12-Day South India Itinerary from Chennai

Day 1: Arrival in Chennai

Chennai, India

9:00 AM

Visit Marina Beach

Start your day with a refreshing walk along Marina Beach, where you can soak in the sea breeze and witness the local morning activities.
Take a taxi from your hotel to reach the beach.
INR 0, 1.5 hours

11:00 AM

Breakfast at Murugan Idli Shop

Savor some soft idlis and flavorful chutneys at this iconic eatery famous among locals.
Short taxi ride from Marina Beach.
INR 200, 1 hour

12:30 PM

Explore Fort St. George

Visit this historical fort that showcases the British colonial history of Chennai with its interesting museum.
Take a taxi to Fort St. George.
INR 100, 1.5 hours

2:00 PM

Lunch at Hotel Saravana Bhavan

Indulge in an authentic South Indian thali which is both delicious and filling.
A short taxi ride from Fort St. George.
INR 400, 1 hour

3:30 PM

Visit the Government Museum

Check out the rich exhibits of South Indian history and artifacts at one of the oldest museums in India.
Taxi ride to the museum.
INR 50, 2 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at Anjappar

Enjoy a sumptuous meal featuring the famous Chettinad cuisine, known for its spicy and aromatic flavors.
You can walk or take a short taxi ride.
INR 600, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Beach Day in Mahabalipuram

Mahabalipuram, India

8:00 AM

Travel to Mahabalipuram

After breakfast, journey to Mahabalipuram to explore its UNESCO World Heritage sites.
Take a taxi from Chennai to Mahabalipuram.
INR 1500, 1.5 hours

10:00 AM

Visit Shore Temple

Marvel at the ancient Shore Temple by the sea, a splendid example of Dravidian architecture.
Walking distance from the taxi drop-off.
INR 30, 1 hour

12:00 PM

Lunch at Adyar Ananda Bhavan

Relish North Indian specialties along with South Indian flavors at this popular chain.
Short walk from the temple.
INR 400, 1 hour

2:00 PM

Explore Arjuna's Penance

Gaze at the magnificent rock carvings of Arjuna's Penance, a giant bas-relief sculpture.
Easy walking distance.
INR 30, 1.5 hours

4:00 PM

Relax at Mahabalipuram Beach

Unwind at the picturesque beach, perfect for a dip in the ocean or capturing beautiful sunsets.
Short walk from the carvings.
INR 0, 2 hours

7:00 PM

Dinner at The Seafood Restaurant

End your day with a delectable seafood dinner featuring fresh catch from the Bay of Bengal.
Take a taxi to the restaurant.
INR 800, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Cultural Immersion in Pondicherry

Pondicherry, India

7:30 AM

Travel to Pondicherry

Set off early for the charming union territory known for its French colonial architecture.
Take a taxi from Mahabalipuram to Pondicherry.
INR 2500, 2 hours

9:30 AM

Breakfast at Le Café

Enjoy a delightful French breakfast on the promenade, complete with pastries and coffee.
Easy walk along the beach.
INR 500, 1 hour

10:30 AM

Visit Auroville

Discover this intentional community focused on human unity; don’t miss the Matrimandir.
Taxi ride to Auroville.
INR 200, 2 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Villa Shanti

Savor a fusion of Indian and French cuisine in a quaint setting.
Taxi back to Pondicherry town.
INR 600, 1.5 hours

2:30 PM

Explore French Quarter

Stroll through the scenic streets lined with charming colonial-era buildings and boutiques.
Easy walking tour.
INR 0, 2 hours

5:00 PM

Dinner at La Maison Rose

Indulge in a cozy dinner offering delectable French and Indian dishes in a picturesque setting.
Walk to the restaurant.
INR 800, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Historic Journey to Thanjavur

Thanjavur, India

8:00 AM

Travel to Thanjavur

Head towards Thanjavur to explore its rich heritage and culture.
Taxi to Thanjavur.
INR 2000, 3 hours

11:00 AM

Visit Brihadeeswarar Temple

Marvel at one of the largest temples in India, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its stunning architecture.
Walking distance from the taxi drop-off.
INR 50, 2 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Hotel Gnanam

Enjoy a hearty South Indian meal in a cozy ambiance, with signature dishes from the region.
Short taxi ride from the temple.
INR 500, 1.5 hours

3:00 PM

Explore Thanjavur Maratha Palace

Visit this historical palace with its museum showcasing art and artifacts from the Maratha Empire.
Taxi ride to the palace.
INR 100, 2 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at Ananda Bhavan

Relish a traditional South Indian feast that satiates with local flavors.
Short taxi ride from the palace.
INR 400, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Cultural Exploration in Madurai

Madurai, India

8:00 AM

Travel to Madurai

Journey to Madurai, one of the oldest cities in South India known for its temples.
Taxi ride to Madurai.
INR 1600, 2 hours

10:30 AM

Visit Meenakshi Amman Temple

Marvel at the intricate carvings and colorful gopurams of this famous temple.
Taxi to the temple.
INR 0, 2 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Kothai Kitchen

Enjoy a delicious lunch with traditional Madurai dishes served on banana leaves.
Short taxi ride from the temple.
INR 400, 1 hour

2:30 PM

Explore Thirumalai Nayakkar Mahal

Visit this 17th-century palace known for its stunning architecture and grand halls.
Taxi ride to the palace.
INR 100, 1.5 hours

5:00 PM

Dinner at Heritage Restaurant

Savor local specialties whilst enjoying the ambiance that reflects the city's rich culture.
Short taxi ride from the palace.
INR 600, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 6: Coastal Bliss in Kanyakumari

Kanyakumari, India

8:00 AM

Travel to Kanyakumari

Travel to the southernmost tip of India, where the Arabian Sea meets the Bay of Bengal.
Taxi ride from Madurai.
INR 2000, 3 hours

11:30 AM

Visit Vivekananda Rock Memorial

Hop on a ferry to visit the iconic rock memorial that honors Swami Vivekananda.
Walking distance from the ferry terminal.
INR 150, 2 hours

2:00 PM

Lunch at Hotel Sea Shell

Enjoy a meal with scenic sea views while tasting fresh seafood.
Short taxi ride from the memorial.
INR 800, 1.5 hours

3:30 PM

Explore Kanyakumari Beach

Relax on the beach or engage in water sports before catching the famous sunset.
Short walk from the restaurant.
INR 0, 2.5 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at The Ocean Restaurant

Feast on local delights as you watch the sun dip below the horizon.
Short walk to the restaurant.
INR 700, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 7: Relaxation at Kovalam

Kovalam, India

9:00 AM

Travel to Kovalam

Make your way to the beautiful beaches of Kovalam, famous for its crescent-shaped shoreline.
Taxi ride from Kanyakumari.
INR 1500, 1.5 hours

10:30 AM

Relax at Lighthouse Beach

Relax on the beach and take in the stunning sights of the lighthouse and waves.
Easy walking distance.
INR 0, 3 hours

1:30 PM

Lunch at The Fisherman's Hut

Enjoy a delightful seafood meal at a beachside restaurant with ocean views.
Short walk from the beach.
INR 600, 1.5 hours

3:00 PM

Explore Samudra Beach

Visit Samudra Beach for a quieter atmosphere, perfect for a leisure stroll.
Taxi ride to Samudra Beach.
INR 50, 2 hours

5:30 PM

Dinner at The Tides

Conclude your day with an exquisite dinner featuring local and international cuisine.
Taxi ride back to Kovalam.
INR 800, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 8: Cultural Experience in Trivandrum

Trivandrum, India

9:00 AM

Travel to Trivandrum

Visit the capital city of Kerala, close to Kovalam, known for its rich history.
Short taxi ride from Kovalam.
INR 300, 30 minutes

9:45 AM

Visit Padmanabhaswamy Temple

Admire the intricate architecture of one of the richest temples in India.
Walking distance from the taxi drop-off.
INR 0, 1.5 hours

11:30 AM

Explore Napier Museum

View collections of art and historical artifacts in a beautiful Indo-Saracenic style building.
Taxi ride to the museum.
INR 50, 1.5 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at The Chappal Restaurant

Savor Keralite delicacies in a cozy, local setting.
Taxi ride back towards the temple area.
INR 400, 1.5 hours

3:00 PM

Visit Kanakakunnu Palace

Visit this historic palace set amidst beautiful gardens and scenic views.
Taxi to the palace.
INR 100, 2 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at The Taj Mahal Restaurant

Indulge in a mix of Indian and continental dishes with an open-air ambiance.
Taxi ride back to the city.
INR 600, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 9: Backwater Adventure in Alleppey

Alleppey, India

8:00 AM

Travel to Alleppey

Journey to Alleppey, known as the 'Venice of the East' for its picturesque backwaters.
Taxi ride from Trivandrum.
INR 1500, 2 hours

10:30 AM

Houseboat Cruise

Embark on a serene houseboat ride through the lush backwaters, witnessing local life.
Booking available at Alleppey boat jetty.
INR 3000, 4 hours

3:00 PM

Lunch on the Houseboat

Enjoy a freshly prepared Keralite meal onboard as you glide through the scenic waters.
Inclusion in houseboat package.
INR 0, 2 hours

5:00 PM

Visit Alleppey Beach

Relax and stroll along Alleppey Beach, enjoying the laid-back atmosphere.
Taxi from the houseboat to the beach.
INR 0, 1.5 hours

7:00 PM

Dinner at Halais Restaurant

Relish some delicious local seafood and traditional dishes in a warm setting.
Taxi ride to the restaurant.
INR 500, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 10: Nature and Mountains in Munnar

Munnar, India

8:00 AM

Travel to Munnar

Travel to the picturesque hill station famous for its tea plantations and cool climate.
Taxi ride from Alleppey.
INR 3000, 4 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Rapsy Restaurant

Enjoy a meal featuring fresh produce sourced from local farms and tea plantations.
Walking distance from check-in.
INR 500, 1.5 hours

2:00 PM

Visit Tea Gardens

Explore the lush green tea plantations and learn about tea processing and tasting.
Taxi ride to tea estate.
INR 100, 2 hours

5:00 PM

Visit Attukad Waterfalls

Enjoy a peaceful visit to the breathtaking Attukad Waterfalls, perfect for photography.
Taxi ride from the tea gardens.
INR 50, 2 hours

7:30 PM

Dinner at The Spice Tree

Savor flavorful dishes made from spices grown locally in a beautiful restaurant.
Taxi back to the town.
INR 700, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 11: Heritage and Art in Kochi

Kochi, India

8:00 AM

Travel to Kochi

Head to Kochi, a vibrant city known for its port and cultural heritage.
Taxi ride from Munnar.
INR 3000, 4 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Brunton Boatyard

Enjoy a luxurious dining experience with spectacular views of the marina.
Taxi to the restaurant.
INR 1000, 1.5 hours

2:00 PM

Explore Fort Kochi

Discover the historical sights, including the Chinese fishing nets and St. Francis Church.
Walking distance from the restaurant.
INR 0, 2 hours

4:30 PM

Visit Mattancherry Palace

Explore this palace showcasing beautiful murals and artifacts from Kochi's royal family.
Taxi ride to the palace.
INR 50, 1.5 hours

6:30 PM

Dinner at The Rice Boat

Savour an exquisite dinner featuring a variety of local seafood dishes.
Short taxi ride from the palace.
INR 900, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 12: Return to Chennai

Chennai, India

9:00 AM

Travel to Chennai

Begin your journey back to Chennai to wrap up your South India adventure.
Taxi ride from Kochi.
INR 3000, 4 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Sangeetha Restaurant

Enjoy a final meal featuring South Indian classics like dosas and idlis.
Walking distance from your hotel.
INR 400, 1.5 hours

3:00 PM

Shopping at T. Nagar

Explore the bustling markets of T. Nagar, perfect for traditional sarees and souvenirs.
Taxi ride to T. Nagar.
INR 0, 2 hours

5:30 PM

Dinner at Boardwalk

Conclude your journey with a calming dinner by the beach, enjoying seafood delicacies.
Taxi ride to the restaurant.
INR 800, 1.5 hours

8:00 PM

Departure from Chennai

Head to the airport or train station for your journey home or to the next adventure.
Taxi to airport or station.
INR 500, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability