South India Summer Vacation: Heritage, Nature, and Coastal Relaxation 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 the Government Museum

Explore one of India’s oldest museums featuring extensive archeological and art collections including ancient sculptures and coins.
INR50, 1h30m

11:30am

Stroll along Marina Beach

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

1:00pm

Lunch at Ratna Cafe

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

2:30pm

Visit Dakshinachitra Heritage Village

Experience traditional South Indian architecture, crafts, and culture through live demonstrations and exhibits.
INR150, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at The Marina

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

Day 2: Vibrant Madurai

Madurai, India on July 11, 2025

7:00am

Travel from Chennai to Madurai by train

Board the Vaigai Express, an 8-hour scenic journey through South Indian countryside.
INR800, 8h

3:30pm

Check-in and refresh at hotel

Relax briefly at your accommodation before exploring local markets and heritage areas.
Varies, 1h

5:00pm

Explore Madurai’s local bazaars

Wander through vibrant markets like Puthu Mandapam Bazaar, offering textiles, spices, and handicrafts.
Free, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner at Murugan Idli Shop

Enjoy traditional Tamil Nadu delicacies focusing on soft idlis and flavorful chutneys.
INR300, 1h

Day 3: Coastal 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 your afternoon sunbathing, swimming, or walking along the three crescent-shaped beaches lined with palm trees.
Free, 3h

5:00pm

Visit Lighthouse Beach

Climb the 100-year-old lighthouse for panoramic sunset views of 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

Day 4: Departure

Kovalam, India on July 13, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

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

9:30am

Morning stroll in Kovalam village

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

11:00am

Travel to Trivandrum International Airport

A short 30-minute taxi ride takes you to the airport for onward flight.
INR500, 30m