10 day itinerary for South India

Itinerary

A 10-day family trip to South India sounds like a fantastic adventure. Let's dive into an ideal itinerary that will give you a taste of the rich culture, stunning landscapes, and delicious cuisine of this vibrant region.

Day 1: Arrival in Chennai

• Arrive in Chennai, the capital of Tamil Nadu
• Check into a family-friendly hotel
• Visit Marina Beach, one of the longest urban beaches in the world
• Enjoy a traditional South Indian dinner at a local restaurant

Day 2: Explore Chennai

• Visit the historic Fort St. George
• Explore the vibrant markets of George Town
• Discover the intricate architecture of Kapaleeshwarar Temple
• Enjoy a relaxing evening at Besant Nagar Beach

Day 3: Mahabalipuram Day Trip

• Travel to Mahabalipuram, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Explore the ancient rock-cut temples and sculptures
• Relax on the beautiful beaches of Mahabalipuram
• Return to Chennai for the night

Day 4: Pondicherry

• Travel to the charming French-influenced town of Pondicherry
• Explore the French Quarter and visit Auroville
• Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Promenade Beach
• Indulge in delicious French and South Indian cuisine

Day 5: Thanjavur

• Journey to Thanjavur, known for its magnificent Brihadeeswarar Temple
• Explore the UNESCO-listed temple complex
• Visit the Thanjavur Royal Palace and Art Gallery
• Overnight stay in Thanjavur

Day 6: Madurai

• Travel to Madurai, the cultural capital of Tamil Nadu
• Visit the iconic Meenakshi Amman Temple
• Explore the bustling markets of Madurai
• Attend the evening prayer ceremony at the temple

Day 7: Thekkady

• Head to Thekkady in Kerala, famous for Periyar National Park
• Enjoy a boat safari on Periyar Lake
• Explore the spice plantations in the area
• Relax in the serene surroundings of Thekkady

Day 8: Alleppey Houseboat

• Travel to Alleppey and embark on a houseboat cruise through the backwaters
• Enjoy the scenic views of the lush greenery and local life along the waterways
• Overnight stay on the houseboat

Day 9: Cochin

• Arrive in Cochin, a blend of colonial history and modern culture
• Visit Fort Kochi and explore the Chinese fishing nets
• Watch a Kathakali dance performance in the evening
• Sample delicious seafood at a local restaurant

Day 10: Departure

• Spend the morning exploring Cochin's markets and historic sites
• Transfer to the airport for your departure

This itinerary offers a mix of cultural experiences, natural beauty, and relaxation, making it a memorable family trip to South India. Enjoy your adventure!