How many days do you need in Tamilnadu?

This itinerary covers 7 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 7 days trip to Tamilnadu. This detailed travel itinerary includes daily activities, local recommendations, and insider tips to make your journey unforgettable.

Tamilnadu Family Road Trip & City Nature Experience

Day 1: Explore Chennai Culture

Chennai, India

9:00AM

Visit Marina Beach

Start your trip by visiting the iconic Marina Beach, where you can enjoy a morning stroll along the shore and take in the breathtaking views.

INR 0, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Murugan Idli Shop

Indulge in a traditional South Indian breakfast at Murugan Idli Shop, known for its delicious and authentic idlis and dosas.

INR 300, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Kapaleeshwarar Temple

Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Chennai by visiting the ancient Kapaleeshwarar Temple, known for its stunning Dravidian architecture.

INR 50, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Shopping at T Nagar

End your day with some shopping at the vibrant T Nagar market, where you can shop for traditional silk sarees, jewelry, and handicrafts.

Variable, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Chennai

Day 2: Coastal Delights in Mahabalipuram

Mahabalipuram, India

9:00AM

Visit Shore Temple

Head to Mahabalipuram to explore the UNESCO World Heritage site of Shore Temple, a magnificent temple complex by the sea.

INR 250, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Moonrakers Restaurant

Enjoy a fresh seafood lunch at Moonrakers Restaurant, overlooking the Bay of Bengal and offering a variety of coastal delicacies.

INR 800, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Pancha Rathas

Discover the ancient stone-carved structures of Pancha Rathas, showcasing unique architectural styles and historical significance.

INR 30, 1 hour

5:00PM

Relax at Mahabalipuram Beach

Unwind at Mahabalipuram Beach, where you can enjoy a leisurely evening by the shore and witness a stunning sunset over the ocean.

INR 0, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Mahabalipuram

Day 3: French Vibes in Pondicherry

Pondicherry, India

9:00AM

Experience Auroville

Begin your day with a visit to Auroville, an experimental township known for its sustainable living practices and spiritual community.

INR 0, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Tanto Pizzeria

Enjoy a delightful Mediterranean lunch at Tanto Pizzeria, known for its authentic wood-fired pizzas and cozy ambience.

INR 600, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Aurobindo Ashram

Visit the serene Aurobindo Ashram, a spiritual institution founded by Sri Aurobindo and The Mother, offering tranquility and introspection.

INR 0, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Stroll along Promenade Beach

Take a leisurely walk along the picturesque Promenade Beach, lined with colonial buildings and offering scenic views of the Bay of Bengal.

INR 0, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Pondicherry

Day 4: Historical Wonders in Thanjavur

Thanjavur, India

9:00AM

Visit Brihadeeswarar Temple

Explore the majestic Brihadeeswarar Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its grand architecture and rich history dating back to the 11th century.

INR 250, 2.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Raya's Restaurant

Indulge in delicious Chettinad cuisine for lunch at Raya's Restaurant, offering a blend of spicy and aromatic flavors unique to the region.

INR 700, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Thanjavur Palace

Visit the historic Thanjavur Palace, once the official residence of the Marathas and Nayaks, showcasing intricate architecture and royal artifacts.

INR 100, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Witness Sunset at Sivaganga Tank

Experience a serene evening by the Sivaganga Tank, a sacred water body near the temple, offering a tranquil setting for relaxation and sunset views.

INR 0, 1 hour

Find Hotels in Thanjavur

Day 5: Cultural Heritage in Madurai

Madurai, India

9:00AM

Visit Meenakshi Amman Temple

Explore the iconic Meenakshi Amman Temple, a significant Hindu pilgrimage site with intricate carvings, towering gopurams, and bustling bazaars.

INR 50, 2.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Murugan Mess

Enjoy a traditional South Indian lunch at Murugan Mess, known for its authentic Chettinad cuisine and flavorsome biryanis.

INR 400, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Gandhi Memorial Museum

Learn about India's freedom struggle at the Gandhi Memorial Museum, housing exhibits, photographs, and artifacts related to Mahatma Gandhi.

INR 50, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Attend Night Ceremony at Meenakshi Temple

Witness the mesmerizing night ceremony at Meenakshi Temple, where rituals, music, and lights create a spiritual ambiance.

INR 0, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Madurai

Day 6: Hill Station Retreat in Kodaikanal

Kodaikanal, India

9:00AM

Visit Coaker's Walk

Start your day with a refreshing walk along Coaker's Walk, a scenic pathway offering panoramic views of the lush valleys and surrounding hills.

INR 20, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Boating at Kodaikanal Lake

Enjoy a serene boating experience on Kodaikanal Lake, surrounded by verdant forests and misty mountains, perfect for relaxation and family fun.

INR 150, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Altaf's Cafe

Savor a delicious meal at Altaf's Cafe, a popular eatery known for its homemade chocolates, pastas, and range of Italian dishes.

INR 600, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Explore Pillar Rocks

Visit the stunning Pillar Rocks, a series of vertically positioned granite boulders offering breathtaking views of the mist-covered valleys and cliffs.

INR 50, 1 hour

5:00PM

Relax at Bryant Park

End your day by unwinding at Bryant Park, a well-maintained botanical garden with colorful flowers, fountains, and peaceful surroundings.

INR 30, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in Kodaikanal

Day 7: Explore Coimbatore's Nature

Coimbatore, India

9:00AM

Visit Anamalai Tiger Reserve

Embark on a wildlife adventure at Anamalai Tiger Reserve, home to diverse flora and fauna, including tigers, elephants, and unique bird species.

INR 200, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Sree Annapoorna Sree Gowrishankar

Indulge in a traditional South Indian thali at Sree Annapoorna Sree Gowrishankar, a renowned restaurant offering authentic Coimbatore flavors.

INR 400, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore VOC Park and Zoo

Spend the afternoon at VOC Park and Zoo, a family-friendly destination with a variety of animal exhibits, toy train rides, and lush greenery.

INR 50, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Junior Kuppanna

Enjoy a hearty dinner at Junior Kuppanna, known for its delectable Chettinad cuisine and flavorful biryanis, perfect for a satisfying end to your trip.

INR 800, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in Coimbatore

Step 1 Outline Preview:

Tamilnadu Family Road Trip & City Nature Experience

Day 1: Explore Chennai Culture

9:00AM

12:00PM

2:00PM

5:00PM

Day 2: Coastal Delights in Mahabalipuram

9:00AM

12:00PM

3:00PM

5:00PM

Day 3: French Vibes in Pondicherry

9:00AM

12:00PM

3:00PM

5:00PM

Day 4: Historical Wonders in Thanjavur

9:00AM

12:30PM

3:00PM

5:00PM

Day 5: Cultural Heritage in Madurai

9:00AM

12:30PM

3:00PM

5:00PM

Day 6: Hill Station Retreat in Kodaikanal

9:00AM

11:00AM

1:30PM

3:30PM

5:00PM

Day 7: Explore Coimbatore's Nature

9:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

6:00PM

More About Tamilnadu

Plan Your Tamilnadu Trip