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10 Days South India Adventure: Temples, Beaches, and Culture

Viewed by 73 travelers

Day 1: Explore Chennai

Chennai, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Ratna Cafe

Start your day with their legendary idli and filter coffee, a perfect beginning to your South Indian culinary journey.
Located in Mylapore, easily accessible via taxi.
INR300, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Kapaleeshwarar Temple

This stunning ancient temple is a beautiful example of Dravidian architecture, offering a glimpse into Tamil religious traditions.
A short 10-minute taxi ride from the café.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Explore Fort St. George

As the first British fortress in India, this site holds a rich history and houses an impressive museum.
About a 20-minute taxi ride from the temple.
INR100, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Saravana Bhavan

Dig into a traditional thali meal at this popular eatery known for its vegetarian dishes.
Located nearby Fort St. George, a quick 10-minute walk.
INR400, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Marina Beach

Enjoy a relaxed afternoon at one of the longest beaches in the world, perfect for people watching and enjoying local snacks.
A short 15-minute taxi ride from lunch.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Marina

Savour a seafood dinner while enjoying views of the Arabian Sea at this beachfront restaurant.
A quick taxi ride from the beach.
INR800, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Chennai

Day 2: Historical Mahabalipuram

Mahabalipuram, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel Mamalla Heritage

Enjoy a buffet breakfast offering a variety of South Indian specialities to fuel up for a day of exploration.
Located within Mahabalipuram.
INR500, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Shore Temple

Marvel at the UNESCO World Heritage site that beautifully exemplifies ancient Indian architecture.
Just a 10-minute walk from the hotel.
INR500, 1 hour

11:00AM

Explore Arjuna's Penance

This impressive bas-relief sculpture tells a story from the Mahabharata and is captivating to behold.
A short 5-minute walk from the Shore Temple.
Free, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at The Dhanvin Restaurant

Try fresh seafood dishes at this local favourite with a charming atmosphere.
Located nearby, approximately a 10-minute walk.
INR700, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Pancha Rathas

Explore the five monolithic temples carved from a single rock formation, each with its distinct style.
A 10-minute taxi ride from the restaurant.
INR100, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Le Yogi

Dine on North Indian cuisine with a subtle South Indian twist in a vibrant setting.
Around 15-minute drive from Pancha Rathas.
INR800, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Mahabalipuram

Day 3: Cultural Pondicherry

Pondicherry, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Le Cafe

Enjoy your morning meal right by the beach with fresh pastries and coffee.
Located along the promenade in Pondicherry.
INR400, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Auroville

Explore this unique township focusing on sustainable living, including the beautiful Matrimandir.
A short 30-minute drive from the cafe.
Free, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Auroville's Solar Kitchen

Savour delicious organic meals in a relaxed ambiance at this popular Auroville restaurant.
On-site at Auroville.
INR500, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore the French Quarter

Wander through charming streets lined with colonial buildings and vibrant cafes that reflect Pondicherry's French heritage.
Back to the city centre by taxi, 30 minutes.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Enjoy Serenity Beach

Relax at this tranquil beach with golden sands and stunning sunsets, perfect for unwinding.
15-minute taxi ride from the French Quarter.
Free, 2 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Cafe des Arts

Experience a blend of French and Indian cuisines in a quaint atmosphere adorned with local artworks.
A quick 20-minute taxi ride from the beach.
INR800, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Pondicherry

Day 4: Heritage in Thanjavur

Thanjavur, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel Gnanam

Enjoy a sumptuous South Indian breakfast buffet, setting you up for the day ahead.
Located in Thanjavur city centre.
INR400, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Brihadeeswarar Temple

This UNESCO World Heritage site is an architectural marvel and a significant cultural landmark in South India.
Located just 10 minutes by taxi.
INR100, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Explore Thanjavur Maratha Palace

Delve into the royal history through artefacts and impressive architecture of this beautiful palace.
A quick 5-minute taxi ride from the temple.
INR150, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Hotel Thanjavur Palace

Savour traditional Tamil dishes in a heritage setting, offering both great food and history.
Located nearby the palace.
INR600, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Thanjavur Art Gallery

Appreciate the intricate Tanjore paintings showcasing the region's rich artistic traditions.
Just a 10-minute walk from the restaurant.
INR100, 1 hour

5:00PM

Dinner at Ananda Bhavan

Enjoy a hearty vegetarian meal with local specialties in this popular diner.
A 15-minute taxi ride from the gallery.
INR500, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Thanjavur

Day 5: Sacred Madurai

Madurai, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel Heritage

Relish a buffet spread with a focus on local delicacies to kickstart your day.
Located in Madurai city.
INR500, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Meenakshi Amman Temple

This spectacular temple is renowned for its impressive architecture and vibrant festivities.
Located nearby, just 10 minutes by taxi.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Explore Thirumalai Nayakkar Mahal

Discover the historical beauty of this Indo-Saracenic palace and its stunning courtyards.
A short 5-minute taxi ride from the temple.
INR100, 1 hour

1:30PM

Lunch at Sree Sabarees

Indulge in a casual dine-in experience featuring delicious South Indian vegetarian dishes.
10-minute walk from the palace.
INR400, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Gandhi Museum

Learn about India's freedom movement while admiring artefacts related to Mahatma Gandhi.
About a 15-minute taxi ride from the restaurant.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at The Taj Vijai

End your day with a lovely dinner featuring a mix of local and international cuisines in a serene setting.
Located in the city centre.
INR900, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Madurai

Day 6: Scenic Kodaikanal

Kodaikanal, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Enjoy a healthy breakfast, with views of the hills to start your day on the right note.
At your accommodation in Madurai.
INR300, 1 hour

9:30AM

Travel to Kodaikanal

Enjoy a scenic drive up the hills, lasting approximately 3 hours.
Hire a taxi for the journey.
INR2000, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Toppins

Dine on freshly baked goods and hot meals while soaking in the pleasant hill station atmosphere.
Once in Kodaikanal, a 15-minute walk from most accommodations.
INR600, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Kodaikanal Lake

Take a peaceful walk or a boat ride on the pristine lake surrounded by lush greenery.
Just a 10-minute taxi ride from the restaurant.
INR300, 2 hours

5:00PM

Explore Coaker's Walk

Stroll along this scenic pathway that provides stunning views of the hills and valleys.
An easy 20-minute walk from Kodaikanal Lake.
INR50, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Hilltop Restaurant

Savour delicious south Indian food and enjoy the cool evening breeze.
A short taxi ride back to your accommodation.
INR700, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Kodaikanal

Day 7: Nature in Thekkady

Thekkady, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Sterling Holiday Resorts

Start your day with a hearty meal overlooking the beautiful Periyar Lake.
At your resort.
INR500, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Periyar National Park

Immerse yourself in nature and enjoy a guided wildlife tour in this biodiverse area.
The park entrance is located a 15-minute drive from the resort.
INR500, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Bamboo Cafe

Enjoy delightful dishes inspired by local ingredients while relishing the lush surroundings.
Just outside the national park, around 10-minute taxi ride.
INR600, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore Spice Plantations

Join a guided tour of a local spice plantation and learn about the cultivation of various spices.
Short taxi ride from the restaurant, approximately 15 minutes.
INR400, 2 hours

5:00PM

Visit the Elephant Junction

Have an interactive experience with elephants, including feeding and bathing them.
10-minute taxi ride from the plantation.
INR800, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Greenwoods Cafe

Savour authentic Kerala cuisine amidst a serene setting after an exciting day.
A 20-minute taxi ride back to Thekkady.
INR700, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Thekkady

Day 8: Backwaters in Alleppey

Alleppey, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Savour a Kerala-style breakfast before heading to the backwaters.
At your hotel in Thekkady.
INR300, 1 hour

9:30AM

Travel to Alleppey

Enjoy a scenic drive to Alleppey, famous for its backwaters, lasting roughly 4 hours.
Arrange a taxi for an early journey.
INR2500, 4 hours

1:30PM

Lunch on a Houseboat

Experience a delicious Kerala meal served on board while cruising through the tranquil backwaters.
Provided as part of the houseboat trip.
INR2000, 2 hours

3:30PM

Explore the Backwaters

Enjoy the serenity of the backwaters while navigating through picturesque canals and lush landscapes.
Continues from the houseboat experience.
Included in houseboat cost, 2 hours

5:30PM

Visit Alappuzha Beach

Relax by the beach and enjoy the gentle waves and stunning sunset views.
A short boat ride to the beach from the houseboat.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Palm Leaf Restaurant

Indulge in local seafood delicacies after a day of exploring the backwaters.
Located near the beach, a 15-minute drive.
INR700, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Alleppey

Day 9: Cultural Kochi

Kochi, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel's cafe

Enjoy a laid-back breakfast with a selection of South Indian and continental dishes.
At your accommodation in Alleppey.
INR400, 1 hour

9:30AM

Travel to Kochi

Take a short 1.5-hour taxi ride from Alleppey to the vibrant city of Kochi.
Hire a taxi for convenience.
INR1200, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Visit Fort Kochi

Explore the historical area known for its Portuguese influence, unique architecture, and heritage.
About a 10-minute taxi ride from the city centre.
Free, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Kashi Art Cafe

Enjoy a vibrant atmosphere with art on display while relishing delicious coffee and sandwiches.
Located within Fort Kochi.
INR600, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore the Chinese Fishing Nets

Witness this traditional fishing method unique to Kochi and snap beautiful photos along the shore.
A short walk from the cafe.
Free, 1 hour

4:30PM

Visit the Jewish Synagogue

Admire the intricately designed synagogue and learn about its historic significance.
Just a 10-minute taxi ride away.
INR100, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at The Rice Boat

Elevate your dining experience with exquisite Kerala cuisine while enjoying waterfront views.
Located near the synagogue, a 15-minute walk.
INR800, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Kochi

Day 10: Return to Chennai

Chennai, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Enjoy a final breakfast with a variety of dishes showcasing local flavours.
At your hotel in Kochi.
INR500, 1 hour

9:30AM

Travel back to Chennai

Begin the journey back to Chennai, which should take around 4.5 hours.
Arrange a taxi for comfort.
INR2500, 4.5 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Anjappar Chettinad Restaurant

Taste authentic Chettinad cuisine at this renowned eatery in Chennai, a fitting conclusion to your South India adventure.
Close to your hotel, about a 15-minute drive.
INR800, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Leisure time at Egmore Museum

Spend your afternoon exploring one of the finest art museums in India, home to extensive collections.
A 20-minute taxi ride from the restaurant.
INR100, 2 hours

6:00PM

Farewell Dinner at The Fisherman's Wharf

Enjoy a delightful meal in a charming setting as you reminisce about your South Indian journey.
Approximately 30 minutes by taxi.
INR1000, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Chennai
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