5-Day Family Friendly Itinerary in Tamil Nadu

Day 1: Exploring Chennai

Chennai, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Sathyamurthy Restaurant

Start your day with a traditional South Indian breakfast featuring idlis and dosas that will please the whole family.
Located in the heart of Chennai, easy to access.
INR 800, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit to Kapaleeshwarar Temple

Explore the vibrant Kapaleeshwarar Temple, renowned for its intricate architecture and cultural significance.
Head straight to Mylapore which is a short drive away.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Marina Beach Stroll

Take a refreshing stroll along the second-longest beach in the world while kids enjoy some sand play.
Drive towards Marina Beach, around 15 minutes.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Marina

Enjoy a seafood meal at this beachfront restaurant that offers a range of delicious options for the whole family.
Stay at Marina Beach for convenience.
INR 1500, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit to Vandalur Zoo

Explore the vast Vandalur Zoo, a spacious wildlife sanctuary that kids love for its array of animals.
Around a 45-minute drive from Marina Beach.
INR 400, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Saravana Bhavan

Savour a delightful Veg Thali at this iconic restaurant known for its healthy vegetarian options.
Return back towards the city, a 50-minute drive.
INR 1200, 1 hour
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Day 2: Beach Day in Mahabalipuram

Mahabalipuram, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel Sea Breeze

Start the day with a hearty breakfast featuring local delicacies like pongal.
Located conveniently in Mahabalipuram.
INR 1000, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit to Shore Temple

Explore the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Shore Temple which stands majestically on the coast.
Short drive to the temple is about 10 minutes.
INR 40, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore Arjuna’s Penance

Marvel at the famous rock carvings depicting mythological scenes, entertaining for both kids and adults.
A 5-minute walk from the Shore Temple.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at The New Lighthouse Restaurant

Enjoy fresh seafood with beautiful sea views, an ideal spot for a family meal.
Easily reached by a short drive or a fun walk along the shore.
INR 1200, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Relax at Mahabalipuram Beach

Spend the afternoon relaxing at the beach while the kids play in the sands and water.
Just a short stroll from the restaurant.
Free, 3 hours

5:30PM

Visit to the Pancha Rathas

Discover the architectural marvels of the Pancha Rathas, five monolithic structures that will amaze the family.
It's a short drive of about 15 minutes from the beach.
INR 40, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Resort Restaurant

Wrap up the day with a relaxed family dinner at the resort where you can indulge in local cuisine.
Located at your accommodation for convenience.
INR 1500, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Cultural Connection in Pondicherry

Pondicherry, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café des Arts

Enjoy a whimsical breakfast in this charming French café with delicious croissants and coffee.
Located in the heart of Pondicherry's heritage area.
INR 800, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit to Auroville

Experience the unique community of Auroville where families can learn about sustainable living.
A 30-minute drive from the café.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The German Bakery

Savour delightful German and continental dishes, perfect for re-energising after the morning adventures.
Back in Pondicherry, a short 20-minute drive.
INR 1200, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Explore the Pondicherry Museum

Immerse in the local history and culture at the informative Pondicherry Museum.
Just a 10-minute drive or a 20-minute walk.
INR 50, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Promenade Beach Time

Let the kids play as you stroll along Promenade Beach and enjoy the beautiful sunset views.
A 5-minute drive from the museum.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at La Vespa

Indulge in authentic Italian dishes at this popular family-friendly restaurant.
Located close to the Promenade.
INR 1500, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Nature Escape in Kodaikanal

Kodaikanal, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Woodlands Restaurant

Start the day with a delicious breakfast that features fresh fruits and local delicacies.
A popular eatery in Kodaikanal.
INR 800, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Kodaikanal Lake

Enjoy boating on Kodaikanal Lake and relish the serene environment, fun for the entire family.
A short drive or walk to the lake.
INR 400, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Hotel Hilltop

Dine at this hilltop restaurant offering panoramic views and a menu full of local dishes.
A 15-minute drive from the lake.
INR 1200, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Visit to Coaker's Walk

Stroll along Coaker's Walk to take in stunning views of the surrounding hills, perfect for family photos.
A 10-minute drive or a pleasant walk.
INR 30, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit to Bryant Park

Explore the beautifully manicured gardens in Bryant Park, which has a playground for kids too.
A short 10-minute walk away.
INR 30, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Vegetarian

Enjoy a wholesome vegetarian dinner at this well-loved restaurant, perfect for unwinding after a day’s excursions.
Easy walking distance from Bryant Park.
INR 1000, 1 hour
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Day 5: Heritage Sites in Madurai

Madurai, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel Saravana

Enjoy a South Indian breakfast at this well-known hotel in Madurai, serving delicious traditional food.
Located close to the city centre.
INR 800, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit to Meenakshi Amman Temple

Explore the grand Meenakshi Amman Temple, famous for its stunning architecture and vibrant culture.
A short drive from the hotel.
Free, 2 hours

11:30AM

Explore the Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace

Discover the beauty of Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace, an architectural marvel where history comes alive.
A 10-minute drive from the temple.
INR 50, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Amma Mess

Savour home-style South Indian meals in this popular mess that offers an authentic experience.
A short drive from the palace.
INR 800, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit the Gandhi Memorial Museum

Learn about the life of Mahatma Gandhi in this well-curated museum that’s friendly for families.
A 10-minute drive from the restaurant.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Stroll in the Botanical Garden

Relax in the lush surroundings of the Botanical Garden, where kids can enjoy the fresh air and greenery.
A 15-minute drive from the museum.
INR 30, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Hotel Heritage

End your Tamil Nadu adventure with a comforting dinner offering a mix of local and North Indian dishes.
Located within the hotel.
INR 1200, 1 hour
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