Family Pilgrimage & Relaxation: Mumbai → Velankanni (3‑4 Days)

Day 1: Journey from Mumbai to Velankanni

Morning: Depart from Mumbai on an early flight to Chennai International Airport, where a comfortable pre‑booked taxi will whisk you to the railway station for the onward train or private car to Velankanni. The scenic drive offers glimpses of Tamil Nadu’s lush countryside.

Afternoon: After a scenic 5‑hour drive, check‑in at a family‑friendly hotel near the **Velankanni Shrine** and enjoy a light lunch at the hotel’s restaurant. The rest of the afternoon can be spent relaxing and acclimating to the coastal climate.

Evening: Take a gentle evening stroll to the iconic **Velankanni Shrine** for its serene twilight atmosphere, followed by a simple dinner at a local eat‑ery serving fresh South Indian fare.

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Day 2: Pilgrimage & Beach Relaxation

Morning: Visit the **Our Lady of Good Health Shrine** for a guided prayer session; children will enjoy the spacious courtyard and the gentle sea breeze. A short walk leads to the adjoining **Mannadipuram Chapel** with its stunning views of the Bay of Bengal.

Afternoon: Head to Kottukuppam Beach for sand‑play, building sandcastles, and a brief dip in the shallow water. Nearby stalls offer fresh coconut water and local snacks, perfect for a family picnic.

Evening: Return to the hotel for a relaxed dinner; later, a quiet stroll along the waterfront promenade offers a calm sunset view over the harbor, perfect for family photos.

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Day 3: Cultural Exploration & Nature

Morning: Take a short drive to **Pichavaram Mangrove Forest** for a short boat cruise (suitable for children) through the world‑renowned mangrove waterways, spotting birds and small wildlife.

Afternoon: Visit the historic town of **Nagapattinam** to see the ancient **St. Mary's Cathedral** and enjoy a leisurely lunch at a riverside café, tasting local specialties like “karuppu” and “biryani”.

Evening: Return to Velankanni for a calm night; indulge in a family‑style dinner at the hotel’s restaurant, where kids can enjoy a special kids’ menu while adults savor traditional South Indian dishes.

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Day 4: Return to Mumbai

Morning: After a relaxed breakfast, check‑out and take a final stroll around the shrine for a quick photo session, then pack up souvenirs and snacks for the road.

Afternoon: Board a pre‑arranged private vehicle to **Chennai International Airport**, where you’ll board an afternoon flight back to Mumbai. A light snack is provided during the journey.

Evening: Arrive in Mumbai, ending the memorable family pilgrimage with wonderful memories and a collection of photos to cherish.

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Time and Cost Estimates

  • Flight Mumbai ↔ Chennai (round‑trip) – 4 hrs each way – Approx. ₹10,000 per adult, ₹5,000 per child
  • Private taxi (airport‑to‑Velankanni round‑trip) – 10 hrs – Approx. ₹12,000 total
  • 3‑night family hotel (2 rooms) – 3 nights – Approx. ₹15,000 total
  • Velankanni Shrine (entry) – 0 ₹ – Free
  • Kottukuppam Beach (parking) – 2 hrs – ₹200
  • Pichavaram Mangrove boat tour – 2 hrs – ₹2,000 for family
  • Meals (4 days) – Approx. ₹8,000
  • Miscellaneous (souvenirs, tips) – Approx. ₹5,000
  • Total Estimated Cost: ₹71,200

Tips

If you want to extend the trip, add a day to explore the historic temples of **Thiruvarur** and the seaside town of **Cuddalore**, or enjoy a longer stay at the beach for more leisure. To shorten the itinerary, skip the mangrove tour and spend the extra time relaxing on **Kottukuppam Beach**, which still offers a full day of family fun.

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