Discovering South India: A 5-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring Chennai

Chennai, India

8:00AM

Visit Marina Beach

Start your day with a visit to Marina Beach, one of the longest urban beaches in the world, perfect for a morning stroll.
Marina Beach is located in the heart of Chennai, easily accessible by car or taxi from most parts of the city. It takes about 30 minutes to reach from the city center.
Free, 2 hours

11:00AM

Explore Kapaleeshwarar Temple

Head to Kapaleeshwarar Temple, a historic Hindu temple known for its stunning Dravidian architecture and vibrant festivities.
From Marina Beach, you can take a taxi or auto-rickshaw to reach Kapaleeshwarar Temple in around 20 minutes.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Murugan Idli Shop

Enjoy a delicious South Indian meal at Murugan Idli Shop, known for its authentic idlis and dosas.
Murugan Idli Shop is located in the Mylapore neighborhood, a short drive from Kapaleeshwarar Temple.
INR 300, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Fort St. George

Explore the historical Fort St. George, the first English fortress in India, housing a museum with colonial artifacts.
Fort St. George is a short drive from Mylapore. You can hire a taxi to reach there in about 15 minutes.
INR 100, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Annalakshmi Restaurant

Indulge in a traditional vegetarian dinner at Annalakshmi Restaurant, known for its authentic South Indian cuisine and serene ambiance.
Annalakshmi Restaurant is located near Marina Beach, around 15 minutes away by car.
INR 800, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Relaxing in Mahabalipuram

Mahabalipuram, India

9:00AM

Explore Shore Temple

Start your day by exploring the magnificent Shore Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site with stunning coastal views.
From Chennai, Mahabalipuram is about a 2-hour drive along the scenic East Coast Road. You can hire a car or take a bus to reach there.
INR 500, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Moonrakers

Enjoy a seafood lunch at Moonrakers, a popular restaurant overlooking the Bay of Bengal.
Moonrakers is located near the Shore Temple complex, just a short walk away.
INR 700, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Pancha Rathas

Explore the unique rock-cut architecture of Pancha Rathas, monolithic structures that resemble chariots.
Pancha Rathas is within walking distance from the Shore Temple complex.
INR 250, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Relax at Mahabalipuram Beach

Unwind at Mahabalipuram Beach, known for its golden sands and serene atmosphere, perfect for a peaceful evening.
Mahabalipuram Beach is a short walk from the Pancha Rathas. You can easily spend a couple of hours relaxing here.
Free, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Moonrakers

Enjoy a delightful dinner with a view at Moonrakers, savoring fresh seafood dishes by the sea.
Head back to Moonrakers for a delicious dinner to end your day in Mahabalipuram.
INR 800, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Exploring Pondicherry

Pondicherry, India

9:00AM

Visit Auroville

Embark on a spiritual journey to Auroville, an experimental township known for its unity in diversity and peaceful environment.
From Mahabalipuram, Pondicherry is about a 2-hour drive. You can hire a car or take a bus to reach Auroville.
Free, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Tanto Pizzeria

Have a delicious Italian lunch at Tanto Pizzeria, known for its authentic wood-fired pizzas and cozy ambiance.
Tanto Pizzeria is located in Pondicherry city center, easily accessible from Auroville.
INR 600, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Promenade Beach

Stroll along the picturesque Promenade Beach, a popular waterfront stretch with scenic views and vibrant street markets.
Promenade Beach is located in the heart of Pondicherry, a short drive from Tanto Pizzeria.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Shopping at Goubert Market

Shop for local handicrafts and souvenirs at Goubert Market, a bustling market offering a variety of traditional items.
Goubert Market is a short walk from Promenade Beach, perfect for an evening shopping spree.
Varies, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Rendezvous

Indulge in a sumptuous dinner at Rendezvous, a popular restaurant serving French and Indian fusion cuisine.
Head to Rendezvous for a delightful dinner experience after exploring Pondicherry.
INR 1000, 2 hours
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Day 4: Discovering 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 known for its intricate architecture and spiritual significance.
From Pondicherry, Madurai is about a 6-hour drive. You can take an intercity bus or hire a car to reach the temple.
INR 50, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Murugan Idli Shop

Enjoy a traditional South Indian meal at Murugan Idli Shop, known for its flavorful idlis and chutneys.
Murugan Idli Shop in Madurai is a short distance from Meenakshi Amman Temple, perfect for a quick lunch.
INR 300, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace

Visit the grand Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace, a 17th-century marvel showcasing Indo-Saracenic architecture and historical artifacts.
Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace is a short drive from the temple. You can hire a taxi to reach there in about 15 minutes.
INR 50, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Discover Gandhi Memorial Museum

Immerse yourself in history at the Gandhi Memorial Museum, housing exhibits and relics related to Mahatma Gandhi's life and teachings.
The museum is located near the palace, just a short walk or drive away.
INR 100, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Amma Mess

Savor a traditional Tamil Nadu dinner at Amma Mess, a local favorite known for its authentic flavors and hearty meals.
Head to Amma Mess for a satisfying dinner experience in Madurai.
INR 500, 2 hours
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Day 5: Exploring Coimbatore

Coimbatore, India

9:00AM

Visit Dhyanalinga

Begin your day with a spiritual visit to Dhyanalinga, a unique meditative space and energy center known for its serene ambiance.
From Madurai, Coimbatore is about a 3-hour drive. You can hire a car or take a bus to reach Dhyanalinga.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Sree Annapoorna

Enjoy a traditional South Indian meal at Sree Annapoorna, a renowned restaurant serving authentic vegetarian cuisine.
Sree Annapoorna is located near Dhyanalinga, perfect for a satisfying lunch.
INR 400, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore VOC Park and Zoo

Spend the afternoon at VOC Park and Zoo, a family-friendly attraction with a variety of flora, fauna, and recreational facilities.
VOC Park and Zoo is a short drive from Sree Annapoorna, offering a fun-filled experience for all ages.
INR 50, 2 hours

5:00PM

Shopping at Brookefields Mall

Indulge in some retail therapy at Brookefields Mall, a popular shopping destination in Coimbatore with a range of stores and entertainment options.
Brookefields Mall is easily accessible from VOC Park and Zoo, perfect for an evening shopping spree.
Varies, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Junior Kuppanna

Relish a scrumptious dinner at Junior Kuppanna, known for its authentic Chettinad cuisine and flavorful biryanis.
Head to Junior Kuppanna for a gastronomic delight to conclude your South India journey.
INR 800, 1.5 hours
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