Your Ultimate 13-Day Travel Itinerary for Chennai, Kanchipuram, Mahabalipuram, Pondicherry, Thiruvannamalai, Thanjavur, Trichy, Rameswaram, Madurai, Kanyakumari, Trivandrum, Varkala, Alleppey, Cochin
- Jose Jayasimman
- Jan 15
- 8 min read
Exploring South India’s rich heritage and vibrant culture requires a well-planned itinerary that balances temple visits, historical sites, and coastal relaxation. This 13 day South India tour itinerary covers the best of Tamil Nadu and Kerala, offering a deep dive into ancient temples, colonial architecture, spiritual centers, and scenic backwaters. Whether you are a heritage lover, a temple pilgrim, or a traveler seeking a long-duration South India travel itinerary, this guide will help you navigate the highlights from Chennai to Cochin with ease.
"The One With Southern Splendor and Spirit"
13-Day Travel Itinerary for Chennai, Kanchipuram, Mahabalipuram, Pondicherry, Thiruvannamalai, Thanjavur, Trichy, Rameswaram, Madurai, Kanyakumari, Trivandrum, Varkala, Alleppey, Cochin
Day 1: Chennai to Kanchipuram – The City of Thousand Temples
Start your journey from Chennai with a 75 km drive to Kanchipuram, a city famous for its ancient temples and silk sarees. The travel time is approximately 2.5 hours, giving you ample time to explore key temples:
Kamatchi Amman Temple: Dedicated to Goddess Kamakshi, this temple is a fine example of Dravidian architecture.
Varadaraja Perumal Temple: Known for its intricate carvings and large temple tank.
Kailasanathar Temple: One of the oldest temples in Tamil Nadu, built with sandstone.
Ekambareswarar Temple: Famous for its massive gopuram and sacred mango tree.
Kumarakottam Temple: Dedicated to Lord Murugan, a must-visit for devotees.
Spend the night in Kanchipuram to soak in the spiritual atmosphere.
Day 2: Kanchipuram to Mahabalipuram – Shore Temple and Rock-Cut Wonders
Travel 75 km south to Mahabalipuram, a UNESCO World Heritage site, in about 2 hours. This town is renowned for its rock-cut temples and sculptures:
Shore Temple: Overlooking the Bay of Bengal, this temple is a stunning example of Pallava architecture.
Krishna Mandapam: Known for its bas-reliefs depicting Lord Krishna’s life.
Arjuna’s Penance: A massive open-air rock carving illustrating mythological stories.
Cave Temples: Small but intricately carved caves dedicated to Shiva and Vishnu.
Pancha Rathas: Five monolithic rock temples shaped like chariots.
Stay overnight in Mahabalipuram to enjoy the coastal breeze.
Day 3: Mahabalipuram to Pondicherry – Spiritual and Colonial Charm
A 100 km drive takes you to Pondicherry in about 2.5 hours. This former French colony offers a unique blend of spirituality and colonial heritage:
Sri Aurobindo Ashram: A peaceful spiritual retreat founded by Sri Aurobindo.
Auroville (Matri Mandir View Point): Visit the experimental township and view the iconic golden Matri Mandir.
Promenade Beach: Ideal for an evening stroll along the Bay of Bengal.
French Quarter: Explore colonial-era buildings, cafes, and boutiques.
Manakula Vinayagar Temple: A vibrant temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha.
Overnight stay in Pondicherry lets you experience its calm and charm.
Day 4: Pondicherry to Thiruvannamalai to Thanjavur – Temples and Heritage
This day involves a longer drive of 260 km (about 6.5 hours), but the stops are rewarding:
Arunachaleswarar Temple in Thiruvannamalai: A massive Shiva temple known for its spiritual significance and the sacred hill.
Brihadeeswarar Temple in Thanjavur: A UNESCO World Heritage site, this Chola-era temple is famous for its grand scale and detailed sculptures.
Spend the night in Thanjavur to rest after a day of temple exploration.
Day 5: Thanjavur to Trichy – Temple Trail Continues
A short 60 km drive (1.5 hours) brings you to Trichy, a city rich in religious landmarks:
Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple (Srirangam): One of the largest functioning Hindu temples in the world.
Jambukeswarar Temple: Dedicated to Lord Shiva, known for its water element worship.
Rockfort Temple: Perched on a rock, offering panoramic views of Trichy.
Shirdi Sai Baba Temple: A peaceful place for devotees.
Stay overnight in Trichy to prepare for the next day’s journey.
Day 6: Trichy to Rameswaram – Sacred Island and Coastal Beauty
Covering 240 km in about 5 hours, this leg takes you to Rameswaram, a key pilgrimage site:
Ramanathaswamy Temple: Famous for its long corridors and sacred water tanks.
Agni Theertham and 22 Holy Wells: Believed to cleanse sins.
Abdul Kalam Memorial & House: Tribute to India’s former president.
Pamban Bridge: An engineering marvel connecting the mainland to Rameswaram Island.
Kothandaramar Temple and Panjamuki Hanuman Temple: Important religious sites.
Ariyaman Beach and Ram Sethu View Point: Scenic spots for relaxation.
Dhanushkodi and Floating Stone: Explore the ghost town and unique natural phenomena.
Overnight stay in Rameswaram completes this spiritual day.
Day 7: Rameswaram to Madurai – Temple Wonders and Heritage
Start your day in Rameswaram with a morning visit to the sacred Ramanathaswamy Temple, then prepare for a 3.5-hour drive to Madurai, covering 170 km. Madurai is famous for its magnificent temples and rich history.
Once in Madurai, explore:
Meenakshi Amman Temple: A stunning example of Dravidian architecture with intricate sculptures and towering gopurams.
Thiruparankundram Murugan Temple: One of the six abodes of Lord Murugan, perched on a hill.
Koodal Alagar Temple: Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, known for its beautiful sculptures.
Gandhi Memorial Museum: Offers insight into India’s freedom struggle.
Thirumalai Nayakkar Mahal: A 17th-century palace blending Dravidian and Rajput styles.
Vandiyur Mariamman Teppakulam: A large temple tank famous for its float festival.
Inmayil Nanmai Tharuvar Temple: A lesser-known but spiritually significant site.
Spend the night in Madurai to rest before the next leg of your journey.
Day 8: Madurai to Kanyakumari – Coastal Spirituality and Scenic Views
After a morning in Madurai, embark on a 5-hour, 245 km drive to Kanyakumari, the southernmost tip of India. This day combines temple visits with coastal sightseeing.
Key places to visit:
Bhagavathi Amman Temple: A revered temple dedicated to Goddess Kanyakumari.
Vivekananda Rock Memorial: Located on a small island, this memorial honors Swami Vivekananda.
Thiruvalluvar Statue: A towering statue of the Tamil poet and philosopher.
Gandhi Memorial Mandapam: Built at the spot where Gandhi’s ashes were kept.
Tsunami Memorial Park: A tribute to the victims of the 2004 tsunami.
Glass Bridge: Offers panoramic views of the coastline.
Kamarajar Mani Mandapam: A memorial dedicated to a former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister.
Triveni Sangam: The confluence of three seas, a sacred spot.
Sunset View Point: Famous for spectacular sunsets over the ocean.
Overnight stay in Kanyakumari allows you to soak in the coastal atmosphere.
Day 9: Kanyakumari to Trivandrum – Sunrise and Cultural Exploration
Wake early to witness the sunrise at Kanyakumari, a breathtaking experience where the sun rises over the ocean. After completing any remaining sightseeing, travel 90 km to Trivandrum, Kerala’s capital, in about 2.5 hours.
Spend the night in Trivandrum, preparing for a full day of exploration.
Day 10: Trivandrum Full Sightseeing – Temples, Palaces, and Beaches
Trivandrum offers a mix of spirituality, history, and natural beauty. Visit:
Padmanabhaswamy Temple: A famous temple known for its Dravidian architecture and wealth.
Padmanabhapuram Palace: A well-preserved wooden palace showcasing Kerala’s royal heritage.
Poovar Backwaters: A tranquil spot where the river meets the sea.
Aazhimala Shiva Temple: A coastal temple with scenic views.
Kovalam Beach: A popular beach destination with golden sands and calm waters.
Stay overnight in Trivandrum to enjoy the city’s relaxed vibe.
Day 11: Trivandrum to Varkala – Spiritual Sites and Cliffside Beaches
A short 1.5-hour drive (45 km) takes you to Varkala, known for its cliffs and beaches.
Visit:
Sivagiri Mutt: A spiritual center founded by the social reformer Sree Narayana Guru.
Sri Janardanaswamy Temple: An ancient temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu.
Anchuthengu Fort: A historic fort with colonial significance.
Varkala Cliff & Beach: Offers stunning views of the Arabian Sea.
Black Sand Beach: Known for its unique mineral-rich black sand.
Overnight stay in Varkala lets you enjoy the peaceful coastal environment.
Day 12: Varkala to Alleppey – Nature and Backwaters
Travel 125 km in about 3.5 hours to Alleppey, famous for its backwaters.
Explore:
Jatayu Earth Center: Home to the world’s largest bird sculpture and adventure activities.
Alleppey Backwaters: Take a boat ride through the serene canals lined with palm trees.
Boat House (optional): Experience overnight stay on a traditional houseboat.
Marari Beach: A quiet beach perfect for relaxation.
Mullakkal Temple: A historic temple in the heart of Alleppey town.
Spend the night in Alleppey to enjoy the tranquil surroundings.
Day 13: Alleppey to Cochin – Heritage and Final Departure
The final leg covers 55 km in 1.5 hours to Cochin (Kochi), a city rich in colonial history and cultural diversity.
Visit:
Fort Kochi Beach: Known for its Chinese fishing nets and sunset views.
St. Francis Church: The oldest European church in India.
Mattancherry Palace: Also called Dutch Palace, showcasing Kerala murals.
Jewish Synagogue and Jew Street: Explore the historic Jewish community.
Marine Drive: A scenic promenade along the backwaters.
Bolgatty Palace: A Dutch-era palace on an island.
After sightseeing, prepare for your onward journey from Cochin.
Planning the Rest of Your Tamil Nadu Kerala 13 Days Tour Package
This 13-Day Travel Itinerary for Chennai, Kanchipuram, Mahabalipuram, Pondicherry, Thiruvannamalai, Thanjavur, Trichy, Rameswaram, Madurai, Kanyakumari, Trivandrum, Varkala, Alleppey, Cochin covers the first six days in detail, focusing on temple and heritage sites from Chennai to Rameswaram. The remaining days include visits to Madurai, Kanyakumari, Trivandrum, Varkala, Alleppey, and Cochin, blending cultural experiences with Kerala’s famous backwaters and beaches.
Madurai: Visit the Meenakshi Amman Temple, a masterpiece of Dravidian architecture.
Kanyakumari: Witness the meeting point of three seas and the Vivekananda Rock Memorial.
Trivandrum: Explore the Padmanabhaswamy Temple and nearby beaches.
Varkala: Relax on cliffs overlooking the Arabian Sea.
Alleppey: Experience houseboat cruises through Kerala’s backwaters.
Cochin: Discover colonial history, Jewish synagogues, and vibrant markets.
This Tamil Nadu Kerala 13 days tour package offers a comprehensive South India temple and heritage tour, perfect for travelers seeking a long-duration South India travel itinerary.
Tips for a Smooth Chennai to Cochin South India Tour
Travel Time Management: Distances vary from short 60 km drives to longer 260 km stretches. Plan departures early to maximize sightseeing.
Local Guides: Hiring guides at major temples enhances understanding of history and rituals.
Accommodation: Book hotels in advance, especially in popular tourist towns like Pondicherry and Alleppey.
Cultural Respect: Dress modestly at temples and follow local customs.
Health and Safety: Stay hydrated and carry basic medications for travel fatigue.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is this itinerary suitable for senior citizens?
Yes. All itineraries are well-paced, avoid late-night travel, and are senior-citizen friendly.
Can this package be customized?
Absolutely. Trips can be customized based on number of days, temples, hotel category, and pickup/drop location.
Are hotels included in the package?
Yes. Budget, standard, and luxury hotel options are available as per your preference.
Will there be a guide during temple visits?
Our experienced drivers provide basic temple guidance. Separate professional guides can be arranged on request.
Is this tour safe for families and children?
Yes. We use private vehicles, trusted drivers, and family-friendly schedules.
What are the pickup points?
Pickup is available from Airport, Railway Station, Bus Stand, or hotel as per the package.
Plan Your Perfect Tamil Nadu Temple Trip with Honestum Tours
✔ Private car with experienced driver
✔ Perfectly timed temple itinerary
✔ Budget, standard & luxury hotel options
✔ Customizable plans based on your schedule
✔ Safe for kids, women & senior citizens
✔ Pickup from Madurai Airport / Railway Station
📞 Call / WhatsApp: +91 96779 77223
🌐 Website: honestumtoursmadurai.com
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