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10-Day Family Adventure in South India

Viewed by 135 travelers

Day 1: Arriving in Chennai

Chennai, India

9:00AM

Breakfast at Saravana Bhavan

Start your South India journey with a delightful traditional breakfast at this iconic vegetarian restaurant, famous for its dosas and filter coffee.
Head over to the restaurant via a short taxi ride.
INR 600, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit the Kapaleeshwarar Temple

Marvel at the Dravidian architecture of this ancient temple which is a vital part of the city's cultural heritage.
A taxi from the breakfast spot will take about 20 minutes.
INR 0, 1 hour

12:00PM

Explore Marina Beach

Stroll along Asia's longest beach, enjoying the breezy atmosphere and trying local snacks from vendors.
Take a taxi; it’s around 30 minutes drive.
INR 0, 2 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at The Marina

Savor a seafood lunch with a view of the beach, offering a variety of local dishes to satisfy everyone’s palate.
A short walk from the beach.
INR 800, 1 hour

3:30PM

Visit the Government Museum

Discover a vast collection of archaeological artifacts and ancient sculptures that reflect the rich history of South India.
15-minute taxi to the museum.
INR 100, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Shopping at T Nagar

Experience the hustle and bustle of T Nagar, a shopping hub known for its silks and jewelry.
A quick 20-minute taxi ride.
Variable, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Annalakshmi

Enjoy a traditional Thali dinner in a serene ambience that supports the arts, while feeding your family delicious home-cooked style dishes.
A 10-minute taxi ride.
INR 1000, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Chennai

Day 2: Exploring Mahabalipuram

Mahabalipuram, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel Sea Breeze

Enjoy a hearty breakfast with a seaside view featuring dosas, uttapams, and fresh fruits.
Taxi from your hotel in Chennai (1-1.5 hours).
INR 800, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Shore Temple

Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site that showcases stunning architecture along the coastline.
A short walk from the hotel.
INR 30, 1 hour

11:00AM

Visit Arjuna's Penance

Witness the gigantic rock carving that narrates a mythological story and is perfect for fascinating family photos.
15 minutes walk away.
INR 0, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Le Restaurant

Feast on fresh seafood and South Indian delicacies while enjoying ocean views.
A quick drive from the sculptures.
INR 800, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit the Pancha Rathas

Explore the remarkable monolithic structures, each dedicated to a different deity and great for family exploration.
A short taxi ride from the restaurant.
INR 10, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Relax at the Beach

Let the kids play in the sand while parents relax on the beach, soaking in the South Indian sun.
Easy access from the rathas.
INR 0, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Moonrakers

Enjoy a delightful seafood dinner in an ambience that’s perfect for family.
Short drive from the beach.
INR 1000, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Mahabalipuram

Day 3: Cultural Experience at Pondicherry

Pondicherry, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Cafe des Arts

Indulge in a French-inspired breakfast in a charming café known for its vibrancy and art.
Drive to the café (1-1.5 hours).
INR 600, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Auroville

Explore the unique township dedicated to peace and unity; kids will love the visitor’s center showcasing sustainable development.
20-minute drive from the café.
INR 0, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Explore Pondicherry Beach

Relax by the beautiful beach; kids can play while parents sip coconut water from local vendors.
25-minute drive to the beach.
INR 0, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Villa Shanti

Taste the exquisite flavors of South Indian and French cuisine, all in a beautiful heritage building.
Short taxi ride from the beach.
INR 800, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit the Pondicherry Museum

Learn about the rich history and heritage of the region through fascinating displays and artifacts.
Short drive from the restaurant.
INR 50, 1 hour

4:30PM

Walk in the French Quarter

Discover the colorful colonial architecture; perfect for family photos and enjoying quaint cafés.
A short walk from the museum.
INR 0, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Asian Kitchen

Enjoy a delightful dinner with a mix of Asian flavors that cater to everyone in the family.
Taxi from the French Quarter.
INR 900, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Pondicherry

Day 4: Cultural Trek in Thanjavur

Thanjavur, India

7:30AM

Breakfast at Hotel Ideal

Fuel up with a traditional South Indian breakfast featuring idlis and sambar before setting off.
Drive to Thanjavur (2.5 hours).
INR 700, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Brihadeeswarar Temple

Witness the grandeur of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its magnificent architecture and historical significance.
Taxi from the hotel.
INR 0, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Explore the Thanjavur Maratha Palace

Engage with the art and history of the Maratha rulers, perfect for understanding the culture of the region.
A short drive within Thanjavur.
INR 100, 1.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Hotel Gnanam

Enjoy a delightful meal that showcases local flavors and Thanjavur's culinary specialties.
Short walk from the palace.
INR 800, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit the Thanjavur Art Gallery

Admire traditional artworks, particularly bronze sculptures and classical paintings that reflect the legacy of Thanjavur.
Walk from the restaurant.
INR 20, 1 hour

3:30PM

Chola Temples Tour

Take a brief trip to see other famous Chola temples around Thanjavur, teaching children about ancient architecture.
30-minute taxi ride.
INR 200, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Sree Ariya Bhavan

Savor authentic Tamil Nadu food while sharing your day’s adventures with the family.
Taxi back to Thanjavur.
INR 900, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Thanjavur

Day 5: Exploring Madurai

Madurai, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Azhagar Kadai

Enjoy a typical South Indian breakfast at this busy local spot, known for its delicious pongal.
Drive to Madurai (2 hours).
INR 600, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Meenakshi Amman Temple

Marvel at one of the most iconic temples in India, famous for its stunning architecture and vibrant festivals.
20-minute taxi ride.
INR 0, 2 hours

11:30AM

Explore the Gandhi Museum

A visit to this museum will inform the family about India's independence struggle and Mahatma Gandhi's role in it.
A 15-minute drive from the temple.
INR 0, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at a Local Hotel

Try the local cuisine, which is renowned for its taste and quality, especially the famous Madurai biryani.
15-minute taxi ride.
INR 800, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace

Explore the grand palace built by the Nayak kings, perfect for a family stroll through history.
A short taxi ride.
INR 100, 2 hours

4:30PM

Stroll in the Market

Wander through the bustling streets of Madurai’s markets, experiencing local life and shopping for souvenirs.
Walking distance from the palace.
Variable, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Murugan Idli Shop

Finish your day with a famous idli dinner that the kids will love, in a family-friendly eatery.
Short taxi ride from the market.
INR 600, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Madurai

Day 6: Nature Retreat in Kodaikanal

Kodaikanal, India

7:30AM

Breakfast at Hilltop Hotel

Savor a warm breakfast before departing to the hill station, with options perfect for the whole family.
Drive to Kodaikanal (3.5 hours).
INR 800, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Coaker's Walk

Enjoy the breathtaking views while walking along the scenic pathway suitable for all ages.
Short taxi ride from your hotel.
INR 20, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore Kodaikanal Lake

Take a family-friendly boat ride on the picturesque lake, with stunning surroundings and a serene atmosphere.
Walk to the lake from Coaker's Walk.
INR 400, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Swiss Cafeteria

Dine in a cozy café that serves a variety of dishes in a charming setting perfect for families.
Short walk from the lake.
INR 900, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Pillar Rocks

Witness the majestic rock formation, where kids can enjoy exploration and family photos.
Taxi to the rocks (30 minutes).
INR 20, 2 hours

4:30PM

Explore Bear Shola Falls

Take a short trek to this beautiful waterfall, perfect for cooling off and enjoying nature.
Another 30-minute drive.
INR 20, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Tandoor Hut

Finish the day with delicious Indian cuisine, featuring tandoori dishes that family can enjoy together.
Short drive back to the center.
INR 1000, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Kodaikanal

Day 7: Hill Station Serenity in Munnar

Munnar, India

7:30AM

Breakfast at Kodaikanal Hotel

Enjoy a filling breakfast before departing to Munnar, with options sure to energize the family.
Drive to Munnar (4 hours).
INR 800, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Tea Gardens

Stroll through the lush tea plantations with kids enjoying the fresh air and picturesque landscapes.
30-minute drive from Kodaikanal.
INR 0, 2 hours

11:30AM

Trekking at Anamudi Peak

Join a light trek suitable for families and witness the highest peak in South India.
20-minute drive.
INR 200, 3 hours

2:30PM

Lunch at Saravana Bhavan

Replenish your energy with a tasty vegetarian meal at a favorite local eatery.
Taxi from the trekking area.
INR 800, 1 hour

4:00PM

Visit Eravikulam National Park

Explore the wildlife in this breathtaking national park, where children can learn about the flora and fauna.
20-minute taxi ride.
INR 100, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Hill Spice

Dine amidst nature offering a menu filled with local dishes, perfect for casual family dining.
Taxi from the park.
INR 900, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Munnar

Day 8: Backwater Adventure in Alleppey

Alleppey, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Enjoy a hearty breakfast before departing to Alleppey, with traditional Keralan dishes on offer.
Drive to Alleppey (4 hours).
INR 700, 1 hour

10:00AM

Houseboat Cruise

Embark on a mesmerizing houseboat cruise through the serene backwaters of Alleppey against stunning landscapes.
Reach the houseboat dock (20 minutes from your hotel).
INR 3000, 2.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch on the Houseboat

Indulge in a freshly prepared traditional Kerala meal while floating through the backwaters.
Enjoyed on the houseboat.
Included with cruise, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Local Villages

Explore the humble villages on the banks of backwaters, interacting with locals and learning about their lifestyle.
Part of the cruise plan.
Included with cruise, 2 hours

5:00PM

Sunset View in Alleppey

End your cruise watching the beautiful sunset on the backwaters, a perfect setting for family memories.
On the houseboat waiting to dock.
Included with cruise, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at Hotel Raheem Residency

Try delicious Keralan seafood dishes in a relaxing restaurant after your day's adventures.
Short drive back to the hotel.
INR 900, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Alleppey

Day 9: Cultural Exploration in Kochi

Kochi, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Relish a breakfast that features local and continental dishes before heading to Kochi.
Drive to Kochi (1.5 hours).
INR 700, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Fort Kochi

Wander through charming streets loaded with colonial architecture and vibrant art scenes; families can shop and explore extensively.
A short taxi ride.
INR 0, 2 hours

11:30AM

Visit Mattancherry Palace

Get lost in history while exploring the Dutch Palace featuring wonderful murals and artifacts.
A short taxi ride from Fort Kochi.
INR 20, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Rice Boat

Enjoy fresh Keralan cuisine while surrounded by water views, ensuring a relaxing meal for the whole family.
Short taxi ride.
INR 900, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Catch a Kathakali Show

Experience the unique and enthralling Kathakali performance that the kids will find both entertaining and educational.
Scheduled timing at the theater.
INR 500, 2 hours

4:30PM

Explore Jew Town

Stroll through this historical section with spice shops and antique stores, perfect for finding souvenirs.
Short walk from the theater.
Variable, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Old Harbour House

Conclude your tour with a fine dining experience featuring authentic Keralan dishes in a beautiful ambiance.
10-minute taxi ride.
INR 1200, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Kochi

Day 10: Closing in Chennai

Chennai, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel Savera

Enjoy your final breakfast in Chennai that includes both local and continental foods.
Return to your hotel in Chennai (1.5 hours).
INR 800, 1 hour

9:30AM

Shopping at Pondy Bazaar

Spend your last morning shopping for souvenirs at this popular market before heading home.
Short drive within the city.
Variable, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Hotel Saravana Bhavan

Taste a variety of vegetarian dishes that everyone in the family can enjoy before you leave.
A quick taxi ride.
INR 800, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit the Valluvar Kottam

Explore this monument dedicated to the great Tamil poet, providing insights into Tamil literature and culture.
Short drive from the restaurant.
INR 10, 1 hour

3:30PM

Relax at the hotel

Take some time to unwind and prepare for your onward journey.
Return to your hotel.
INR 0, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Southern Spice

Admire the fine-dining experience with South Indian cuisine as your trip reaches a fulfilling end.
Short taxi ride to the restaurant.
INR 1200, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Chennai
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