10-Day Family Friendly Nature Itinerary: Exploring Southern India

Day 1: Arrival in Chennai

Chennai, India

9:00AM

Visit Marina Beach

Start your day with a relaxing stroll on Marina Beach, one of the longest shorelines in the world, perfect for family fun.
Take a local cab to Marina Beach, about 30 minutes from city center.
INR0, 2 hours

11:00AM

Breakfast at Saravana Bhavan

Enjoy delicious South Indian breakfast staples like dosas and idlis at this famous eatery.
3 minutes by cab from Marina Beach.
INR800, 1 hour

1:00PM

Explore the Government Museum

Discover the art and cultural heritage of Chennai at the Government Museum, featuring stunning galleries.
15 minutes by cab from Saravana Bhavan.
INR150, 2 hours

3:30PM

Lunch at Kottai Mittai

Taste unique local dishes at this vibrant spot known for its authentic Tamil cuisine.
5 minutes by cab from the Museum.
INR600, 1 hour

5:00PM

Visit Guindy National Park

Enjoy a leisurely walk in one of the few national parks in an urban setting, rich in flora and fauna.
20 minutes by cab from lunch.
INR50, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Travel to Tekkady

Tekkady, India

7:30AM

Travel to Tekkady

Set off early to Tekkady, known for its stunning forests and periyar wildlife sanctuary.
Drive to Tekkady (about 4 hours).
INR3000 (fuel and tolls), 4 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Thekkady Cafe

Indulge in a delightful lunch with a view of nature, featuring local Kerala dishes.
A short walk from hotel.
INR800, 1 hour

2:00PM

Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary Boat Ride

Join a family-friendly boat ride on Periyar Lake, observing birds and other wildlife in their natural habitat.
5 minutes drive to the boat launch.
INR800, 2 hours

5:00PM

Nature Walk

Take a guided nature walk to learn about the forest ecosystem and its inhabitants.
Meet your guide at the park entrance.
INR1200, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Explore Wayanad

Wayanad, India

7:30AM

Travel to Wayanad

Depart for Wayanad, known for its lush hills and pristine waterfalls.
Drive to Wayanad (2 hours).
INR1200 (fuel and tolls), 2 hours

10:00AM

Breakfast at Wayanad Coffee County

Start your day with aromatic coffee and local breakfast offerings surrounded by nature.
5 minutes from hotel.
INR600, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Visit Edakkal Caves

Explore ancient rock carvings and caves, a perfect adventure for the family.
30 minutes drive from restaurant.
INR200, 2 hours

3:00PM

Lunch at The Spice Garden

Savor a unique meal featuring locally sourced spices and ingredients in a serene environment.
30 minutes drive.
INR800, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Pookode Lake Boating

Enjoy a thrilling boating experience on Pookode Lake amid scenic beauty and lush greenery.
20 minutes drive from lunch.
INR400, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Discover Ooty

Ooty, India

8:00AM

Travel to Ooty

Head to the beautiful hill station of Ooty, famed for its botanical gardens and lakes.
Drive to Ooty (3 hours).
INR1800 (fuel and tolls), 3 hours

11:30AM

Breakfast at a Local Café

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at a cafe overlooking the scenic landscapes.
5 minutes from your hotel.
INR600, 1 hour

1:00PM

Visit Botanical Garden

Spend the afternoon exploring the lush greenery and diverse plant species at Ooty's botanical gardens.
10 minutes drive from breakfast spot.
INR250, 2 hours

3:30PM

Lunch at Hotel Hilltop

Savor a delicious meal with panoramic views of the surrounding hills.
10 minutes drive from the gardens.
INR900, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Ooty Lake Boating

Enjoy a scenic boat ride on Ooty Lake, perfect for relaxing as the sun sets.
10 minutes drive from lunch.
INR600, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Explore Kodaikanal

Kodaikanal, India

8:00AM

Travel to Kodaikanal

Drive to the serene hill station of Kodaikanal, known for its lakes and pine forests.
Drive to Kodaikanal (6 hours).
INR3000 (fuel and tolls), 6 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at the German Bakery

Delight in fresh baked goods and local dishes at this charming cafe.
5 minutes from hotel.
INR800, 1 hour

4:00PM

Visit Kodaikanal Lake

Spend time by Kodaikanal Lake, enjoying the beautiful landscape and perhaps renting a pedal boat.
10 minutes drive from lunch.
INR500, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Hilltop Inn

Enjoy a cozy dinner while soaking in stunning views of the forested hills.
15 minutes drive from the lake.
INR1000, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 6: Visit Coonoor

Coonoor, India

8:30AM

Travel to Coonoor

Head to the quaint hill station of Coonoor, famous for its tea estates.
Drive to Coonoor (2 hours).
INR1000 (fuel and tolls), 2 hours

10:30AM

Breakfast at Tea County

Savor breakfast in a beautiful setting surrounded by lush tea gardens.
5 minutes from entry point.
INR600, 1 hour

12:00PM

Visit Sim's Park

Explore Sim's Park, known for its diverse plant species, flower beds, and serene pathways.
5 minutes from breakfast spot.
INR50, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at the Coonoor Heritage Hotel

Dine in a picturesque setting offering local delicacies and stunning views.
10 minutes from Sim's Park.
INR800, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Gardens Visit

Visit local gardens to see a variety of colorful flowers and unique plants.
10 minutes drive.
INR300, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 7: Explore Munnar

Munnar, India

8:30AM

Travel to Munnar

Make your way to the picturesque hill station of Munnar, known for its tea plantations.
Drive to Munnar (3 hours).
INR1500 (fuel and tolls), 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Rapsy Restaurant

Enjoy a mix of local and North Indian cuisines at this family-friendly restaurant.
15 minutes drive from hotel.
INR900, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit Tea Gardens

Explore the lush tea estates, learning about tea production and enjoying beautiful views.
10 minutes drive.
INR0, 2 hours

4:00PM

Visit Attukal Waterfalls

Spend the afternoon at the cascading Attukal Waterfalls, a perfect spot for family photos.
30 minutes drive from tea gardens.
INR100, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Hillview Munnar

Enjoy a lovely dinner with stunning views of the hilly landscape.
20 minutes drive back.
INR1000, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 8: Explore Kerala

Kerala, India

8:00AM

Travel to Alleppey

Head toward the backwaters of Alleppey, known for its serene houseboat experiences.
Drive to Alleppey (4 hours).
INR2000 (fuel and tolls), 4 hours

1:00PM

Houseboat Lunch

Indulge in a traditional Kerala meal served on a houseboat, surrounded by the tranquil backwaters.
As per houseboat cruise itinerary.
INR2500 (for houseboat rental and meal), 2.5 hours

3:30PM

Backwaters Exploration

Explore the picturesque canals and lush landscapes on a leisurely houseboat cruise.
Continue on the houseboat.
INR0 (included in rental), 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner in Alleppey

Enjoy a local seafood dinner at a popular restaurant, experiencing Kerala's culinary delights.
15 minutes walk from houseboat jetty.
INR1200, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 9: Relax in Kerala

Kerala, India

9:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day with a wholesome breakfast at your hotel, ready for more adventures.
At your hotel.
INR500, 1 hour

11:00AM

Visit Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary

Explore the sanctuary home to diverse bird species, perfect for bird enthusiasts and families alike.
Drive to Kumarakom (30 minutes).
INR100, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at a Local Eatery

Savor freshly prepared Kerala dishes at a bustling local restaurant.
5 minutes drive.
INR600, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Vagamon Hill Station

Enjoy the picturesque landscapes and cool climate of Vagamon, perfect for relaxation.
Drive to Vagamon (1.5 hours).
INR0, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at a Local Restaurant

Enjoy a relaxed dinner with family at a homely restaurant featuring local cuisine.
Local restaurants nearby.
INR800, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 10: Departure from Kerala

Kerala, India

8:00AM

Breakfast and Check out

Enjoy a final breakfast in Kerala, wrapping up your incredible nature-centered journey.
At your hotel.
INR500, 1 hour

10:00AM

Explore Last-minute Local Spots

Enjoy some last-minute explorations, perhaps shopping for souvenirs or visiting nearby views.
Local spots within Kerala.
INR0, 2 hours

1:00PM

Departure

Bid farewell to the captivating southern states and head to the airport or train station for departure.
Drive to chosen departure location.
INR1500 (transport), 1 hour
View Hotel Availability