5-Day Family Friendly Nature and Cultural Immersion Itinerary in South India

Day 1: Exploring Chennai

Chennai, India

8:00 AM

Visit the Government Museum

Start your day by exploring the rich cultural heritage of India at the Government Museum, which houses impressive collections of art and anthropology.
Take a taxi from your hotel to the museum.
INR 100, 2 hours

10:30 AM

Stroll at Marina Beach

After the museum, head to Marina Beach, a perfect spot for a relaxing stroll and enjoying local snacks from beach vendors.
It's a short taxi ride from the museum to Marina Beach.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Murugan Idli Shop

Savor a traditional South Indian meal at Murugan Idli Shop, famous for its fluffy idlis and tangy sambar.
Take a taxi to Murugan Idli Shop.
INR 600 for family, 1 hour

1:30 PM

Explore Fort St. George

Discover the historical significance of Fort St. George, which showcases the colonial past and houses the Fort Museum.
Take a taxi to Fort St. George.
INR 200, 2 hours

4:00 PM

Visit Kapaleeshwarar Temple

End your cultural exploration with a visit to the stunning Kapaleeshwarar Temple, an architectural marvel reflecting Dravidian style.
It's a short taxi ride to the temple.
Free, 1 hour

6:00 PM

Dinner at Dhabha Express

Enjoy a family-friendly dinner at Dhabha Express, offering North Indian and coastal cuisine options.
Taxi back to the restaurant.
INR 800 for family, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Heritage of Mahabalipuram

Mahabalipuram, India

8:00 AM

Travel to Mahabalipuram

Depart from Chennai early to Mahabalipuram, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its rock-cut temples.
Travel by hired vehicle, approximately 1.5 hours.
INR 2000 for vehicle, 2 hours

10:00 AM

Visit Shore Temple

Start your visit at the Shore Temple, an iconic symbol of Mahabalipuram, visible from the sea.
Walking distance from parking.
INR 50, 1 hour

11:30 AM

Explore Pancha Rathas

Next, wander through the Pancha Rathas, an incredible series of monolithic rock-cut structures reflecting architectural excellence.
Taxi from Shore Temple to Pancha Rathas.
INR 20, 1 hour

1:00 PM

Lunch at Ananda Restaurant

Enjoy a meal at Ananda Restaurant, known for its sea-view dining and fresh seafood.
Just a short taxi ride away.
INR 800 for family, 1 hour

2:30 PM

Visit Arjuna's Penance

After lunch, engage with the beautiful relief sculptures at Arjuna's Penance, a massive rock-carving.
A short walk from the restaurant.
INR 40, 1 hour

4:00 PM

Relax at Mahabalipuram Beach

Spend some leisure time at Mahabalipuram Beach, building sandcastles or enjoying the sunset.
Walking distance from the site.
Free, 2 hours

6:30 PM

Dinner at The Fisherman's Wharf

Conclude your day at The Fisherman's Whart, serving delicious coastal dishes.
Taxi from the beach.
INR 1200 for family, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Charming Pondicherry

Pondicherry, India

8:00 AM

Travel to Pondicherry

Depart for Pondicherry, known for its French colonial architecture and tranquil beaches.
Travel by hired vehicle; approximately 1.5 hours.
INR 2000 for vehicle, 2 hours

10:00 AM

Visit Auroville

Begin your day with a visit to Auroville, an experimental township devoted to peace and international cultural collaboration.
Taxi from the hotel to Auroville.
Free, 2 hours

12:30 PM

Lunch at Le Cafe

Delight in a beachfront lunch at Le Cafe, offering a variety of cuisines with a French twist.
Short taxi ride to the café.
INR 900 for family, 1 hour

2:00 PM

Explore French Quarter

Stroll through the charming streets of the French Quarter, admiring various buildings and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere.
Walking distance from the café.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00 PM

Visit Pondicherry Museum

Learn more about the local heritage at the Pondicherry Museum, which showcases artifacts from the colonial era.
A short walk from the French Quarter.
INR 100, 1 hour

5:30 PM

Beach Time at Promenade Beach

Unwind at Promenade Beach, perfect for a leisurely walk along the shore and family bonding.
Walk to Promenade Beach.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:00 PM

Dinner at The New Lighthouse Restaurant

Enjoy local and international cuisine at The New Lighthouse Restaurant, with a great view of the beach.
Taxi from the boardwalk.
INR 1200 for family, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Nature Retreat in Kodaikanal

Kodaikanal, India

8:00 AM

Travel to Kodaikanal

Leave Pondicherry and embark on a scenic drive to Kodaikanal, known for its lush greenery and scenic lakes.
Travel by hired vehicle; approximately 7 hours including breaks.
INR 5000 for vehicle, 7 hours

3:00 PM

Boating at Kodaikanal Lake

On arrival, rent a boat at Kodaikanal Lake for a fun and relaxing family experience amidst stunning scenery.
Short drive to the lake.
INR 400 for boat, 1.5 hours

5:00 PM

Explore Coaker's Walk

Stroll along Coaker's Walk, offering breathtaking views of the valleys and hills.
Walk up to the famous walkway.
INR 20, 1 hour

6:30 PM

Dinner at the Royal Hotel

End your day with a nice dinner at the Royal Hotel, known for its warm ambiance and delicious local dishes.
Short taxi ride from your accommodation.
INR 1200 for family, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Cultural Delights in Madurai

Madurai, India

8:00 AM

Travel to Madurai

Depart Kodaikanal and head to Madurai, a city known for its cultural richness and ancient temples.
Drive by hired vehicle; around 3.5 hours.
INR 3000 for vehicle, 3.5 hours

12:00 PM

Visit Meenakshi Amman Temple

Experience the grandeur of Meenakshi Amman Temple, a stunning example of Dravidian architecture and vibrant rituals.
Taxi from the parking lot.
Free, 2 hours

2:00 PM

Lunch at Sree Sabarees

Enjoy a traditional Tamil lunch at Sree Sabarees, known for its delicious thali offerings.
Short taxi ride from the temple.
INR 600 for family, 1 hour

3:30 PM

Visit Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace

Explore the historical Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace, noted for its Indo-Saracenic architecture.
Taxi to the palace location.
INR 50, 1 hour

5:00 PM

Shopping at Puthu Mandapam

Browse local handicrafts and textiles at Puthu Mandapam, a bustling market area.
Taxi to Puthu Mandapam.
Free entry, shopping costs vary., 1.5 hours

7:00 PM

Dinner at Kumar Mess

Wrap up your South India journey with a traditional dinner at Kumar Mess, famous for authentic Chettinad cuisine.
Short taxi ride from the market.
INR 800 for family, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability