Adventure in Tamil Nadu: A Family-Friendly 4-Day Road Trip

Day 1: Chennai Highlights

Chennai, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Murugan Idli Shop

Start your day with soft idlis and steaming hot sambar at this iconic eatery that’s loved by locals and visitors alike.
Head to the restaurant by taking a cab or local transport.
INR 300, 1 Hour

9:30AM

Visit Fort St. George

Explore India's first fort built by the British, which now houses a museum displaying colonial relics and history.
Drive 15 minutes from the breakfast spot to the fort.
INR 50, 2 Hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Banana Leaf

Enjoy a traditional Tamil Nadu meal served on a banana leaf with rice, sambhar, and a variety of side dishes.
Located approximately 10 minutes from Fort St. George.
INR 800, 1.5 Hours

2:00PM

Visit Marina Beach

Relax at one of the longest urban beaches in the world, where kids can play and families can take a leisurely stroll.
A quick 15-minute drive from the lunch spot.
Free, 2 Hours

4:30PM

Explore the National Art Gallery

Delight in the rich culture of Tamil Nadu by viewing an impressive collection of paintings and statues.
15 minutes drive from Marina Beach.
INR 30, 1 Hour

6:00PM

Dinner at The Raintree

Enjoy a buffet dinner featuring authentic South Indian and continental cuisine amid a relaxing ambiance.
Only a 20-minute drive from the gallery.
INR 1200, 1.5 Hours
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Day 2: Mahabalipuram Marvels

Mahabalipuram, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Deal's Beach Resort

Savor a hearty breakfast with a view of the sea at this family-friendly resort.
Drive from Chennai to Mahabalipuram, which takes about an hour.
INR 500, 1 Hour

9:30AM

Visit the Shore Temple

Marvel at the UNESCO World Heritage Site and its intricate stone carvings right by the sea.
Just a 10-minute drive from the resort.
INR 30, 1 Hour

11:00AM

Explore Pancha Rathas

Discover the rustic charm of five monolithic temples shaped like chariots.
Located approximately 5 minutes from the Shore Temple.
INR 30, 1.5 Hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Big Bites

Have a relaxed lunch featuring delicious sandwiches and pizzas that kids will love.
A 10-minute drive from Pancha Rathas.
INR 600, 1.5 Hours

3:00PM

Visit Arjuna's Penance

Gaze at the stunning rock-relief sculpture that depicts a scene from the epic Mahabharata.
10 minutes from The Big Bites.
Free, 1 Hour

5:00PM

Relax at Mahabalipuram Beach

Spend the evening at the beach where kids can have fun building sandcastles.
A 5-minute drive from Arjuna's Penance.
Free, 2 Hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Moonrakers

Finish the day with delicious seafood at this restaurant renowned for its fresh catch and cozy atmosphere.
Only a 5-minute walk from the beach.
INR 1000, 1.5 Hours
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Day 3: Exploration in Pondicherry

Pondicherry, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café des Arts

Enjoy a quirky café atmosphere with delicious pancakes and French toast that the entire family will love.
Drive from Mahabalipuram to Pondicherry, which takes about 2.5 hours.
INR 600, 1.5 Hours

10:00AM

Visit Auroville

Explore this unique township founded on the principles of human unity, and check out the Matrimandir.
A 30-minute drive from the café.
Free, 2 Hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Surguru

Treat your family to authentic South Indian cuisine with a variety of choices, including dosas and thalis.
A 20-minute drive back to Pondicherry town.
INR 600, 1.5 Hours

2:00PM

Explore Puducherry Museum

Discover artifacts and exhibits that showcase the history and culture of the region.
A quick 10-minute drive from Surguru.
INR 50, 1 Hour

3:30PM

Leisure at Promenade Beach

Unwind at this beautiful beach with stunning views, known for its evening strolls and relaxing vibes.
Walk 10 minutes from the museum.
Free, 2 Hours

6:00PM

Dinner at La Maison Rose

Dine at this charming restaurant serving exquisite Mediterranean dishes with a delightful twist.
A 10-minute walk from Promenade Beach.
INR 1200, 1.5 Hours
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Day 4: Kodaikanal Serenity

Kodaikanal, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Cliff Garden

Start your day with stunning views of Kodaikanal while enjoying a delicious breakfast of waffles and fresh fruit.
Drive from Pondicherry to Kodaikanal, which takes approximately 6 hours.
INR 600, 1.5 Hours

9:30AM

Visit Kodaikanal Lake

Spend some time renting a rowboat or pedal boat to explore the picturesque lake surrounded by lush mountains.
Only a 15-minute drive from the café.
INR 200, 2 Hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Royal Hotel

Enjoy a delightful selection of North Indian and South Indian meals while soaking in the cozy ambiance of the hotel restaurant.
A 15-minute drive from Kodaikanal Lake.
INR 800, 1.5 Hours

2:00PM

Visit Coaker's Walk

Stroll along this scenic walking path that offers breathtaking views of the valleys below.
A 10-minute drive from the hotel.
INR 20, 1 Hour

3:30PM

Explore Bryant Park

Wander through beautifully manicured gardens adorned with colorful flowers and diverse plant species.
Just a 5-minute drive from Coaker's Walk.
Free, 1.5 Hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Astoria Veg Restaurant

Conclude the trip with a sumptuous vegetarian meal featuring local and continental dishes.
A quick 10-minute drive from Bryant Park.
INR 700, 1.5 Hours
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