Tours
South India Grand Road Trip – Kochi to Chennai
- Kerala
South India Grand Road Trip – Kochi to Chennai
- 11 Days / 10 Nights
- 1600 Km
Explore
Road Trip
Tour Style
Self-Drive/Adventure
Difficulty
Moderate to Challenging (Requires long-distance and mountain driving)
Overview
Traverse 1,600 km across Southern India, linking the vibrant heritage of Kerala with the misty hill stations of the Nilgiris, the wildlife-rich forests of Karnataka, and the ancient temple architecture of Tamil Nadu. This grand expedition offers a deep immersion into diverse landscapes, ranging from coastal roads and spice-laden mountains to historic temple cities and serene coastal retreats.
Tour Highlights
- Heritage exploration in Kozhikode
- Wayanad's Edakkal Caves and spice plantations
- Wildlife safaris in Nagarhole National Park
- Scenic mountain transit through Bandipur and Mudumalai
- UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Meenakshi Amman, Brihadeeswarar, and Mahabalipuram
- Spiritual journey to Rameswaram and the Pamban Bridge
- French Colonial charm in Pondicherry
| Day & Route | Details |
|
Day 1 Kochi to Kozhikode |
Activity: Heritage Ride. Depart Kochi early. Visit Kappad Beach, explore Mananchira Square, and enjoy the local Kozhikode food scene. |
|
Day 2 Kozhikode to Wayanad |
Activity: Hill Exploration. Check into your stay in Wayanad and explore the Edakkal Caves or relax in local spice and coffee plantations. |
|
Day 3 Wayanad to Kabini |
Activity: Wildlife Safari. Cross into Karnataka. Spend the afternoon or evening on a jeep or boat safari in Nagarhole National Park. |
|
Day 4 Kabini to Ooty |
Activity: Nilgiri Climb (~165 km). Travel through the scenic Bandipur/Mudumalai National Park area and ascend the winding hills to Ooty. |
|
Day 5 Ooty to Kodaikanal |
Activity: Long Scenic Drive (~260 km). Connect the "Queen" and "Princess" of hill stations via a long, winding mountain route. |
|
Day 6 Kodaikanal to Madurai |
Activity: Hill to Temple City. Morning in Coaker’s Walk or Bryant Park. Descend the ghats to reach Madurai for an evening visit to the Meenakshi Amman Temple. |
|
Day 7 Madurai to Rameshwaram |
Activity: Island Pilgrimage. Drive to Pamban Island. Marvel at the Pamban Bridge and visit the Ramanathaswamy Temple. |
|
Day 8 Rameshwaram to Thanjavur |
Activity: Chola Grandeur. Morning visit to Dhanushkodi (time permitting). Proceed to Thanjavur to visit the Brihadeeswarar Temple and Palace complex. |
|
Day 9 Thanjavur to Pondicherry |
Activity: French Colonial Charm. Explore the White Town (French Quarter) on foot/bicycle, visit Aurobindo Ashram, and relax at Promenade Beach. |
|
Day 10 Pondicherry to Mahabalipuram |
Activity: Coastal Heritage. Morning in Auroville. Drive the East Coast Road (ECR) to explore the Shore Temple and Five Rathas. |
|
Day 11 Departure |
Activity: Final Transfer. Enjoy last-minute shopping in Mahabalipuram before driving to Chennai International Airport (MAA) |
Route Map
Inclusions
- Accommodation on Twin-Share Basis
- Daily Breakfast & Dinner
- Geared bicycle or e-bike, and safety helmet
- Route notes and GPX files
- Support Vehicle for Luggage and ground transfers
- Airport pick-up and drop-off
- Entry fees, permits, parking, and government taxes
Exclusions
- Flights, Trains & Travel Insurance
- Lunches, beverages, and personal expenses
- Guided sightseeing and optional activities
- Tips and gratuities
Essential Information
Mountain Drives
Days 4 and 5 involve significant mountain driving. Start early and drive cautiously.
Cultural Etiquette
Dress modestly when visiting major temples like Meenakshi Amman and Ramanathaswamy.
Fitness & Difficulty
Moderate fitness is recommended. Daily rides range from 40–80 km depending on terrain and itinerary.
Wildlife Travel
The forest sections (Kabini/Bandipur/Mudumalai) often have night travel restrictions. Plan to transit these areas between 6:00 AM and 6:00 PM
Buffer Time
Travel times are estimates; always include a 1--2 hour buffer to account for traffic, weather, and meal stops.
Support & Safety
Support vehicle, luggage transfers, drinking water, first aid supplies, and local assistance are provided. Guide and mechanic support can be arranged on request
Have Questions?
Find answers to common questions about this tour.
Create Your Own Journey
Every traveller is different. We can customise this itinerary to suit your dates, pace and interests.
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