Exploring South India in 7 Days

Day 1: Chennai Highlights

Chennai, India

8:00AM

Marina Beach

Start your day with a visit to Marina Beach, the second-longest urban beach in the world, offering stunning sunrise views.
Marina Beach is located in the heart of Chennai. You can reach there by taxi or public bus from your accommodation.
Free, 2 hours

11:00AM

Kapaleeshwarar Temple

Explore the beautiful Dravidian architecture of Kapaleeshwarar Temple, a sacred Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.
From Marina Beach, take a taxi or auto-rickshaw to reach the temple. It's a short drive away.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Murugan Idli Shop

Indulge in a traditional South Indian meal at Murugan Idli Shop known for its delicious idlis and dosas.
There are multiple branches of Murugan Idli Shop across the city. Choose one nearby for a quick and tasty meal.
$, 1 hour

3:00PM

Fort St. George

Visit Fort St. George, the first English fortress in India, and explore the museum showcasing British colonial history.
Fort St. George is easily accessible by taxi or public bus. It's a significant historical site in Chennai.
$, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Annalakshmi Restaurant

Enjoy a vegetarian feast at Annalakshmi Restaurant, known for its authentic South Indian cuisine and serene ambiance.
Head to Annalakshmi Restaurant for dinner, located in the heart of the city. It's a popular choice for delicious food.
$$, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Cultural Exploration in Chennai

Chennai, India

9:00AM

DakshinaChitra

Spend the morning at DakshinaChitra, a living history museum that showcases South Indian heritage and culture.
DakshinaChitra is located on the outskirts of Chennai. Take a taxi or private car to reach there.
$, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Murugan Idli Shop

Have another delightful meal at Murugan Idli Shop, savoring more South Indian delicacies.
Return to Murugan Idli Shop for a tasty lunch before heading to your next destination.
$, 1 hour

3:00PM

San Thome Basilica

Visit the majestic San Thome Basilica, a historic church built over the tomb of St. Thomas, one of the twelve apostles of Jesus.
San Thome Basilica is a short drive from DakshinaChitra. Hire a taxi or use a ride-sharing service for convenience.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Local Shopping at T Nagar

Explore the bustling streets of T Nagar, known for its vibrant shopping scene and traditional South Indian attire.
Head to T Nagar for some retail therapy. You can take a taxi or public bus to reach this popular shopping district.
$$, 2 hours
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Day 3: French Colonial Charm

Pondicherry, India

8:00AM

Promenade Beach

Start your day with a leisurely walk along Promenade Beach, a picturesque stretch overlooking the Bay of Bengal.
Promenade Beach is easily accessible from most accommodations in Pondicherry. Enjoy a morning stroll by the sea.
Free, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Aurobindo Ashram

Visit Aurobindo Ashram, a spiritual community founded by Sri Aurobindo and the Mother, known for its tranquil atmosphere.
Aurobindo Ashram is located near Promenade Beach. Take a short walk or a quick taxi ride to reach this serene place.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Le Cafe

Dine at Le Cafe, a charming seaside café offering a mix of French and South Indian cuisine with stunning sea views.
Le Cafe is situated near Promenade Beach. Enjoy a relaxing lunch by the sea before continuing your exploration.
$$, 1 hour

3:00PM

Auroville

Explore the unique township of Auroville, an experimental community focused on sustainable living and human unity.
Auroville is a short drive from Pondicherry. Hire a taxi or join a guided tour to discover this eco-conscious place.
$, 3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Rendezvous

Indulge in a delightful dinner at Rendezvous, a cozy restaurant serving delicious French and Indian fusion dishes.
Head to Rendezvous for dinner, located in the heart of Pondicherry. Treat your taste buds to a mix of flavors.
$$, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Cultural Heritage in Madurai

Madurai, India

9:00AM

Meenakshi Amman Temple

Begin your day with a visit to Meenakshi Amman Temple, a magnificent Hindu temple known for its intricate architecture and spiritual significance.
Meenakshi Amman Temple is located in the heart of Madurai. You can easily reach there by taxi or auto-rickshaw.
$, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Murugan Idli Shop

Enjoy a delicious meal at Murugan Idli Shop, a popular spot for authentic South Indian flavors in Madurai.
Head to Murugan Idli Shop for a quick and tasty lunch before your next cultural exploration.
$, 1 hour

2:00PM

Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace

Explore the grandeur of Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace, a 17th-century marvel showcasing a blend of Dravidian and Islamic architectural styles.
Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace is a short drive from the temple. Hire a taxi or use a ride-sharing service to reach this historical site.
$, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Gandhi Memorial Museum

Visit the Gandhi Memorial Museum to learn about the life and teachings of Mahatma Gandhi, the Father of the Nation.
Gandhi Memorial Museum is a significant cultural site in Madurai. Take a short taxi ride to explore this museum.
$, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Murugan Idli Shop

End your day with a satisfying dinner at Murugan Idli Shop, enjoying more of their authentic South Indian dishes.
Return to Murugan Idli Shop for dinner, where you can relish the flavors of Madurai before retiring for the day.
$, 1 hour
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Day 5: Relaxing Backwaters in Alleppey

Alleppey, India

9:00AM

Houseboat Experience

Embark on a houseboat experience through the serene backwaters of Alleppey, witnessing the beauty of Kerala's countryside.
Houseboats can be booked in advance for a full-day experience. Enjoy the tranquility of the backwaters as you cruise along.
$$, Full day

7:00PM

Dinner on Houseboat

Savor a delicious dinner on the houseboat, prepared with fresh local ingredients and traditional Kerala spices.
Enjoy a scrumptious dinner onboard the houseboat, surrounded by the picturesque views of the backwaters at sunset.
$$, 2 hours
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Day 6: Historical Exploration in Cochin

Cochin, India

9:00AM

Fort Kochi

Explore the historic neighborhood of Fort Kochi, known for its colonial buildings, Chinese fishing nets, and vibrant art scene.
Fort Kochi is easily accessible from central Cochin. Take a taxi or local bus to reach this cultural hub.
Free, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Kashi Art Cafe

Dine at Kashi Art Cafe, a popular cultural hub offering delicious food, art exhibitions, and a laid-back atmosphere.
Head to Kashi Art Cafe for a delightful lunch, surrounded by artistic vibes and flavorsome dishes.
$$, 1 hour

3:00PM

Jewish Synagogue

Visit the Jewish Synagogue, a historic place of worship adorned with Belgian chandeliers and Chinese tiles.
The Jewish Synagogue is a short walk from Fort Kochi. Explore this architectural gem and its rich history.
$, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Shopping at Jew Town

Browse through the eclectic shops at Jew Town, known for antique stores, spice markets, and unique souvenirs.
Spend your evening exploring the vibrant markets of Jew Town, where you can find treasures and aromatic spices.
$$, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Oceanos Restaurant

Conclude your day with a seafood dinner at Oceanos Restaurant, offering a variety of fresh catch and coastal flavors.
Head to Oceanos Restaurant for a memorable dining experience, tasting the flavors of the sea in a cozy setting.
$$, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Exploring Cochin's Beauty

Cochin, India

9:00AM

Mattancherry Palace

Begin your day with a visit to Mattancherry Palace, a Portuguese palace featuring Kerala murals and royal artifacts.
Mattancherry Palace is a short distance from central Cochin. Take a taxi or tuk-tuk to reach this historical gem.
$, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

St. Francis Church

Explore St. Francis Church, the oldest European church in India where the explorer Vasco da Gama was originally buried.
St. Francis Church is located near Mattancherry Palace. Immerse yourself in the history of this ancient church.
Free, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Fusion Bay

Enjoy a fusion meal at Fusion Bay, a restaurant offering a blend of Indian and international cuisines in a cozy setting.
Head to Fusion Bay for lunch, where you can relish a mix of flavors before continuing your exploration of Cochin.
$$, 1 hour

3:00PM

Kathakali Performance

Witness a traditional Kathakali dance performance, showcasing elaborate costumes, expressive movements, and ancient stories.
Attend a Kathakali performance at a local theater in Cochin. Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Kerala.
$$, 2 hours

6:00PM

Shopping at Marine Drive

Spend your evening shopping at Marine Drive, a bustling promenade offering a variety of shops, cafes, and scenic views.
Explore the shops and cafes along Marine Drive's waterfront. Enjoy a leisurely evening by the Arabian Sea.
$$, 2 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Kettuvalam

End your day with a dinner cruise on a Kettuvallam houseboat, enjoying traditional Kerala cuisine amidst tranquil waters.
Board a Kettuvallam houseboat for a unique dining experience on the backwaters of Cochin. Relax and savor the flavors.
$$$, 2 hours
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