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5-Day Chennai and Bangalore Itinerary — Dec 29, 2025 to Jan 2, 2026

Day 1 · Mon, Dec 29
Chennai

Explore Chennai's Heritage and Beaches

8:00 AM:

Begin with a hearty breakfast at Sangeetha Veg Restaurant or Murugan Idli Shop, sampling classic idlis, dosas and filter coffee to fuel your morning.

8:45 AM:

Stroll along Marina Beach for fresh sea breeze and early-morning local life; look out for fishermen and vendors selling snacks like sundal and murukku.

9:30 AM:

Visit the nearby Vivekananda House (if open) for coastal views and a quick dose of history about Swami Vivekananda's stay in Chennai.

10:15 AM:

Head to Fort St. George to explore the museum and colonial-era architecture, followed by a short walk through the cantonment grounds.

11:15 AM:

Coffee break at Amethyst Café in Royapettah for chilled juices or a light pastry in a leafy courtyard setting before continuing your day.

7:30 PM:

Enjoy a relaxed seaside dinner at Mahabalipuram's beachfront eateries (if you're up for a short drive) or opt for local seafood at The Marina Restaurant back in Chennai, savoring fresh prawns and crab while listening to the waves.

8:30 PM:

Take an evening walk along Besant Nagar Beach (Elliot's Beach), visit the Light House area and soak in the cool sea breeze; stop for filter coffee or a dessert at Bean There Café nearby.

9:15 PM:

Catch live music or a laid-back bar scene at The Flying Elephant (Hotel Park) or enjoy craft beers at Toit (Bangalore's outpost if open) / local microbrewery - check opening hours and book a table for a cozy nightcap.

10:30 PM:

If you prefer something low-key, sample late-night street snacks like sundal and vada pav near Besant Nagar or head back to your hotel for a restful evening preparing for tomorrow's temple explorations.

8:00 PM:

Enjoy a relaxed seaside dinner at Mahabalipuram's beachfront eateries (if you're up for a short drive) or opt for local seafood at The Marina Restaurant back in Chennai, savoring fresh prawns and crab while listening to the waves.

9:00 PM:

Take an evening walk along Besant Nagar Beach (Elliot's Beach), visit the Light House area and soak in the cool sea breeze; stop for filter coffee or a dessert at Bean There Café nearby.

9:45 PM:

Catch live music or a laid-back bar scene at The Flying Elephant (Hotel Park) or enjoy craft beers at a local microbrewery-call ahead to confirm nightly shows and reservations.

11:15 PM:

Unwind with a nightcap on your hotel terrace or lobby; try a classic filter coffee or masala chai at Amethyst Café (if still open) or simply relax and plan tomorrow's temple visits.

Day 2 · Tue, Dec 30
Chennai

More of Chennai: Temples and Local Markets

7:00 AM:

Begin with a traditional South Indian breakfast at Murugan Idli Shop (Triplicane) tasting soft idlis, vadas, and strong filter coffee to fuel a temple morning.

8:00 AM:

Visit Kapaleeshwarar Temple in Mylapore to admire Dravidian architecture and watch morning pooja rituals; take time to walk the temple streets where vendors sell flowers and prasadam.

9:15 AM:

Explore the nearby San Thome Basilica - step inside the neo-Gothic church, learn about St. Thomas's history, and enjoy the peaceful churchyard.

10:15 AM:

Wander through Mylapore Market, sampling local snacks like murukku and banana chips, and browse stalls selling traditional sarees, brassware, and temple garlands.

11:00 AM:

Take a short break with a cold drink or filter coffee at Woodlands Café or the iconic Amethyst Café courtyard nearby, great for people-watching and planning the next leg of your day.

12:30 PM:

Lunch at Murugan Idli Shop (Triplicane) or try a thali at Anjappar Chettinad to savor spicy Chettinad chicken or a vegetarian thali before an afternoon of wandering.

1:30 PM:

Visit Valluvar Kottam to admire the monument dedicated to the Tamil poet Thiruvalluvar and the tranquil landscaped grounds; spend a peaceful half hour exploring the carvings and small museum.

2:15 PM:

Walk through Triplicane High Road and browse local textile shops and brassware stores, stopping to sample sweets at Kailash Sweets or pick up a packet of murukku.

3:00 PM:

Enjoy a chai break at Sowcarpet's roadside stalls or a more relaxed coffee at Chamiers Café, giving your feet a rest while watching neighborhood life unfold.

3:45 PM:

Head to Parthasarathy Temple in Triplicane to take in its Pallava and Chola-era sculptures and quieter afternoon atmosphere; respect temple timings and dress modestly.

4:30 PM:

Stroll toward Elliot's Beach (Besant Nagar) for a late-afternoon sea breeze; grab a fresh coconut from a beach vendor and relax on the sand as the sunlight softens.

5:30 PM:

Visit Kurinji Andavar or the nearby cafés along Besant Nagar - try snacks at Sandy's Chocolate Laboratory or evening street food like bajji from a popular stall.

6:15 PM:

Catch sunset views from the Besant Nagar Light House area, then head to Dakshin or Bay View for a seafood-forward early dinner if you want to continue the coastal theme.

6:45 PM:

Walk along Besant Nagar Beach (Elliot's Beach) toward the Besant Nagar Light House area to soak in golden-hour views and watch locals flying kites and playing cricket on the sand.

7:15 PM:

Stop at Bean There Café or Sandy's Chocolate Laboratory for a quick dessert or coffee; enjoy an outdoor table and the sea breeze while planning dinner.

7:45 PM:

Dine at Dakshin (Cholamandal or a nearby branch) or head to Bay View for a seafood-centric meal, sampling dishes like meen kulambu or pepper crab.

9:00 PM:

Catch live music or a cozy bar scene at The Flying Elephant (Hotel Park) or check for performances at Bay 146; reserve ahead if you want a guaranteed seat.

10:30 PM:

For a late-night snack, explore street-food favourites near Besant Nagar-try crispy bajjis and piping hot sundal from popular beachside stalls.

11:15 PM:

Return to your hotel for a relaxed nightcap; if your hotel has a terrace, enjoy a cup of filter coffee or masala chai and review photos from the day's temple and market strolls.

Day 3 · Wed, Dec 31
Travel: Chennai to Bangalore

Travel to Bangalore — Evening Leisure

6:30 AM:

Early start with a quick, hearty breakfast at Sangeetha Veg Restaurant or grab idli and strong filter coffee from Murugan Idli Shop to fuel travel preparations.

7:15 AM:

Check out and load luggage into your car or taxi; pick a reliable service like Savaari or book a prepaid taxi from Chennai Central/Hotel concierge to ensure a smooth drive to the station or airport.

7:45 AM:

If traveling by train, arrive at Chennai Central early to collect tickets and walk the platform, or if flying, depart for Chennai International Airport (MAA) allowing time for security and check-in.

8:30 AM:

If time allows before departure, grab packaged snacks or a takeaway breakfast at Costa Coffee (airport/railway outlets) or pick up bottled water and fruit at Nilgiris or a station kiosk.

9:00 AM:

Begin your journey to Bangalore: settle into your reserved seat whether on the Shatabdi/Intercity train or a domestic flight, and review onward transport options from Bengaluru City Railway Station or Kempegowda International Airport.

10:30 AM:

En route: relax, read about Bangalore highlights or listen to a curated playlist; if on a road transfer, plan a quick comfort stop at a reputable highway restaurant such as A2B (Adyar Ananda Bhavan) or Hotel Saravana Bhavan branch for a restroom break and chai.

12:00 PM:

If your train or flight arrives in Bangalore around midday, drop luggage at your hotel or a luggage storage like Bounce and grab a light South Indian lunch at MTR (Mavalli Tiffin Rooms) to taste classic rava idli and masala dosa.

1:00 PM:

Stroll around Cubbon Park for a relaxing post-travel stretch among shaded avenues and colonial-era trees; sit by the bandstand or visit the small park kiosks for cold coconut water.

2:00 PM:

Walk to the nearby Visvesvaraya Industrial and Technological Museum for an hour of interactive exhibits (great if you enjoy hands-on displays) or simply explore the museum gardens and architecture from outside.

3:15 PM:

Head to Church Street for coffee at Matteo Coffea or The Ants Café; use this time to check maps for evening plans, buy a local SIM or recharge if needed, and people-watch from a sidewalk table.

4:00 PM:

Browse the bookshops and boutiques along Church Street and Brigade Road - pop into Blossom Book House for second-hand finds or pick up local handicrafts at small stores on Brigade Road.

5:00 PM:

Make your way toward MG Road / Brigade Road junction to catch the golden-hour vibe; stop for an early evening snack at Empire Restaurant (famous for kebabs and biryani) or try South Indian tiffin at a nearby café.

6:00 PM:

If you want a relaxed evening, head to UB City for upscale window shopping and a sunset aperitif at The 13th Floor or a casual drink at Toit (if you prefer craft beer)-reserve ahead for popular spots on New Year's Eve.

7:30 PM:

Enjoy dinner at Karavalli (for coastal Karnataka cuisine) or Sly Granny (for inventive plates) depending on your mood; both offer memorable meals in central Bangalore and are within a short taxi ride from MG Road.

9:00 PM:

For a lively New Year's Eve atmosphere, check for live music or events at Hard Rock Café Bangalore or Toit; otherwise take a relaxed night walk around Cubbon Park perimeter and return to your hotel to freshen up.

6:30 PM:

Freshen up at your hotel then step out to Indiranagar 100 Feet Road for a lively stroll among boutiques and cafés; pop into Dyu Art Café for a relaxed coffee and people-watching.

7:15 PM:

Enjoy an early dinner at Toit (book ahead) to sample craft beers and wood-fired pizzas, or try regional favorites at Karavalli if you prefer coastal Karnataka cuisine in a more refined setting.

8:30 PM:

Catch live music at The Humming Tree or Hard Rock Café Bangalore - both venues often host New Year's Eve sets and chill performances; arrive early to secure good seats.

10:00 PM:

Walk through the illuminated streets around MG Road and Brigade Road, enjoy window-shopping at UB City, or stop for a nightcap at The 13th Floor with panoramic city views.

11:30 PM:

If you're staying up for the countdown, find a cozy spot at your hotel's rooftop or a reserved table at a venue hosting festivities; otherwise return to the hotel to relax and reflect on the day's travel.

Day 4 · Thu, Jan 1
Bangalore

Bangalore City Highlights and Gardens

7:00 AM:

Begin with breakfast at MTR (Mavalli Tiffin Rooms)-try the rava idli and strong filter coffee to kick off a day of gardens and heritage.

8:00 AM:

Stroll through Cubbon Park, wander the shaded paths and spot the Queen's Palm-lined avenues, then pause by the KLRU Bandstand for photos and fresh air.

9:00 AM:

Visit the nearby Visvesvaraya Industrial and Technological Museum for interactive exhibits and science demos that are engaging for all ages.

10:15 AM:

Walk to Bangalore High Court / Attara Kacheri area to admire the red-roofed colonial architecture and snap pictures against the manicured lawns.

11:00 AM:

Coffee break at Matteo Coffea (Church Street) or Third Wave Coffee Roasters-enjoy a specialty brew and a light pastry while people-watching on Church Street.

11:45 AM:

Take a short auto or cab to Lalbagh Botanical Garden, enter through the Glass House side and begin exploring the themed gardens, centuries-old trees, and seasonal flower displays.

12:30 PM:

Enjoy a leisurely South Indian lunch at Karavalli (The Gateway Hotel) to sample coastal Karnataka specialties, or opt for a quicker thali at Rajasthani Bhojnalaya for robust flavours before continuing your garden tour.

1:30 PM:

Return to Lalbagh Botanical Garden to focus on the famed Glass House and the seasonal flower shows or take the short guided walk to see the centuries-old Adenanthera and banyan trees.

2:30 PM:

Head to Bull Temple (Dodda Basavana Gudi) in Basavanagudi to admire the huge granite bull sculpture and stroll the surrounding Bugle Rock Park, a calm green spot with great photo opportunities.

3:15 PM:

Stop for chai and a snack at the iconic Vidyarthi Bhavan (or nearby cafés like Taaza Thindi), tasting their famous masala dose or a sweet hot jalebi while you rest your feet.

4:00 PM:

Explore the heritage lanes of M.G. Road / Brigade Road - browse local boutiques and classic bookshops, or pop into Bangalore Palace grounds for exterior photos and the royal ambience (interior visit if time permits).

5:00 PM:

Wind down with a relaxed early-evening drink or mocktail at Toit Brewpub (Indiranagar) or choose the rooftop ambience at The 13th Floor for panoramic city views as daylight softens.

6:00 PM:

Freshen up at your hotel then head to Indiranagar 100 Feet Road for a lively stroll among boutiques and cafés; pop into Dyu Art Café for a relaxed coffee or light snack while watching the street scene.

6:45 PM:

Enjoy an early dinner at Toit Brewpub (book ahead) to sample craft beers and wood-fired pizzas, or try small plates at Sly Granny for inventive contemporary fare.

8:00 PM:

Catch live music or a curated gig at The Humming Tree or Hard Rock Café Bangalore-both venues often host evening performances; arrive early to secure good seats and check event listings.

9:30 PM:

Take a short taxi to UB City, walk the illuminated boulevard and stop for a cocktail or mocktail at The 13th Floor rooftop bar to enjoy panoramic night views of the city skyline.

10:45 PM:

If you want to continue the night, explore the lively bars on MG Road / Brigade Road or head back toward Church Street for late-night cafés and dessert spots like Smoor for chocolates and pastries.

11:30 PM:

Return to your hotel for a relaxed wind-down; order a warm filter coffee or herbal tea and review photos from the day's gardens and heritage walks before turning in for the night.

Day 5 · Fri, Jan 2
Bangalore

Bangalore Culture: Museums and Cafés

7:30 AM:

Begin with a traditional South Indian breakfast at Mavalli Tiffin Rooms (MTR) or try the fresh filter coffee and pancakes at Dyu Art Café to set a relaxed, local tone for the morning.

8:30 AM:

Visit the Visvesvaraya Industrial and Technological Museum for interactive exhibits and science displays - ideal for a hands-on hour of discovery and nostalgic gadgets.

9:45 AM:

Walk over to Government Museum, Bangalore (Kasturba Road) to browse the archaeology and art galleries; focus on the archaeological gallery and local heritage exhibits for a compact cultural dive.

11:00 AM:

Take a coffee break at Matteo Coffea (Church Street) or Third Wave Coffee Roasters, paired with a light pastry, and use the time to browse nearby bookstores like Blossom Book House for local literature and travel reads.

12:00 PM:

Lunch at Karavalli (The Gateway Hotel) or a quicker thali at MTR if you prefer familiar flavours; savour coastal Karnataka dishes or a hearty vegetarian spread to recharge for the afternoon.

1:15 PM:

Explore the quirky galleries and rotating exhibitions at National Gallery of Modern Art (NGMA) - spend time with contemporary Indian paintings and sculptures in a serene colonial bungalow setting.

2:30 PM:

Walk or take a short taxi to Chitrakala Parishath to browse local and student art exhibitions, catch a live demo if available, and visit the small craft shops selling prints and hand-painted souvenirs.

3:30 PM:

Pause for an afternoon coffee and cake at Dyu Art Café (Indiranagar) or Third Wave Coffee Roasters (Indiranagar/Church Street) - relax in a creative setting and flip through any art purchases or local guidebooks.

4:15 PM:

Stroll through the nearby artisan stalls or street-side shops along Raviwar Pet / Chickpet periphery (or boutique lanes near Indiranagar), hunting for handmade textiles, prints, or postcards to take home.

5:00 PM:

Visit Kempegowda Museum at the Bangalore Fort enclosure to learn about the city's founder and early history; the compact exhibits and old maps give a focused local context before evening plans.

6:00 PM:

Wind down with an early-evening snack and a cold drink at The Permit Room or sample fusion small plates at Sly Granny, prepping for dinner while enjoying a relaxed, artsy ambience.

6:30 PM:

Freshen up at your hotel then stroll to Indiranagar 100 Feet Road for a lively early-evening atmosphere; pop into small galleries and boutiques and enjoy people-watching from Dyu Art Café's outdoor seating.

7:15 PM:

For dinner, choose creative plates and craft cocktails at Sly Granny or head to Toit for a relaxed brewpub meal - both offer a warm, artsy vibe suited to this cultural day.

8:45 PM:

Catch live music or an open-mic at The Humming Tree or check event listings for an intimate gig at Blue Frog (Bangalore); arrive early to grab good seats and soak in the local creative scene.

10:15 PM:

Wind down with a nightcap at The Permit Room or a rooftop cocktail at The 13th Floor (UB City) for panoramic city lights; relax and reflect on the day's museum and café finds.

11:15 PM:

Return to your hotel for a final stroll through the lobby or a quiet terrace moment; enjoy a warm cup of filter coffee or masala chai while reviewing photos and any art purchases from the day.

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