South India Summer Vacation: Cultural Heritage and Coastal Bliss in 3-4 Nights

Day 1: Cultural Chennai

Chennai, India on July 10, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Saravana Bhavan

Enjoy authentic South Indian breakfast dishes such as idli, dosa, and vada at this popular Chennai chain.
INR350, 1h

9:30am

Visit Kapaleeshwarar Temple

Explore this iconic Dravidian-style temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, featuring vibrant gopurams and rich cultural history.
Free, 1h

11:00am

Stroll along Marina Beach

Take a leisurely walk along Asia’s longest urban beach, enjoying the lively atmosphere and local vendors.
Free, 1h30m

12:30pm

Lunch at Ratna Cafe

Taste traditional Chennai vegetarian meals including idiyappam and vegetable curry at this century-old restaurant.
INR400, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Fort St. George Museum

Discover Chennai’s colonial history and artifacts at this 17th-century fort and its museum.
INR100, 1h

3:30pm

Explore San Thome Basilica

Visit the church built over the tomb of Saint Thomas, blending Gothic architecture with spiritual significance.
Free, 45m

6:00pm

Dinner at The Marina

Savor fresh seafood and South Indian coastal flavors at this renowned beachfront restaurant.
INR1200, 2h
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Day 2: Historic Madurai

Madurai, India on July 11, 2025

7:00am

Travel from Chennai to Madurai by train

Board the Vaigai Express, which offers a comfortable early morning 8-hour journey through scenic South Indian countryside.
INR800, 8h

3:30pm

Check-in and refresh at hotel

Relax briefly at your accommodation before exploring the city’s historic marvels.
Varies, 1h

5:00pm

Visit Meenakshi Amman Temple

Marvel at this sprawling Dravidian temple complex dedicated to Goddess Meenakshi and Lord Sundareswarar, famous for its stunning gopurams and intricate carvings.
Free, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner at Murugan Idli Shop

Enjoy traditional Tamil Nadu delicacies focusing on soft idlis and flavorful chutneys.
INR300, 1h
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Day 3: Relaxing Kovalam

Kovalam, India on July 12, 2025

7:00am

Travel from Madurai to Kovalam by taxi or bus

A scenic 4-hour drive south brings you to the sunny beaches of Kovalam in Kerala.
INR2000, 4h

12:00pm

Lunch at Malabar Cafe

Relish authentic Kerala cuisine featuring seafood specialties and coconut-infused dishes in a cozy setting.
INR800, 1h

1:30pm

Relax at Kovalam Beach

Spend the afternoon sunbathing, swimming, or walking along the three crescent-shaped beaches known for their palm-lined shores.
Free, 3h

5:00pm

Visit Lighthouse Beach

Climb the 100-year-old lighthouse for panoramic sunset views over the Arabian Sea.
INR100, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at Seagull

Dine on fresh catch-of-the-day seafood with an oceanfront ambiance and live music.
INR1200, 2h
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Day 4: Departure

Kovalam, India on July 13, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast with tropical fruits and South Indian specialties at your hotel.
Included in stay, 1h

9:30am

Morning stroll around Kovalam village

Experience local life by visiting markets and coconut groves near the beach before your departure.
Free, 1h

11:00am

Travel to Trivandrum International Airport

A short 30-minute taxi transfer to the airport to catch your onward flight back home or to your next destination.
INR500, 30m
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