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Discovering Tamil Nadu in 7 Days

Viewed by 64 travelers

Day 1: Cultural Delights

Chennai, India

8:00AM

Visit Kapaleeshwarar Temple

Begin your day with a spiritual visit to the iconic Kapaleeshwarar Temple, known for its intricate architecture and historical significance.
Take a taxi from your accommodation to the temple, about 30 minutes away.
Free, 1 hour

10:00AM

Explore Fort St. George

Immerse yourself in the colonial history of Chennai by exploring the historic Fort St. George, the first English fortress in India.
Take a short taxi ride from the temple to the fort, around 20 minutes.
INR 100, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Dakshin at Crowne Plaza

Indulge in a traditional South Indian lunch at Dakshin, known for its authentic flavors and elegant ambiance.
Short taxi ride or walk from Fort St. George.
INR 800, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Explore Government Museum

Discover a diverse collection of art, archaeology, and numismatics at the Government Museum, showcasing the heritage of Tamil Nadu.
Take a taxi to the museum, approximately 15 minutes.
INR 250, 2 hours

5:00PM

Shop at T Nagar

End your day with a shopping spree at T Nagar, the bustling shopping district of Chennai offering a variety of goods.
Take a taxi or public transport to T Nagar, about 30 minutes away.
Variable, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Southern Spice, Taj Coromandel

Indulge in a culinary feast at Southern Spice, Taj Coromandel, known for its exquisite South Indian cuisine and luxurious ambiance.
Take a taxi to the restaurant from T Nagar, approximately 15 minutes.
INR 1200, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Chennai

Day 2: Historical Wonders

Mahabalipuram, India

9:00AM

Visit Shore Temple

Explore the mesmerizing Shore Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning architecture and historical significance.
Take a private car or taxi from Chennai to Mahabalipuram, about 1.5 hours drive.
INR 250, 2 hours

11:30AM

Explore Pancha Rathas

Discover the unique Pancha Rathas, monolithic rock-cut temples each carved in different styles and designs.
Short walk from Shore Temple.
INR 100, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Moonrakers

Enjoy a delicious seafood lunch with a panoramic view of the sea at Moonrakers restaurant in Mahabalipuram.
A short stroll or drive from Pancha Rathas.
INR 600, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Arjuna's Penance

Marvel at the majestic rock carving of Arjuna's Penance, portraying various scenes from Hindu mythology and epics.
Walking distance from Moonrakers restaurant.
INR 50, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Relax at Mahabalipuram Beach

Unwind and enjoy the serene sunset views at Mahabalipuram Beach, perfect for a peaceful evening by the Bay of Bengal.
Short walk from Arjuna's Penance.
Free, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Seashell Restaurant

Delight in a scrumptious seafood dinner by the beach at Seashell Restaurant, known for its fresh catch and coastal ambiance.
Walk to the restaurant from Mahabalipuram Beach.
INR 800, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Mahabalipuram

Day 3: French Colonial Charm

Pondicherry, India

9:00AM

Explore Auroville

Embark on a spiritual and cultural journey at Auroville, an experimental township promoting harmony, sustainability, and unity.
Take a private car or taxi from Mahabalipuram to Pondicherry, approximately a 2-hour drive.
INR 200, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Tanto Pizzeria

Savor a delightful fusion lunch at Tanto Pizzeria, offering a blend of Italian and Indian flavors in a cozy setting.
Short drive or walk from Auroville.
INR 600, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit Pondicherry Museum

Explore the rich history and heritage of Pondicherry at the Pondicherry Museum, showcasing art, artifacts, and archaeological findings.
A short walk or drive from Tanto Pizzeria.
INR 150, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Relax at Paradise Beach

Unwind at Paradise Beach, a secluded stretch of golden sands and azure waters offering a serene escape from the city bustle.
Take a taxi or auto-rickshaw from Pondicherry Museum to Paradise Beach, about 30 minutes.
INR 100 (Entry fee), 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Le Club

Enjoy a romantic dinner at Le Club, a charming seaside restaurant offering French and Mediterranean cuisine with a picturesque view.
Take a taxi to Le Club from Paradise Beach, approximately 20 minutes.
INR 1000, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Pondicherry

Day 4: Temple Trail

Thanjavur, India

9:00AM

Visit Brihadeeswarar Temple

Embark on a cultural journey by visiting the spectacular Brihadeeswarar Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and architectural marvel.
Take a private car or taxi from Pondicherry to Thanjavur, approximately a 4-hour drive.
INR 250, 2 hours

11:30AM

Explore Thanjavur Royal Palace

Discover the regal history of Thanjavur at the magnificent Thanjavur Royal Palace, housing exquisite art and historical relics.
Short drive or walk from Brihadeeswarar Temple.
INR 150, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Hotel Sangam

Indulge in a traditional South Indian thali lunch at Hotel Sangam, known for its authentic flavors and warm hospitality.
Walk or short drive from Thanjavur Royal Palace.
INR 400, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Schwartz Church

Explore the historic Schwartz Church, a symbol of Thanjavur's colonial past and architectural heritage, offering a serene ambiance.
Short walk from Hotel Sangam.
INR 50, 1 hour

4:30PM

Shopping at Thanjavur Market

Peruse through the vibrant Thanjavur Market for traditional handicrafts, souvenirs, and local artifacts to bring back memories.
Walk or short drive from Schwartz Church.
Variable, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Raya's Grand

Savor an authentic Chettinad dinner at Raya's Grand, known for its delectable Chettinad cuisine and traditional recipes.
Walk or short drive from Thanjavur Market.
INR 600, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Thanjavur

Day 5: Cultural Heritage

Madurai, India

9:00AM

Visit Meenakshi Amman Temple

Explore the majestic Meenakshi Amman Temple, a renowned religious site with magnificent architecture and intricate sculptures.
Take a private car or taxi from Thanjavur to Madurai, approximately a 3-hour drive.
INR 200, 2 hours

11:30AM

Explore Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace

Discover the grandeur of Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace, an architectural marvel with exquisite pillars and rich history.
Short drive or walk from Meenakshi Amman Temple.
INR 100, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Murugan Idli Shop

Enjoy a traditional South Indian meal at Murugan Idli Shop, a local favorite known for its delicious idlis and variety of chutneys.
Walk or short drive from Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace.
INR 300, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Gandhi Memorial Museum

Pay homage to the Mahatma at the Gandhi Memorial Museum, showcasing his life and principles through exhibits and artifacts.
Short walk from Murugan Idli Shop.
INR 50, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Shopping at Puthu Mandapam

Explore the bustling Puthu Mandapam market for local textiles, handicrafts, and souvenirs to cherish your Madurai visit.
Walk or short drive from Gandhi Memorial Museum.
Variable, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Amma Mess

Relish a hearty dinner at Amma Mess, famous for its authentic South Indian cuisine and homely dining experience.
Walk or short drive from Puthu Mandapam.
INR 200, 1 hour
Find Hotels in Madurai

Day 6: Hill Station Retreat

Kodaikanal, India

9:00AM

Visit Coaker's Walk

Embark on a serene walk along Coaker's Walk, offering panoramic views of the picturesque valleys and verdant landscapes of Kodaikanal.
Take a private car or taxi from Madurai to Kodaikanal, about a 4-hour drive.
INR 300, 2 hours

11:30AM

Explore Bryant Park

Explore the botanical wonders of Bryant Park, known for its diverse collection of flora and a tranquil environment for nature lovers.
Short walk or drive from Coaker's Walk.
INR 30, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Cloud Street Cafe

Enjoy a delightful lunch amid nature at Cloud Street Cafe, offering scrumptious sandwiches and refreshing beverages.
Short walk from Bryant Park.
INR 500, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Bear Shola Falls

Unwind amidst nature at Bear Shola Falls, a serene waterfall surrounded by lush greenery, perfect for a peaceful retreat.
Short drive or hike from Cloud Street Cafe.
INR 50, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Boating at Kodaikanal Lake

Enjoy a leisurely boat ride on the tranquil waters of Kodaikanal Lake, soaking in the serenity of the surroundings.
Short walk or drive from Bear Shola Falls.
INR 200, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Altaf's Cafe

Indulge in a cozy dinner at Altaf's Cafe, known for its warm ambiance and delicious offerings of Indian and Continental cuisine.
Walk or short drive from Kodaikanal Lake.
INR 400, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Kodaikanal

Day 7: Hill Station Escape

Ooty, India

9:00AM

Visit Botanical Gardens

Explore the botanical paradise of Ooty at the enchanting Botanical Gardens, home to a magnificent array of exotic plants and flowers.
Take a private car or taxi from Kodaikanal to Ooty, approximately a 5-hour drive.
INR 100, 2 hours

11:30AM

Explore Rose Garden

Stroll through the fragrant pathways of Rose Garden, a botanical haven boasting a vibrant collection of roses and floral delights.
Short walk or drive from Botanical Gardens.
INR 30, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Earl's Secret

Savor a delightful lunch at Earl's Secret, a colonial-style eatery offering delectable European cuisine amidst a charming setting.
Short walk from Rose Garden.
INR 800, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Doddabetta Peak

Witness panoramic vistas of the Nilgiri Hills from the majestic Doddabetta Peak, the highest vantage point in the region.
Short drive or hike from Earl's Secret.
INR 50, 2 hours

5:30PM

Tea Tasting at Tea Museum

Delve into the world of tea at the Tea Museum, indulging in a flavorful tea tasting session and learning about tea production.
Short drive from Doddabetta Peak.
INR 100, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Ascot Multi Cuisine Restaurant

Conclude your day with a delicious dinner at Ascot Multi Cuisine Restaurant, offering a diverse range of Indian and global delicacies.
Walk or short drive from Tea Museum.
INR 600, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Ooty
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