Exploring Tamil Nadu: 5-Day Road Trip Itinerary

Day 1: Coastal Delights

Chennai, India

8:00AM

Marina Beach

Start your day with a visit to Marina Beach, the second-longest urban beach in the world, and enjoy a leisurely stroll along the shore.
Marina Beach is located in central Chennai, approximately 30 minutes from the city center. Take a taxi or use a ride-sharing service.
Free, 2 hours

11:00AM

Kapaleeshwarar Temple

Explore the historic Kapaleeshwarar Temple, known for its stunning Dravidian architecture and vibrant religious atmosphere.
The temple is located in Mylapore, about 25 minutes from Marina Beach. Take a taxi or use public transportation.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

DakshinaChitra

Head to DakshinaChitra, a living history museum that showcases the art, architecture, and lifestyles of South India.
DakshinaChitra is located on the East Coast Road, around 1 hour drive from Kapaleeshwarar Temple.
INR 250, 2 hours
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Day 2: Historical Marvels

Mahabalipuram, India

9:00AM

Shore Temple

Start your day at the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Shore Temple, marveling at its ancient stone carvings and seaside location.
Mahabalipuram is around 1.5 hours drive from Chennai via ECR Road.
INR 600 (foreigners), INR 40 (Indians), 2 hours

12:00PM

Pancha Rathas

Explore the intricately carved monolithic rock-cut monuments at Pancha Rathas, representing the unique Dravidian architecture.
Pancha Rathas is within walking distance from Shore Temple.
INR 600 (foreigners), INR 40 (Indians), 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Arjuna's Penance

Visit the massive rock relief structure depicting scenes from the Mahabharata at Arjuna's Penance, a masterpiece of ancient art.
Arjuna's Penance is a short walk from Pancha Rathas.
INR 600 (foreigners), INR 40 (Indians), 1 hour
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Day 3: French Vibes

Pondicherry, India

9:00AM

Auroville

Discover the experimental township of Auroville, known for its spiritual significance and sustainable living practices.
Pondicherry is around 2 hours drive from Mahabalipuram via ECR Road.
Free, 3 hours

1:00PM

Promenade Beach

Relax at Promenade Beach, a popular waterfront stretch lined with cafes and colonial buildings, reflecting Pondicherry's French heritage.
Promenade Beach is located in the heart of Pondicherry.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Aurobindo Ashram

Visit the Aurobindo Ashram to experience tranquility and learn about the teachings of Sri Aurobindo and The Mother.
The Ashram is situated in the heart of Pondicherry, easily accessible by foot or a short drive.
Free, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Cultural Heritage

Thanjavur, India

8:00AM

Brihadeeswarar Temple

Begin your day with a visit to the magnificent Brihadeeswarar Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its grand architecture and spiritual significance.
Thanjavur is approximately 4 hours drive from Pondicherry.
INR 250 (Indians), INR 600 (foreigners), 2 hours

12:00PM

Thanjavur Royal Palace

Explore the historic Thanjavur Royal Palace, once the official residence of the Bhonsle family rulers, showcasing ancient artifacts and paintings.
The Royal Palace is located near Brihadeeswarar Temple, easily accessible by foot.
INR 85 (Indians), INR 340 (foreigners), 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Thanjavur Maratha Palace

Visit the Thanjavur Maratha Palace, a blend of Maratha and Nayak architecture, housing a museum with rare collections of art and sculptures.
The Maratha Palace is a short walk from Thanjavur Royal Palace.
INR 25 (Indians), INR 150 (foreigners), 1 hour
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Day 5: Spiritual Journey

Madurai, India

9:00AM

Meenakshi Amman Temple

Begin your day at the iconic Meenakshi Amman Temple, a significant Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Parvati, showcasing Dravidian architecture and intricate carvings.
Madurai is around 3.5 hours drive from Thanjavur.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace

Explore the grandeur of Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace, an architectural marvel with stunning arches, pillars, and courtyards.
The palace is located in the heart of Madurai, easily reachable by various modes of transport.
INR 10 (Indians), INR 50 (foreigners), 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Gandhi Memorial Museum

Visit the Gandhi Memorial Museum to learn about the life and principles of Mahatma Gandhi through exhibits, photos, and personal belongings.
The museum is located near Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace in Madurai.
INR 10 (Indians), INR 150 (foreigners), 1 hour
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