Family Friendly Road Trip from Chennai to Trichy: Culture & Adventure Awaits

Day 1: Chennai Exploration

Chennai, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Ratna Cafe

Start your day with traditional South Indian delicacies at Ratna Cafe, famous for its crispy dosas and filter coffee.
Located in Mylapore, the café is an easy drive from most city centers.
INR300, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Kapaleeshwarar Temple

Explore the colorful architecture and historical significance of Kapaleeshwarar Temple, a key Hindu temple in Chennai.
A short drive of 10 minutes from Ratna Cafe.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Murugan Idli Shop

Enjoy a delicious meal of idlis and sambar, a local favorite often favored by families.
A 20-minute drive from the temple.
INR400, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit Fort St. George

Discover the rich history of Chennai by visiting Fort St. George, the first British fort in India.
Another short 15-minute drive.
INR100, 2 hours

4:00PM

Explore Marina Beach

Relax at Marina Beach and enjoy the lovely sunset with your family while indulging in some local snacks.
A 10-minute drive from Fort St. George.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Fisherman's Wharf

Dine at The Fisherman's Wharf for a wonderful seafood experience and family-friendly atmosphere.
About 30 minutes from Marina Beach.
INR1200, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Mahabalipuram Marvels

Mahabalipuram, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel Pondy

Have a hearty breakfast before hitting the road, featuring both continental and South Indian options.
Departure from Chennai takes about 1 hour; Hotel Pondy is near the highway.
INR500, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Shore Temple

Marvel at the ancient Shore Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that overlooks the sea.
15 minutes drive from the hotel.
INR150, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Brahma Temple & Pancha Rathas

Explore the stunning Pancha Rathas and the unique Brahma Temple, understanding their sculptural significance.
5 minutes drive from Shore Temple.
INR200, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Ashoka’s Restaurant

Enjoy a traditional South Indian thali at Ashoka’s, loved for its flavor and hospitality.
A 10-minute drive from Pancha Rathas.
INR600, 1 hour

2:30PM

Beach Time at Mahabalipuram Beach

Spend some time splashing around at the beach. It's perfect for kids with shallow waters.
A short 5-minute walk from the restaurant.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Drive to Pondicherry

Begin your journey to Pondicherry, soaking in the scenic coastal views.
After beach time, it's about a 1.5-hour drive.
INR200 for fuel, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Cafe des Arts

Indulge in a French-inspired meal at Cafe des Arts, known for its quaint ambiance and delicious crepes.
Located in the heart of Pondicherry.
INR900, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Pondicherry Serenity

Pondicherry, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Cafe de Flore

Start your day with a French breakfast at the charming Cafe de Flore.
Accessible by a short walk from most hotels.
INR500, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Auroville

Discover the unique community of Auroville and visit the Matrimandir for a tranquil experience.
A 30-minute drive from Pondicherry center.
Free entry, INR250 for guided tour, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Kofi Bar

Relax with a casual meal at Kofi Bar, offering great sandwiches and coffee.
Drive back to Pondicherry center, about 30 minutes.
INR600, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore the French Quarter

Stroll through the picturesque French Quarter, admiring the colonial architecture and vibrant atmosphere.
Easily accessible on foot.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Visit Pondicherry Museum

Learn about the cultural history of the region in a quaint museum showcasing artifacts.
A 15-minute walk from the French Quarter.
INR100, 1 hour

5:30PM

Relax at Serenity Beach

Wind down your day at Serenity Beach with fun activities and family games.
A 30-minute drive from the museum.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Indian Kaffe Express

Savor a casual dinner with Indian and continental options that cater wonderfully for families.
About 20 minutes from Serenity Beach.
INR800, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Thanjavur Temples

Thanjavur, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel before embarking on your journey to Thanjavur.
Start early; driving time is about 1 hour and 30 minutes.
INR600, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Brihadeeswarar Temple

Marvel at the size and sculptures of the Brihadeeswarar Temple, a grand UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Located 20 minutes from your hotel in Thanjavur.
INR200, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Hotel Sadhbhavana

Relish a delightful meal at Hotel Sadhbhavana, known for its authentic South Indian cuisine.
A quick drive of 10 minutes.
INR800, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit Thanjavur Palace

Explore the magnificent Thanjavur Palace and the art gallery housing wooden carvings and paintings.
Just 10 minutes from the lunch venue.
INR150, 2 hours

3:30PM

Explore the Local Market

Walk through the local market for shopping and experiencing local life.
A short 10-minute walk from the palace.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Drive to Kumbakonam

Continue your journey to Kumbakonam for your overnight stay.
A 30-minute drive directly.
INR100 for fuel, 30 minutes

6:00PM

Check-in Dinner at GRT Hotel

Indulge in a sumptuous dinner at GRT Hotel, perfect for families seeking fine dining.
Located conveniently upon arrival in Kumbakonam.
INR1500, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Kumbakonam Wonders

Kumbakonam, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a casual breakfast at your hotel before heading out for the day.
Perfectly set for a laid-back start.
INR600, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Adi Kumbeswarar Temple

Explore the famous Adi Kumbeswarar Temple, known for its stunning Dravidian architecture.
A short 10-minute drive from your hotel.
INR100, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Visit a Local Pottery Shop

See traditional pottery-making in Kumbakonam, engage the family with an interactive session.
A 10-minute drive.
INR200 for interactions, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Dindigul Thalappakatti

Taste the famous biryani at Dindigul Thalappakatti, a perfect treat for the family.
Another 15-minute drive.
INR800, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore the Angkor Wat Temple Replica

Delve into the fascinating Angkor Wat Temple replica, getting a taste of a different culture.
A quick 15-minute drive.
INR150, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Visit a Local Handloom Weaving Unit

Experience weaving firsthand and understand Kumbakonam's textile heritage.
Another 10 minutes drive.
Free for observation, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Hotel Aditya Residency

Conclude with a meal at Hotel Aditya Residency featuring local and North Indian cuisine.
Just 10 minutes drive back.
INR900, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Trichy Adventure

Trichy, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel, preparing for the day ahead.
Within the same hotel, making it convenient.
INR600, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Rockfort Temple

Ascend to the Rockfort Temple and enjoy panoramic views of Trichy.
Located a 20-minute drive away.
INR100, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore Kallanai Dam

Visit the ancient Kallanai Dam, one of the oldest water dams in the world.
About a 30-minute drive from the temple.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Anjappar Chettinad Restaurant

Experience authentic Chettinad cuisine, perfect for the family's taste buds.
Back in Trichy, about a 30-minute drive.
INR800, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Srirangam Temple

Explore the magnificent Srirangam Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu - an architectural masterpiece.
A 30-minute drive from the restaurant.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Shopping and Relaxation

Spend your last hours shopping for souvenirs in local markets, or enjoy a stroll around Trichy's beautiful parks.
Local markets are easily accessible.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Farewell Dinner at Hotel Sangam

Conclude your trip with a sumptuous dinner at Hotel Sangam, offering both local and continental dishes suitable for families.
Close by, retaining convenience before departure.
INR1200, 1.5 hours
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