Three-Day Adventure Itinerary from Chennai to Thiruvanmalai

1. Day 1: Mahabalipuram
   1 hour 36 minutes (55.5 km) from Chennai
   9:00am - 5:00pm

   In the morning, explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Mahabalipuram. Visit the stunning Shore Temple, Pancha Rathas (five monolithic temples) and the world's largest bas-relief, Arjuna's Penance. For lunch, try some fresh seafood at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, head to the beach for some sun and sand. In the evening, catch a mesmerizing light and sound show at the Shore Temple which narrates the story of Mahabalipuram's history.

2. Day 2: Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary and Gingee Fort
   2 hours 24 minutes (120 km) from Mahabalipuram
   8:00am - 5:00pm

   In the morning, visit Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary, which is home to over 1 lakh migratory birds during winter. Take a walk or a boat ride to spot some of the 40 species of birds. For lunch, stop by a local eatery and try some delicious South Indian cuisine. In the afternoon, head to Gingee Fort, a stunning 17th-century fort with three hilltop citadels. Explore the ruins, climb the steep stairs and take in the panoramic views. In the evening, relax and unwind at your hotel.

3. Day 3: Arunachaleswarar Temple and Trekking
   1 hour 16 minutes (86.4 km) from Gingee Fort
   6:00am - 8:30pm

   Start the day early by heading to the Arunachaleswarar Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the largest temples in South India. Take a guided tour of the temple and learn about its rich history and architecture. For breakfast, try some hot and fresh idlis and dosas at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, go on a trek to the Arunachala Hill which is considered to be a sacred site by many. The trek is moderate but the views from the top are breathtaking. In the evening, head back to the temple and participate in the evening aarti and witness the grandeur of the temple.

Recommendations

If you have extra time, visit the quaint town of Pondicherry which is known for its French colonial architecture, beautiful beaches and spiritual centers like Auroville. If you are interested in history and architecture, visit the Brihadeeswara Temple in Thanjavur which is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. To maximize your fun, indulge in some adventure sports like surfing or jet skiing at the beaches in Mahabalipuram. Don't forget to try the local delicacies like filter coffee, Murukku and Palkova.

To find hotels and flights for your trip, click here.