If you prefer eating before departure, grab a quick South Indian tiffin at Saravana Bhavan or Murugan Idli Stall near your starting point — both serve until late afternoon and are reliable for fresh dosas and idlis.
Drive south on East Coast Road (ECR) / GST Road; scenic coastal route with tolls — journey typically takes 1–1.5 hours depending on traffic, aim for a private taxi or self-drive for flexibility.
Drop bags and freshen up; many guesthouses and beach resorts have late-afternoon check-in — use this short window to change into comfortable shoes for walking the heritage sites.
Visit the UNESCO-area Shore Temple and stroll the beach — Shore Temple is open generally 6:00am–6:00pm; it's ideal for late-afternoon light and quick photo stops.
Watch sunset near the Shore Temple or the large rock formations, and see Krishna's Butterball and Arjuna's Penance nearby; most open-air monuments are accessible until dusk — validate exact closing time locally.
Browse local stone-sculpture shops and handicraft stalls along the main stretch; many sellers stay open till 8:30–9:00pm but confirm shop closing times if buying big items.
Enjoy fresh coastal seafood (or vegetarian options) at Moonrakers or a reputable beach restaurant — they typically operate through dinner hours and offer a relaxed seaside meal.
Leisurely walk along quieter parts of the beach road or return to your hotel; this is a good time to plan next day's early start and silk-shopping timings in Kanchipuram.
Have a hearty breakfast at your hotel or a popular café (many open by 7:00am) — fuel up with idli/dosa or continental options before a temple-heavy day.
Explore the 7th–8th century Kailasanathar Temple, known for its sandstone carvings and early Pallava architecture; typically open 6:00am–12:00pm and 4:00pm–8:00pm, so morning is ideal.
Visit the sprawling Ekambareswarar Temple complex, one of Kanchipuram's largest shrines — darshan and temple architecture are best seen in the morning before midday closings for some areas.
Watch artisans and visit a government or reputed private handloom showroom to see sari weaving demonstrations and shop authentic Kanchipuram silk; most centres are open 10:00am–6:00pm.
Enjoy a traditional South Indian vegetarian meal (thali or meals) at A2B or a recommended local restaurant — reliable, hygienic options and good for trying local flavours.
Visit an additional temple suited to afternoon darshan times (Kamakshi Amman or Varadaraja Perumal); many temples have split hours — check exact afternoon opening before going.
Use late afternoon to finalize any silk purchases, compare prices and quality, and have a quick tea/snack before the drive back to Chennai — most shops close by 6:00pm–7:00pm.
If you return to Chennai and are hungry, try Dakshin for Andhra/Tamil coastal specialities or Murugan Idli Stall for a late light meal — both are popular and open into the evening.