Weeklong Road Trip Around Chennai

Day 1: Beach Day in Mahabalipuram

Mahabalipuram, India

8:00AM

Visit Shore Temple

Start your day by exploring the ancient Shore Temple by the beach, known for its architectural beauty.
Mahabalipuram is about a 2-hour drive from Chennai via the East Coast Road.
INR 250, 2 hours

11:00AM

Relax at Mahabalipuram Beach

Spend some leisure time soaking up the sun and enjoying the beautiful beach views.
Mahabalipuram Beach is a short walk from Shore Temple.
Free, 2 hours

2:00PM

Explore Pancha Rathas

Visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of Pancha Rathas, an impressive rock-cut monument complex.
Pancha Rathas is a 10-minute drive from Mahabalipuram Beach.
INR 500, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Watch the Light Show

End your day by witnessing the mesmerizing light and sound show narrating the history of Mahabalipuram.
The light show takes place near Krishna's Butter Ball in Mahabalipuram.
INR 50, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: French Vibes in Pondicherry

Pondicherry, India

9:00AM

Visit Auroville

Start your day with a visit to the experimental township of Auroville, promoting unity and peace.
Pondicherry is a 2-hour drive from Mahabalipuram via the East Coast Road.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Cafe des Arts

Enjoy a delicious French-inspired meal at the charming Cafe des Arts in Pondicherry.
Cafe des Arts is located in the French Quarter of Pondicherry.
INR 800, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Aurobindo Ashram

Visit the spiritual center of Sri Aurobindo Ashram, offering serenity and tranquility.
Sri Aurobindo Ashram is a short walk from Cafe des Arts.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Shopping at Nehru Street

Spend your evening shopping for souvenirs and local handicrafts in the vibrant Nehru Street market.
Nehru Street is in the heart of Pondicherry's commercial area.
Varies, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Historical Marvels in Thanjavur

Thanjavur, India

9:00AM

Visit Brihadeeswarar Temple

Begin your day by exploring the magnificent Brihadeeswarar Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Thanjavur is a 4-hour drive from Pondicherry via the NH32.
INR 250, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Sathars

Enjoy a traditional South Indian meal at the renowned Sathars restaurant near the temple complex.
Sathars is located close to the Brihadeeswarar Temple.
INR 500, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Thanjavur Royal Palace

Discover the rich history of the region at Thanjavur Royal Palace, showcasing artefacts and heritage.
Thanjavur Royal Palace is a short drive from Brihadeeswarar Temple.
INR 150, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Visit Schwartz Church

End your day with a visit to the tranquil Schwartz Church, reflecting colonial architecture and serenity.
Schwartz Church is located near the Royal Palace in Thanjavur.
Free, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Cultural Delights in Madurai

Madurai, India

9:00AM

Explore Meenakshi Amman Temple

Embark on a spiritual journey by visiting the iconic Meenakshi Amman Temple, known for its intricate architecture.
Madurai is a 3-hour drive from Thanjavur via the NH83.
INR 50, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Murugan Idli Shop

Indulge in a traditional South Indian meal at the popular Murugan Idli Shop, famous for its idlis and dosas.
Murugan Idli Shop is located near the Meenakshi Amman Temple.
INR 300, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace

Explore the grandeur of Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace, showcasing Dravidian and Islamic architectural styles.
Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace is a short distance from the temple.
INR 50, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Walk through Gandhi Memorial Museum

Learn about India's freedom struggle at the informative Gandhi Memorial Museum, housing historical artifacts.
The museum is located in Madurai city center.
INR 100, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Nature Retreat in Kodaikanal

Kodaikanal, India

9:00AM

Visit Coaker's Walk

Start your day with a refreshing walk along Coaker's Walk, offering panoramic views of the valley and hills.
Kodaikanal is a 3.5-hour drive from Madurai via the NH183.
INR 20, 2 hours

12:00PM

Boating at Kodaikanal Lake

Enjoy a serene boating experience on the picturesque Kodaikanal Lake, surrounded by lush greenery.
Kodaikanal Lake is a short drive from Coaker's Walk.
INR 100, 1 hour

2:00PM

Lunch at Astoria Veg Restaurant

Relish a vegetarian meal at the Astoria Veg Restaurant, known for its delicious South Indian dishes.
Astoria Veg Restaurant is located near Kodaikanal Lake.
INR 400, 1 hour

3:30PM

Explore Bear Shola Falls

Discover the natural beauty of Bear Shola Falls, a tranquil spot surrounded by dense forest.
Bear Shola Falls is a short drive from the restaurant.
INR 20, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 6: Hill Station Charm in Ooty

Ooty, India

9:00AM

Visit Botanical Gardens

Explore the lush Botanical Gardens in Ooty, home to a variety of exotic plants and flowers.
Ooty is a 6-hour drive from Kodaikanal via the NH181.
INR 30, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Earl's Secret

Indulge in a sumptuous meal at Earl's Secret, offering a great dining experience amidst the hills.
Earl's Secret is located near the Botanical Gardens.
INR 800, 1 hour

2:00PM

Boat Ride at Ooty Lake

Enjoy a relaxing boat ride at Ooty Lake, surrounded by eucalyptus trees and scenic views.
Ooty Lake is a short distance from the restaurant.
INR 300, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Visit Doddabetta Peak

Head to Doddabetta Peak for a breathtaking view of the Nilgiri mountain ranges and lush landscapes.
Doddabetta Peak is a short drive from Ooty Lake.
INR 50, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 7: Return to Chennai

Chennai, India

9:00AM

Visit Kapaleeshwarar Temple

On your way back to Chennai, make a stop at the historic Kapaleeshwarar Temple, known for its Dravidian architecture.
Chennai is a 7-hour drive from Ooty via the NH67.
INR 100, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Murugan Idli Shop

Enjoy a final meal at Murugan Idli Shop before concluding your road trip.
Murugan Idli Shop is located in Chennai city.
INR 300, 1 hour

2:00PM

Shopping at T. Nagar

Spend your afternoon shopping at the bustling T. Nagar market for souvenirs and local items.
T. Nagar is a vibrant shopping district in Chennai.
Varies, 2 hours

4:00PM

Explore Marina Beach

End your road trip with a leisurely walk along Marina Beach, one of the longest urban beaches in the world.
Marina Beach is a short drive from T. Nagar.
Free, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability