Exploring the Wonders of Tamil Nadu: An 8-Day Family Adventure

Day 1: Chennai Discovery

Chennai, India

9:00AM

Breakfast at Murugan Idli Shop

Start your day with some delicious South Indian breakfast featuring fluffy idlis and appetising sambar, a treat the whole family will love.
Head to Marina Beach post breakfast, just a 30-minute drive away.
INR500, 1 hour

10:30AM

Marina Beach

Let the kids enjoy a morning at the iconic Marina Beach, where you can build sandcastles and enjoy some fresh coconut water.
Drive to Fort St. George, around 15 minutes from the beach.
INR1000 (for parking and refreshments), 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Anjappar Chettinad Restaurant

Relish a traditional Chettinad lunch with spicy biryanis and flavourful chicken curries that will tantalise your taste buds.
After lunch, proceed to visit the Fort St. George, 20 minutes away.
INR1500, 1 hour

3:00PM

Fort St. George

Explore this historic fort and museum, where kids can learn about the history of Chennai and enjoy the beautiful architecture.
End your day at Kapaleeshwarar Temple, 15 minutes away.
INR200, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Kapaleeshwarar Temple

Visit this stunning temple and soak in its intricate carvings, perfect for family photos.
Head back to your hotel for some relaxation before dinner.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at The Fisherman's Fare

Enjoy a delightful dinner at this restaurant known for its seafood, a perfect end to your first day.
Return to your hotel.
INR2000, 2 hours
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Day 2: Coastal Adventure

Mahabalipuram, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at your hotel before embarking on the journey to Mahabalipuram.
Drive to Mahabalipuram, which is about 1 hour from Chennai.
INR0 (included in hotel stay), 1 hour

9:30AM

Shore Temple

Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Shore Temple, where the kids will marvel at the ancient architecture and beautiful sea views.
Stroll to the Pancha Rathas, which is a 15-minute walk.
INR250, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Pancha Rathas

Visit the Pancha Rathas, a set of monolithic rock-cut monuments that are a treat for the eyes and ideal for some fun family photos.
Walk back to your vehicle and proceed to lunch.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Waters Edge

Relish a delightful lunch by the seaside where you can enjoy local cuisine and wonderful views.
Post lunch, drive to Arjuna's Penance, about 5 minutes away.
INR1500, 1 hour

3:00PM

Arjuna's Penance

Marvel at this grand rock carving which is considered one of the largest in the world, fascinating for both adults and children.
Visit the Crocodile Bank which is 15 minutes away.
INR300, 1 hour

5:00PM

Crocodile Bank

Spend the rest of your afternoon learning about various species of crocodiles and even watching feeding sessions.
Return to your hotel in Mahabalipuram.
INR400, 1.5 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Niel’s Koffee

Wrap up your day with an enticing dinner at Niel's Koffee known for its great atmosphere and multi-cuisine menu.
Return to your hotel for the night.
INR1700, 2 hours
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Day 3: Puducherry Charm

Puducherry, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy your breakfast at the hotel before your road trip to Puducherry.
Drive to Puducherry, around 1 hour from Mahabalipuram.
INR0 (included in hotel stay), 1 hour

9:30AM

Auroville

Start your day exploring Auroville, a universal township, where children can learn about sustainability and unity.
After Auroville, head to Pondicherry Beach, about 30 minutes by car.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Pondicherry Beach

Spend some time relaxing at Pondicherry Beach, letting the kids enjoy the shallow waters and some beach games.
Drive to lunch at Café des Arts, around 15 minutes away.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Café des Arts

Savour a delightful lunch at this charming cafe with a French twist in the menu and beautiful ambience.
Next, visit the Sri Aurobindo Ashram, a 5-minute walk from the café.
INR1000, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Sri Aurobindo Ashram

Explore the serene environment of this ashram, where families can appreciate its tranquillity.
Stroll to the nearby Botanical Garden, around 15 minutes away.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Botanical Garden

Let the kids run around and admire the lush greenery at the Botanical Garden, perfect for a relaxing evening stroll.
Return to your hotel to rest before dinner.
Free, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at La Pasta

Enjoy a family-style dinner at this popular restaurant offering a range of delicious Italian dishes that will please everyone.
End your day back at the hotel.
INR1800, 2 hours
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Day 4: Temple Town Exploration

Kanchipuram, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Begin your day with breakfast at your hotel and prepare for a short drive to Kanchipuram.
Drive to Kanchipuram, which is about 1.5 hours from Puducherry.
INR0 (included in hotel stay), 1 hour

10:00AM

Kamakshi Amman Temple

Visit the Kamakshi Amman Temple, a vibrant and colourful temple that offers a glimpse into South Indian culture.
Move on to the Ekambareswarar Temple, which is a 15-minute drive.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Ekambareswarar Temple

Explore the massive Ekambareswarar Temple whose architecture and lore will surely enthral the entire family.
Lunch at Hotel Tamil Nadu, around 10 minutes away by car.
INR1200, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Hotel Tamil Nadu

Enjoy a traditional Tamil Nadu meal at this local eatery, serving thalis that are rich in flavour and variety.
After lunch, head to the Kanchipuram Silk Weaving Centre, 15 minutes away.
INR800, 1 hour

3:00PM

Kanchipuram Silk Weaving Centre

Witness the intricacy of silk weaving and let the kids enjoy learning about the craftsmanship that goes into these beautiful sarees.
Drive to Chennai, which is about 2 hours away.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Chennai Relaxation

Arrive back in Chennai, time to unwind and have free time until dinner.
Get ready for dinner at a local restaurant.
Free, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at 10 Drafts

Enjoy a family dinner in a friendly ambience with an array of Indian and international cuisine.
Return to your hotel for the night.
INR2000, 2 hours
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Day 5: Cultural Immersion

Tiruchirappalli, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Fuel up with a tasty breakfast before your trip to Tiruchirappalli.
Drive to Tiruchirappalli, approximately 4 hours from Chennai.
INR0 (included in hotel stay), 1 hour

12:00PM

Rockfort Temple

Arrive at Rockfort Temple and explore its stunning architecture and panoramic views - a mix of adventure for the kids as you climb to the top.
Drive to lunch, which is about 15 minutes away.
INR300, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Rani Restaurant

Dine on a lovely selection of South Indian thalis at this family-friendly eatery, known for its local flavours.
Visit the Tiruchirappalli Railway Museum, about 10 minutes away.
INR900, 1 hour

3:00PM

Tiruchirappalli Railway Museum

Take the family to this interactive museum where the history of the Indian railway comes alive with exhibits that all ages will enjoy.
Head to your hotel for some relaxation time.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Hotel Relaxation

Allow the family to unwind at your hotel after a day filled with exploration.
Get ready for dinner at a local restaurant in the city.
Free, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Hotel Srirangam

Enjoy a delicious dinner at this restaurant offering a variety of traditional dishes that cater to every palate.
Return to your hotel for a well-deserved rest.
INR1800, 2 hours
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Day 6: Heritage Experience

Thanjavur, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Indulge in a fulfilling breakfast before your drive to Thanjavur.
Drive to Thanjavur, around 1.5 hours from Tiruchirappalli.
INR0 (included in hotel stay), 1 hour

9:30AM

Brihadeeswarar Temple

Begin your day exploring the breathtaking Brihadeeswarar Temple, another UNESCO World Heritage Site that’s a marvel of Tamil architecture.
After, visit the Thanjavur Maratha Palace, approximately 10 minutes away.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Thanjavur Maratha Palace

Let the family marvel at the remnants of the old Maratha Palace and enjoy the museum showcasing history and art.
Lunch at the nearby Siva Restaurant, about 5 minutes away.
INR1000, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Siva Restaurant

Refuel with a hearty meal offering regional delicacies before heading to your next activity.
Drive to Thanjavur Art Gallery, about 15 minutes away.
INR800, 1 hour

3:00PM

Thanjavur Art Gallery

Explore this gallery, which showcases a variety of various art forms that the children will find fascinating.
Return to your hotel afterward for some family downtime.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Hotel Relaxation

Spend time at your hotel relaxing or take a dip in the pool before getting ready for dinner.
Make your way to dinner.
Free, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Hotel Saravana Bhavan

Delight in traditional South Indian fare, including dosas and medu vadas, in the lively atmosphere.
Return to your hotel for a restful night.
INR1500, 2 hours
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Day 7: Cultural Capital

Madurai, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Savour a refreshing breakfast at the hotel before heading to Madurai.
Drive to Madurai, approximately 3 hours from Thanjavur.
INR0 (included in hotel stay), 1 hour

11:00AM

Meenakshi Amman Temple

Explore the magnificent Meenakshi Amman Temple, where the detailed architecture and colourful towers will amaze the entire family.
Travel to the nearby Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace, which is only 15 minutes away.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Sri Preama Vilas

Taste the delicious local delicacies at Sri Preama Vilas, where the famous Madurai kari dosa awaits you.
After lunch, visit the Gandhi Museum, just a 10-minute drive.
INR1200, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Gandhi Museum

Learn about Mahatma Gandhi's life and work in a museum filled with memorabilia and photographs, making it educational and engaging for kids.
Drive to the local market for some shopping, approximately 15 minutes away.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Madurai Market

Wander through the bustling local market picking up souvenirs and experiencing local culture.
Return to your hotel to unwind before dinner.
Free, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Amaravathi Restaurant

Savour an exquisite meal at this family-friendly restaurant that strikes the perfect balance of tradition and taste.
Back to the hotel for a restful night.
INR1500, 2 hours
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Day 8: Return to Chennai

Chennai, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy your final breakfast at the hotel in Madurai before heading back to Chennai.
Drive back to Chennai, approximately 5 hours.
INR0 (included in hotel stay), 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Saravana Bhavan

Have a farewell lunch at Saravana Bhavan, enjoying familiar and delicious South Indian dishes.
Head to the shopping district after lunch.
INR1200, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Shopping in Chennai

Spend your afternoon exploring local shops for souvenirs and gifts to remember your Tamil Nadu adventure.
Visit Kapaleeshwarar Temple for one last look, around 20 minutes away.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Kapaleeshwarar Temple

Return to this beautiful temple for some final family photos and reflections on your trip.
End the journey back at your hotel.
Free, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at The Fisherman’s Fare

Celebrate the end of your trip with a delightful dinner at The Fisherman's Fare, reminiscing about your adventures.
Return to your hotel to pack for departure.
INR2000, 2 hours
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