Shoestring Budget Itinerary for Exploring ECR with 10 Members

  1. 9:00AM: Mahabalipuram Beach
    120 minutes (30.1 km) from Chennai

    Start your morning off with some fresh air and stunning views of the Bay of Bengal at Mahabalipuram Beach. The beach offers a relaxing environment and is great for swimming, sunbathing, and taking long walks along the shore.

  2. 11:30AM: Pancha Rathas
    20 minutes (7.7 km) from Mahabalipuram Beach

    Take a step back in history and visit Pancha Rathas, a UNESCO World Heritage Site boasting five stunning monolithic temples. Each temple represents a different style of architecture, with detailed carvings and intricate designs.

  3. 1:00PM: Lunch at Moonrakers
    5 minutes (1.3 km) from Pancha Rathas

    Enjoy delicious seafood and cold drinks at Moonrakers, a charming beachside restaurant that offers a laid-back atmosphere and friendly service.

  4. 2:30PM: Alamparai Fort
    60 minutes (33.6 km) from Moonrakers

    Visit the historical Alamparai Fort which was built by the Mughal Empire. The site offers stunning views and is a great spot for photography. It is also a popular location for bird watching, with a variety of bird species spotted in the area.

  5. 4:00PM: Sadras Dutch Fort
    35 minutes (22 km) from Alamparai Fort

    Stop by Sadras Dutch Fort, another historical site that provides a glimpse into the colonial era of India. The fort features picturesque ruins and well-preserved structures that are sure to impress.

  6. 6:00PM: Kovalam Beach
    20 minutes (10.9 km) from Sadras Dutch Fort

    End your day at Kovalam Beach, a calm and serene beach that offers a quiet environment and a beautiful sunset view in the evening. Relax, unwind and take in the natural beauty of Tamil Nadu's coastline.

Time and Cost Estimates

  • Mahabalipuram Beach (2 hours, free admission)
  • Pancha Rathas (1.5 hours, ₹30 per person)
  • Moonrakers (1.5 hours, ₹500 per person)
  • Alamparai Fort (1.5 hours, free admission)
  • Sadras Dutch Fort (1.5 hours, ₹15 per person)
  • Kovalam Beach (1.5 hours, free admission)
  • Total Estimated Costs: ₹5450

Useful Tips

For those with more time, consider visiting more historical sites such as the Shore Temple or the Thirukadalmallai Temple. If time is limited, consider skipping a beach or two. Remember to bring comfortable shoes, plenty of sunscreen, and a camera to capture the sights and memories of your trip to Tamil Nadu.

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