10-Day South India Road Trip: Chennai to Kerala Itinerary

Depart for Mahabalipuram and start your day with a visit to the iconic Shore Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Enjoy breakfast with a view at Connexions, offering a blend of continental and Indian dishes.

Explore the impressive Pancha Rathas (Five Chariots) and the massive Arjuna's Penance, both showcasing exquisite stone carvings. For lunch, indulge in the flavors of Drunken Coconut Bar, known for its coastal cuisine and laid-back vibe.

Witness the beauty of the Light House, Mahabalipuram as the evening sets in. Take a leisurely stroll along the beach and enjoy the sea breeze. Cap off the day with a visit to Mattancherry Bar, where you can unwind with a drink and reflect on the day's adventures.

Cross over to the charming town of Pondicherry and start with a visit to the spiritual haven of Auroville. Experience the tranquility of the Matrimandir and its surroundings. Enjoy a French-inspired breakfast at Polakulath's Karthika Regency, known for its cozy ambiance.

Explore the French Quarter (Ville Blanche) and visit landmarks such as Rock Beach and the Promenade Beach. For lunch, savor the flavors at Hype Restaurant Cochin, offering a mix of continental and local cuisine.

Immerse yourself in the artistic vibe of Pondicherry by visiting Aurobindo Ashram and the Auroville Beach. As the day winds down, enjoy a drink at Velocity, a popular spot for both locals and visitors.

Journey to Thanjavur and start with a visit to the magnificent Brihadeeswara Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site. After exploring the temple, enjoy a traditional South Indian breakfast at a local eatery.

Delve into the world of Tanjore art at the Thanjavur Royal Palace and Art Gallery. Witness the intricate craftsmanship and learn about the region's cultural heritage. For lunch, try the local specialties at a nearby restaurant.

Relax and reflect on the day's cultural experiences. Take a walk around the city and interact with the friendly locals. Enjoy a serene evening as you prepare for the next leg of your journey.

Arrive in Madurai and visit the Meenakshi Amman Temple, one of the most famous temples in India. Witness the vibrant and intricate architecture as you explore the temple complex. After the visit, enjoy a hearty South Indian breakfast at a local restaurant.

Dive into the local culture with a visit to the Gandhi Memorial Museum. Learn about the life and legacy of Mahatma Gandhi and explore the museum's exhibits. For lunch, try the regional cuisine at a recommended eatery.

Experience the lively atmosphere of the Madurai Flower Market, one of the largest flower markets in India. Take a leisurely stroll and immerse yourself in the vibrant colors and fragrances. As the day ends, relax at your accommodation and prepare for the next day's journey.

Begin your day with a scenic drive to Thekkady, known for its spice plantations and the Periyar National Park. Enjoy the lush greenery and the refreshing mountain air as you make your way to this natural paradise. Stop for breakfast at a local restaurant en route.

Upon arrival, check in to your accommodation and freshen up. Later, embark on a guided tour of a spice plantation, where you can learn about the cultivation and processing of various spices. Enjoy a sumptuous lunch featuring fresh, local ingredients.

Take a boat safari on the Periyar Lake within the national park, where you may have the opportunity to spot a variety of wildlife, including elephants, sambar deer, and even tigers if you're lucky. After the safari, unwind with a drink at your hotel's bar and reflect on the day's experiences.

Depart for Munnar, a hill station known for its tea plantations and breathtaking landscapes. Enjoy the scenic drive and stop at a local eatery for breakfast along the way.

Upon reaching Munnar, check in to your accommodation and take some time to relax. In the afternoon, visit a tea estate and learn about the process of tea production. Enjoy a guided tour of the estate and savor a cup of freshly brewed tea.

Take a leisurely walk through the Kannan Devan Hills Plantations, surrounded by the rolling hills and the aroma of tea. As the sun sets, head back to your hotel and enjoy a quiet evening with dinner at the in-house restaurant.

Travel to Alleppey, often referred to as the "Venice of the East," and embark on a memorable houseboat cruise through the serene Kerala Backwaters. Enjoy a traditional Keralite breakfast on board as you glide past picturesque villages, lush paddy fields, and coconut groves.

After the cruise, disembark and check in to a resort or hotel by the backwaters. Spend the afternoon at your leisure, perhaps taking a walk or enjoying a rejuvenating Ayurvedic massage.

Dine at the resort's restaurant, where you can savor a delectable spread of local and international cuisine. As the night falls, relax under the starlit sky and immerse yourself in the peaceful ambiance of the backwaters.

Arrive in Kochi and start your day with a visit to the Chinese Fishing Nets, an iconic symbol of the city. Witness the age-old practice of catching fish using these massive nets. For breakfast, head to Half Moon Lounge Bar and enjoy a delightful meal with a view.

Explore the historic neighborhood of Fort Kochi (Fort Cochin), where you can see the remnants of the Portuguese, Dutch, and British colonial past. Visit the Paradesi Synagogue and Jew Town and the nearby Mattancherry Palace. Have lunch at Blue Rock Resto Bar, known for its fusion cuisine and laid-back atmosphere.

Witness a traditional Kathakali dance performance at the Kochi Kathakali Evening Dance Show. The vibrant costumes and expressive movements will transport you to the world of ancient tales. After the show, indulge in a sumptuous dinner at SkyGrill Fusion Tapas & Lounge, offering a blend of global flavors.

Begin with a Kochi Street Food Crawl (2 Hours Guided Local Food Tasting), where you'll sample a variety of local delicacies and learn about the city's culinary heritage. The tour will take you through bustling markets and hidden food stalls. After the tour, enjoy a traditional South Indian breakfast at a local eatery.

Spend the afternoon at the Kerala Folklore Museum, immersing yourself in the rich cultural traditions of the region. Explore the impressive collection of artifacts, including ancient art, architecture, and cultural items. For lunch, head to Mezzo for a sophisticated dining experience with a menu that combines global and local flavors.

Conclude your trip with a relaxing Cochin Half-Day Backwater Village Eco Boat Cruise W/ Lunch. Drift through the tranquil backwaters, observing the local way of life and the surrounding natural beauty. Enjoy a traditional Kerala lunch on board as you reflect on your journey. After the cruise, take some time to relax and prepare for your onward travels.