7-Day Family Friendly Adventure Road Trip Through South India

Day 1: Explore Chennai

Chennai, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Aasai Veg Hotel

Kickstart your journey with a hearty South Indian breakfast at Aasai Veg Hotel, sampling the local dosas and idlis.
Located near your hotel, a short 10-minute drive.
INR 800, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Marina Beach

Soak up the sun and let the kids play in the gentle waves at Marina Beach, one of the longest beaches in the world.
Drive approximately 15 minutes to reach the beach.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Sagar Ratna

Enjoy a delicious lunch at Sagar Ratna, known for its authentic South Indian cuisine.
Located 20 minutes from Marina Beach.
INR 1200, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore Fort St. George

Visit the historic Fort St. George, the first fortress built by the British in India, filled with museums and military history.
A quick 15-minute drive from lunch spot.
INR 200, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Stroll in the Government Museum

Discover the rich cultural heritage of India at the Government Museum, featuring a remarkable collection of art and archaeological finds.
10 minutes from Fort St. George.
INR 100, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Ponnusamy Hotel

Wrap up your first day with a traditional Tamil Nadu dinner, enjoying their renowned spicy biryanis.
30 minutes from your last activity.
INR 1500, 1 hour
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Day 2: Heritage in Mahabalipuram

Mahabalipuram, India

7:00AM

Breakfast at Desire Multi-Cuisine Restaurant

Fuel up with a delicious breakfast to prepare for a day of sightseeing in this UNESCO World Heritage site.
Travel 1.5 hours from Chennai to Mahabalipuram.
INR 1000, 1 hour

9:00AM

Explore Shore Temple

Marvel at the stunning architecture of the Shore Temple, beautifully set against the backdrop of the Bay of Bengal.
Just a few minutes’ drive from breakfast.
INR 100, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Arjuna's Penance

Discover this massive rock relief and learn of its mythological significance, captivating for both kids and adults.
Short drive or a 15-minute walk from the Shore Temple.
Free, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at The Fisherman's Wharf

Enjoy a coastal meal with fresh seafood and local delicacies overlooking the picturesque scenery.
Located just 10 minutes from the previous stop.
INR 1500, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit Pancha Rathas

Explore the stunning rock-cut temples resembling chariots, perfect for a family photo opportunity.
10 minutes from lunch.
INR 100, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Relax at the Beach

Wind down at Mahabalipuram Beach, where kids can enjoy playing in the sand and surf.
Close proximity to Pancha Rathas.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Hotel Mamalla Bhavan

Enjoy traditional South Indian vegetarian fare in a vibrant atmosphere to end your day on a high note.
Just a 10-minute drive.
INR 1200, 1 hour
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Day 3: Charming Pondicherry

Pondicherry, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Baker Street

Savour scrumptious pastries and French-style breakfast at Baker Street, kickstarting your day with a taste of France.
1 hour drive from Mahabalipuram.
INR 800, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Auroville

Visit the unique township of Auroville, where you can experience community living and eco-friendly projects.
20 minutes drive from breakfast.
Free, 2 hours

11:30AM

Visit Pondicherry Museum

Explore artifacts from the French colonial period and local history, fascinating for the whole family.
20 minutes drive from Auroville.
INR 150, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Cafe des Arts

Indulge in a delightful meal with a mix of Indian and French dishes in a quaint café setting.
Short drive from the museum.
INR 1200, 1 hour

2:00PM

Relax at the Beach Promenade

Take a leisurely stroll and let the kids cool off by the beach at the iconic Promenade.
Walking distance from the café.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Visit Sri Aurobindo Ashram

Experience the serene atmosphere of the Sri Aurobindo Ashram, a place for meditation and reflection.
10-minute walk from the beach.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Le Café

Dine at this beachfront café famous for its delicious menu, ideal for a relaxing evening.
Just a short walk along the promenade.
INR 1500, 1 hour
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Day 4: Cultural Thanjavur

Thanjavur, India

7:30AM

Breakfast at Ramakrishna Hotel

Enjoy a wholesome breakfast featuring local delicacies, setting the tone for a day of cultural exploration.
Drive about 3 hours from Pondicherry to Thanjavur.
INR 800, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Brihadeeswarar Temple

Marvel at the grandeur of this UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its impressive architecture.
5-minute drive from breakfast.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore Thanjavur Royal Palace

Wander through the mesmerizing halls and learn about the rich history of Thanjavur's royal families.
15-minute walk or a 5-minute drive from the temple.
INR 250, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Hotel Gnanam

Relish an authentic South Indian thali for lunch, perfectly suited for the entire family.
5 minutes by car.
INR 1200, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Art Gallery

Visit the Art Gallery to see exquisite paintings and sculptures, ideal for art enthusiasts.
Just 10 minutes from the lunch spot.
INR 100, 1 hour

4:00PM

Explore Tanjore Paintings

Take part in a workshop on Tanjore painting, allowing the kids to engage creatively.
Short drive from the art gallery.
INR 500, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Hotel Tamilnadu

Capsulate your day with traditional South Indian cuisine, offering a range of delectable dishes.
A quick 5-minute drive from your last activity.
INR 1200, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Temple Town Madurai

Madurai, India

7:30AM

Breakfast at Sri Meenakshi Bhavan

Savour a delightful breakfast of idlis and vadas, getting ready for a day steeped in history.
Drive 2.5 hours from Thanjavur to Madurai.
INR 800, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Meenakshi Amman Temple

Explore the stunning architecture and vibrant colourful sculptures in this sacred city landmark.
5-minute drive from breakfast.
Free, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Explore Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace

Step back in time as you explore this magnificent palace with picturesque gardens and courtyards.
10-minute drive from the temple.
INR 100, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at The Delhi - Madurai

Savour a multi-cuisine meal at this family-friendly restaurant that caters to all tastes.
10-minute drive from the palace.
INR 1200, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore Gandhi Memorial Museum

Discover the life and legacy of Mahatma Gandhi through photographs and narratives in this engaging museum.
15-minute drive from lunch.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit local markets

Explore the vibrant local markets and shops for unique souvenirs and handicrafts.
5-minute drive from the museum.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Amaravati Restaurant

Indulge in a delightful evening meal featuring spicy regional cuisine and biryani.
A short drive from the market.
INR 1500, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 6: Wildlife in Thekkady

Thekkady, India

7:00AM

Breakfast at Woodlands Restaurant

Start your day with a delicious spread of breakfast items to energise before your wildlife adventure.
Drive 4.5 hours from Madurai to Thekkady.
INR 800, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Spice Village Restaurant

Enjoy a meal surrounded by lush greenery that serves organic and local Kerala cuisine.
5 minutes from your hotel.
INR 1500, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore Periyar National Park

Take a guided nature walk in Periyar National Park, known for its diverse flora and fauna, a fantastic experience for children.
Short drive from lunch.
INR 1000, 2.5 hours

4:00PM

Enjoy a boat ride on Periyar Lake

Relish a relaxing boat ride on the picturesque Periyar Lake, offering great chances to spot wildlife.
Directly within the national park.
INR 500, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Thekkady Cafe

Taste local flavours with a menu that includes fresh spices and herbs unique to the region.
Minutes from your last activity.
INR 1200, 1 hour
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Day 7: Culture and Relaxation in Kochi

Kochi, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café Aymanam

Savour a delightful breakfast with locally sourced ingredients to suit every palate.
Drive 4 hours from Thekkady to Kochi.
INR 800, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Fort Kochi

Wander through the charming streets of Fort Kochi, witnessing its rich colonial history.
10-minute drive from breakfast.
Free, 2 hours

11:30AM

Visit Chinese Fishing Nets

Observe the iconic Chinese fishing nets in action, an amazing sight that the kids will enjoy.
A quick stroll from Fort Kochi.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Oceanos Restaurant

Delight in fresh seafood caught from the Arabian Sea in this well-regarded restaurant.
5-minute drive from the nets.
INR 1500, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Mattancherry Palace

Visit the Dutch Palace, showcasing exquisite mural paintings and the history of Kochi's royal family.
15 minutes drive from lunch.
INR 200, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Relax at Vypin Island

Spend your final afternoon in a quiet beach area of Vypin Island, perfect for unwinding.
30 minutes drive from the palace.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Dal Roti

Enjoy a fusion of Indian and continental dishes in a casual setting, ideal for families.
15 minutes from Vypin Island.
INR 1200, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability