6-Day Family Friendly Nature Road Trip in Chennai

Day 1: Exploring Chennai

Chennai, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Saravana Bhavan

Start your day with a hearty South Indian breakfast at Saravana Bhavan, renowned for its dosas and idlis.
Drive to the restaurant located at multiple locations across the city.
INR300, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Marina Beach

Stroll along the scenic Marina Beach, where children can play in the sand and enjoy local snacks from beach vendors.
Travel by car for a 15-minute drive.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Naidu Mess

Head to Naidu Mess for a delicious traditional Tamil meal; their meals served on banana leaves are a must-try.
Drive for 20 minutes to reach the restaurant.
INR600, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit Guindy National Park

Explore Guindy National Park, where kids can see deer and enjoy a small mini-zoo, making it a lively afternoon amidst nature.
A 15-minute drive from lunch.
INR25, 2 hours

4:00PM

Explore Kalakshetra Foundation

Visit the Kalakshetra Foundation to explore its serene surroundings, and if time permits, catch a glimpse of some traditional Bharatanatyam dance rehearsals.
Short drive of about 10 minutes.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at The Fisherman's Wharf

Enjoy a coastal seafood feast at The Fisherman’s Wharf, famous for its relaxed ambiance and delectable menu.
20-minute drive from Kalakshetra.
INR1200, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Visit Mahabalipuram

Mahabalipuram, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel Ramakrishna

Savor a hearty breakfast at Hotel Ramakrishna, before heading out for the day.
Drive approximately 1.5 hours to Mahabalipuram.
INR500, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Shore Temple

Discover the UNESCO World Heritage site of the Shore Temple, with its stunning architecture and ocean views.
Walk 10 minutes from the parking area to the temple.
INR40, 1 hour

11:00AM

Visit Pancha Rathas

Continue your exploration of Mahabalipuram by visiting the Pancha Rathas, beautiful rock-cut temples that families will enjoy.
Short drive around 5 minutes.
INR25, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at 2 Bros Café

Enjoy a light lunch at 2 Bros Café, famous for its laid-back vibe and scrumptious sandwiches.
5-minute drive from Pancha Rathas.
INR600, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Arjuna's Penance

Admire the intricately carved Arjuna's Penance, one of the largest bas-reliefs in the world.
A 10-minute drive or walk from the café.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Relax at the Beach

Spend the late afternoon relaxing at the serene Mahabalipuram Beach where children can play by the shore.
Drive 15 minutes to reach the beach.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Wharf

Dine at The Wharf, known for its fresh seafood and stunning beach sunset views.
5-minute drive from the beach.
INR1000, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Travel to Pondicherry

Pondicherry, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Baker Street

Enjoy delicious pastries and coffee at Baker Street, a charming French bakery in Pondicherry.
Drive approximately 1.5 hours from Mahabalipuram.
INR500, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Aurobindo Ashram

Visit the peaceful Aurobindo Ashram, a great place for family reflection and tranquility.
Short drive (15 minutes) from the bakery.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Promenade Beach Walk

Take a scenic walk along the Promenade Beach, where the family can enjoy ice cream from local vendors.
Walk to the beachfront.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Le Café

Enjoy lunch at Le Café with its breezy setting and mix of Indian and French cuisine.
5-minute drive.
INR800, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit the Botanical Garden

Explore the picturesque Botanical Garden, where the kids can learn about various plant species.
A 15-minute drive from the café.
INR10, 2 hours

4:30PM

Visit Chunnambar Boat House

Have fun with a family boat ride at Chunnambar Boat House, enjoying the scenic backwaters.
A 30-minute drive from the garden.
INR500, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Villa Shanti

Savor a delightful dinner at Villa Shanti, known for its fusion of Indian and French culinary delights.
20-minute drive from the boat house.
INR1200, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Visit Auroville

Auroville, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Café at Auroville

Dine at one of the cafés in Auroville that serve delicious organic meals.
A short drive (20 minutes) from Pondicherry.
INR600, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Matrimandir

Visit the iconic Matrimandir and enjoy the peaceful gardens surrounding it—a profound experience for the family.
A 10-minute drive within Auroville.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at La Terrace

Enjoy a casual lunch with splendid views at La Terrace, known for fresh produce and wholesome meals.
Drive 15 minutes from Matrimandir.
INR700, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore Auroville Visitor Center

After lunch, visit the Auroville Visitor Center to learn more about the philosophy behind Auroville.
5-minute drive from the café.
INR50, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit the Community Gardens

Take a family stroll through the community gardens, an excellent opportunity for nature appreciation.
10-minute drive.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at the Solar Kitchen

Dine at the Solar Kitchen, with its communal dining and fresh organic meals dedicated to sustainability.
Drive around 20 minutes.
INR900, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Journey to Kodaikanal

Kodaikanal, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Cliff House

Start your Kodaikanal day with delicious breakfast at The Cliff House known for its mountain views.
Drive approximately 6 hours from Auroville.
INR800, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Kodaikanal Lake

Once in Kodaikanal, rent a pedal boat at Kodaikanal Lake for a fun family float on the tranquil waters.
Drive 10 minutes to Kodaikanal Lake.
INR250, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Hilltop Hall

Have lunch overlooking the lake while enjoying local delicacies at Hilltop Hall.
5-minute drive.
INR700, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit Coaker's Walk

Walk along Coaker’s Walk, a scenic pathway with beautiful views of the valley perfect for family photos.
A 5-minute drive.
INR30, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Explore Bryant Park

Enjoy a relaxing walk in Bryant Park, famous for its flower beds and greenery—a lovely place for the kids to explore.
Walk to the park.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at the Vegetarian Restaurant

Dine at a local vegetarian restaurant that offers regional delicacies and a homely atmosphere.
Drive 10 minutes from the park.
INR500, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Return to Chennai

Chennai, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel Hilltop

Enjoy a relaxing breakfast with a mountain view at Hotel Hilltop, before heading back to Chennai.
30-minute drive.
INR600, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive Back to Chennai

Set off on your return journey to Chennai, filled with wonderful family memories.
Take the same route back.
Driving costs vary., 6 hours

4:00PM

Free Time at Home

Unwind and relax at home, sharing stories of your unforgettable road trip experience.
N/A
Free, Rest of the day

6:30PM

Farewell Dinner at Aasai

Conclude your adventure with a farewell dinner at Aasai, appealing to every palate; try their unique northern Tamil cuisine.
Short drive (15 minutes).
INR900, 1.5 hours
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