7-Day Family-Friendly Itinerary: Chennai Mahabalipuram Pondicherry

1. Day 1: Chennai
   12 minutes (5.6 miles) from Chennai International Airport

   Start your trip in Chennai, the vibrant capital city of Tamil Nadu. In the morning, visit the iconic Marina Beach and take a stroll along the promenade. In the afternoon, explore the historic Fort St. George, which houses the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly. In the evening, enjoy a traditional South Indian dinner at a local restaurant.

   • Marina Beach: Free, 2-3 hours
   • Fort St. George: INR 50 ($0.70), 2-3 hours
2. Day 2: Mahabalipuram
   1 hour 30 minutes (37.6 miles) from Chennai

   Head to Mahabalipuram, known for its stunning UNESCO World Heritage sites. Start your morning at the Shore Temple, a magnificent temple complex by the Bay of Bengal. In the afternoon, explore the famous rock-cut monuments, including the Arjuna's Penance and the Five Rathas. End your day by witnessing the mesmerizing sunset at the Mahabalipuram Beach.

   • Shore Temple: INR 600 ($8.40), 2-3 hours
   • Rock-cut Monuments: INR 30 ($0.40), 2-3 hours
3. Day 3: Mahabalipuram
   Explore local attractions in Mahabalipuram.

   In the morning, visit the Descent of the Ganges, an intricately carved stone relief. In the afternoon, explore the Krishna's Butter Ball, a massive balancing rock. Enjoy a relaxing evening by taking a boat ride in the Mahabalipuram Backwaters.

   • Descent of the Ganges: INR 10 ($0.14), 1-2 hours
   • Krishna's Butter Ball: Free, 1 hour
   • Boat Ride in Mahabalipuram Backwaters: INR 300 ($4.20) per person, 1-2 hours
4. Day 4: Pondicherry
   1 hour 30 minutes (57.3 miles) from Mahabalipuram

   Travel to Pondicherry, a charming coastal town with a French influence. Start your day by exploring the picturesque French Quarter, known for its colonial architecture. In the afternoon, visit the famous Sri Aurobindo Ashram and enjoy a peaceful retreat. Complete your day with a relaxing walk along the Promenade Beach.

   • French Quarter: Free, 2-3 hours
   • Sri Aurobindo Ashram: Free, 1-2 hours
5. Day 5: Pondicherry
   Explore local attractions in Pondicherry.

   In the morning, visit the Auroville, an experimental township promoting peace and sustainability. In the afternoon, explore the Chunnambar Boat House and enjoy a leisurely boat ride. In the evening, indulge in delicious French cuisine at one of the many cafes or restaurants in the town.

   • Auroville: Free, 2-3 hours
   • Chunnambar Boat House: INR 10 ($0.14), 1-2 hours
6. Day 6: Chennai
   3 hours (101 miles) from Pondicherry

   Return to Chennai and spend the day exploring additional attractions. In the morning, visit the Kapaleeshwarar Temple, a famous Hindu temple with stunning architecture. In the afternoon, explore the Government Museum, which houses a vast collection of art and historical artifacts. In the evening, shop for souvenirs at the vibrant T. Nagar market.

   • Kapaleeshwarar Temple: Free, 1-2 hours
   • Government Museum: INR 50 ($0.70), 2-3 hours
7. Day 7: Chennai
   Explore local attractions in Chennai.

   In the morning, visit the beautiful Guindy National Park, home to diverse flora and fauna. In the afternoon, explore the Birla Planetarium and learn about the wonders of the universe. End your trip by enjoying a cultural performance at the Kalakshetra Foundation in the evening.

   • Guindy National Park: INR 20 ($0.28), 2-3 hours
   • Birla Planetarium: INR 50 ($0.70), 1-2 hours
   • Kalakshetra Foundation: INR 100 ($1.40), 2-3 hours

Recommendations

If you have additional time, consider visiting the DakshinaChitra Museum in Mahabalipuram to explore the rich cultural heritage of Tamil Nadu. Day trips to Kanchipuram, known for its ancient temples, and Gingee Fort, a majestic hilltop fort, are also great options. To maximize your fun, try local delicacies like dosas, idlis, and filter coffee throughout your journey.

Check hotel and flight prices for Chennai, Mahabalipuram, and Pondicherry here.