6-Day Road Trip Itinerary in Tamil Nadu

Day 1: Explore Chennai

Chennai, India

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Murugan Idli Shop

Start your day with authentic South Indian breakfast items, especially their special idlis and filter coffee.
Located in various parts of the city; the original is in Velachery.
INR 300, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit Kapaleeshwarar Temple

This ancient temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and showcases the stunning Dravidian architecture.
Located in Mylapore, a short drive from the breakfast spot.
FREE, 1.5 hours

11:00 AM

Explore Marina Beach

Stroll along one of the longest urban beaches in the world, enjoying the fresh sea breeze.
Just a drive away from the temple, about 20 minutes.
FREE, 1.5 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Fisherman's Fare

Indulge in delicious seafood while enjoying views of the coast.
Located near Marina Beach.
INR 600, 1.5 hours

3:00 PM

Visit Fort St. George

Discover the rich history of Chennai through this historical fort and museum.
A short 15-minute drive from the lunch spot.
INR 50, 2 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at Hotel Saravana Bhavan

Enjoy a delightful vegetarian dinner with local flavors.
Located in multiple areas in Chennai, including T. Nagar.
INR 500, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Beach day in Mahabalipuram

Mahabalipuram, India

7:00 AM

Breakfast at Nostalgia Restaurant

Dig into a hearty breakfast with a variety of Indian and Western options.
Exit Chennai towards Mahabalipuram, 1-1.5 hours drive.
INR 400, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Visit Shore Temple

Marvel at this UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its beautiful architecture and beach views.
A short walk from the breakfast restaurant.
INR 30, 1 hour

10:30 AM

Explore the Pancha Rathas

Discover these monolithic rock-cut temples, each crafted in the shape of chariots.
5 minutes drive from the Shore Temple.
INR 100, 1 hour

12:00 PM

Lunch at The Dh khas

Savor mouth-watering North Indian dishes and seafood specialties.
Located near the Pancha Rathas.
INR 700, 1.5 hours

2:00 PM

Visit Arjuna's Penance

View the massive rock carvings that depict scenes from the Mahabharata, a stunning example of artistry.
Close to the lunch spot; a short drive.
FREE, 1 hour

4:00 PM

Relax at Mahabalipuram Beach

Spend the afternoon on the beach, taking in the sun and sea.
Located nearby, a short drive.
FREE, 2 hours

7:00 PM

Dinner at The Ocean Grill

Enjoy a seaside dining experience with fresh local seafood and a mesmerizing sunset.
Situated on the beachfront.
INR 900, 2 hours
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Day 3: Heritage of Kanchipuram

Kanchipuram, India

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Jain Coffee House

A cozy spot known for excellent coffee and South Indian breakfast items.
Drive 1 hour to Kanchipuram.
INR 200, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit Ekambareswarar Temple

Explore this significant temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, known for its towering gopuram and lush surroundings.
Located in the heart of Kanchipuram, just a short drive.
FREE, 1.5 hours

11:30 AM

See Kailasanathar Temple

Visit the oldest surviving temple in Kanchipuram, featuring beautiful carvings.
About 10 minutes drive from Ekambareswarar.
FREE, 1 hour

1:00 PM

Lunch at Hotel Saravana Bhavan

Enjoy a vegetarian thali to experience the best of South Indian cuisine.
Located in Kanchipuram city.
INR 500, 1.5 hours

2:30 PM

Visit the Kanchipuram Silk Weaving Centers

Witness the craftsmanship that goes into creating the city's famous silk sarees.
Short drive within Kanchipuram.
FREE, 2 hours

5:00 PM

Visit Varadaraja Perumal Temple

Discover another magnificent temple known for its grandeur and exquisite architecture.
Located near the silk weaving centers.
FREE, 1.5 hours

7:00 PM

Dinner at Aasai Restaurant

End your day with a traditional South Indian vegetarian meal.
In the Kanchipuram area, not far from the previous site.
INR 400, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Charming Pondicherry

Pondicherry, India

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Baker Street

Start your day with delicious pastries and an aromatic cup of coffee.
Travel from Kanchipuram to Pondicherry, approximately 2 hours drive.
INR 300, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit Aurobindo Ashram

Experience the peace and serenity of this meditation center founded by Sri Aurobindo.
Located in the city center of Pondicherry.
FREE, 1 hour

11:00 AM

Walk along Promenade Beach

Enjoy the beautiful beachside promenade, perfect for leisurely walks and relaxation.
Just a short walk from the ashram.
FREE, 1 hour

1:00 PM

Lunch at Café des Arts

Dine at a charming café offering French and Indian dishes in a vintage setting.
A walk back along the promenade.
INR 700, 1.5 hours

2:30 PM

Explore the French Quarter

Wander through the stunning streets filled with colonial-era buildings and vibrant colors.
Easy walking distance from lunch.
FREE, 2 hours

4:30 PM

Visit Sri Manakula Vinayakar Devasthanam

Explore this famous Hindu temple known for its unique architecture and peaceful ambiance.
Located within the city.
FREE, 1 hour

7:00 PM

Dinner at Villa Shanti

Enjoy a mix of traditional Indian and contemporary dishes in a beautiful courtyard setting.
Located in the French Quarter.
INR 900, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Cultural Heritage of Thanjavur

Thanjavur, India

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Hotel Satyam

Savor local delicacies and freshly made idlis and dosas.
Drive from Pondicherry to Thanjavur, approximately 3 hours.
INR 400, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit Brihadeeswarar Temple

Admire this UNESCO World Heritage Site, one of the largest temple complexes in India.
Exits to city center; a short distance.
INR 50, 2 hours

11:30 AM

Explore Thanjavur Palace

Witness the grandeur of the palace, displaying art and cultural artifacts from the region.
Located adjacent to the temple.
INR 200, 1.5 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Ananda Bhavan

Relish authentic South Indian meals with a variety of options.
Short distance from the palace.
INR 500, 1.5 hours

2:30 PM

Visit the Thanjavur Art Gallery

Explore traditional and contemporary artwork, including bronzes and paintings.
Nearby the lunch restaurant.
INR 100, 1.5 hours

4:30 PM

Visit the Saraswathi Mahal Library

Browse through ancient manuscripts and rare books in this historic library.
Located in the palace complex.
FREE, 1.5 hours

7:00 PM

Dinner at Hotel Gnanam

Conclude your day with a tasty traditional dinner.
Located within Thanjavur.
INR 700, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Spiritual journey in Madurai

Madurai, India

8:00 AM

Breakfast at The Modern Café

Enjoy classic South Indian breakfast fare before embarking on your last road trip day.
Drive from Thanjavur to Madurai, about 2.5 hours.
INR 300, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit Meenakshi Amman Temple

Explore one of India's most famous temples, known for its stunning architecture and vibrant culture.
Located in the heart of Madurai, easily accessible.
FREE, 2 hours

11:30 AM

Visit the Thirumalai Nayakkar Mahal

Witness this grand palace known for its Indo-Saracenic architecture.
A short taxi ride from the temple.
INR 100, 1.5 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Azhagar Kadai

Savor authentic Madurai meals, including their famous jigarthanda.
Located near the palace.
INR 500, 1.5 hours

2:30 PM

Visit Gandhi Museum

Learn about Mahatma Gandhi's life through various artifacts and photographs.
Short distance from the lunch spot.
INR 20, 1 hour

4:00 PM

Explore the local market

Experience the hustle and bustle of Madurai’s vibrant market, known for its spices and textiles.
Easily walked from the museum.
FREE, 1.5 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at Konar Mess

Finish your road trip with a delectable traditional meal, a perfect end to your culinary experiences.
Located in the city center.
INR 600, 1.5 hours
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