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Cultural Wonders and Culinary Delights of Tamil Nadu and Kerala Itinerary
Last updated: 2024 Jun 14Temples, Palaces, and Local Markets
Morning
Begin your journey with a traditional South Indian breakfast at Arupadai Veedu Murugan Temple Canteen, known for its idlis and dosas. After breakfast, visit the majestic Kapaleeshwarar Temple (Mylapore) to witness the Dravidian architecture and take part in the morning rituals.
Afternoon
For lunch, head to the historic Devaraja Market (George Town) and savor the local flavors at one of the street food stalls. Spend the afternoon exploring the vibrant market and then proceed to the serene San Thome Church (Mylapore) , a significant Christian pilgrimage site.
Evening
As the sun sets, visit the Government Museum (Egmore) to delve into the rich history and culture of Tamil Nadu. For dinner, experience the royal cuisine at the grand ITC Grand Chola's Royal Vega, offering a range of vegetarian delicacies in a regal setting.
Bedtime
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Shore Temples and Handcrafted Marvels
Morning
Enjoy a hearty breakfast at Moonrakers, a beachside café, before exploring the UNESCO World Heritage site of Group of Monuments at Mahabalipuram (Mamallapuram) . Marvel at the ancient rock-cut temples and the famous Shore Temple, set against the backdrop of the Bay of Bengal.
Afternoon
For lunch, indulge in fresh seafood at The Fisherman's Restaurant, known for its local catch. Afterward, visit the Five Rathas (Pancha Rathas) and explore the Arjuna's Penance (Descent of the Ganges) monument, showcasing intricate carvings.
Evening
Witness the art of stone carving at a local workshop and shop for souvenirs. As the day winds down, relax at the beach with the sound of the waves. Dine at Moonrakers for a delightful beach dining experience.
Bedtime
Find amazing hotels in Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu, India.
French Heritage and Spiritual Tranquility
Morning
Start with a French-inspired breakfast at Café des Arts, and then take a leisurely walk through the French Quarter (Ville Blanche) , admiring the colonial architecture and vibrant bougainvillea-laden streets.
Afternoon
Enjoy a sumptuous meal at Rendezvous, a restaurant known for its fusion cuisine. Post-lunch, explore the spiritual side of Puducherry at the Sri Aurobindo Ashram (Aurobindo Ashram) and the Auroville (Aurobindo Ashram) , an experimental township promoting peace and universal harmony.
Evening
Relax by the Promenade Beach (Goubert Avenue) and witness a mesmerizing sunset. For dinner, head to Satsanga, a popular restaurant offering a range of international dishes in a cozy ambiance.
Bedtime
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Royal Legacy and Cultural Treasures
Morning
Begin with a traditional South Indian breakfast at Mani Mess, a local favorite. Then, visit the magnificent Brihadeeswarar Temple (Big Temple) , a UNESCO World Heritage site and a masterpiece of Chola architecture. Participate in the morning rituals if you wish.
Afternoon
Enjoy a royal lunch at the restaurant within the premises of the Thanjavur Royal Palace and Museum (Tamil University) . Explore the palace and museum, which house a rich collection of art, artifacts, and royal memorabilia.
Evening
Take a serene boat ride on the Vadavar River, with the backdrop of the setting sun and the surrounding countryside. For dinner, savor the flavors of Thanjavur at Sathars, known for its local cuisine and warm hospitality.
Bedtime
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Palaces, Parks, and Cultural Gems
Morning
Start with a breakfast fit for royalty at the Lalitha Mahal Palace Hotel, offering a majestic ambiance. Post breakfast, visit the iconic Mysore Palace (Amba Vilas) , also known as the Maharaja's Palace, and witness its grandeur and architectural splendor.
Afternoon
Enjoy a sumptuous vegetarian thali at RRR Restaurant, a local favorite. After lunch, explore the lush greenery and diverse plant species at the Brindavan Gardens (Krishna Raja Sagara) . If time permits, you can also visit the nearby GRS Fantasy Park for some fun and relaxation.
Evening
As the day winds down, take a cultural journey at the Mysore Sandalwood Oil Factory , learning about the extraction and processing of sandalwood. For dinner, head to Vinayaka Mylari, a renowned eatery known for its dosas and local Mysore cuisine.
Bedtime
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Textiles, Temples, and Theme Park Thrills
Morning
Kick off the day with a traditional Tamil breakfast at Annapoorna Sree Gowrishankar, famous for its idlis and vadas. Post breakfast, visit the vibrant and bustling Coimbatore Market (Poompuhar Handicrafts Emporium) to explore a wide range of local handicrafts and textiles.
Afternoon
Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Junior Kuppanna, known for its Chettinad cuisine. Afterward, visit the serene Marudamalai Temple (Maruthamalai Murugan Temple) , dedicated to Lord Murugan, and soak in the spiritual ambiance.
Evening
Conclude your day with an exhilarating visit to the Magic Planet Theme Park , where you can enjoy a variety of rides and entertainment. For dinner, head to the eclectic atmosphere of The Sizzle, known for its sizzlers and continental cuisine.
Bedtime
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Historical Forts, Cultural Enclaves, and Backwater Serenity
Morning
Begin with a delightful breakfast at Kashi Art Cafe, known for its artistic ambiance and European menu. Post breakfast, take a guided tour of the historic Fort Kochi (Fort Cochin) , exploring its colonial past and iconic landmarks.
Afternoon
Enjoy a traditional Kerala meal at Malabar Junction, located in a heritage building. After lunch, visit the Mattancherry Palace (Dutch Palace) to admire its stunning murals and then explore the Jewish Quarter, including the Paradesi Synagogue and the vibrant Jew Town .
Evening
Witness the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets in action at the time of sunset and stroll along the Fort Kochi Beach . For a memorable dinner, head to the Brunton Boatyard, offering a colonial-era dining experience with a view of the harbor.
Bedtime
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Houseboat Sojourn and Backwater Bliss
Morning
Embark on a mesmerizing houseboat journey through the tranquil Kerala Backwaters , enjoying the serene surroundings and traditional Kerala cuisine prepared on board. Relax and take in the beauty of the backwaters as you glide through the waterways.
Afternoon
Disembark from the houseboat for a visit to the Pathiramanal Island , a small island known for its avian population and natural beauty. Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the lush greenery and the sound of migratory birds.
Evening
Return to the houseboat for a leisurely cruise back to Alleppey, witnessing the sunset over the backwaters. For dinner, enjoy a sumptuous seafood meal at the Vembanad Restaurant, offering a fine dining experience with a view of the backwaters.
Bedtime
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Cultural Capital and Temple Trails
Morning
Start your day with a traditional Kerala breakfast at Bharath Hotel, known for its local flavors. After breakfast, visit the Vadakkunnathan Temple , an ancient and prominent Shiva temple with classic Keralite architecture.
Afternoon
Enjoy a vegetarian thali meal at Dhe Puttu, a restaurant specializing in traditional Kerala puttu. Post lunch, explore the colorful and vibrant Thrissur Pooram Exhibition , where you can witness local crafts, performances, and cultural displays.
Evening
Witness a mesmerizing Kathakali performance at the Kerala Kalamandalam , immersing yourself in the world of classical dance and storytelling. For dinner, head to the elegant ambiance of Casino Hotel's Fort Cochin Restaurant, offering a blend of local and international cuisine.
Bedtime
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Temple Town Tranquility and Cultural Heritage
Morning
Begin with a traditional Tamil breakfast at Murugan Idli Shop, known for its wide variety of idlis. Post breakfast, visit the Meenakshi Amman Temple , one of the most prominent and ancient temples in India, and witness the morning rituals.
Afternoon
Enjoy a sumptuous Chettinad meal at Amma Mess, a local favorite. After lunch, explore the Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace , a classic fusion of Dravidian and Islamic architecture, and then take a walk through the bustling streets of the Madurai flower market.
Evening
Experience the spiritual ambiance of the Gandhi Memorial Museum (Gandhi Museum) , which houses a unique collection of memorabilia associated with Mahatma Gandhi. For dinner, head to the heritage restaurant of Hotel Supreme, known for its traditional South Indian dishes and desserts.
Bedtime
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Confluence of Oceans and Spiritual Reflections
Morning
Start with a refreshing breakfast at Triveni Restaurant, offering a variety of South Indian dishes. Post breakfast, visit the Vivekananda Rock Memorial (Vavathurai) and the Thiruvalluvar Statue , situated on two different rocks amidst the confluence of the Indian Ocean, the Arabian Sea, and the Bay of Bengal.
Afternoon
Enjoy a seafood lunch at the Seashore Hotel, with a view of the ocean. Afterward, visit the Kanyakumari Beach and relax by the shore, taking in the unique tranquility of this southernmost tip of the Indian subcontinent.
Evening
Witness the spectacular sunset at the Kanyakumari Beach, an experience unlike any other in India. For dinner, head to the rooftop restaurant of Hotel Sea View, where you can enjoy a meal with a panoramic view of the ocean and the town.
Bedtime
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Island Temples and Spiritual Sojourn
Morning
Begin with a traditional breakfast at Sri Saravana Bhavan, known for its South Indian delicacies. Post breakfast, visit the Ramanathaswamy Temple , one of the twelve Jyotirlinga temples, and take a holy dip in the Agni Theertham (Sea of Fire) .
Afternoon
Enjoy a vegetarian meal at the temple's Annapoorneshwari Bhavan, and then visit the former residence of Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, the Pei Karumbu (23715), to pay homage to the Missile Man of India.
Evening
Take a serene walk on the Pamban Bridge , the iconic railway bridge that connects Rameswaram to the mainland. As the day ends, enjoy a dinner at the rooftop restaurant of Daiwik Hotels, with a view of the temple town and the sea.
Bedtime
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Temples, Rock Fort, and Local Delights
Morning
Start with a breakfast at Hotel Kannappa, known for its local cuisine. Post breakfast, visit the Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple (Srirangam) , one of the largest functioning Hindu temples in the world, and participate in the morning rituals.
Afternoon
Enjoy a vegetarian meal at Sangeetha Restaurant, and then explore the Rock Fort (Ucchi Pillayar Temple) , which offers panoramic views of the city and houses two ancient temples, the Thayumanavar Temple and the Manikka Vinayakar Temple.
Evening
Take a relaxing boat ride on the Kaveri River, with the backdrop of the setting sun and the surrounding hills. For dinner, head to the rooftop restaurant of Hotel Sangam, where you can enjoy a meal with a view of the Rock Fort and the city lights.
Bedtime
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Nilgiri Hills, Tea Estates, and Heritage Train Ride
Morning
Begin with a breakfast at The Culinarium, offering a variety of continental and Indian dishes. Post breakfast, take a ride on the Nilgiri Mountain Railway (Toy Train) from Coonoor to Ooty, and enjoy the scenic beauty of the Nilgiri Hills.
Afternoon
Enjoy a sumptuous meal at The Taj Gateway Hotel Church Road, Coonoor, and then visit the Sim's Park (Coonoor) , known for its collection of rare species of plants and trees, as well as the Dolphin's Nose Viewpoint .
Evening
Take a leisurely walk through the tea estates and enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings. For dinner, head to the restaurant at Kurumba Village Resort, where you can savor local Nilgiri cuisine in a serene setting.
Bedtime
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Botanical Gardens, Lake Views, and Homemade Chocolates
Morning
Start with a breakfast at Earl's Secret, a colonial-style restaurant with a view. Post breakfast, visit the Government Botanical Garden (Ooty) , one of the oldest and most famous botanical gardens in India, and then take a boat ride on the Ooty Lake .
Afternoon
Enjoy a vegetarian thali at Shinkow's Chinese Restaurant, and then visit the Thread Garden (Ooty) , which showcases a unique collection of artificial flowers created with thread.
Evening
Explore the local market and pick up some homemade chocolates as souvenirs. For dinner, head to the restaurant at Sherlock Hotel, known for its continental and Indian dishes, and enjoy a meal in a cozy ambiance.
Bedtime
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Tea Gardens, Spice Aromas, and Mountain Vistas
Morning
Begin with a breakfast at Saravana Bhavan, offering a mix of South Indian and North Indian dishes. Post breakfast, visit the Tata Tea Museum (Nallathanni Estate) to learn about the history and process of tea manufacturing in the region.
Afternoon
Enjoy a traditional Kerala meal at Rapsy Restaurant, and then drive to the Mattupetty Dam (23704) to enjoy the serene surroundings and, if interested, take a boat ride on the reservoir.
Evening
Visit the Pothamedu Viewpoint (23703) to witness a beautiful sunset over the rolling hills and tea gardens. For dinner, head to the restaurant at the Chandys Windy Woods, where you can enjoy a meal with a view of the valley.
Bedtime
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Wildlife, Spice Plantations, and Kathakali
Morning
Start with a breakfast at Ambadi, offering a mix of continental and Indian dishes. Post breakfast, visit the Periyar National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary (Thekkady) for a guided jungle safari, where you can spot elephants, tigers, and a variety of bird species.
Afternoon
Enjoy a meal at the Spice Village Restaurant, and then take a tour of a spice plantation to learn about the cultivation and processing of various spices grown in the region.
Evening
Witness a traditional Kathakali dance performance at the Mudra Cultural Centre (Thekkady) , and then enjoy a sumptuous dinner at the restaurant at Cardamom County, offering a range of local and international dishes.
Bedtime
Find amazing hotels in Thekkady, Kerala, India.
Historical Forts, Cultural Enclaves, and Backwater Serenity
Morning
Begin with a delightful breakfast at Kashi Art Cafe, known for its artistic ambiance and European menu. Post breakfast, take a guided tour of the historic Fort Kochi (Fort Cochin) , exploring its colonial past and iconic landmarks.
Afternoon
Enjoy a traditional Kerala meal at Malabar Junction, located in a heritage building. After lunch, visit the Mattancherry Palace (Dutch Palace) to admire its stunning murals and then explore the Jewish Quarter, including the Paradesi Synagogue and the vibrant Jew Town .
Evening
Witness the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets in action at the time of sunset and stroll along the Fort Kochi Beach . For a memorable dinner, head to the Brunton Boatyard, offering a colonial-era dining experience with a view of the harbor.
Bedtime
Find amazing hotels in Cochin, Kerala, India.
Beachside Bliss and Ayurvedic Rejuvenation
Morning
Start with a breakfast at the beachside restaurant of The Leela Kovalam, enjoying the view of the Arabian Sea. Post breakfast, relax on the Kovalam Beach and take a walk along the promenade.
Afternoon
Enjoy a seafood lunch at the beach shack restaurants, and then visit the Vizhinjam Marine Aquarium (23699) to explore the marine life of the region.
Evening
Pamper yourself with an Ayurvedic massage at the spa of your resort. For dinner, head to the rooftop restaurant of The Leela Kovalam, where you can enjoy a meal with a panoramic view of the coastline.
Bedtime
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Temples, Museums, and Local Delicacies
Morning
Begin with a breakfast at the local favorite, Indian Coffee House, and then visit the Padmanabhaswamy Temple (23698), one of the richest temples in the world, to
Afternoon
Evening
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