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13-Day Family Friendly Adventure Itinerary in Chennai

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Day 1: Explore Chennai

Chennai, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Saravana Bhavan

Start your day with a hearty South Indian breakfast at the famous Saravana Bhavan, enjoying their delicious dosa and idli.
Located in various locations in Chennai.
INR 500, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Fort St. George

Discover the rich history at Fort St. George, the first British fortress in India, home to fascinating museums that the kids would love.
Approximately 15 minutes by taxi from breakfast.
INR 250, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Marina Beach

Relish some beachside snacks at Marina Beach, indulging in local street food like sundal and murukku.
A quick 15-minute drive to the iconic beach.
INR 300, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore Marina Beach

Let your kids run free and enjoy the beach activities like sandcastle building or pony rides.
Staying at Marina Beach makes it easy to explore.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Visit Vivekananda House

Learn about Swami Vivekananda's life while enjoying the beautiful architecture - perfect for the family!
5-minute walk from Marina Beach.
INR 100, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at The Fisherman's Wharf

End your day with a delightful dinner featuring seafood delicacies and a vibrant atmosphere.
A 20-minute taxi ride from Vivekananda House.
INR 1,000, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Chennai

Day 2: Cultural Excursion

Kanchipuram, India

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel Kanchi

Savor a traditional breakfast before heading to Kanchipuram, excited for the temple visits.
A 1-hour drive from Chennai.
INR 400, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Ekambareswarar Temple

Marvel at the massive gopuram and intricate carvings of one of the largest temples in Kanchipuram.
15-minute drive from breakfast.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore Kailasanathar Temple

Visit this ancient temple known for its unique architecture and serene surroundings.
10-minute drive from Ekambareswarar Temple.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Dindigul Thalappakatti

Try some local biryani for a delightful family-friendly lunch experience.
A short drive from Kailasanathar Temple.
INR 600, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit the Weavers' Village

Engage the kids in watching how beautiful Kanchipuram silk sarees are woven.
15-minute drive from the lunch point.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Explore Kamakshi Amman Temple

Conclude your Kanchipuram trip with a visit to this prominent temple dedicated to Goddess Kamakshi.
5 minutes drive from the Weavers' Village.
Free, 1 hour

5:30PM

Return to Chennai

Head back to your accommodations to recharge for tomorrow's adventures.
1-hour drive back to Chennai.
INR 1,000 (transportation cost), 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at The Marina.

Enjoy a relaxing dinner with coastal views at The Marina offering many delicacies.
A quick 15-minute drive from your hotel.
INR 800, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Kanchipuram

Day 3: Beach and Heritage

Mahabalipuram, India

7:30AM

Breakfast at Outlook Chai

Start with a light breakfast at Outlook Chai before taking off to Mahabalipuram.
A short drive to the restaurant.
INR 350, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Shore Temple

Marvel at this UNESCO World Heritage Site with exquisite rock-cut temple architecture by the sea.
1-hour drive from breakfast.
INR 100, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore Pancha Rathas

Let the kids explore these stunning monolithic chariots carved out of rock, perfect for family pictures!
10-minute drive from Shore Temple.
INR 300, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at the Mamas Kitchen

Savor some North Indian and continental fare in a cozy setting.
10-minute drive from Pancha Rathas.
INR 600, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit Arjuna's Penance

Be captivated by the grand bas-relief showcasing scenes from Hindu mythology.
Located just a few minutes away from lunch.
Free, 1 hour

4:00PM

Relax at the Beach

Spend the afternoon at the beach, building sandcastles and enjoying the ocean breeze.
A few steps from Arjuna's Penance.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Three Seas

Enjoy fresh seafood and a lovely view of the coast to finish off your day.
15-minute drive from the beach.
INR 1,200, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Mahabalipuram

Day 4: Return to Chennai

Chennai, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast back in Chennai at your hotel.
Return journey takes about an hour.
INR 400, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Valluvar Kottam

Explore the impressive memorial dedicated to the Tamil poet Thiruvalluvar.
15-minute drive from your hotel.
INR 50, 1 hour

11:30AM

Explore the Government Museum

Discover interesting artifacts and the children's museum section is a hit with families.
10 minutes away from Valluvar Kottam.
INR 200, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Anjappar Chettinad

Enjoy authentic Chettinad flavors with biryani and other spicy delights.
5 to 10-minute drive.
INR 800, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Chennai Snake Park

Bring the children to observe various snake species and learn about their habitats.
15-minute drive from lunch.
INR 250, 2 hours

5:30PM

Visit the Birla Planetarium

Explore astronomy through interactive exhibits and shows - an exciting experience for kids.
10-minute drive from the snake park.
INR 200, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Annalakshmi

Delight in a traditional vegetarian meal in a serene ambiance.
10-minute drive from the planetarium.
INR 900, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Chennai

Day 5: Relaxing Pondicherry

Pondicherry, India

7:00AM

Breakfast at Cafe Xtasi

Enjoy delicious wood-fired pizzas and breakfast dishes to kickstart your day.
1-hour drive to Pondicherry.
INR 600, 1 hour

9:00AM

Aurobindo Ashram

Visit the serene Ashram to appreciate spirituality and peace.
5-minute drive from breakfast.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore Promenade Beach

Enjoy quality time at Promenade Beach with the family, playing games and collecting shells.
5-minute walk from the Ashram.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Villa Shanti

Indulge in a mix of French and Indian cuisine in an inviting atmosphere.
Short drive from Promenade Beach.
INR 1,000, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Auroville

Take the kids to experience the unique concept of Auroville and the iconic Matrimandir.
30-minute drive from lunch.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Return to Pondicherry

Rest and freshen up at your hotel before dinner.
Return to your hotel.
INR 300 (transportation cost), 30 minutes

7:00PM

Dinner at Cafe des Arts

Wrap up your day with a pleasant dinner overlooking the vibrant life of Pondicherry.
15-minute drive from the hotel.
INR 800, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Pondicherry

Day 6: Auroville Exploration

Pondicherry, India

7:30AM

Breakfast at Baker Street

Enjoy some fresh bakery items and coffee to start your day in Auroville.
5-minute drive from your hotel.
INR 400, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Matrimandir

Experience the tranquility of this meditation center surrounded by beautiful gardens.
Located within Auroville.
Free, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Explore Auroville Visitors Centre

Learn about Auroville’s philosophy and contributions through interactive exhibits.
5-minute walk from Matrimandir.
Free, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Auroville Bakery

Try some delicious pizzas made with organic ingredients prepared fresh.
5-minute walk from the Visitors Centre.
INR 600, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit Auroville Earth Institute

Engage with sustainable architecture principles and take part in informative workshops.
15-minute drive from the bakery.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Relax at the Beach

Spend a leisurely afternoon at Auroville beach enjoying the sun and surf.
15-minute drive from Auroville Earth Institute.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Tanto Pizzeria

Enjoy authentic Italian pizza with your family before heading back.
30-minute drive to the restaurant.
INR 800, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Pondicherry

Day 7: Adventure Day

Chennai, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Grand Sweets and Snacks

Fuel up with delicious traditional sweets and snacks to energize your adventure.
30-minute drive from Auroville.
INR 400, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Kottivakkam Beach

Let the children have a blast collecting shells and playing in the sand at this beautiful beach.
30-minute drive from breakfast.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Aasai Idli Kadai

Savor some delicious idli and vada for a traditional South Indian lunch.
10-minute drive from Kottivakkam Beach.
INR 500, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit Ripon Building

Explore this majestic building known for its Indo-Saracenic architecture.
15-minute drive from lunch.
Free, 1 hour

3:00PM

Discover the Anna Centenary Library

Engage kids in reading and exploring the massive library's contents.
10-minute drive from Ripon Building.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Visit the Accra Business Park

Take the kids for some fun at this modern amusement park with rides and games.
20-minute drive from the library.
INR 600, 2 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Hades

Wrap up the day with Chinese cuisine that the whole family will enjoy.
10-minute drive from the amusement park.
INR 1,000, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Chennai

Day 8: Nature Escape

Nagarhole, India

6:30AM

Breakfast at The Hotel

Enjoy an early breakfast before embarking on a scenic journey to Nagarhole.
4-hour drive to Nagarhole.
INR 400, 1 hour

8:30AM

Wildlife Safari at Nagarhole National Park

Experience the thrill of a wildlife safari spotting various animals like elephants and tigers.
Organized within Nagarhole, pre-book required.
INR 1,500, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at the Lodge

Enjoy a hearty meal at one of the lodges inside the park.
Served at the lodge post safari.
INR 800, 1 hour

1:30PM

Relax by the River

Unwind with some family games along the riverbank, enjoying nature.
Stay at the lodge for convenience.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Nature Walk

Take a nature walk with guided insights into the flora and fauna of the area.
Arranged by the lodge.
INR 500, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at the Lodge

Conclude the day with dinner at the lodge, reflecting on the magnificent wildlife.
Available at the lodge.
INR 1,000, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Nagarhole

Day 9: Heritage Day

Mysore, India

6:30AM

Breakfast at the Lodge

Savor a warm breakfast before heading to Mysore.
A 3-hour drive from Nagarhole.
INR 400, 1 hour

8:30AM

Mysore Palace

Explore the opulent Mysore Palace, one of India’s most iconic architecture.
15-minute drive from the lodge.
INR 300, 2 hours

10:30AM

Visit St. Philomena's Church

Admire this grand neo-gothic church with beautiful stained glass windows.
10-minute drive from the palace.
Free, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at The Olde Thistle

Indulge in mouth-watering Western and Indian cuisine suited for all tastes.
15-minute drive from the church.
INR 800, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Explore Mysore Zoo

Let the kids delight in seeing a variety of animals in one of the oldest zoos in India.
20-minute drive from the restaurant.
INR 500, 2 hours

4:00PM

Shopping at Mysore Market

Explore the vibrant local market for souvenirs and spices.
15-minute drive from the zoo.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Return to the Lodge

Wind down with freshening up at the lodge.
3-hour drive back to the lodge.
INR 1,000 (transportation cost), 3 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at the Lodge

Have a cozy dinner together discussing the day's adventures!
At the lodge.
INR 1,000, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Mysore

Day 10: Hill Station Retreat

Ooty, India

7:00AM

Breakfast at the Lodge

Have a nice breakfast as you leave for Ooty.
3-hour drive from Mysore to Ooty.
INR 400, 1 hour

8:30AM

Visit Botanical Garden

Explore diverse plant species and relax in picturesque surroundings.
10 minutes drive from the hotel.
INR 50, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Toy Train Ride

Take a joyful ride through beautiful hill slopes on Ooty’s toy train, a hit among children.
15-minute walk from the Botanical Garden.
INR 100, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Nahar's Sidewalk Cafe

Enjoy a delicious meal in a cozy atmosphere with family-friendly options.
10-minute walk from the train station.
INR 700, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Visit Ooty Lake

Engage in rowing or paddle boating at the serene Ooty Lake, a delightful experience for the kids.
5-minute drive from lunch.
INR 300, 2 hours

4:00PM

Explore Rose Garden

Wander through vibrant blooms, a picturesque place for family photographs.
15-minute drive from the lake.
INR 50, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Ascot Multi Cuisine Restaurant

Savor a wide array of cuisines overlooking lovely views.
15-minute drive from the Rose Garden.
INR 1,000, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Ooty

Day 11: Explore Coonoor

Coonoor, India

7:30AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Fill up with a hearty breakfast before heading to Coonoor.
30-minute drive from Ooty.
INR 400, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Sim's Park

Stroll around this beautiful park filled with diverse flora and scenic views.
5-minute drive from your hotel.
Free, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Explore Tea Gardens

Learn about tea production and enjoy a guided tour of the tea estates.
20-minute drive from Sim's Park.
INR 200, 1.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Restaurant

Savor South Indian cuisine in Coonoor's charming setting.
10-minute drive from the tea garden.
INR 600, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Dolphin's Nose

Witness breathtaking views and capture memorable family photos at this viewpoint.
30-minute drive from lunch.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Explore Nilgiri Mountain Railway

Take a scenic train ride offering splendid views of the Nilgiri Hills.
35-minute drive to the station.
INR 300, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at the Hotel

Enjoy a delicious dinner back at your accommodation.
30-minute drive from the station.
INR 800, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Coonoor

Day 12: Serene Kodaikanal

Kodaikanal, India

6:30AM

Early Breakfast

Start your day early with a satisfying breakfast before leaving for Kodaikanal.
2-hour drive from Coonoor.
INR 400, 1 hour

8:00AM

Visit Kodaikanal Lake

Engage in boating and enjoy a picturesque morning in the tranquil environment.
15-minute drive from the hotel.
INR 300, 2 hours

10:30AM

Explore Coaker's Walk

Stroll along the paved pathway with breathtaking views of the valley below.
30-minute drive from the lake.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at the Hotel

Enjoy a relaxing lunch at the hotel with stunning views.
Return to your hotel.
INR 800, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore Pillar Rocks

Marvel at stunning rock formations; perfect for family photos.
30-minute drive from the hotel.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Visit Bryant Park

Wander through beautifully landscaped gardens that children will love exploring.
15-minute drive from Pillar Rocks.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at a Local Diner

Relish a warm dinner at a local diner bringing a cozy close to the day.
Short drive from Bryant Park.
INR 700, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Kodaikanal

Day 13: Departure Day

Chennai, India

9:00AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Enjoy one last breakfast at your accommodation, reminiscing about the adventures.
At your hotel.
INR 400, 1 hour

10:00AM

Shopping at T.Nagar

Spend a final time shopping for souvenirs and local spices at T.Nagar.
30-minute drive from your hotel.
Free (shopping costs vary), 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Subbu's Kitchen

Wrap up with a final delicious meal at this local favorite.
10-minute drive from T.Nagar.
INR 600, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Departure

Head to the airport or train station filled with memories from an unforgettable journey.
1-hour drive to the airport or station.
INR 800 (transportation cost), 1 hour
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