14-Day South India Itinerary: Temples, Beaches, and Culture

Day 1: Cultural Introduction

Chennai, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Saravana Bhavan

Indulge in a traditional South Indian spread of dosa, idli, and filter coffee.
Start your day in the heart of Chennai.
INR 300, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Kapaleeshwarar Temple

Explore this ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, known for its stunning architecture.
Located in Mylapore, a short taxi ride from the breakfast place.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Anjappar Chettinad Restaurant

Savor Chettinad cuisine, famous for its spicy flavors and rich dishes.
Short drive from Kapaleeshwarar Temple.
INR 700, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Fort St. George

Discover the first fort built by the British in India, now housing a museum.
Drive to Fort St. George with the help of a local cab.
INR 100, 2 hours

5:00PM

Stroll at Marina Beach

Relax by one of the longest urban beaches in the world, perfect for local snacks.
Easy taxi or auto rickshaw ride from Fort St. George.
Free, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at The Fisherman's Wharf

Enjoy a seafood feast with a coastal ambiance and live music.
Take a taxi to this popular venue.
INR 1500, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Heritage Sites

Mahabalipuram, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel Sea Side

Start your day with a hearty breakfast overlooking the sea.
Short drive from your hotel in Chennai.
INR 400, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Shore Temple

Marvel at one of the oldest structural stone temples in South India.
Walk to the temple as it is nearby.
INR 500, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Explore Arjuna's Penance

Witness this massive rock relief depicting scenes from the Mahabharata.
A short stroll from the Shore Temple.
Free, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Moonrakers

Enjoy delicious local fresh seafood with a view of the ocean.
Easy walk down the seaside road.
INR 800, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Pancha Rathas

Discover the intricately carved monolithic rock-cut temples.
Taxi ride from Moonrakers.
INR 100, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Indian Restaurant

Experience traditional South Indian dishes in a cozy ambiance.
Short taxi ride from Pancha Rathas.
INR 700, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Colonial Charm

Pondicherry, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café des Arts

Enjoy a French breakfast of croissants and coffee in a charming atmosphere.
Short drive from your hotel in Mahabalipuram.
INR 500, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Aurobindo Ashram

Reflect in the serene environment of this spiritual center.
Close by, just a short walk.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Explore French Quarter

Stroll through vibrant colonial streets, taking in the architecture.
Walk around the area exploring local shops.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Villa Shanti

Feast on fusion dishes in a quaint garden setting.
Short walk from the French Quarter.
INR 800, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Auroville

Discover the experimental township focusing on sustainable living.
Book a taxi to Auroville, around 30 minutes away.
Free, 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Le Club

Relax with a view while tasting French and Indian cuisine.
Head back by taxi to the city.
INR 1200, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Historical Marvels

Thanjavur, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel TamilNadu

Enjoy a buffet breakfast featuring local and continental dishes.
Drive to Thanjavur, around 4 hours from Pondicherry.
INR 500, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Brihadeeswara Temple

Explore this UNESCO World Heritage site known for its grand architecture.
Ride to the temple located in Thanjavur.
INR 300, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Explore Thanjavur Palace

Visit the beautiful palace complex that houses a museum and art gallery.
Short walk from the temple.
INR 200, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Hotel Ilankai

Taste authentic South Indian meal in a comfortable restaurant.
Easy walk from the palace.
INR 700, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Saraswati Mahal Library

See the collection of manuscripts and ancient texts in this historic library.
Short cab ride from the restaurant.
INR 150, 1 hour

4:00PM

Pottery workshop at a local studio

Engage in an interactive pottery class to learn the art of Thanjavur pottery.
Book in advance for the workshop.
INR 1000, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Sree Sabarees

Local favorite restaurant serving authentic vegetarian Thali.
Taxi ride back to the city center.
INR 500, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Sacred Journey

Madurai, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Have a satisfying start with a traditional breakfast.
Drive to Madurai, approximately 3 hours from Thanjavur.
Included in the hotel, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Meenakshi Amman Temple

Marvel at this iconic temple, famous for its intricate sculptures and architecture.
It's the central attraction in Madurai, easily reachable.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Briyani King

Relish the famous Madurai mutton biryani, a must-try.
A short walk from the temple.
INR 600, 1 hour

1:30PM

Gandhi Museum Visit

Explore this museum displaying the life of Mahatma Gandhi.
Take a local cab or auto-rickshaw.
INR 100, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Visit Thirumalai Nayakkar Mahal

Admire the Indo-Saracenic architecture of this historic palace.
Take an auto-rickshaw to the site.
INR 150, 1 hour

5:00PM

Stroll local markets

Experience the vibrant bazaar selling silk sarees and handicrafts.
Walk to the nearby market.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Murugan Idli Shop

Try the iconic Madurai idlis and dosas packed with flavors.
Easy auto-rickshaw ride from the market.
INR 400, 1 hour
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Day 6: Southernmost Point

Kanyakumari, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Enjoy a morning meal before heading to Kanyakumari.
Drive to Kanyakumari, around 4.5 hours' drive.
Included in the hotel, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Hotel Sea View

Feast on South Indian delicacies with a stunning view of the ocean.
Hotel is right near the beach.
INR 800, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Vivekananda Rock Memorial

Take a ferry to this memorial dedicated to Swami Vivekananda.
Ferry terminal is close to the lunch spot.
INR 200, 2 hours

5:00PM

Sunset at Kanyakumari Beach

Witness the beautiful sunset at the southernmost tip of India.
It's a short walk from the ferry terminal.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at the Rameswaram Café

Taste local seafood and vegetarian dishes in a relaxed setting.
Close to the beach area.
INR 600, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Capital Exploration

Trivandrum, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Enjoy a traditional breakfast before hitting the road.
It’s about a 2-hour drive to Trivandrum.
Included in the hotel, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Padmanabhaswamy Temple

Admire the grand architecture of this famous temple.
A short taxi ride from your hotel.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Sree Chitra Art Gallery

Explore exquisite paintings and artwork from Indian artists.
Short drive from the temple.
INR 50, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at the Hotel Pankaj

Experience a buffet with local flavors in a relaxed ambience.
Taxi ride to the hotel.
INR 900, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Napier Museum

Discover the cultural history of Kerala through its artifacts.
A short drive from the hotel.
INR 100, 1 hour

5:00PM

Explore Kovalam Beach

Relax or swim in the beautiful beaches of Kovalam.
Short drive from museum.
Free, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at the Lighthouse Beach Restaurant

Enjoy a delightful seafood dinner with views of the waves.
Short taxi ride to the restaurant.
INR 1200, 1.5 hours
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Day 8: Backwater Bliss

Alleppey, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Savor a traditional Kerala breakfast before departure.
Travel to Alleppey which takes about 4 hours.
Included in the hotel, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch on a Houseboat

Experience lunch on a houseboat cruising the serene backwaters.
Book in advance for a houseboat experience.
INR 2000, 2 hours

2:00PM

Backwater Cruise

Enjoy a 3-hour cruise navigating the picturesque backwaters.
Start from the houseboat docking area.
Included in the package, 3 hours

5:00PM

Visit Alleppey Beach

Relax at the beach and take in the sunset views.
Short drive from the backwater area.
Free, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at the Sea View Restaurant

Enjoy fresh seafood with views of the Arabian Sea.
Easy drive back to the restaurant.
INR 1100, 1.5 hours
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Day 9: Cultural Fusion

Kochi, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before heading to Kochi.
Drive to Kochi, approximately 1.5 hours away.
Included in the hotel, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Fort Kochi

Explore the historic area with Chinese fishing nets and colonial architecture.
Short taxi ride to Fort Kochi.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Kashi Art Café

Dine in a creative space serving delicious local dishes.
Within walking distance in Fort Kochi.
INR 800, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Explore Mattancherry Palace

See the museum with exhibits on the history of Kochi.
A short walk from the café.
INR 200, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Jew Town and Paradesi Synagogue

Discover the historical significance of this Jewish heritage site.
A 15-minute walk from the palace.
INR 100, 2 hours

5:30PM

Evening cultural performance

Watch Kathakali or a classical dance performance showcasing Kerala's culture.
Book tickets in advance online.
INR 600, 2 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Fort House Restaurant

Enjoy traditional Kerala cuisine while watching the sunset.
Short walk from the performance venue.
INR 1200, 1.5 hours
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Day 10: Mountain Escape

Munnar, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Indulge in a hearty breakfast before heading to the hills.
Drive to Munnar, a scenic trip of about 4 hours.
Included in the hotel, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Sarvana Bhavan

Savor South Indian meals while enjoying the cool mountain breeze.
Easy walk upon reaching Munnar.
INR 600, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Tea Estate Visit

Take a guided tour of a tea plantation and learn about tea production.
Organise your visit with a local guide.
INR 400, 2 hours

4:00PM

Eravikulam National Park

Home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr; enjoy breathtaking views.
Transportation can be arranged to the park.
INR 150, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Hotel Hillview

Relax with a comforting meal featuring local specialties.
Short drive from the national park.
INR 800, 1.5 hours
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Day 11: Wildlife Adventure

Thekkady, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Enjoy breakfast before leaving for wildlife exploration.
Travel to Thekkady, around 3.5 hours from Munnar.
Included in the hotel, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Spice Garden Restaurant

Dine among aromatic spices with authentic Kerala meals.
Short drive from the hotel.
INR 800, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Visit Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary

Take a guided boat ride to spot wildlife in its natural habitat.
Arrange for tickets at the sanctuary's entrance.
INR 400, 3 hours

5:00PM

Spice plantation visit

Explore spice gardens and learn about various spices grown in this region.
Find a local guide to facilitate the visit.
INR 200, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Hotel Treetop

Enjoy dinner featuring local flavors and spices.
A short drive from the spice garden.
INR 800, 1.5 hours
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Day 12: Hill Station Retreat

Kodaikanal, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Have a wholesome breakfast before heading to Kodaikanal.
Drive to Kodaikanal, approximately 3.5 hours away.
Included in the hotel, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at The Cliff House

Enjoy lunch with panoramic views of the hills.
Short drive to the restaurant.
INR 800, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Visit Kodaikanal Lake

Take a boat ride and enjoy the tranquility of the lake.
Walk to the lake from the restaurant.
INR 250, 2 hours

4:00PM

Visit Coaker's Walk

Stroll along this scenic pathway with breathtaking views.
Short walk from the lake.
INR 50, 1 hour

6:00PM

Relax at your hotel

Unwind in the peaceful ambiance of Kodaikanal.
Easy return to the hotel.
Free, 1 hour

7:30PM

Dinner at The Royal Hotel

Enjoy a mix of local and continental dishes in a cozy setup.
Short drive from your hotel.
INR 900, 1.5 hours
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Day 13: Serene Landscapes

Ooty, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Have breakfast before heading to Ooty.
Drive to Ooty, approximately 3 hours.
Included in the hotel, 1 hour

11:00AM

Visit Botanical Gardens

Explore the lush, beautifully landscaped gardens filled with flowers.
Short taxi ride to the gardens.
INR 50, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Restaurant Hilltop

Enjoy South Indian fare with a stunning view.
Taxi ride to nearby restaurant.
INR 700, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Take a boat ride on Ooty Lake

Experience a serene boat ride on the beautiful lake.
It’s near the restaurant.
INR 300, 1 hour

4:00PM

Visit Doddabetta Peak

Enjoy panoramic views from the highest point in the Nilgiris.
Short drive to Doddabetta Peak.
INR 10, 1 hour

6:00PM

Relax at your hotel

Enjoy the serene ambiance and your surroundings.
Easy drive back to your hotel.
Free, 1 hour

7:30PM

Dinner at Earl's Secret

Indulge in a fine dining experience with a beautiful setting.
Just 10 minutes from your hotel.
INR 1200, 1.5 hours
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Day 14: Journey to Farewell

Coimbatore, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Enjoy your final breakfast in the hills.
Drive to Coimbatore, around 3 hours.
Included in hotel, 1 hour

11:00AM

Explore Coimbatore Air Travel

Visit the airport and buy souvenirs to remember your journey.
Head to Coimbatore International Airport.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Hari Bhavanam

Enjoy a final meal at this well-regarded local eatery.
In vicinity of the airport.
INR 500, 1 hour

3:00PM

Departure

Head to the airport for your onward journey.
Make your way to the airport as per your flight timing.
Free, 1 hour
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