Family Friendly Itinerary: Tamilnadu and Kerala

Day 1: Beach Day Fun

Chennai, Tamilnadu

9:00AM

Marina Beach

Start your family trip with a visit to Marina Beach, the second-longest urban beach in the world. Enjoy a morning stroll along the sandy shore and try local street food like sundal and murukku.
From Chennai Airport, take a cab to Marina Beach.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Murugan Idli Shop

Indulge in a delicious South Indian meal at Murugan Idli Shop, known for its fluffy idlis and variety of chutneys.
Murugan Idli Shop is a short drive from Marina Beach.
INR 500, 1 hour

2:00PM

Vivekananda House

Visit Vivekananda House to learn about the life and teachings of Swami Vivekananda. The interactive exhibits are engaging for both kids and adults.
Vivekananda House is located near Marina Beach.
INR 50, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Shopping at Pondy Bazaar

Spend the evening shopping for souvenirs and traditional items at Pondy Bazaar, a bustling market in the heart of Chennai.
Pondy Bazaar is a short drive from Vivekananda House.
Variable, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Annalakshmi Restaurant

End the day with a vegetarian feast at Annalakshmi Restaurant, known for its authentic South Indian cuisine and cultural ambience.
Annalakshmi Restaurant is a short drive from Pondy Bazaar.
INR 800, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Historical Exploration

Mahabalipuram, Tamilnadu

9:00AM

Shore Temple

Begin your day with a visit to the Shore Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its ancient architectural beauty and stunning sea views.
From Chennai, drive to Mahabalipuram to reach the Shore Temple.
INR 250, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Moonrakers Restaurant

Enjoy a seafood lunch at Moonrakers Restaurant, overlooking the Bay of Bengal and serving fresh catch of the day.
Moonrakers Restaurant is near the Shore Temple.
INR 700, 1 hour

2:00PM

Pancha Rathas

Explore the Pancha Rathas, a group of monolithic rock-cut temples showcasing unique Dravidian architecture and intricate carvings.
Pancha Rathas is a short walk from the Shore Temple.
INR 250, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Mahabalipuram Beach

Relax at Mahabalipuram Beach, known for its golden sands and picturesque views. Let the kids play by the shore while you unwind.
Mahabalipuram Beach is a short distance from Pancha Rathas.
Free, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Seashell Restaurant

Enjoy a seafood dinner at Seashell Restaurant, a popular spot for fresh seafood dishes and coastal ambiance.
Seashell Restaurant is near Mahabalipuram Beach.
INR 900, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: French Colonial Charm

Pondicherry, Tamilnadu

9:00AM

Auroville

Embark on a day trip to Auroville, an experimental township promoting peace and sustainable living. Visit the Matrimandir, an architectural marvel.
From Mahabalipuram, drive to Auroville in Pondicherry.
Free, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Tanto Pizzeria

Indulge in wood-fired pizzas and Italian cuisine at Tanto Pizzeria, a cozy restaurant offering a break from traditional South Indian fare.
Tanto Pizzeria is a short drive from Auroville.
INR 800, 1 hour

3:00PM

Promenade Beach

Spend the afternoon at Promenade Beach, a serene stretch where you can relax, take a leisurely walk, and enjoy the sea breeze.
Promenade Beach is located in the heart of Pondicherry.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Shopping at Nehru Street

Explore Nehru Street for shopping souvenirs, clothing, and local handicrafts. The street comes alive with vibrant shops and cafes in the evening.
Nehru Street is a short drive from Promenade Beach.
Variable, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Satsanga Restaurant

Enjoy a fusion dinner at Satsanga Restaurant, known for its diverse menu featuring Indian, European, and Mediterranean dishes.
Satsanga Restaurant is located on Nehru Street.
INR 1000, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Cultural Heritage

Madurai, Tamilnadu

9:00AM

Meenakshi Amman Temple

Begin your day with a visit to Meenakshi Amman Temple, a historic Hindu temple known for its towering gopurams, intricate sculptures, and vibrant colors.
From Pondicherry, drive to Madurai to reach the temple.
INR 50, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Murugan Mess

Savor a traditional Tamil Nadu meal at Murugan Mess, a popular eatery serving authentic local cuisine.
Murugan Mess is a short distance from Meenakshi Amman Temple.
INR 500, 1 hour

2:00PM

Gandhi Memorial Museum

Explore the Gandhi Memorial Museum, showcasing artifacts and exhibits related to Mahatma Gandhi's life and the Indian independence movement.
Gandhi Memorial Museum is near the temple.
INR 100, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace

Visit Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace, a splendid example of Indo-Saracenic architecture with grand halls, courtyards, and intricate carvings.
Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace is a short drive from the museum.
INR 50, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Amma Mess

End the day with a hearty dinner at Amma Mess, known for its delicious Chettinad cuisine and warm hospitality.
Amma Mess is located in Madurai.
INR 800, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Nature's Bounty

Thekkady, Kerala

9:00AM

Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary

Embark on a jungle safari at Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, home to diverse flora and fauna including elephants, tigers, and birds. Enjoy the scenic beauty of nature.
From Madurai, drive to Thekkady to reach the sanctuary.
INR 450 (Entry fee), 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Spice Garden Restaurant

Relish a traditional Kerala lunch at Spice Garden Restaurant, offering a variety of authentic dishes infused with local spices.
Spice Garden Restaurant is near the wildlife sanctuary.
INR 700, 1 hour

3:00PM

Boat Ride on Periyar Lake

Experience a serene boat ride on Periyar Lake, surrounded by lush greenery and wildlife sightings. Keep an eye out for elephants bathing by the shore.
The boat ride starts from the sanctuary premises.
INR 150, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Spice Shopping at Kumily Market

Explore Kumily Market for a variety of spices like cardamom, cinnamon, and pepper. Purchase some authentic Kerala spices to take back home.
Kumily Market is a short distance from Periyar Lake.
Variable, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Grandma's Kitchen

Enjoy a homely dinner at Grandma's Kitchen, known for its traditional Kerala recipes and warm hospitality that will make you feel right at home.
Grandma's Kitchen is located in Thekkady.
INR 900, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Hill Station Bliss

Munnar, Kerala

9:00AM

Mattupetty Dam

Start your day with a visit to Mattupetty Dam, a picturesque spot offering boating opportunities amidst lush greenery and misty mountains.
From Thekkady, drive to Munnar to reach Mattupetty Dam.
INR 25 (Entry fee), 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Rapsy Restaurant

Enjoy a meal at Rapsy Restaurant, known for its panoramic views of the tea estates and serving a range of cuisine from Indian to Continental.
Rapsy Restaurant is near Mattupetty Dam.
INR 600, 1 hour

2:00PM

Tea Museum Visit

Explore the Tea Museum to learn about the history and production of tea in Munnar. Witness the tea-making process and enjoy tea tasting.
The Tea Museum is a short drive from Mattupetty Dam.
INR 150, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Photo Stop at Top Station

Head to Top Station for breathtaking panoramic views of the Western Ghats and the valley below. Capture memorable family photos amidst nature's beauty.
Top Station is a scenic drive from the Tea Museum.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Sree Krishna Restaurant

Relish a dinner at Sree Krishna Restaurant, offering a blend of Kerala and North Indian dishes in a cozy setting with friendly service.
Sree Krishna Restaurant is located in Munnar.
INR 800, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Backwaters Experience

Alleppey, Kerala

9:00AM

Houseboat Cruise

Embark on a houseboat cruise through the backwaters of Alleppey, known as the Venice of the East. Sail past serene villages, coconut groves, and lush paddy fields.
From Munnar, drive to Alleppey to board the houseboat.
INR 8000 onwards (Houseboat charges), 5 hours

2:00PM

Lunch on Houseboat

Enjoy a traditional Keralite lunch served on the houseboat, featuring fresh seafood dishes and local delicacies cooked by onboard chefs.
Lunch will be served on the houseboat during the cruise.
Included in houseboat charges, 1 hour

3:00PM

Relaxation and Scenic Views

Spend the afternoon relaxing on the houseboat's deck, taking in the beautiful views of the backwaters and watching daily life along the waterways.
Enjoy the scenic views and tranquility onboard the houseboat.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Village Walk

Disembark for a village walk to interact with the locals, explore village life, and maybe even try your hand at traditional activities like fishing or coir making.
The houseboat will stop for a village walk experience.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Farewell Dinner on Houseboat

Conclude your family trip with a special farewell dinner on the houseboat, enjoying a memorable evening under the starlit sky amidst the backwaters.
The houseboat will arrange a farewell dinner onboard.
Included in houseboat charges, 2 hours
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