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

Viewed by 144 travelers

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
Find Hotels in Chennai

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
Find Hotels in Kanchipuram

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
Find Hotels in Mahabalipuram

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
Find Hotels in Pondicherry

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
Find Hotels in Chidambaram

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
Find Hotels in Trichy

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
Find Hotels in Madurai

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
Find Hotels in Madurai
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