Budget South India Tour - 7-Day Road Trip

Day 1: Exploring Chennai

Chennai, India on February 26, 2024

8:00AM

Visit Marina Beach

Start your day with a visit to Marina Beach, one of the longest urban beaches in the world, to witness the sunrise and enjoy a refreshing sea breeze.
Marina Beach is a 30-minute drive from Chennai city center.
INR 0, 2 hours

11:00AM

Explore Fort St. George

Head to Fort St. George, the first English fortress in India, to delve into the colonial history of Chennai and visit interesting museums inside the fort complex.
Fort St. George is a 20-minute drive from Marina Beach.
INR 100 for entry, 2 hours

2:00PM

Visit Kapaleeshwarar Temple

Experience the vibrant culture of Chennai by exploring the Kapaleeshwarar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, known for its stunning Dravidian architecture and intricate sculptures.
Kapaleeshwarar Temple is a 30-minute drive from Fort St. George.
INR 0, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Shopping at T. Nagar

End your day by indulging in some budget-friendly shopping at T. Nagar, a bustling shopping district offering a variety of traditional Indian clothes, jewelry, and souvenirs.
T. Nagar is a 40-minute drive from Kapaleeshwarar Temple.
Varies based on purchases, 2 hours
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Day 2: Relaxing in Mahabalipuram

Mahabalipuram, India on February 27, 2024

9:00AM

Visit Shore Temple

Begin your day with a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Shore Temple, to admire the ancient stone carvings and stunning temple architecture by the beach.
Shore Temple is a 1-hour drive from Chennai.
INR 250 for entry, 2 hours

12:00PM

Explore Pancha Rathas

Explore the Pancha Rathas, a group of five monolithic rock-cut temples, each carved in a different style, showcasing the exquisite craftsmanship of ancient Indian artisans.
Pancha Rathas is a 10-minute drive from Shore Temple.
INR 250 for entry, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Relax at Mahabalipuram Beach

Spend a leisurely afternoon relaxing at Mahabalipuram Beach, soaking in the sun and enjoying the serene coastal views.
Mahabalipuram Beach is within walking distance from Pancha Rathas.
INR 0, 2 hours

6:00PM

Explore local markets

Explore the local markets in Mahabalipuram to shop for unique handicrafts, souvenirs, and traditional artifacts at bargain prices.
Local markets are a short walk from Mahabalipuram Beach.
Varies based on purchases, 1 hour
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Day 3: Discovering Pondicherry

Pondicherry, India on February 28, 2024

9:00AM

Visit Auroville

Embark on a spiritual journey by visiting Auroville, an experimental township focused on human unity and sustainable living, and explore the Matrimandir meditation center.
Auroville is a 2-hour drive from Mahabalipuram.
INR 0 for entry, donations welcome, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Cafe Xtasi

Enjoy a delicious and budget-friendly meal at Cafe Xtasi, known for its wood-fired pizzas and cozy ambiance, offering a range of vegetarian and non-vegetarian options.
Cafe Xtasi is in the Auroville area.
INR 300 per person, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore French Quarter

Stroll through the charming streets of the French Quarter in Pondicherry, admiring the colonial architecture, vibrant cafes, and boutique shops showcasing French influence.
The French Quarter is a 30-minute drive from Auroville.
INR 0, 2 hours

6:00PM

Relax at Promenade Beach

Unwind at Promenade Beach, a popular seafront promenade, perfect for a sunset walk and experiencing the lively atmosphere with street food vendors and local performers.
Promenade Beach is a short walk from the French Quarter.
INR 0, 2 hours
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Day 4: Exploring Thanjavur

Thanjavur, India on February 29, 2024

9:00AM

Visit Brihadeeswarar Temple

Begin your day with a visit to the magnificent Brihadeeswarar Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its grand architecture, intricate carvings, and spiritual significance.
Brihadeeswarar Temple is a 4-hour drive from Pondicherry.
INR 250 for entry, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Sathars

Enjoy a traditional South Indian meal at Sathars, a local restaurant known for its authentic vegetarian thali and flavorful regional dishes.
Sathars is near the Brihadeeswarar Temple.
INR 200 per person, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Thanjavur Royal Palace

Discover the history of the Nayak and Maratha dynasties as you explore the Thanjavur Royal Palace complex, housing museums, art galleries, and the iconic Saraswathi Mahal Library.
The Royal Palace is a short walk from Brihadeeswarar Temple.
INR 150 for entry, 2 hours

6:00PM

Sunset at Thanjavur Beach

Wind down your day by watching the sunset at Thanjavur Beach, a peaceful spot to relax and witness the changing hues of the sky over the Bay of Bengal.
Thanjavur Beach is a 30-minute drive from the Royal Palace.
INR 0, 1 hour
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Day 5: Immersing in Madurai

Madurai, India on March 1, 2024

9:00AM

Visit Meenakshi Amman Temple

Begin your day with a visit to the iconic Meenakshi Amman Temple, a historic Hindu temple known for its towering gopurams, intricate sculptures, and vibrant architecture.
Meenakshi Amman Temple is a 3-hour drive from Thanjavur.
INR 50 for entry, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Murugan Idli Shop

Treat yourself to a delicious South Indian meal at Murugan Idli Shop, a popular eatery in Madurai serving authentic idlis, dosas, and other regional delicacies.
Murugan Idli Shop is near Meenakshi Amman Temple.
INR 150 per person, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace

Step back in time as you explore the grand Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace, known for its Indo-Saracenic architecture, ornate pillars, and historical significance as a royal residence.
Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace is a short drive from Meenakshi Amman Temple.
INR 50 for entry, 2 hours

6:00PM

Attend Meenakshi Temple Night Ceremony

Witness the mesmerizing night ceremony at Meenakshi Amman Temple, where deities are put to rest amid chanting, music, and rituals, offering a spiritual and cultural experience.
Meenakshi Temple is within walking distance from Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace.
INR 0, 2 hours
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Day 6: Exploring Thekkady

Thekkady, India on March 2, 2024

9:00AM

Boat Safari in Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary

Embark on a thrilling boat safari in Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, where you can spot diverse wildlife, including elephants, tigers, and exotic bird species, amidst the lush greenery.
Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary is a 4-hour drive from Madurai.
INR 500 for boat safari, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Spice Garden Restaurant

Enjoy a flavorful lunch at Spice Garden Restaurant, known for its authentic Kerala cuisine and aromatic spices, offering a taste of local flavors amidst a serene setting.
Spice Garden Restaurant is near Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary.
INR 300 per person, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Spice Plantations

Take a guided tour of the spice plantations in Thekkady, learning about various spices like cardamom, pepper, and cinnamon, and experiencing the rich aromas and natural beauty.
Spice plantations are a short drive from Spice Garden Restaurant.
INR 200 for tour, 2 hours

6:00PM

Cultural Show at Kadathanadan Kalari Centre

Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Kerala by attending a traditional Kathakali dance performance at Kadathanadan Kalari Centre, showcasing artistry and storytelling through dance and music.
Kalari Centre is a short drive from the spice plantations.
INR 200 for show, 2 hours
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Day 7: Relaxing in Alleppey

Alleppey, India on March 3, 2024

9:00AM

Houseboat Experience in Backwaters

Embark on a serene houseboat experience in the tranquil backwaters of Alleppey, cruising past picturesque villages, lush paddy fields, and coconut groves, offering a unique glimpse of Kerala's rural life.
Alleppey is a 4-hour drive from Thekkady.
INR 5000 for houseboat day cruise, 4 hours

1:00PM

Lunch on Houseboat

Indulge in a delicious Keralan lunch served on the houseboat, featuring fresh seafood, traditional vegetarian dishes, and refreshing coconut water, amidst the tranquil backwater setting.
Lunch will be served on the houseboat during the cruise.
INR 500 per person, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Alleppey Beach

Spend a relaxing afternoon at Alleppey Beach, known for its golden sands, swaying palm trees, and stunning sunset views over the Arabian Sea, offering a perfect beach retreat.
Alleppey Beach is a short drive from the backwaters.
INR 0, 2 hours

6:00PM

Enjoy Local Seafood Dinner

Conclude your day with a scrumptious seafood dinner at a local eatery in Alleppey, savoring fresh catch of the day prepared in traditional Kerala spices and flavors.
Ask locals for recommendations on nearby seafood restaurants.
INR 400 per person, 1.5 hours
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Day 8: Exploring Cochin

Cochin, India on March 4, 2024

9:00AM

Visit Mattancherry Palace

Start your day with a visit to Mattancherry Palace, also known as the Dutch Palace, showcasing Kerala mural art, Hindu temple art, and portraits of the Cochin royal family.
Cochin is a 1.5-hour drive from Alleppey.
INR 10 for entry, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Fort Kochi

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Fort Kochi, a historic neighborhood known for its fusion of Indian, Portuguese, Dutch, and British influences, offering a variety of culinary delights.
Fort Kochi is a short drive from Mattancherry Palace.
INR 300 per person, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Chinese Fishing Nets

Witness the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets in action at Fort Kochi, where local fishermen demonstrate the traditional method of using these unique nets to catch fish along the coast.
The Chinese Fishing Nets are a short walk from Fort Kochi.
INR 0, 1 hour

4:00PM

Shopping at Jew Town

Explore Jew Town, a bustling market area in Mattancherry known for its antique shops, spice markets, and handicraft stores, perfect for souvenir shopping and cultural immersion.
Jew Town is a short drive from Fort Kochi.
Varies based on purchases, 2 hours

7:00PM

Catch Kathakali Dance Performance

End your South India tour with a mesmerizing Kathakali dance performance, a traditional art form of Kerala, featuring elaborate costumes, expressive gestures, and captivating storytelling.
Various cultural centers in Cochin offer Kathakali performances.
INR 200 per person, 2 hours
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