Cultural Discovery in Tamil Nadu: A 3-Day Family Friendly Itinerary

Day 1: Explore Chennai

Chennai, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Saravana Bhavan

Begin your day with a traditional South Indian breakfast featuring idli and dosas at the iconic Saravana Bhavan.
Take a cab to Saravana Bhavan located in the heart of the city.
INR 600, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Government Museum

Explore the rich history and cultural heritage of Tamil Nadu at the Government Museum, famous for its bronze sculptures and archaeological artifacts.
Travel by private car to the Government Museum, approximately 15 minutes away.
INR 30, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Karpagam Mess

Taste authentic Tamil cuisine with a hearty meal at Karpagam Mess, known for its delicious thalis.
Head to Karpagam Mess, which is a 20-minute drive from the museum.
INR 800, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore Mariamman Temple

Visit the vibrant and ornate Kapaleeshwarar Temple, an architectural marvel and a hub for local worshippers.
Drive to Kapaleeshwarar Temple, around 30 minutes from lunch.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:15PM

Cultural performance at Kalakshetra Foundation

Enjoy a classical dance performance showcasing Bharatanatyam at the renowned Kalakshetra Foundation.
A quick 15-minute drive will take you to Kalakshetra.
INR 500, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Anjappar Chettinad

Savour some spicy Chettinad cuisine at Anjappar, famed for its unique and robust flavours.
Drive to Anjappar, approximately 30 minutes from Kalakshetra.
INR 1200, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Heritage of Mahabalipuram

Mahabalipuram, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at the hotel

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at your hotel to fuel up for a day of exploration.
Enjoy breakfast at your accommodation in Chennai before departing.
INR 800, 1 hour

9:00AM

Travel to Mahabalipuram

Drive towards Mahabalipuram, a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its stunning rock-cut temples and monuments.
A scenic 1.5-hour drive along the East Coast Road.
Variable based on transportation, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Visit Shore Temple

Marvel at the ancient Shore Temple, set against the backdrop of the Bay of Bengal, with its intricately carved sculptures.
Head directly to the Shore Temple from the parking area.
INR 50, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Mango Hill

Dine at Mango Hill, offering a delightful selection of local seafood and vegetarian dishes with stunning views.
Drive 15 minutes from the Shore Temple to Mango Hill.
INR 1000, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore Arjuna's Penance

Witness the spectacular relief carvings at Arjuna’s Penance, a monumental portrayal of scenes from the Mahabharata.
A short 10-minute drive from Mango Hill.
INR 50, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Pancha Rathas

Explore the Pancha Rathas, a collection of rock-cut temples, each carved from a single stone and featuring distinct architectural styles.
Continue a 5-minute drive to the Pancha Rathas.
INR 100, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Return to Chennai

Travel back to Chennai to rest before dinner.
Make your way back to Chennai, approximately a 1.5-hour drive.
Variable based on transportation, 1.5 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Saravana Bhavan

End your day with another delightful meal at Saravana Bhavan, enjoying their renowned dosas once more.
Timely return to Saravana Bhavan, as it is familiar from Day 1.
INR 800, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Spiritual Heritage of Kanchipuram

Kanchipuram, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at the hotel

Savour a refreshing breakfast at your Chennai hotel to energise for a day of temple visits.
Enjoy breakfast at your accommodation in Chennai.
INR 800, 1 hour

9:00AM

Travel to Kanchipuram

Take a drive to Kanchipuram, known for its silk weaving and numerous temples.
It's a 2-hour drive from Chennai to Kanchipuram.
Variable based on transportation, 2 hours

11:00AM

Visit Kailasanathar Temple

Explore the exquisite Kailasanathar Temple, renowned for its beautiful architecture reflecting Dravidian style.
Head directly to the temple upon arriving in Kanchipuram.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Hotel Mayura

Enjoy lunch at Hotel Mayura, offering a variety of South Indian delicacies.
A quick 10-minute drive from Kailasanathar Temple.
INR 1000, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Varadaraja Perumal Temple

Discover the rich cultural significance of Varadaraja Perumal Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, showcasing intricate carvings.
A short 15-minute ride will take you to the temple.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:45PM

Explore the Silk Weaving Centre

Delve into Kanchipuram’s famed silk weaving heritage by visiting a local silk factory and learning about the traditional process.
A quick 10-minute drive to a renowned silk weaving centre.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Travel back to Chennai

Begin your journey back to Chennai to conclude your trip.
Start your return drive to Chennai, taking around 2 hours.
Variable based on transportation, 2 hours

7:30PM

Farewell dinner at The Fisherman’s Wharf

Celebrate the end of your Tamil Nadu adventure with a delicious dinner featuring fresh seafood and local dishes at The Fisherman’s Wharf.
Finish your trip with a pleasant drive to The Fisherman’s Wharf in Chennai.
INR 1500, 2 hours
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