00AM

Shopping at Jew Town

Spend your morning exploring the vibrant markets of Jew Town, known for its antique stores, spice markets, and unique shopping experiences.

Variable, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Cochin

Step 1 Outline Preview:

Family Friendly 6-Day South India Itinerary

Day 1: Explore Chennai

9:00AM

12:00PM

1:30PM

3:00PM

6:00PM

Day 2: Discover More of Chennai

9:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

6:00PM

Day 3: Pondicherry's Coastal Charms

9:00AM

12:00PM

2:00PM

5:00PM

7:30PM

Day 4: Explore More of Pondicherry

9:00AM

11:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

6:00PM

Day 5: Discover the Rich Heritage of Madurai

9:00AM

12:00PM

2:00PM

5:00PM

7:30PM

Day 6: Immerse in Madurai's Culture

9:00AM

12:00PM

2:00PM

4:00PM

6:30PM

Day 7: Experience the Serenity of Munnar

9:00AM

12:00PM

2:00PM

5:00PM

7:00PM

Day 8: Experience the Backwaters of Alleppey

9:00AM

2:00PM

3:30PM

7:00PM

Day 9: Depart from Cochin

10:00AM

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