7-Day Family Friendly Itinerary Through South India

Day 1: Explore Chennai

Chennai, India on January 17, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Saravana Bhavan

Start your day with delicious South Indian breakfast at Saravana Bhavan, famous for its idlis and dosas.
Located in the heart of Chennai, 15-minute ride from your hotel.
INR 600, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Kapaleeshwarar Temple

Explore the stunning Kapaleeshwarar Temple, a vibrant symbol of Dravidian architecture that is enjoyable for both adults and kids.
Approximately a 20-minute taxi ride from the restaurant.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Science Museum

Engage your family at the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre Science Museum, full of interactive exhibits that cater to children’s curiosity.
15-minute taxi ride from the temple.
INR 200, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Hotel Ponnusamy

Savor authentic Chettinad cuisine for lunch at Hotel Ponnusamy, known for its spicy chicken and rice dishes.
30-minute taxi ride from the Science Museum.
INR 800, 1 hour

3:00PM

Chennai Marina Beach

Head over to Marina Beach, where the kids can play on the sand and enjoy the picturesque sunset views.
15-minute taxi ride from lunch.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Anjappar Chettinad Restaurant

Indulge in a family-friendly dining experience at Anjappar, famous for its traditional Tamil dishes.
30-minute taxi ride back to your accommodation.
INR 1200, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Day Trip to Mahabalipuram

Mahabalipuram, India on January 18, 2025

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at your hotel before heading out for the day.
Hotel to car transport.
INR 500, 1 hour

8:30AM

Drive to Mahabalipuram

Enjoy a scenic drive to Mahabalipuram, known for its ancient rock-cut temples.
Approx. 60 km, 1.5 hours by car.
N/A, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Visit Shore Temple

Admire the ancient Shore Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site overlooking the sea that captivates visitors of all ages.
5-minute drive from parking.
INR 40, 1 hour

11:00AM

Explore Arjuna's Penance

Take a walk to witness the magnificent bas-relief sculpture of Arjuna’s Penance, great for family photos.
10-minute walk from the Shore Temple.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at The Fisherman’s Wharf

Relish fresh seafood and local cuisine at The Fisherman’s Wharf, perfect for families and offering a view of the beach.
15-minute drive from the relief sculpture.
INR 1500, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Pancha Rathas

Explore the Pancha Rathas, five monolithic temples ideal for wandering with your family.
20-minute drive from the restaurant.
INR 100, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Relax at the Beach

Spend some leisure time at Mahabalipuram Beach, where the kids can play in the sand and enjoy some local snacks.
5-minute drive from Pancha Rathas.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Moonrakers

After a fulfilling day, enjoy dinner at Moonrakers, well-known for its cozy atmosphere and delectable Indian cuisine.
10-minute drive from the beach.
INR 1200, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Drive Back to Chennai

Return to Chennai, reflecting on the day's adventures.
1.5 hours drive back.
N/A, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Pondicherry Charm

Pondicherry, India on January 19, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before checking out.
Hotel dining area.
INR 500, 1 hour

9:00AM

Travel to Pondicherry

Set off for the charming French-influenced town of Pondicherry.
Approx. 150 km, about 3 hours.
N/A, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Café Des Arts

Savor a French-style lunch at Café Des Arts, a picturesque spot for families.
Café located in the city center.
INR 1200, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit Auroville

Explore the community of Auroville, with its unique architecture and tranquil gardens; it's a lovely place for a family stroll.
20-minute drive from the café.
Free, 2 hours

3:30PM

Promenade Beach Visit

Take a relaxing walk along Promenade Beach, where children can enjoy the sand and waves.
15-minute drive from Auroville.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Indian Kaffe Express

Dine at The Indian Kaffe Express, a family-friendly restaurant offering both Indian and continental flavors.
10-minute drive from the beach.
INR 800, 1.5 hours

7:30PM

Check-in to Hotel

Settle into your family accommodations and relax after a busy day.
Hotel check-in.
N/A, 1 hour
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Day 4: Tanjore Temples

Tanjore, India on January 20, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start the day with breakfast at your hotel, preparing for a day of exploration.
Hotel dining.
INR 500, 1 hour

9:00AM

Travel to Tanjore

Embark on a journey to Tanjore, renowned for its temples and culture.
Approx. 60 km, about 1.5 hours.
N/A, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Visit Brihadeeswarar Temple

Marvel at the magnificent Brihadeeswarar Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that impresses with its size and architecture.
Located in Tanjore city.
INR 50, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Hotel Gnanam

Savor lunch at Hotel Gnanam, which offers an array of traditional Tamil dishes.
Driving distance of 10 minutes from the temple.
INR 800, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore Tanjore Palace

Visit Tanjore Palace, featuring history, art, and culture, perfect for a family outing.
10-minute drive from the restaurant.
INR 200, 2 hours

4:30PM

Shopping for Handicrafts

Spend some time shopping for local handicrafts and art, a fun experience for all members of the family.
Walking distance from the palace.
Variable, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Gnanam Restaurant

End the day with dinner at Gnanam Restaurant, known for its variety of culinary delights.
Located in Tanjore City.
INR 1000, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Journey to Madurai

Madurai, India on January 21, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Fuel up for the day with breakfast at your hotel.
Hotel dining area.
INR 500, 1 hour

9:00AM

Travel to Madurai

Make your way to the historic city of Madurai, famous for its temples and culture.
Approx. 120 km, approximately 2.5 hours by car.
N/A, 2.5 hours

11:30AM

Visit Meenakshi Amman Temple

Marvel at the spectacular architecture of Meenakshi Amman Temple, which is not only a place of worship but a visual delight for the whole family.
Located in the city center.
Free, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Sree Sabarees

Enjoy a family-friendly meal at Sree Sabarees, known for its amazing South Indian vegetarian options.
5-minute drive from the temple.
INR 600, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Gandhi Museum Visit

Explore the Gandhi Museum, which offers interesting insights into India's freedom struggle, suitable for family education.
10-minute drive from lunch.
INR 200, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Shopping at Meenakshi Mall

Explore Meenakshi Mall, where the kids can enjoy shopping, and families can relax in the food court.
15-minute drive from the museum.
Variable, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at a Local Diner

End the day with dinner at a local diner, enjoying traditional Madurai cuisine.
Near the mall.
INR 800, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Kanyakumari Adventure

Kanyakumari, India on January 22, 2025

6:30AM

Early Breakfast at Hotel

Fuel your family's energy with an early breakfast to get ready for a busy day.
Hotel dining area.
INR 500, 1 hour

7:30AM

Drive to Kanyakumari

Set out for the southernmost point of India, Kanyakumari, a vibrant coastal town.
Approx. 250 km, about 4 hours by car.
N/A, 4 hours

11:30AM

Visit Vivekananda Rock Memorial

Take a ferry to Vivekananda Rock Memorial, a serene place that offers spectacular views of the sea.
Boat departs from Kanyakumari Beach.
INR 200 (includes ferry tickets), 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at The Ocean

Enjoy a flavorful lunch overlooking the ocean at The Ocean, offering a variable menu including local seafood.
Walking distance from the ferry return.
INR 1200, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Kanyakumari Beach

Spend some time on Kanyakumari Beach, where the kids can play and people can watch the local culture.
5-minute walk from lunch.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Visit Thiruvalluvar Statue

Conclude the cultural exploration by visiting Thiruvalluvar Statue, a towering tribute that is impressive for visitors of all ages.
Short walk from the beach.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Multicuisine restaurant

Enjoy a family dinner at a local multicuisine restaurant before heading back to your hotel.
Back to the vehicle.
INR 1000, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Departure to Bangalore

Bangalore, India on January 23, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Savor breakfast one last time in Kanyakumari before departing.
Dining area of the hotel.
INR 500, 1 hour

9:00AM

Travel to Bangalore

Prepare for a journey to Bangalore, known for its gardens and modern ambiance.
Approx. 700 km, about 12 hours drive.
N/A, 12 hours

9:00PM

Final Dinner at The 5th Floor

End your successful South Indian adventure with a closure dinner at The 5th Floor in Bangalore, also reflecting on the wonderful family memories made.
Located in a central area of Bangalore.
INR 2000, 2 hours
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