7-Day Itinerary: The Best of Tamil Nadu and Kerala in One Trip

Tamil Nadu and Kerala, two gems of South India, offer a dazzling mix of culture, nature, and cuisine. From ancient temples and bustling cities to serene backwaters and misty hills, combining these states into one trip is the ultimate way to experience the region’s diversity. This 7-day itinerary takes you through the highlights of both, blending Tamil Nadu’s spiritual grandeur with Kerala’s lush tranquility. Ready for an unforgettable week? Let’s dive in!

Day 1: Chennai – Gateway to Tamil Nadu

Start At: Chennai International Airport
Highlights: Marina Beach, Kapaleeshwarar Temple, Santhome Cathedral
Experience: Explore colonial history, vibrant temples and enjoy a classic South Indian dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 2: Mahabalipuram & Pondicherry – Heritage Meets Bohemian Vibes

Morning: Visit the UNESCO World Heritage temples in Mahabalipuram – Shore Temple, Pancha Rathas, Arjuna’s Penance
Afternoon Drive: Head to Pondicherry (2 hours)
Evening: Stroll along the Promenade, explore French quarters, or relax at Paradise Beach

Day 3: Tanjore (Thanjavur) – Art, Culture & Temples

Travel to Thanjavur: (~4–5 hours drive)
Visit: Brihadeeswarar Temple (UNESCO), Tanjore Palace, and the Art Gallery
Highlights: Witness classical dance, music, and Chola architecture

Day 4: Madurai – The Soul of Tamil Nadu

Morning Drive to Madurai: (~3 hours)
Explore: Meenakshi Amman Temple, Thirumalai Nayakar Palace, and local markets
Evening: Witness the temple’s night ceremony – a truly spiritual experience

Day 5: Munnar – Welcome to Kerala’s Hill Country

Early Morning Transfer to Munnar (Kerala): (~5–6 hours through the Western Ghats)
En route: Enjoy lush plantations and waterfalls
Evening: Visit the tea museum or just unwind in your hillside resort

Day 6: Alleppey – Houseboat Magic in Kerala Backwaters

Drive to Alleppey: (~4–5 hours)
Check-in to a traditional houseboat: Glide through palm-fringed canals and witness village life
Lunch & Dinner served on board – freshly cooked Kerala cuisine

Day 7: Kochi – Culture, Cuisine & Departure

Morning disembark and head to Kochi (Cochin): (~1.5 hours)
Visit: Fort Kochi, Chinese Fishing Nets, Mattancherry Palace, and Jew Town
Cafe-hop or shop for spices and souvenirs before heading to the airport

Why This Itinerary Works

This 7-day plan balances Tamil Nadu’s cultural richness with Kerala’s natural splendor. You’ll experience:

History & Spirituality: Chennai, Mahabalipuram, and Madurai.
Nature & Adventure: Munnar, Thekkady, and Alleppey.
Culture & Cuisine: Kochi’s colonial vibe and South Indian flavors throughout.

Travel Tips

Best Time: October to March for pleasant weather.
Packing: Light cottons, a jacket for Munnar, and comfy shoes.
Transport: Private cars or trains between cities—we’ll handle the logistics.
Pace Yourself: Rest between drives to enjoy each stop fully.