6-Day Road Trip from Bengaluru to Tamil Nadu's Historical Treasures

Day 1: Explore Madurai

Madurai, India

7:00 AM

Breakfast at Murugan Idli Shop

Start your day with a traditional South Indian breakfast at the famous Murugan Idli Shop, known for its fluffy idlis and spicy chutneys.
Driving from Bengaluru to Madurai takes approximately 8 hours, covering a distance of about 460 km.
INR 200, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Visit Meenakshi Amman Temple

After breakfast, head to the iconic Meenakshi Amman Temple, a masterpiece of Dravidian architecture and an important pilgrimage site.
The temple is located within Madurai city and is easily accessible by car.
Free, 2 hours

11:00 AM

Explore Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace

Next, explore the majestic Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace, known for its grand architecture and historical significance.
Drive 10 minutes from the temple to reach the palace.
INR 50, 1 hour

12:30 PM

Lunch at Kalyan Restaurant

Enjoy a delicious lunch at Kalyan Restaurant, known for its delectable South Indian thalis.
A short 5-minute drive from the palace.
INR 300, 1 hour

2:00 PM

Visit Gandhi Memorial Museum

Post-lunch, visit the Gandhi Memorial Museum to learn about the life and contributions of Mahatma Gandhi.
A 15-minute drive from the restaurant.
Free, 1 hour

4:00 PM

Relax at Anna Nagar Tower Park

Unwind and enjoy some nature at Anna Nagar Tower Park, perfect for a leisurely stroll.
A 10-minute drive from the museum.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:30 PM

Dinner at Hotel Surya

Savor dinner at Hotel Surya, offering a range of South Indian and North Indian dishes.
Approx. 15 minutes to reach from the park.
INR 400, 1.5 hours

7:00 PM

Evening stroll at Meenakshi Amman Temple

End your day with a peaceful evening stroll around the illuminated Meenakshi Amman Temple.
A 15-minute drive back to the temple.
Free, 1 hour
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Day 2: Cultural Discovery in Chettinad

Chettinad, India

7:00 AM

Breakfast at Breakfast Home

Enjoy a typical Chettinad breakfast featuring unique spicy dishes.
Drive from Madurai to Chettinad takes about 1.5 hours.
INR 250, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Explore Chettinad Mansions

Discover the grand heritage of Chettinad by visiting its famous mansions.
The mansions are located within Chettinad, easily accessible by local transport.
Free, 2 hours

11:00 AM

Visit Chettinad Palace

Explore the historical Chettinad Palace, known for its stunning architecture.
Just 10 minutes away from the mansions.
INR 100, 1 hour

12:30 PM

Lunch at Aasai Chettinad Restaurant

Relish traditional Chettinad cuisine with flavorsome curries and biryanis.
5 minutes drive from the palace.
INR 350, 1 hour

2:00 PM

Visit Kottaiyur Kaliamman Temple

Experience the spiritual ambiance at this ancient temple dedicated to Goddess Kali.
A 30-minute drive from Chettinad.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00 PM

Leisure at Local Market

Stroll through the local market to shop for Chettinad saris and spices.
Return to Chettinad and explore the local market.
Variable, 1.5 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at Chettinad Kitchen

Enjoy an authentic Chettinad meal at this local favorite.
A short drive from the market.
INR 400, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Ghost Town Adventures in Dhanushkodi

Dhanushkodi, India

7:00 AM

Breakfast at Chettinad Kitchen

Fuel up with an energizing breakfast at the hotel before hitting the road to Dhanushkodi.
Drive from Chettinad to Dhanushkodi takes about 4 hours.
INR 250, 1 hour

8:30 AM

Drive to Dhanushkodi

Embark on the scenic drive to the abandoned town of Dhanushkodi, a must-visit for its haunting beauty.
Enjoy the coastal views along the route.
N/A, 4 hours

12:30 PM

Explore Dhanushkodi Ruins

Upon arrival, explore the fascinating ruins of Dhanushkodi, showcasing its tragic past.
Dhanushkodi has limited access; 4x4 vehicles are recommended for travel.
Free, 1.5 hours

2:00 PM

Lunch at a Local Eatery in Dhanushkodi

Savor a simple lunch at a local eatery known for fresh seafood.
Nearby the ruins.
INR 300, 1 hour

3:00 PM

Visit the Ghost Town Beach

Relax at the serene beaches of Dhanushkodi, perfect for photography and reflection.
Walking distance from the lunch spot.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00 PM

Sunset Point at Dhanushkodi

Witness a breathtaking sunset at Dhanushkodi, a truly unforgettable experience.
Right along the coast.
Free, 1 hour

7:00 PM

Dinner at a Beach Camp

End the day with dinner at a beach camp, enjoying the sound of waves and fresh seafood.
Each camp offers local flavors.
INR 400, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Historical Wonders at Narthamalai

Narthamalai, India

7:00 AM

Breakfast at Dhanushkodi

Begin with a hearty breakfast at your lodging in Dhanushkodi.
No travel required.
INR 250, 1 hour

8:30 AM

Drive to Narthamalai

Travel to Narthamalai, famous for its ancient rock-cut temples and stunning landscapes in about 1.5 hours.
The scenic drive is approximately 65 km.
N/A, 1.5 hours

10:00 AM

Explore Rock-Cut Temples

Visit the ancient rock-cut temples at Narthamalai, showcasing elaborate carvings and historical significance.
The temples are located in the vicinity.
Free, 2 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at a Local Dhaba

Enjoy a simple and satisfying lunch at a local dhaba, experiencing local flavors.
A few minutes' drive from the temples.
INR 300, 1 hour

1:00 PM

Hiking at Narthamalai Hills

Take a hike up Narthamalai Hills for stunning panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Start the hike just outside the temple area.
Free, 2 hours

3:30 PM

Rest at a Local Tea Stall

Relax and enjoy some tea at a nearby local tea stall, mingling with friendly locals.
Back to the base of the hills.
INR 50, 1 hour

4:30 PM

Drive to Thanjavur

Travel to Thanjavur, famous for its temples and Brihadeeswarar Temple, taking roughly 45 minutes.
Approx. 32 km from Narthamalai.
N/A, 45 minutes

5:15 PM

Check-in to Hotel in Thanjavur

Check into your accommodation in Thanjavur and freshen up.
Hotel booking recommended in advance.
Variable, 30 minutes

6:00 PM

Dinner at Hotel Karthik

Enjoy a delightful dinner featuring traditional meals at Hotel Karthik.
A 10-minute drive from the hotel.
INR 500, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Cultural Experience in Thanjavur

Thanjavur, India

7:00 AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at your hotel in Thanjavur.
No travel needed.
INR 250, 1 hour

8:30 AM

Visit Brihadeeswarar Temple

Explore the magnificent Brihadeeswarar Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and a marvel of Chola architecture.
Nearby, just a short drive.
Free, 2 hours

10:30 AM

Museum of Thanjavur Royal Palace

Visit the Thanjavur Royal Palace Museum to admire artifacts and paintings that tell the story of Thanjavur's royal history.
A short drive from the temple.
INR 150, 1.5 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Sree Ariya Bhavan

Taste traditional Thanjavur meals at Sree Ariya Bhavan, a popular local eatery.
Just 5 minutes from the museum.
INR 350, 1 hour

1:00 PM

Visit Art and Craft Villages

Explore local art and craft villages to witness traditional Thanjavur paintings and handicrafts.
Approximately 30-minute drive from the restaurant.
Free, 2 hours

3:00 PM

Relax at Thanjavur Fort

Unwind at Thanjavur Fort, an ancient fort showcasing stunning views and a glimpse into history.
Just a few minutes drive from the villages.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00 PM

Dinner at Hotel Gnanam

End your day with a sumptuous dinner at Hotel Gnanam, featuring regional delicacies.
A quick 10-minute drive.
INR 500, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Return Journey to Bengaluru

Bengaluru, India

7:00 AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy an early breakfast at your hotel in Thanjavur to prepare for the journey back.
No travel needed.
INR 250, 1 hour

8:30 AM

Drive Back to Bengaluru

Begin your drive back to Bengaluru, reminiscing about the trip filled with history and cultural richness.
Approx. 10 hours of travel.
N/A, 10 hours

6:30 PM

End of Trip

Arrive back in Bengaluru, concluding your unforgettable road trip through Tamil Nadu.
Arrival back at your starting point.
N/A, N/A
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