How many days do you need in Tamilnadu?

This itinerary covers 6 days in Tamilnadu, which is a great amount of time to explore the main highlights. Depending on your pace and interests, you could extend or shorten the trip.

What is the best itinerary for Tamilnadu?

Plan your perfect 6 days trip to Tamilnadu. This detailed travel itinerary includes daily activities, local recommendations, and insider tips to make your journey unforgettable.

Exploring Tamil Nadu in 6 Days

Day 1: Discovering Chennai

Chennai, India

8:00AM

Marina Beach

Start your day with a visit to Marina Beach, the second-longest urban beach in the world, offering stunning views of the Bay of Bengal.

Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Kapaleeswarar Temple

Explore Kapaleeswarar Temple, a traditional Hindu temple known for its Dravidian architecture and vibrant cultural importance.

Free, 1 hour

1:30PM

Lunch at Murugan Idli Shop

Indulge in delicious South Indian cuisine at Murugan Idli Shop, known for its authentic and flavourful dishes.

GBP 10, 1 hour

3:00PM

Fort St. George

Visit Fort St. George, the first English fortress in India, housing the Fort Museum with a collection of artefacts from the colonial period.

GBP 5, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Annalakshmi Restaurant

Enjoy a traditional vegetarian dinner at Annalakshmi Restaurant, serving a wide range of South Indian dishes in a serene ambiance.

GBP 15, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in Chennai

Day 2: Marvels of Mahabalipuram

Mahabalipuram, India

9:00AM

Shore Temple

Begin your day with a visit to the Shore Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site dedicated to Lord Shiva, offering picturesque views of the Bay of Bengal.

GBP 3, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Moonrakers

Relish a seafood lunch at Moonrakers, a beachfront restaurant known for its fresh catch and panoramic views of the coastline.

GBP 12, 1 hour

2:00PM

Pancha Rathas

Explore the Pancha Rathas, a monolithic rock-cut temple complex showcasing unique Dravidian architecture and intricate carvings.

GBP 2, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Relax at Mahabalipuram Beach

Unwind at Mahabalipuram Beach, known for its golden sands and serene ambiance, perfect for a leisurely evening stroll.

Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at The Fisherman's Wharf

Dine at The Fisherman's Wharf, offering a delectable fusion of Indian and seafood cuisine with a laid-back beachfront setting.

GBP 20, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Mahabalipuram

Day 3: Tranquility in Pondicherry

Pondicherry, India

9:00AM

Auroville

Embark on a spiritual journey at Auroville, an experimental township dedicated to human unity and conscious living, offering unique meditation spaces and eco-friendly practices.

Free, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Tanto Pizzeria

Enjoy wood-fired pizzas and Italian delicacies at Tanto Pizzeria, a charming eatery with a relaxed ambience.

GBP 10, 1 hour

3:00PM

Promenade Beach

Stroll along the scenic Promenade Beach, lined with cafes and vibrant street markets, offering a perfect blend of relaxation and local culture.

Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Aurobindo Ashram

Visit Aurobindo Ashram, a spiritual community founded by Sri Aurobindo and The Mother, known for its tranquil atmosphere and meditation sessions.

Free, 1 hour

8:00PM

Dinner at Rendezvous

Indulge in French cuisine at Rendezvous, offering a blend of traditional and innovative dishes in a cosy setting with warm hospitality.

GBP 18, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Pondicherry

Day 4: Exploring Chidambaram

Chidambaram, India

9:00AM

Nataraja Temple

Discover the Nataraja Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva in his dancing form, showcasing exquisite sculptures and intricate architecture.

GBP 4, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Murugan Mess

Savour authentic South Indian thali at The Murugan Mess, a popular local eatery known for its flavourful and homely meals.

GBP 8, 1 hour

2:00PM

Thillai Kali Amman Temple

Visit Thillai Kali Amman Temple, dedicated to the fierce form of Goddess Kali, showcasing intricate artworks and vibrant rituals.

GBP 2, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Shopping at Chidambaram Market

Explore the bustling Chidambaram Market, known for its vibrant local handicrafts, traditional silk sarees, and authentic souvenirs.

Variable, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Tamil Nadu Mess

Dine at Tamil Nadu Mess, a no-frills eatery offering a mix of Tamil Nadu specialities and comforting meals at pocket-friendly prices.

GBP 6, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in Chidambaram

Day 5: Heritage of Tanjore

Tanjore, India

9:00AM

Brihadeeswarar Temple

Begin your day with a visit to Brihadeeswarar Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site dedicated to Lord Shiva, showcasing remarkable Chola architecture and intricate sculptures.

GBP 5, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Sathars

Enjoy a traditional banana leaf meal at Sathars, a local favourite known for its authentic Tamil Nadu cuisine and warm hospitality.

GBP 10, 1 hour

2:00PM

Tanjore Royal Palace

Explore the Tanjore Royal Palace, a magnificent historical site featuring ancient artefacts, vibrant paintings, and insights into the region's regal past.

GBP 3, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Artisan Street

Discover the Artisan Street, known for its skilled craftsmen creating intricate Tanjore paintings, brassware, and traditional artworks.

Variable, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Ramyas Restaurant

Savour North and South Indian dishes at Ramyas Restaurant, known for its diverse menu and comfortable dining experience in the heart of Tanjore.

GBP 15, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Tanjore

Day 6: Cultural Marvels in Madurai

Madurai, India

9:00AM

Meenakshi Amman Temple

Explore the Meenakshi Amman Temple, a significant Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Meenakshi and Lord Shiva, featuring stunning architecture and intricate sculptures.

GBP 3, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Murugan Idli Shop

Indulge in a sumptuous South Indian lunch at Murugan Idli Shop, famous for its soft idlis and an array of chutneys.

GBP 8, 1 hour

2:30PM

Gandhi Memorial Museum

Visit the Gandhi Memorial Museum, showcasing a fascinating collection of artefacts, photographs, and exhibits commemorating Mahatma Gandhi's life and principles.

GBP 2, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Walk around Meenakshi Amman Temple

Take a leisurely walk around the bustling streets near Meenakshi Amman Temple, witnessing local life, vibrant markets, and intricate temple architecture.

Free, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Amma Mess

Dine at Amma Mess, a popular eatery known for its authentic Tamil Nadu meals, from biryanis to curries, in a casual and welcoming setting.

GBP 7, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in Madurai

Step 1 Outline Preview:

Exploring Tamil Nadu in 6 Days

Day 1: Discovering Chennai

8:00AM

12:00PM

1:30PM

3:00PM

6:00PM

Day 2: Marvels of Mahabalipuram

9:00AM

12:00PM

2:00PM

4:00PM

7:00PM

Day 3: Tranquility in Pondicherry

9:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

5:00PM

8:00PM

Day 4: Exploring Chidambaram

9:00AM

12:00PM

2:00PM

4:00PM

7:00PM

Day 5: Heritage of Tanjore

9:00AM

12:00PM

2:00PM

4:00PM

7:00PM

Day 6: Cultural Marvels in Madurai

9:00AM

1:00PM

2:30PM

4:30PM

7:00PM

More About Tamilnadu

Plan Your Tamilnadu Trip