5-Day Tamilnadu Foodie Itinerary

1. Day 1: Chennai
   Distance from Chennai International Airport: 15 km (30 min)

   Begin your foodie journey in the capital city, Chennai, by starting with a breakfast at Murugan Idli Shop, a famous South Indian restaurant. Continue with a visit to Kapaleeswarar Temple, a historic temple with intricate architecture. For lunch, head to Dakshin for a gourmet South Indian meal. End the day at Marina Beach, a serene spot to unwind and enjoy the sunset.

2. Day 2: Madurai
   Distance from Chennai: 465 km (7.5 hours)

   A breakfast at Murugan Idli Shop in Madurai is a must-have experience to taste the authentic idli and chutney. Explore the Meenakshi Amman Temple, a 17th-century temple of the city. For lunch, visit Amma Mess to try their influential South Indian food. Your day will not be complete without going to Palace Road, which is famous for its street food stalls, that will surely satisfy your cravings.

3. Day 3: Thanjavur
   Distance from Madurai: 200 km (4 hours)

   Start your day with an exotic South Indian breakfast at Adayar Ananda Bhavan before exploring Brihadeeswarar Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site. For lunch, visit Vegetarian Club to try their flavorful curries and rice preparations. After lunch, proceed to Thanjavur Palace and Art Gallery to have a glimpse of the years-old arts and crafts of the city.

4. Day 4: Coimbatore
   Distance from Thanjavur: 180 km (3 hours)

   Start your day with a unique South Indian breakfast experience at Shree Annapoorna. Next, head to Dhyanalinga Temple to learn meditation techniques or take a guided tour. Try having lunch at the famed Gemini Chettinad, for a flavorful traditional Chettinad cuisine experience. End your day at Kovai Kutralam Falls, a gorgeous spot for a refreshing break.

5. Day 5: Ooty
   Distance from Coimbatore: 85 km (3 hours)

   Begin your day in the hill station of Ooty, by having breakfast at Willy's Coffee Pub to drink some of the finest coffees. Try a fun activity with Nilgiri Mountain Railway, a joyful train ride that showcases beautiful hills and scenic sights. The Culinarium is a classic Italian restaurant for lunch to try various pizzas and pasta dishes. End the day by munching on some of the best homemade chocolates in Moddy's Confectionery.

Time and Cost Estimates

• Murugan Idli Shop, Chennai (1 hour, INR 300)
• Kapaleeswarar Temple, Chennai (1 hour, INR 50)
• Dakshin, Chennai (2 hours, INR 1000)
• Marina Beach, Chennai (2 hours, Free)
• Murugan Idli Shop, Madurai (1 hour, INR 250)
• Meenakshi Amman Temple, Madurai (2 hours, INR 50)
• Amma Mess, Madurai (2 hours, INR 500)
• Palace Road, Madurai (2 hours, INR 200)
• Adayar Ananda Bhavan, Thanjavur (1 hour, INR 250)
• Brihadeeswarar Temple, Thanjavur (2 hours, INR 50)
• Vegetarian Club, Thanjavur (2 hours, INR 500)
• Thanjavur Palace and Art Gallery, Thanjavur (2 hours, INR 250)
• Shree Annapoorna, Coimbatore (1 hour, INR 400)
• Dhyanalinga Temple, Coimbatore (2 hours, INR 50)
• Gemini Chettinad, Coimbatore (2 hours, INR 800)
• Kovai Kutralam Falls, Coimbatore (2 hours, INR 100)
• Willy's Coffee Pub, Ooty (1 hour, INR 300)
• Nilgiri Mountain Railway, Ooty (2 hours, INR 300)
• The Culinarium, Ooty (2 hours, INR 1000)
• Moddy's Confectionery, Ooty (1 hour, INR 200)
• Total Estimated Costs (14 hours, INR 6850)

Useful Tips

If you have more time, you can explore the scenic beauty of Ooty by visiting the Doddabetta Peak and Ooty Lake. If you have less time, skip Palace Road in Madurai and take a quick lunch at Amma Mess. Make sure to confirm opening times of your destination before heading out, and do not forget to carry sunscreen, sunglasses, and comfortable walking shoes.