Family-Friendly Chennai Exploration

Day 1: Chennai City Delights

Chennai, India

9:00AM

Marina Beach

Start your day with a visit to Marina Beach, one of the longest urban beaches in the world. Enjoy a relaxing walk along the shore.
Marina Beach is a 30-minute drive from the city center. You can take a taxi or a local bus.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Kapaleeshwarar Temple

Explore the stunning Dravidian architecture of Kapaleeshwarar Temple and experience the spiritual ambiance.
Kapaleeshwarar Temple is a 20-minute drive from Marina Beach. Take a taxi or a rickshaw.
Free, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Egmore Museum

Visit the Egmore Museum to learn about the rich history and cultural heritage of Chennai through its exhibits.
Egmore Museum is a 15-minute drive from Kapaleeshwarar Temple. You can take a taxi or a local bus.
INR 50 per person, 2 hours

6:00PM

Besant Nagar Beach

End the day with a visit to Besant Nagar Beach, popular for its vibrant atmosphere and street food stalls.
Besant Nagar Beach is a 30-minute drive from Egmore Museum. Take a taxi or a rickshaw.
Free, 2 hours
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Day 2: Cultural Exploration in Chennai

Chennai, India

9:00AM

Vivekananda House

Start your day at Vivekananda House, a historic landmark showcasing the life and teachings of Swami Vivekananda.
Vivekananda House is a 20-minute drive from the city center. You can take a taxi or a local bus.
INR 20 per person, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Santhome Cathedral Basilica

Visit the Santhome Cathedral Basilica, a beautiful church with a rich history and stunning architecture.
Santhome Cathedral Basilica is a 10-minute drive from Vivekananda House. Take a taxi or a rickshaw.
Free, 1 hour

1:00PM

Express Avenue Mall

Enjoy a family lunch and some shopping at Express Avenue Mall, one of the largest shopping malls in Chennai.
Express Avenue Mall is a 15-minute drive from Santhome Cathedral Basilica. Take a taxi or a rickshaw.
Cost varies based on activities, 2 hours

4:00PM

Marina Lighthouse

Climb up the Marina Lighthouse for panoramic views of the city and the Bay of Bengal at sunset.
Marina Lighthouse is a 20-minute drive from Express Avenue Mall. Take a taxi or a rickshaw.
INR 10 per person, 1 hour
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Day 3: Historic Marvels in Mahabalipuram

Mahabalipuram, India

9:00AM

Shore Temple

Explore the ancient Shore Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its architectural beauty and history.
Shore Temple is a 1-hour drive from Chennai. You can hire a private car or take a bus.
INR 500 per person, 2 hours

12:00PM

Pancha Rathas

Visit the Pancha Rathas, monolithic rock-cut temples that depict various forms of Dravidian architecture.
Pancha Rathas is a 10-minute drive from Shore Temple. You can walk or take a short ride.
INR 250 per person, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Mahabalipuram Beach

Spend a relaxing afternoon at Mahabalipuram Beach, enjoying the sea breeze and water activities.
Mahabalipuram Beach is a 5-minute walk from Pancha Rathas.
Free, 2 hours
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Day 4: Relaxing Retreat in Pondicherry

Pondicherry, India

9:00AM

Auroville

Explore the international township of Auroville, known for its sustainable living and spiritual community.
Auroville is a 2-hour drive from Mahabalipuram. Hire a private car for a comfortable journey.
Donations welcome, 3 hours

1:00PM

Paradise Beach

Relax at Paradise Beach, a serene and picturesque spot for sunbathing and beach activities.
Paradise Beach is a 30-minute drive from Auroville. Take a taxi or a local bus.
INR 150 per person for ferry, 2 hours

4:00PM

Promenade Beach

Stroll along the Promenade Beach, a popular seafront promenade lined with eateries and shops.
Promenade Beach is a 20-minute drive from Paradise Beach. Take a taxi or a rickshaw.
Free, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Cultural Immersion in Pondicherry

Pondicherry, India

9:00AM

Aurobindo Ashram

Visit Aurobindo Ashram, a spiritual community founded by Sri Aurobindo and the Mother, known for its tranquility.
Aurobindo Ashram is a 15-minute drive from the city center. Take a taxi or a rickshaw.
Donations welcome, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

French Quarters

Explore the charming French Quarters of Pondicherry with its colonial architecture and quaint cafes.
French Quarters are a 10-minute walk from Aurobindo Ashram.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Auroville Bakery

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Auroville Bakery, known for its fresh bread, pastries, and organic products.
Auroville Bakery is a 15-minute walk from the French Quarters.
INR 300 for a meal for two, 1 hour

3:00PM

Botanical Garden

Visit the Botanical Garden to explore a variety of plant species and enjoy a peaceful walk amidst nature.
Botanical Garden is a 20-minute walk from Auroville Bakery.
INR 20 per person, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Spiritual Journey in Kanchipuram

Kanchipuram, India

9:00AM

Kanchi Kailasanathar Temple

Begin your day with a visit to Kanchi Kailasanathar Temple, a magnificent structure dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Kanchi Kailasanathar Temple is a 1-hour drive from Pondicherry. Hire a private car for convenience.
INR 30 per person, 2 hours

12:00PM

Kanchipuram Silk Saree Shopping

Explore the local markets and shop for traditional Kanchipuram silk sarees, known for their quality and craftsmanship.
Local markets are a 10-minute walk from Kanchi Kailasanathar Temple.
Cost varies based on purchase, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Varadharaja Perumal Temple

Visit Varadharaja Perumal Temple, a prominent Vishnu temple with intricate architecture and spiritual significance.
Varadharaja Perumal Temple is a 15-minute drive from the silk saree markets. Take a taxi or a rickshaw.
Free, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Historical Exploration in Vellore

Vellore, India

9:00AM

Vellore Fort

Explore the grand Vellore Fort, a 16th-century fort complex with a blend of Dravidian and Gothic architectural styles.
Vellore Fort is a 2-hour drive from Kanchipuram. Hire a private car or take a bus.
INR 5 per person, 2 hours

12:00PM

Jalakandeswarar Temple

Visit Jalakandeswarar Temple, located within Vellore Fort, known for its intricate sculptures and historical significance.
Jalakandeswarar Temple is a short walk from the fort's entrance.
Free, 1 hour

2:00PM

Vainu Bappu Observatory

Discover the wonders of astronomy at Vainu Bappu Observatory, known for its research and educational programs.
Vainu Bappu Observatory is a 30-minute drive from Vellore Fort. Take a taxi or a rickshaw.
INR 100 per person for guided tour, 1.5 hours
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