How many days do you need in South india?

This itinerary covers 7 days in South india, which is a great amount of time to explore the main highlights. Depending on your pace and interests, you could extend or shorten the trip.

What is the best itinerary for South india?

Plan your perfect 7 days trip to South india. This detailed travel itinerary includes daily activities, local recommendations, and insider tips to make your journey unforgettable.

7-Day Family Friendly Road Trip Itinerary in South India

Day 1: Explore Chennai

Chennai, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Murugan Idli Shop

Start your day with delicious soft idlis and chutney at this iconic restaurant, perfect for an energizing meal before your adventures.

INR150, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Government Museum

Explore one of the oldest museums in India, where kids can learn about ancient artifacts and natural history.

INR20, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Marina

Enjoy a leisurely lunch with fresh seafood while enjoying views of the waves.

INR800, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Marina Beach

Spend your afternoon at the expansive Marina beach, perfect for some family fun and relaxation.

Free, 3 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Hotel Saravana Bhavan

Delight in traditional South Indian thali with plenty of vegetarian options for the whole family.

INR600, 1.5 hours

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Day 2: Heritage Sites of Mahabalipuram

Mahabalipuram, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Tommys Restaurant

Enjoy a hearty breakfast with local flavors to fuel your journey to Mahabalipuram.

INR350, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Shore Temple

Marvel at the intricacies of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, which is one of the oldest temples in South India.

INR500, 1 hour

11:00AM

Explore Arjuna's Penance

View the world's largest bas-relief with your family as you step back in time and understand the art.

Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at the Radisson Blu Beach Resort

Savor a sumptuous buffet with various cuisines in a luxurious beachfront setting.

INR1200, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Pancha Rathas

Tour the stunning rock-cut temples shaped like chariots, allowing for great photo opportunities.

INR200, 2 hours

4:30PM

Dinner at Sea View Restaurant

Relax at this oceanside restaurant while enjoying fresh catch of the day and Kerala-style fish curry.

INR900, 1.5 hours

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Day 3: Charming Pondicherry

Pondicherry, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Baker Street

Indulge in delicious pastries and coffee at this famous bakery known for its French-inspired menu.

INR400, 1 hour

9:30AM

Auroville Visit

Explore the unique township dedicated to peace and harmony, where the kids can engage in fun activities.

Free, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Cafe des Arts

Enjoy a delightful meal amidst artistic decor, perfect for a family lunch.

INR700, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Stroll in the French Quarter

Wander through the charming streets filled with colonial architecture, ideal for picturesque family moments.

Free, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Visit Promenade Beach

Unwind on the beach, where children can play while parents enjoy stunning sea views.

Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Le Club

Taste gourmet dishes at an elegant restaurant with lovely sea views, ending your day on a high note.

INR1000, 2 hours

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Day 4: Cultural Day in Thanjavur

Thanjavur, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel Satyam

Savor wholesome South Indian breakfast options before heading to Thanjavur.

INR300, 1 hour

9:30AM

Brihadeeshwara Temple

Visit this architectural marvel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and discover the ancient Tamil culture.

INR30, 2 hours

11:30AM

Thanjavur Royal Palace

Tour the palace complex with kids and take in its grand architecture and museum.

INR200, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Kaveri Restaurant

Enjoy traditional Thanjavur cuisine, especially Chettinad specialties which your family will love.

INR500, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Painting at Thanjavur Art Gallery

Get immersed in local culture by viewing traditional Thanjavur paintings, a fun activity for kids too.

INR100, 1 hour

4:30PM

Dinner at Anitha's

Look forward to a relaxed meal featuring local flavors and friendly service to end the day.

INR600, 1.5 hours

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Day 5: Historical Madurai

Madurai, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel Heritage

Start your day with a wholesome meal before exploring the bustling streets of Madurai.

INR400, 1 hour

9:30AM

Meenakshi Amman Temple

Engage with the vibrant culture at this majestic temple showcasing stunning architecture.

Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Murugan Mess

Choose from their flavorful menu featuring local rice varieties and fish curry, an absolute must-try.

INR500, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Thirumalai Nayakkar Mahal

Explore this grand palace with your family and learn about Madurai's royal history.

INR100, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Local Markets

Immerse yourself in the vibrant chaos of Madurai's markets, where you can shop for handicrafts.

Free, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Dinner at Ambal Mess

End your day with home-cooked-style dinner served in traditional way, appealing to children and adults alike.

INR400, 1.5 hours

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Day 6: Nature in Kodaikanal

Kodaikanal, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at a Local Cafe

Enjoy a light breakfast while getting ready to escape to the hills of Kodaikanal.

INR350, 1 hour

11:00AM

Visit Kodaikanal Lake

Spend your morning boating and enjoying the picturesque lake surrounded by lush greenery.

INR200 (boating), 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at the Carlton Hotel

Indulge in a luxurious lunch with wonderful views of the lake, delighting the entire family.

INR1200, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Coaker's Walk

Take a leisurely walk along Coaker's Walk with breathtaking views that are great for kids and adults.

INR20, 1 hour

4:00PM

Shopping in Kodaikanal

Explore local shops for homemade chocolates, herbs, and woolens to take home.

Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at a Local Diner

End the day with a relaxed dinner enjoying simple yet delicious South Indian meals.

INR500, 1.5 hours

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Day 7: Departure from Coimbatore

Coimbatore, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Kumar Mess

Relish traditional breakfast dishes to fuel your journey ahead.

INR300, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Voc Park

Relax at this well-maintained park where kids can play and families can unwind before traveling.

INR30, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Residency

Dine in style with a final luxurious meal enjoying a mix of local and continental cuisines.

INR1000, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Shopping for Souvenirs

Visit local markets to shop for souvenirs as mementos from your trip.

Free, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Head to Coimbatore Airport

Conclude your family-friendly road trip as you make your way back to the Coimbatore Airport for your departure.

N/A, 1 hour

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Step 1 Outline Preview:

7-Day Family Friendly Road Trip Itinerary in South India

Day 1: Explore Chennai

8:00AM

9:30AM

12:00PM

2:00PM

5:30PM

Day 2: Heritage Sites of Mahabalipuram

8:00AM

9:30AM

11:00AM

12:30PM

2:00PM

4:30PM

Day 3: Charming Pondicherry

8:00AM

9:30AM

12:30PM

2:00PM

4:00PM

6:00PM

Day 4: Cultural Day in Thanjavur

8:00AM

9:30AM

11:30AM

1:30PM

3:00PM

4:30PM

Day 5: Historical Madurai

8:00AM

9:30AM

12:00PM

1:30PM

3:00PM

4:30PM

Day 6: Nature in Kodaikanal

8:00AM

11:00AM

1:00PM

2:30PM

4:00PM

6:00PM

Day 7: Departure from Coimbatore

8:00AM

10:00AM

12:00PM

2:00PM

4:00PM

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