Southern India Exploration: Mahabalipuram to Kanyakumari Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring Mahabalipuram

Mahabalipuram, India

9:00AM

Visit Shore Temple

Start your day by exploring the ancient Shore Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site dating back to the 8th century, with intricate stone carvings depicting scenes from Hindu mythology.
The Shore Temple is located in the heart of Mahabalipuram, easily accessible by walking from most hotels in the area.
INR 500, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Moonrakers

Enjoy a delicious seafood lunch at Moonrakers restaurant, known for its fresh catch of the day and stunning views of the Bay of Bengal.
Moonrakers is a short walk from the Shore Temple.
INR 800, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Pancha Rathas

After lunch, visit the Pancha Rathas, a group of monolithic rock-cut temples that showcase unique Dravidian architecture and are dedicated to the Pandava brothers from the Mahabharata.
Pancha Rathas is a 10-minute walk from Moonrakers.
INR 250, 1 hour

5:00PM

Relax at Mahabalipuram Beach

Unwind at Mahabalipuram Beach, known for its golden sands and picturesque sunsets. Take a leisurely stroll or try some local snacks from the vendors along the shore.
Mahabalipuram Beach is a short walk from Pancha Rathas.
Free, 2 hours
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Day 2: Cultural Immersion in Mahabalipuram

Mahabalipuram, India

9:00AM

Visit Arjuna's Penance

Start your day with a visit to Arjuna's Penance, a massive rock carving that depicts various scenes from Hindu mythology and village life.
Arjuna's Penance is a 5-minute drive from most hotels in Mahabalipuram.
INR 250, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Le Yogi Restaurant

Indulge in a vegetarian feast at Le Yogi Restaurant, known for its South Indian thali meals and soothing ambiance.
Le Yogi Restaurant is located near Arjuna's Penance.
INR 600, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Krishna's Butter Ball

Explore the unique Krishna's Butter Ball, a massive balancing rock that has puzzled visitors for centuries due to its improbable position on a slope.
Krishna's Butter Ball is a short walk from Le Yogi Restaurant.
Free, 30 minutes

4:00PM

Shopping at Mahabalipuram Bazaar

Spend the evening browsing through the vibrant stalls of Mahabalipuram Bazaar, where you can find local handicrafts, jewelry, and souvenirs to take home.
Mahabalipuram Bazaar is a 5-minute walk from Krishna's Butter Ball.
Variable, 1 hour
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Day 3: Historical Wonders of Trichy

Trichy, India

9:00AM

Visit Rock Fort Temple

Begin your day by exploring the Rock Fort Temple, perched on a 273-foot high rock and offering panoramic views of the city. The temple complex houses shrines dedicated to Lord Ganesh and Lord Shiva.
The Rock Fort Temple is located in the heart of Trichy and is easily accessible by local transport.
INR 50, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Sangeetha Restaurant

Enjoy a traditional South Indian meal at Sangeetha Restaurant, known for its dosas, idlis, and filter coffee.
Sangeetha Restaurant is a short drive from Rock Fort Temple.
INR 400, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple

Visit the Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple in Srirangam, one of the largest functioning Hindu temples in the world dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Marvel at the intricate Dravidian architecture and religious significance of the temple.
Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple is a 30-minute drive from Trichy city center.
INR 100, 2 hours
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Day 4: Cultural Delights in Madurai

Madurai, India

9:00AM

Visit Meenakshi Amman Temple

Begin your day with a visit to the iconic Meenakshi Amman Temple, a historic Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Parvati and known for its towering gopurams, intricate sculptures, and bustling bazaars.
Meenakshi Amman Temple is located in the heart of Madurai and can be easily reached by local transport.
INR 50, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Murugan Idli Shop

Savor a traditional Tamil Nadu meal at Murugan Idli Shop, a local favorite known for its fluffy idlis, crispy dosas, and flavorful chutneys.
Murugan Idli Shop is a short walk from Meenakshi Amman Temple.
INR 300, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace

Discover the grandeur of Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace, a 17th-century palace known for its Indo-Saracenic architecture, ornate pillars, and spacious courtyards.
Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace is a 10-minute drive from the temple area.
INR 50, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Scenic Beauty of Kanyakumari

Kanyakumari, India

9:00AM

Visit Vivekananda Rock Memorial

Start your day with a boat ride to the Vivekananda Rock Memorial, a sacred monument built on a rock island where Swami Vivekananda meditated. Enjoy panoramic views of the confluence of the Arabian Sea, Bay of Bengal, and Indian Ocean.
Boat rides to Vivekananda Rock Memorial depart from Kanyakumari Ferry Point.
INR 200 (including boat ride), 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Sea View Restaurant

Enjoy a seafood lunch with a view at Sea View Restaurant, known for its fresh catch of the day and coastal delicacies.
Sea View Restaurant is located near Kanyakumari Beach.
INR 800, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Thiruvalluvar Statue

Explore the impressive Thiruvalluvar Statue, a 133-foot tall stone sculpture of the renowned Tamil poet and philosopher, situated atop a small island near the coastline.
Thiruvalluvar Statue is a short boat ride away from the mainland.
INR 50, 1 hour
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Day 6: Sunset and Farewell in Kanyakumari

Kanyakumari, India

5:00PM

Watch Sunset at Sunset View Point

Head to the Sunset View Point to witness a breathtaking sunset over the meeting point of the three seas, a mesmerizing sight that paints the sky in hues of orange and pink.
Sunset View Point is easily accessible from Kanyakumari town by local transport.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Farewell Dinner at Triveni Restaurant

End your journey with a sumptuous dinner at Triveni Restaurant, offering a mix of South Indian, North Indian, and Chinese cuisine with a view of the ocean.
Triveni Restaurant is located near Kanyakumari Beach.
INR 1000, 1.5 hours
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