Two-Day Shoestring Budget Itinerary: Chennai to Bangalore

  1. Day 1: Mahabalipuram Beach
    2 hours 30 minutes (60 miles) from Chennai

    Start your trip on an idyllic note at the Mahabalipuram Beach. Located a few hours from Chennai, it is a pristine and unexplored stretch of sand with azure waters. The beach also has several ancient temples that add to its charm, including the Shore Temple, Pancha Rathas, and Krishna Mandapam. They are UNESCO World Heritage sites, and offer a glimpse into the rich history and culture of the region. After exploring the temples, you can indulge in some local delicacies at the beach shacks and soak in the festive atmosphere.

  2. Day 1: Madiwala Lake
    6 hours 30 minutes (270 miles) from Mahabalipuram Beach

    After a morning of exploring the temples, head over to Madiwala Lake in Bangalore for a serene and calming experience. The lake is one of the biggest in the city and is home to several migratory birds, like storks, pelicans, and swans. You can take a leisurely walk around the lake or even go bird-watching. The lush greenery and cool breeze make it an ideal spot to relax after a long journey on the road. You can also indulge in some street food like vada pav and sev puri from the nearby vendors.

  3. Day 2: Cubbon Park
    30 minutes (3.5 miles) from Madiwala Lake

    Start your second day at Cubbon Park, a sprawling and picturesque expanse in the heart of Bangalore. The park is well-maintained and has several walking trails, landscaped gardens, and fountains. You can visit the State Library, Bangalore Aquarium, and the Government Museum, which are housed inside the park premises. The park is also a popular spot for fitness enthusiasts, yoga practitioners and morning walkers. The serene environment and fresh air make it a perfect location to relax and rejuvenate.

  4. Day 2: Visvesvaraya Industrial and Technological Museum
    15 minutes (3.8 miles) from Cubbon Park

    After lunch, visit the Visvesvaraya Industrial and Technological Museum, a unique and informative destination that showcases India's progress in science and technology. The museum has several exhibits on various topics, including electricity, sound, light, space, and biotechnology. It is a perfect location for families with children, irrespective of age. The museum also has a planetarium that screens fascinating shows about the universe, sky and star.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Mahabalipuram Beach (2 hours): Free
  • Madiwala Lake (2 hours): Free
  • Cubbon Park (2 hours): Free
  • Visvesvaraya Industrial and Technological Museum (2 hours): INR 50 (Adults), INR 20 (Children), INR 30 (Students)
  • Total Estimated Costs: INR 100 (Adults), INR 40 (Children), INR 60 (Students)

Useful Tips

If you have more time, you can visit the Lalbagh Botanical Gardens, Bangalore Palace, Iskcon Temple or the Bannerghatta National Park. However, if you have less time, you can skip the Mahabalipuram Beach and proceed straight to Bangalore. Another option is to visit the HAL Aerospace Museum instead of the Visvesvaraya Industrial and Technological Museum.

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