8-Day Family Friendly Adventure Road Trip from Chennai to Madurai (No Museums)

Day 1: Exploring Chennai

Chennai, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Sangeetha Veg Restaurant

Start your day with a delicious South Indian breakfast of idli, dosa, and sambar.
Located in T Nagar, drive for approx. 15 mins to reach.
INR 800, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Kapaleeshwarar Temple

Explore the stunning architecture and soak in the spiritual atmosphere of this iconic 7th-century temple.
A short 15-minute drive from the restaurant.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Hotel Saravana Bhavan

Enjoy a variety of authentic South Indian dishes in a family-friendly atmosphere.
A 10-minute drive from the temple.
INR 1,200, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Marina Beach Stroll

Take a leisurely stroll along the scenic waterfront and enjoy some beach time with the kids.
30-minute drive from the restaurant.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Visit the Santhome Basilica

See this beautiful basilica, which offers stunning architecture and a serene environment.
20-minute drive from Marina Beach.
Free, 1 hour

5:30PM

Explore Mylapore Tank

Spend some time relaxing around the picturesque tank area, perfect for families to unwind.
Just a short drive away from the basilica.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at The Fisherman's Wharf

Savour delicious seafood and various vegetarian options while enjoying live music.
20-minute drive from Mylapore Tank.
INR 2,000, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Temple Town Kanchipuram

Kanchipuram, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel New Tiffin

Enjoy a hearty breakfast before heading towards Kanchipuram, known for its temples.
60-minute drive from Chennai.
INR 700, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Ekambareswarar Temple

Explore the impressive architecture of one of the largest temples in Kanchipuram, perfect for family visits.
A short drive from the restaurant.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Visit the Kailasanathar Temple

Marvel at the intricate carvings of this ancient structure and enjoy the serene atmosphere.
5-minute drive from Ekambareswarar Temple.
Free, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Saravana Bhavan

Choose from a variety of vegetarian dishes in a family-friendly setting.
10-minute drive from Kailasanathar Temple.
INR 1,200, 1 hour

2:30PM

Shopping for Silk Sarees

Purchase some beautiful silk sarees as souvenirs from Kanchipuram's famous silk weaving industry.
Local shops are nearby.
INR varies, 2 hours

5:00PM

Drive to Mahabalipuram

Enjoy the scenic drive to the coastal town of Mahabalipuram.
Approximately 70-minute drive.
N/A, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Bay View Restaurant

Dine on fresh seafood with a view of the ocean, perfect for families.
Located along the coastline in Mahabalipuram.
INR 1,800, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Adventure in Mahabalipuram

Mahabalipuram, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Harbour

Indulge in a beachside breakfast featuring a variety of local dishes.
Nearby hotel.
INR 900, 1 hour

9:30AM

Exploration of Shore Temple

Enjoy the stunning coastal views while exploring this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
A quick 10-minute drive.
INR 50, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Visit Arjuna's Penance

Admire the ancient bas-relief carvings depicting a legendary scene from the Mahabharata.
A short drive from the Shore Temple.
Free, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Le Yogi

Savour a mix of Indian and continental food; perfect for family dining.
Close to the attractions.
INR 1,500, 1 hour

2:30PM

Beach Time at Mahabalipuram Beach

Relax on the beach, swim, and let the kids play in the sand for some fun in the sun.
A few minutes’ walk from Le Yogi.
Free, 3 hours

5:30PM

Visit the Pancha Rathas

Explore these monolithic rock-cut temples representing ancient architectural excellence.
A short drive from the beach.
INR 50, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Moonrakers

Enjoy an eclectic menu with both seafood and vegetarian options just off the beach.
Near the beach.
INR 1,800, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Cultural Adventure in Pondicherry

Pondicherry, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Baker Street

Start your day with freshly baked croissants and coffee at this renowned café.
Drive from Mahabalipuram (approximately 2 hours).
INR 800, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Explore Auroville

Visit this unique township known for its community living and famous Matrimandir.
30-minute drive from Baker Street.
Free, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Villa Shanti

Enjoy a mix of French and South Indian cuisine in a charming colonial setting.
20-minute drive from Auroville.
INR 1,500, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Stroll in the French Quarter

Wander through the charming streets lined with colonial architecture and colourful walls.
Walk around the nearby streets.
Free, 1 hour

4:00PM

Enjoy a visit to Promenade Beach

Relax at the beach as you enjoy the sunset views while the kids play in the sand.
Near the French Quarter.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Visit the Botanical Garden

Enjoy a family walk through this lovely garden and let the kids enjoy the greenery.
Close to the beach.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Surguru Restaurant

Delight in South Indian and coastal cuisine that the whole family will enjoy.
In the town center.
INR 1,200, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Nature and Culture in Chidambaram

Chidambaram, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel Aakash

Enjoy traditional South Indian fare before continuing your journey.
Departing from Pondicherry (approx. 2 hours drive).
INR 600, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Nataraja Temple

Explore this ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva with intricate sculptures and rich history.
Short drive away from the restaurant.
Free, 2 hours

11:30AM

Outdoor Fun at Thillai Kali Temple

See this temple known for its unique architectural style and take family photos in the scenic surroundings.
10-minute drive from Nataraja Temple.
Free, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Annamalai Hotel

Taste authentic South Indian thali in a traditional setting.
Local to Nataraja Temple.
INR 700, 1 hour

2:30PM

Drive to Thanjavur

Hit the road and head toward the cultural hub of Thanjavur.
Approximately 2.5-hour drive.
N/A, 2.5 hours

5:00PM

Visit the Brihadeeswarar Temple

Marvel at this UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its grand architecture.
Just a short drive from your arrival in Thanjavur.
INR 50, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Mannaoon Restaurant

Satisfy your hunger with a selection of local delicacies in a comfortable setting.
Near the temple.
INR 1,200, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Adventure in Trichy

Trichy, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel Tamil Nadu

Start your day with hearty local breakfast options.
Departing from Thanjavur (approx. 1-hour drive).
INR 700, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Rockfort Temple

Climb up to the temple for breathtaking views of Trichy and see its unique architecture.
A short drive from the restaurant.
INR 50, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Visit Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple

Discover one of the largest functioning temples in India, known for its exquisite sculptures.
A 30-minute drive from Rockfort Temple.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Banana Leaf

Enjoy traditional Tamil meals served on banana leaves for an authentic experience.
Near the temple.
INR 1,200, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Explore Tiruchirappalli's Surroundings

Take a leisurely drive around the city, visiting nearby parks or scenic spots according to the family’s preferences.
Completely flexible – drive around as desired.
Flexibly priced, 2 hours

4:30PM

Drive to Madurai

Head toward your final destination and enjoy the scenic views along the way.
A 2-hour drive.
N/A, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Hotel Tamil Nadu Madurai

Conclude your day with a relaxing dinner featuring local cuisine.
Reached Madurai.
INR 1,500, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Exploring Majestic Madurai

Madurai, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Kumar Mess

Start the day with a famous Madurai breakfast of idli and chutney.
Nearby hotel.
INR 600, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Meenakshi Amman Temple

Explore the iconic temple with its stunning sculptures and vibrant architecture.
Short drive from breakfast.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Sri Preambalam Restaurant

Enjoy a wholesome local meal in a pleasant atmosphere.
Near the temple.
INR 1,200, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore the vibrant local markets

Roam around the bustling local markets, shop for souvenirs, and enjoy some street food.
Walking distance from the restaurant.
Price varies, 2 hours

3:30PM

Visit Alagar Kovil

Experience the calm and serenity of this temple located in a picturesque setting.
About 30-minute drive from the markets.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Visit Thirumalai Nayakkar Mahal

Dive into the history of the Nayakkar dynasty at this impressive palace.
Return back towards Madurai city.
INR 50, 1 hour

7:30PM

Dinner at the Modern Restaurant

End your day with delicious South Indian cuisines in a family-friendly ambiance.
Close to your hotel.
INR 1,800, 1.5 hours
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Day 8: Wrapping Up in Madurai

Madurai, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Subramaniya Mess

Enjoy a traditional and hearty breakfast for a strong start to your final day.
Considered one of Madurai’s must-visit spots.
INR 600, 1 hour

9:30AM

Last-minute shopping in the local markets

Explore local markets for souvenirs like Madurai's famous jasmines and textiles.
Local shopping districts.
Varies, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Aachi's Hotel

Savour some of the best local culinary delights before leaving the city.
In Madurai city centre.
INR 1,200, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Visit the Koodal Azhagar Temple

Explore another beautiful temple renowned for its architectural designs.
Nearby the restaurant.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Leisurely Drive to Departure Points

Enjoy the final scenic views while driving to your designated departure point.
Flexible timing as per your departure plan.
N/A, 1-2 hours
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