5-Day Family Friendly Itinerary for Tamil Nadu

Day 1: Explore Chennai

Chennai, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Murugan Idli Shop

Start your day with delicious soft idlis and filter coffee at Murugan Idli Shop, a popular spot for traditional South Indian breakfast.
Drive or use a taxi service to reach the restaurant.
INR 400, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Marina Beach

Head to Marina Beach to enjoy a morning walk along the coastline and witness the stunning sunrise; there are playgrounds for kids to enjoy too.
Located just 20 minutes from the breakfast spot.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Hotel Saravana Bhavan

Savor a hearty vegetarian lunch featuring their signature thali, perfect for families with diverse tastes.
A 15-minute drive from Marina Beach.
INR 600, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore Fort St. George

Discover the fascinating history of Tamil Nadu at Fort St. George, complete with museums suitable for kids.
15 minutes by car.
INR 25, 2 hours

4:00PM

Shopping at T Nagar

Indulge in some shopping at T Nagar, known for its vibrant markets where you can find exquisite silk sarees and souvenirs.
A quick 30-minute drive.
Varies, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Ponnusamy Hotel

Conclude your day with a delicious meal at Ponnusamy Hotel, known for its spicy non-vegetarian dishes.
20 minutes drive.
INR 800, 1 hour
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Day 2: Mahabalipuram Wonders

Mahabalipuram, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Aadai Arai

Fuel up with a unique breakfast of aadai and chutney, a specialty in Mahabalipuram.
Drive to Aadai Arai, about 1.5 hours from Chennai.
INR 350, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Shore Temple

Marvel at the stunning architecture of the Shore Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site that overlooks the Bay of Bengal.
Just 5 minutes from breakfast spot.
INR 10, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore Arjuna's Penance

Check out Arjuna’s Penance, which is the largest bas-relief in the world, and a fun photo spot for the family.
5-minute drive.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Seashore Park Hotel

Enjoy fresh seafood and local specialties at Seashore Park while enjoying views of the ocean.
Less than 5-minute drive.
INR 700, 1 hour

2:00PM

Relax at Mahabalipuram Beach

Spend a leisurely afternoon on the beach where kids can play in the sand and parents can relax.
A short walk from the restaurant.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Visit Krishna's Butter Ball

Don't miss this giant rock balancing on a slope, a unique sight that is great for family fun and photos.
5-minute drive.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Mango Hill

End the day with a delightful dining experience at Mango Hill, offering a mix of Indian and continental cuisine.
10-minute drive from Krishna's Butter Ball.
INR 800, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Spiritual Kanchipuram

Kanchipuram, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Saravana Bhavan

Head to Saravana Bhavan for a flavorful South Indian breakfast before your journey to Kanchipuram.
1 hour drive from Mahabalipuram.
INR 500, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Kanchipuram Temples

Explore the numerous intricate temples of Kanchipuram, known as the City of Thousand Temples, which will entrall both kids and adults.
15-minute drive to the nearest temple.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Sri Hari Grand

Enjoy a delicious vegetarian meal at Sri Hari Grand, providing a menu filled with South Indian favorites.
10-minute drive from temples.
INR 600, 1 hour

1:30PM

Weaving House Visit

Visit a local silk weaving house where children can see artisans at work and learn about Kanchipuram’s famous silk sarees.
15-minute driving distance.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore the Ekambareswarar Temple

Visit one of the most ancient temples in Kanchipuram, dedicated to Lord Shiva, with a massive ginkgo tree in its courtyard that fascinates children.
10 minutes by car.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Visit Kamakshi Amman Temple

Another sacred site that offers beautiful architecture and insights into local culture; it's also an excellent spot for reflection.
20 minutes by car.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Hotel Tamil Nadu

Enjoy a wholesome meal at Hotel Tamil Nadu, known for its well-prepared local dishes.
15 minutes drive.
INR 700, 1 hour
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Day 4: Spiritual Retreat in Tiruvannamalai

Tiruvannamalai, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Vickys Kitchen

Indulge in a hearty breakfast at Vickys Kitchen which boasts local flavors and a cozy atmosphere.
1.5 hours drive from Kanchipuram.
INR 450, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Arunachala Hill

Experience the spiritual energy of Arunachala Hill, renowned for its holiness, perfect for a family hike.
10 minutes by car.
Free, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Hotel Arunachalam

Enjoy lunch featuring South Indian cuisine at Hotel Arunachalam, known for its local dishes.
15-minute drive from the hill.
INR 600, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore Ramanashram

Visit the serene Ramanashram, associated with the revered sage Ramana Maharshi, and take part in the peaceful atmosphere.
10 minutes by car.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Sri Ramana Maharshi Ashram

Another calming place that showcases the life and teachings of Ramana Maharshi, beneficial for a calm family experience.
Just minutes from Ramanashram.
Free, 1 hour

4:30PM

Shopping at Local Markets

Explore the local markets offering unique handicrafts, perfect for souvenirs.
10-minute drive.
Varies, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Ganga Cafe

Wrap up your day at Ganga Cafe, known for its wholesome menu and eco-friendly setup.
10 minutes light drive.
INR 700, 1 hour
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Day 5: Hill Station Getaway in Ooty

Ooty, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel Aasai

Start your day with a delightful breakfast at Hotel Aasai, featuring South Indian and North Indian mix dishes.
3 hours drive from Tiruvannamalai.
INR 500, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Ooty Lake

Spend the morning enjoying canoe rides and quality time at the picturesque Ooty Lake, perfect for family photo sessions.
10 minutes drive from the hotel.
INR 300, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Explore Botanical Garden

Take a leisurely stroll through the beautifully maintained Botanical Gardens showcasing diverse flora, a hit with children.
10-minute drive.
INR 50, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Fountain Tea House

Enjoy a quaint lunch at Fountain Tea House while relishing the view of the gardens.
Nearby Botanical Garden.
INR 600, 1 hour

2:30PM

Nilgiri Mountain Railway

Experience a ride on the historic Nilgiri Mountain Railway, one of India's UNESCO World Heritage Sites; the kids will love it.
30-minute drive.
INR 1200, 2 hours

5:00PM

Visit the Rose Garden

Complete your day with a stop at Ooty's Rose Garden, brimming with a variety of roses; perfect for family exploration.
10 minutes from railway station.
INR 30, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at Nahar's Sidewalk Cafe

Conclude your Tamil Nadu adventure with a fantastic dinner at Nahar’s Sidewalk Cafe, famous for its pizzas and pasta.
10 minutes drive.
INR 800, 1 hour
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