Make this trip your own
Create your own free, personalized itinerary in seconds — then sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version

8-Day Family Friendly Itinerary in South India

Viewed by 189 travelers

Day 1: Explore Chennai

Chennai, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Saravana Bhavan

Start your day with a delicious South Indian breakfast featuring dosas and filter coffee.
Located in the heart of the city, easily accessible via taxi.
INR500, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Government Museum

Explore the extensive collection of historical artifacts and art pieces that will intrigue both adults and kids.
Short drive from the restaurant, approximately 15 minutes.
INR50, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Sangeetha

Enjoy a variety of vegetarian dishes, including thalis and bhel puri, perfect for families.
A convenient 20-minute drive from the museum.
INR600, 1 hour

1:30PM

Marina Beach

Relax on the sandy beaches, and let the kids play while you enjoy coconut water.
A short 15-minute drive from the restaurant.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Exploring Fort St. George

Experience the colonial history with a visit to the oldest British fortress in India.
10 minutes drive from Marina Beach.
INR300, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Ponnusamy Hotel

Savour traditional Chettinad cuisine, with crispy fried fish and spicy curries.
10 minutes from Fort St. George.
INR800, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Chennai

Day 2: Heritage of Mahabalipuram

Mahabalipuram, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Fuel up for the day with assorted South Indian delicacies provided by your accommodation.
Hotel-based breakfast.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit the Shore Temple

Marvel at this UNESCO World Heritage Site with beautiful beachside views and stunning architecture.
30-minute drive from Chennai to Mahabalipuram.
INR250, 2 hours

11:30AM

Explore Arjuna’s Penance

Discover one of the largest rock carvings in the world, which captivates visitors of all ages.
A 15-minute walk from the Shore Temple.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Moonrakers

Enjoy delicious seafood options and local dishes, all in a family-friendly environment.
10-minute drive from the site.
INR700, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Cave Temples Visit

Explore the historic cave temples, which are perfect for photo ops and intriguing stories.
5-minute drive from the restaurant.
INR200, 2 hours

4:30PM

Relax at the Beach

Spend some leisure time enjoying the sun and sand, perfect for the kids to play.
Short drive to the beach area.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Wharf

Delight in a waterfront dining experience with a range of continental and Indian dishes.
Walking distance from the beach.
INR900, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Mahabalipuram

Day 3: Cultural Pondicherry

Pondicherry, India

7:30AM

Breakfast at Villa Shanti

Enjoy a mix of French and Indian breakfast options in this charming restaurant.
30-minute drive to Pondicherry.
INR600, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Auroville

Discover the eco-village and its unique community set in lush greenery.
20-minute drive from Villa Shanti.
Free, 2 hours

11:30AM

Explore the Pondicherry Museum

Immerse in the city's rich history and colonial heritage with fascinating exhibits.
15-minute drive from Auroville.
INR100, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Café des Arts

Feast on delicious crepes and sandwiches in a vibrant atmosphere blends French flair with Indian local vibes.
10 minutes from the museum.
INR800, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Promenade Beach

Stroll along this picturesque beach, great for kids and family bonding time.
Walking distance from the cafe.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Shopping & Exploring

Enjoy exploring local boutiques and shops for souvenirs and traditional handicrafts.
Near Promenade Beach.
Cost varies, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Indian Kaffe Express

Offers a casual dining experience with Indo-continental dishes perfect for families.
Quietly located nearby, a 10-minute walk.
INR700, 1 hour
Find Hotels in Pondicherry

Day 4: Heritage of Thanjavur

Thanjavur, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel Svatma

Delight in traditional South Indian meals served in a charming setting.
40-minute drive from Pondicherry to Thanjavur.
INR700, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Brihadeeswarar Temple

Experience the grandeur of this UNESCO World Heritage Site and its intricate architecture.
10-minute drive from the hotel.
INR300, 2 hours

11:30AM

Explore the Thanjavur Palace

Dive into the royal history and enjoy the stunning views of the city.
5-minute drive from the temple.
INR150, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Biryani House

Taste the local delicacy of Thanjavur in a comfortable family-friendly spot.
3-minute drive from the palace.
INR600, 1 hour

2:30PM

Cultural Show at Thanjavur

Engage in a traditional music and dance performance, perfect for all ages.
15 minutes drive to the venue.
INR500, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Visit the Saraswati Mahal Library

Marvel at this ancient library with its rare manuscripts and beautiful architecture.
10-minute drive from the cultural show.
INR250, 1 hour

5:30PM

Dinner at Hotel Gnanam

Indulge in traditional South Indian dishes in a welcoming atmosphere.
15 minutes drive from the library.
INR800, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Thanjavur

Day 5: Madurai's History

Madurai, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Heritage Hotel

Relish breakfast at the hotel's restaurant, featuring a mix of local and continental dishes.
30-minute drive from Thanjavur.
INR600, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Meenakshi Temple

Marvel at the stunning architecture and vibrant sculptures of this iconic temple.
15-minute taxi ride from the hotel.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Murugan Idli Shop

Enjoy soft idlis and mouthwatering sambhar at this popular eatery.
10 minutes drive from the temple.
INR400, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit the Gandhi Museum

Learn about the life of Mahatma Gandhi and the Indian independence movement.
10-minute drive from lunch.
INR100, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Explore Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace

Discover the grandeur of this palace and explore its picturesque gardens.
5-minute drive from the museum.
INR150, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Surya Hotel

Enjoy a variety of South Indian dishes in a family-friendly environment.
15-minute drive from the palace.
INR700, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Madurai

Day 6: Nature at Kodaikanal

Kodaikanal, India

7:30AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Savour breakfast at your hotel, featuring an assortment of South Indian and continental options.
2.5-hour drive from Madurai to Kodaikanal.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Kodaikanal Lake

Engage in boating and enjoy the serene surroundings of the beautiful lake.
20-minute drive from the hotel.
INR300, 2 hours

11:30AM

Explore Coaker's Walk

Take a leisurely walk along this scenic pathway with stunning views of the valley.
15-minute drive from the lake.
INR50, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The T redis

Enjoy a meal in a cozy setting with a panoramic view, specializing in local and continental fare.
10-minute drive from Coaker's Walk.
INR700, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Pillar Rocks Visit

Admire the stunning rock formations and enjoy a picnic with breathtaking views.
30-minute drive from the restaurant.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Silver Oak Restaurant

Experience delicious South Indian specialties in a family-friendly environment.
30-minute drive back to town.
INR800, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Kodaikanal

Day 7: Beauty of Munnar

Munnar, India

7:30AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day with a warm breakfast, offering various options to cater to all family tastes.
4-hour drive from Kodaikanal to Munnar.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Tea Gardens Visit

Stroll through the lush tea plantations, an engaging experience for kids and adults alike.
15 minutes from the hotel.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Saravana Bhavan

Enjoy a nutritious South Indian lunch in a well-established restaurant.
10-minute drive from tea gardens.
INR600, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Eravikulam National Park

Explore the beautiful landscape and wildlife of this national park, ideal for family exploration an adventure.
30-minute drive from lunch.
INR200, 2.5 hours

4:00PM

Visit the Mattupetty Dam

Enjoy stunning views of the dam and the opportunity for family boat rides.
30-minute drive from the national park.
INR300, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Chilly Bin

Taste their famous butter chicken and enjoy a variety of dishes perfect for family dining.
30-minute drive back to town.
INR800, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Munnar

Day 8: Cultural Cochin

Cochin, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at your hotel featuring local and international cuisine.
3-hour drive from Munnar to Cochin.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Chinese Fishing Nets

Witness the traditional fishing practices and enjoy the serene coastal atmosphere.
15-minute drive from the hotel.
Free, 1 hour

10:30AM

Explore Fort Kochi

Wander the heritage streets filled with colonial architecture and street art.
5-minute drive from fishing nets.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Fort Cochin Café

Savour delectable Keralan curries and homemade bread in a charming café setting.
5-minute walk from the Fort Kochi.
INR800, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Visit Mattancherry Palace

Experience the history of Kerala through its artworks and architecture.
10-minute drive from lunch.
INR200, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Shopping at Jew Town

Explore the quaint shops filled with antiques and spices, perfect for souvenirs.
5-minute drive from the palace.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at The Rice Boat

Finish your trip with upscale dining, enjoying the best Keralan seafood and local dishes.
15-minute drive from Jew Town.
INR1200, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Cochin
0
Like this trip? Make your own version.
A free, personalized itinerary in seconds — sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version

More About South India

Best India Travel Deals
Travel Deals
Trip Packing List: South India (July)
Packing List
Trip Packing List: South India (April)
Packing List
Itinerary created by AI-assisted, human-reviewed

Plan Your South India Trip

Cost Estimator
Estimate your trip budget
Packing List
Get a custom checklist
Weather Expert
Check weather & best time to go