Cultural and Culinary Delights of Chennai, India

Day 1: Explore Chennai

Chennai, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Sangeetha

Start your day with a wholesome South Indian breakfast featuring idli, dosa, and filter coffee.
Located in T. Nagar, the restaurant is easily accessible by local transport.
INR 250, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Kapaleeshwarar Temple

Marvel at the intricate Dravidian architecture and the beautiful gopuram of this ancient temple.
A short 15-minute taxi ride from the breakfast spot.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Stroll in Marina Beach

Enjoy the sprawling coastline, take a leisurely walk, and unwind by the beach.
Head to the beach which is about 20 minutes away by taxi.
Free, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at The Lunch Box

Savor a delicious thali that showcases the flavors of Tamil Nadu.
The Lunch Box is conveniently located near Marina Beach.
INR 500, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Fort St. George

Discover the historical significance and the fascinating museum housed within.
A 15-minute taxi ride will take you to this iconic site.
INR 100, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Anjappar Chettinad

Indulge in authentic Chettinad cuisine, known for its aromatic spices and flavors.
Accessible by taxi from Fort St. George in approximately 20 minutes.
INR 700, 2 hours
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Day 2: Day Trip to Mahabalipuram

Mahabalipuram, India

7:30AM

Breakfast at Hotel Sarovar

Enjoy a well-rounded breakfast before embarking on your trip to Mahabalipuram.
This hotel is en route to Mahabalipuram.
INR 300, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Shore Temple

Admire the spectacular UNESCO World Heritage Site located by the beach.
A 40-minute drive from Chennai to Mahabalipuram.
INR 40, 1 hour

11:00AM

Explore Arjuna's Penance

Marvel at the gigantic bas-relief sculptures depicting a mythological scene.
A short 10-minute walk from the Shore Temple.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Fisherman's Wharf

Taste the fresh catch of the day while enjoying a seaside view.
Located about 5 minutes from Arjuna's Penance by taxi.
INR 800, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit Pancha Rathas

Inspect the five monolithic rock-cut temples, an exemplary representation of Dravidian architecture.
A 10-minute taxi ride from the restaurant.
INR 50, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Bay View

Relax with a meal overlooking the bay after a day of explorations.
Head back to the town center, approximately 15 minutes away.
INR 1000, 2 hours
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Day 3: Cultural Journey in Kanchipuram

Kanchipuram, India

7:30AM

Breakfast at Hotel Tamil Nadu

Start your day with traditional Tamil breakfast offerings such as pongal and coconut chutney.
In Kanchipuram, a short drive from the city center.
INR 300, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Ekambareswarar Temple

Explore one of the largest temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, surrounded by lush mango trees.
A 15-minute taxi ride from your hotel.
Free, 2 hours

11:30AM

Visit Kanchi Kudil

Experience the rich history and weaving tradition of Kanchipuram at this heritage site.
Just 10 minutes away by taxi from Ekambareswarar Temple.
INR 100, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Saravana Bhavan

Relish a sumptuous vegetarian meal, a staple in South Indian cuisine.
Within walking distance from Kanchi Kudil.
INR 500, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Varadaraja Perumal Temple

Admire the beautiful stone carvings and architectural grandeur of this historic temple.
A quick 15-minute taxi ride from lunch.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Dinner at Hotel Grand South

Enjoy a mix of traditional and modern dishes in a cozy atmosphere.
Take a taxi, which will take about 20 minutes.
INR 700, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Cultural Retreat in Pondicherry

Pondicherry, India

7:30AM

Breakfast at Villa Shanti

Savor a delightful French-inspired breakfast in the heart of Pondicherry.
Located centrally in Pondicherry.
INR 400, 1 hour

9:00AM

Relax at Promenade Beach

Take in the serene views and rejuvenate your spirit at this beautiful beach.
A leisurely walk from the breakfast spot.
Free, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Auroville

Experience this unique township focused on community living and spirituality.
Hire a taxi, approximately 30 minutes away from Pondicherry.
Free, but donations for activities can vary, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Tanto Pizzeria

Indulge in authentic Italian pizza made with fresh ingredients.
On your way back to Pondicherry, visiting Auroville.
INR 600, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Sri Aurobindo Ashram

Learn about the teachings of Sri Aurobindo and experience tranquility.
A quick taxi ride back to Pondicherry center.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Dinner at Le Club

Enjoy a fine dining experience that combines local and Mediterranean cuisines.
A short 10-minute walk from the Ashram.
INR 900, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Return to Chennai

Chennai, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel Bon Sejour

Begin your day with a continental breakfast before concluding your trip.
In the heart of Pondicherry, easy to access.
INR 400, 1 hour

9:30AM

Scenic drive back to Chennai

Enjoy the picturesque route back to Chennai via East Coast Road.
Hire a taxi for a comfortable journey.
INR 1500, 2 hours

11:30AM

Visit Dakshinachitra Heritage Village

Experience the culture and traditions of South India in this open-air museum.
Approximately a 30-minute ride from the city center.
INR 100, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Malgudi Restaurant

Enjoy a hearty meal inspired by the works of R.K. Narayan, known for its South Indian fare.
Located nearby Dakshinachitra.
INR 600, 1 hour

3:00PM

Shop at Phoenix Marketcity Mall

Spend your afternoon shopping and exploring one of the largest malls in Chennai.
A taxi ride from the restaurant will take around 30 minutes.
Free to enter., 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Southern Spice

End your Chennai adventure with a multi-course meal representing the culinary variety of South India.
Located inside the Taj Coromandel Hotel, about 30 minutes from the mall.
INR 2000, 2 hours
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