Discovering Tamil Nadu: A 7-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring Chennai

Chennai, India

8:00AM

Visit Marina Beach

Start your day with a stroll along Marina Beach, the second longest urban beach in the world, and witness the vibrant morning activities of the locals.
Take a taxi or use public transportation to Marina Beach. It's approximately a 30-minute drive from the city centre.
Free, 2 hours

11:00AM

Explore Kapaleeshwarar Temple

Immerse yourself in the stunning Dravidian architecture of Kapaleeshwarar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, and witness the rituals performed by devotees.
Take a taxi to the temple located in Mylapore.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Saravana Bhavan

Indulge in delicious South Indian vegetarian cuisine at Saravana Bhavan, known for its authentic flavours and variety of dishes.
Take a taxi to the nearest Saravana Bhavan outlet.
£10, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Fort St. George

Explore the historical Fort St. George, the first English fortress in India, which now houses a museum showcasing colonial artefacts.
Take a taxi to Fort St. George in the Fort Tondiarpet area.
£2, 2 hours

6:00PM

Shopping at T. Nagar

End your day with some shopping at T. Nagar, one of the busiest shopping districts in Chennai, offering a wide range of products.
Take a taxi to T. Nagar for a shopping spree.
Variable, 2 hours
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Day 2: Relaxing in Mamallapuram

Mamallapuram, India

9:00AM

Visit Shore Temple

Start your day by exploring the ancient Shore Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a prominent example of Pallava architecture.
Take a private car or taxi to Shore Temple. It's a scenic 1-hour drive along the East Coast Road.
£5, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Moonrakers

Enjoy a seafood lunch with a view at Moonrakers, a popular restaurant overlooking the Bay of Bengal.
Walk or take a short drive to Moonrakers from Shore Temple.
£15, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore Pancha Rathas

Discover the unique monolithic rock-cut temples of Pancha Rathas, each carved in the shape of chariots, showcasing exquisite craftsmanship.
Pancha Rathas is within walking distance from Shore Temple.
£3, 1 hour

4:00PM

Relax at Mahabalipuram Beach

Unwind at Mahabalipuram Beach, known for its golden sands and soothing sea breeze, offering a perfect spot to watch the sunset.
A short walk from Pancha Rathas will lead you to Mahabalipuram Beach.
Free, 2 hours
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Day 2: Cultural Delights in Pondicherry

Pondicherry, India

9:00AM

Explore Auroville

Embark on a spiritual journey at Auroville, an experimental township focused on human unity and sustainable living, offering a serene atmosphere.
Take a private car or taxi to Auroville. It's approximately a 2-hour drive from Mamallapuram.
Free, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Tanto Pizzeria

Indulge in Italian cuisine with a French twist at Tanto Pizzeria, a charming restaurant known for its delicious wood-fired pizzas.
Drive to Tanto Pizzeria for a delightful lunch experience.
£12, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Aurobindo Ashram

Explore the spiritual legacy of Sri Aurobindo at Aurobindo Ashram, a tranquil retreat in the heart of Pondicherry, promoting inner peace and reflection.
A short drive from Tanto Pizzeria will take you to Aurobindo Ashram.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Walk around Promenade Beach

End your day with a leisurely stroll along the picturesque Promenade Beach, a popular spot for locals and tourists to relax and enjoy the sea breeze.
Promenade Beach is within walking distance from Aurobindo Ashram.
Free, 1 hour
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Day 1: Historical Thanjavur

Thanjavur, India

9:00AM

Visit Brihadeeswarar Temple

Begin your day with a visit to Brihadeeswarar Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a marvel of Chola architecture, known for its grandeur and intricate carvings.
Take a private car or taxi to the temple complex in Thanjavur.
£4, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Sathars

Enjoy a traditional South Indian meal at Sathars, a local eatery known for its authentic flavours and hospitality.
Take a short drive to Sathars for a hearty lunch.
£8, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Thanjavur Royal Palace

Discover the rich history of the Nayak and Maratha dynasties at Thanjavur Royal Palace, housing a museum with artefacts and sculptures.
Thanjavur Royal Palace is a short drive from Brihadeeswarar Temple.
£3, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Shop for Tanjore Paintings

Experience the artistry of Tanjore Paintings at local shops, known for their intricate designs and use of gold foil, perfect for souvenirs.
Explore the shops near Thanjavur Royal Palace for authentic Tanjore Paintings.
Variable, 1 hour
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Day 1: Cultural Immersion in Madurai

Madurai, India

9:00AM

Visit Meenakshi Amman Temple

Begin your day with a visit to Meenakshi Amman Temple, a historic Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Parvati, showcasing remarkable Dravidian architecture.
Take a private car or taxi to the temple complex in the heart of Madurai.
£2, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Murugan Idli Shop

Treat yourself to a delicious South Indian lunch at Murugan Idli Shop, a local favourite known for its fluffy idlis and variety of chutneys.
Take a short drive to Murugan Idli Shop for a scrumptious meal.
£5, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace

Step back in time at Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace, an architectural marvel blending Dravidian and Islamic styles, featuring grand halls and intricate carvings.
Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace is a short drive from Meenakshi Amman Temple.
£3, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Shop at Puthu Mandapam

Discover local handicrafts and textiles at Puthu Mandapam, a bustling market near Meenakshi Amman Temple, perfect for souvenir shopping.
Explore Puthu Mandapam for unique finds and authentic Madurai products.
Variable, 1 hour
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Day 1: Scenic Beauty of Kodaikanal

Kodaikanal, India

9:00AM

Visit Coaker's Walk

Begin your day with a leisurely stroll along Coaker's Walk, offering panoramic views of the lush hills and valleys of Kodaikanal, ideal for nature lovers.
Take a private car or taxi to Coaker's Walk, located near the Kodaikanal Lake.
£1, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Boating at Kodaikanal Lake

Enjoy a serene boat ride on Kodaikanal Lake, surrounded by picturesque landscapes and offering a peaceful experience on the water.
Walk or take a short drive to Kodaikanal Lake for a boating session.
£3, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Astoria Veg Restaurant

Relish a vegetarian meal at Astoria Veg Restaurant, known for its delicious South Indian dishes and tranquil ambience.
Head to Astoria Veg Restaurant for a satisfying lunch after the lake visit.
£10, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Bryant Park

Discover the botanical beauty of Bryant Park, showcasing a diverse collection of flora, perfect for a leisurely walk amidst nature's abundance.
Bryant Park is a short walk from Astoria Veg Restaurant.
£2, 1.5 hours
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Day 1: Return to Chennai

Chennai, India

9:00AM

Visit Government Museum

Begin your day with a visit to the Government Museum, one of the oldest museums in India, housing a diverse collection of art, archaeology, and numismatics.
Take a taxi to the museum located in the Egmore area of Chennai.
£1, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Ente Keralam

Enjoy a traditional Kerala meal at Ente Keralam, a restaurant known for its authentic flavours and warm hospitality.
Drive to Ente Keralam for a culinary journey through Kerala's cuisine.
£15, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Shop at T Nagar

Spend your afternoon shopping at T Nagar, Chennai's bustling shopping district, offering a wide range of products from clothing to jewellery.
Take a taxi to T Nagar for a shopping spree.
Variable, 2 hours

5:00PM

Relax at Besant Nagar Beach

End your day with a relaxing walk along Besant Nagar Beach, a popular spot for locals and tourists to unwind by the sea.
Besant Nagar Beach is a short drive from T Nagar.
Free, 1.5 hours
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