Exploring Tamil Nadu's Rich Heritage and Culture

Day 1: City Exploration

Chennai, India

8:00AM

Visit Marina Beach

Start your day with a visit to the iconic Marina Beach, the second-longest urban beach in the world, to witness the sunrise and take a relaxing walk along the shore.
Marina Beach is easily accessible by car or public transport from the city centre.
Free, 2 hours

11:00AM

Explore Fort St. George

Head to Fort St. George, the first English fortress in India, to delve into Chennai's colonial history and visit the Fort Museum to see artefacts from the British era.
Fort St. George is located in the heart of Chennai and can be reached by car or auto-rickshaw.
INR 100, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Saravana Bhavan

Enjoy a traditional South Indian thali at Saravana Bhavan, known for its delicious vegetarian cuisine and variety of dosas.
Saravana Bhavan has multiple branches across the city.
INR 300, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Kapaleeshwarar Temple

Explore the Dravidian-style architecture of Kapaleeshwarar Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and soak in the spiritual ambiance of this ancient temple.
Kapaleeshwarar Temple is a short drive from the city centre.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Shopping at T Nagar

Spend your evening shopping at T Nagar, one of the busiest shopping districts in Chennai, known for its silk sarees, jewellery, and traditional handicrafts.
T Nagar is easily accessible by public transport or taxi.
Variable, 2 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Murugan Idli Shop

Indulge in some authentic South Indian dinner at Murugan Idli Shop, famous for its fluffy idlis and delicious chutneys.
Murugan Idli Shop has multiple outlets in Chennai.
INR 200, 1 hour
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Day 2: Historical Marvels

Mahabalipuram, India

9:00AM

Explore Shore Temple

Begin your day by visiting the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Shore Temple, an ancient rock-cut temple overlooking the Bay of Bengal, known for its architectural beauty.
Shore Temple is a short walk from the main entrance of the monument complex.
INR 500 (includes entry to other monuments), 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Moonrakers

Enjoy a seafood lunch at Moonrakers restaurant, offering a stunning view of the beach and delicious coastal cuisine.
Moonrakers is located near the Shore Temple.
INR 800, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Pancha Rathas

Explore the magnificent monolithic rock-cut temples of Pancha Rathas, each carved in the shape of a chariot, showcasing exquisite Dravidian architecture.
Pancha Rathas is located within walking distance from Shore Temple.
INR 250, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Relax at Mahabalipuram Beach

Spend your evening relaxing at Mahabalipuram Beach, known for its golden sands and serene atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.
Mahabalipuram Beach is a short walk from the monument complex.
Free, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Seashell Restaurant

Enjoy a fresh seafood dinner at Seashell Restaurant, offering a variety of coastal delicacies and a cosy ambiance by the beach.
Seashell Restaurant is located near Mahabalipuram Beach.
INR 600, 1 hour
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Day 3: French Riviera of the East

Pondicherry, India

8:00AM

Explore Auroville

Start your day with a visit to Auroville, an experimental township known for its sustainable living practices and the Matrimandir, a golden spherical temple.
Auroville is a short drive from the city centre.
INR 200 (for Matrimandir viewing point pass), 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Tanto Pizzeria

Indulge in some delicious wood-fired pizzas and Italian cuisine at Tanto Pizzeria, a popular eatery in Pondicherry.
Tanto Pizzeria is located in the White Town area.
INR 500, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore French Quarter

Take a leisurely walk through the charming French Quarter of Pondicherry, known for its colonial architecture, vibrant cafes, and boutiques.
The French Quarter is best explored on foot or by renting a bicycle.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Visit Promenade Beach

Head to Promenade Beach to enjoy a scenic seaside promenade, lined with cafes and eateries, perfect for an evening stroll and sunset views.
Promenade Beach is a short walk from the French Quarter.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Rendezvous

Dine at Rendezvous, a rooftop restaurant offering a mix of Indian and French cuisine, with panoramic views of the city and the sea.
Rendezvous is located in the White Town area.
INR 800, 1 hour
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Day 4: Cultural Heritage

Thanjavur, India

9:00AM

Visit Brihadeeswarar Temple

Begin your day with a visit to Brihadeeswarar Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a masterpiece of Chola architecture, known for its towering gopuram and intricate carvings.
Brihadeeswarar Temple is located in the heart of Thanjavur.
INR 250, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Hotel Karthik

Enjoy a traditional South Indian thali for lunch at Hotel Karthik, known for its authentic flavours and local delicacies.
Hotel Karthik is a popular dining spot in Thanjavur.
INR 300, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Thanjavur Palace

Visit the historic Thanjavur Palace, once the official residence of the Maratha rulers, and explore its grand halls, museums, and the Saraswathi Mahal Library.
Thanjavur Palace is a short walk from Brihadeeswarar Temple.
INR 150, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Artisanal Shopping at Poompuhar

Shop for exquisite handicrafts and traditional Tanjore paintings at Poompuhar, a government emporium promoting local artisans and craftwork.
Poompuhar is located near the palace complex.
Variable, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Hotel Tamil Nadu

Relish a hearty dinner at Hotel Tamil Nadu, known for its authentic Tamil Nadu cuisine and a variety of regional dishes.
Hotel Tamil Nadu is a popular dining option in Thanjavur.
INR 400, 1 hour
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Day 5: Temples and Traditions

Madurai, India

9:00AM

Visit Meenakshi Amman Temple

Begin your day with a visit to Meenakshi Amman Temple, a historic Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Meenakshi and Lord Sundareswarar, known for its towering gopurams and intricate sculptures.
Meenakshi Amman Temple is located in the heart of Madurai.
INR 50 (Indian), INR 250 (Foreigner), 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Murugan Idli Kadai

Relish some delicious idlis and dosas for lunch at Murugan Idli Kadai, a famous eatery in Madurai known for its authentic South Indian flavours.
Murugan Idli Kadai has multiple branches across the city.
INR 300, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace

Visit the grand Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace, a 17th-century marvel showcasing Indo-Saracenic architecture, with its majestic pillars, courtyards, and light & sound show.
Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace is located near Meenakshi Amman Temple.
INR 50 (Indian), INR 250 (Foreigner), 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Shopping at Puthu Mandapam

Explore the bustling Puthu Mandapam market, known for its vibrant textiles, jewellery, and local handicrafts, perfect for souvenir shopping.
Puthu Mandapam is adjacent to Meenakshi Amman Temple.
Variable, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Amma Mess

Experience a traditional Chettinad meal at Amma Mess, a popular local eatery serving authentic Tamil cuisine with a homely touch.
Amma Mess is a renowned dining spot in Madurai.
INR 400, 1 hour
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Day 6: Hill Station Retreat

Kodaikanal, India

9:00AM

Visit Coaker's Walk

Start your day with a leisurely walk along Coaker's Walk, a picturesque pathway offering panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys, ideal for nature lovers and photographers.
Coaker's Walk is easily accessible from the city centre.
INR 20, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Boating at Kodai Lake

Enjoy a peaceful boat ride on the tranquil waters of Kodai Lake, surrounded by lush greenery and scenic beauty, offering a perfect retreat amidst nature.
Kodai Lake is a short walk from Coaker's Walk.
INR 100 (pedal boat), INR 150 (row boat), 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Astoria Veg Restaurant

Relish a vegetarian lunch at Astoria Veg Restaurant, known for its delectable South Indian thalis and refreshing beverages.
Astoria Veg Restaurant is located near Kodai Lake.
INR 400, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Bear Shola Falls

Explore the enchanting Bear Shola Falls, a serene waterfall hidden amidst the verdant forests of Kodaikanal, offering a tranquil escape into nature's beauty.
Bear Shola Falls is a short drive from the city centre.
INR 10, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Shopping at Tibetan Market

Shop for woollen clothing, handicrafts, and souvenirs at the bustling Tibetan Market, known for its unique artefacts and local handicrafts.
Tibetan Market is located in the heart of Kodaikanal.
Variable, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Cloud Street

Enjoy a cosy dinner at Cloud Street, a rooftop restaurant offering a fusion of Indian and continental cuisine, with stunning views of the surrounding hills.
Cloud Street is located in the city centre.
INR 600, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 7: Queen of Hill Stations

Ooty, India

9:00AM

Visit Botanical Gardens

Begin your day by exploring the lush Botanical Gardens of Ooty, showcasing a variety of exotic plants, flowers, and trees, perfect for nature enthusiasts.
Botanical Gardens are located near the city centre.
INR 30 (Indian), INR 250 (Foreigner), 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Earl's Secret

Indulge in a sumptuous meal at Earl's Secret, a colonial-style restaurant offering a blend of Anglo-Indian cuisine amidst a charming ambience.
Earl's Secret is located in a heritage property in Ooty.
INR 800, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Doddabetta Peak

Drive to Doddabetta Peak, the highest mountain in the Nilgiri Hills, for panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and a refreshing mountain breeze.
Doddabetta Peak is a short drive from the city centre.
INR 10, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Tea Tasting at Tea Museum

Visit the Tea Museum to learn about the history of tea production in the region and enjoy a tea tasting session, savouring different varieties of local teas.
The Tea Museum is located near Doddabetta Peak.
INR 100, 1 hour

6:00PM

Stroll at Ooty Lake

Take a leisurely stroll along the banks of Ooty Lake, a serene artificial lake surrounded by eucalyptus trees, offering boat rides and scenic views of the sunset.
Ooty Lake is a short walk from the city centre.
INR 10 (entrance), INR 200 (boat ride), 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Place To Bee

Conclude your day with a delightful dinner at Place To Bee, a cosy cafe known for its European cuisine and delectable desserts, perfect for a relaxing evening in Ooty.
Place To Bee is located near Ooty Lake.
INR 600, 1 hour
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