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12-Day Road Trip Adventure in Chennai and Surrounding Gems

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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 of dosa and filter coffee at Saravana Bhavan, a local favorite.
Travel is within the city.
INR 300, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Kapaleeshwarar Temple

Marvel at the colorful gopuram and intricate sculptures of this iconic Hindu temple in Mylapore.
Drive to Mylapore in 15 minutes.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Explore Marina Beach

Relax and take a long walk on one of the longest urban beaches in the world, soaking in the ocean views.
20-minute drive from Mylapore.
Free, 2 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Bay View Cafe

Enjoy a delicious seafood lunch while overlooking the beach at this charming seaside cafe.
20-minute drive from Marina.
INR 800, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Visit Fort St. George

Dive into history by exploring the first British fortress in India, showcasing colonial architecture and a museum.
10-minute drive from the cafe.
INR 100, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Fisherman's Wharf

Savor coastal delicacies with an ambiance reminiscent of a fishing village.
30-minute drive from Fort St. George.
INR 1200, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Chennai

Day 2: Mahabalipuram Wonders

Mahabalipuram, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Le Yogi

Indulge in a filling breakfast with options from traditional to continental.

9:30AM

Visit Shore Temple

Explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its stunning architecture and views of the Bay of Bengal.
Walk from the cafe.
INR 50, 1 hour

11:00AM

Pancha Rathas

Witness the rock-cut temples that are beautifully carved and represent various styles of architecture.
5-minute drive.
INR 50, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Hotel Mamalla

Enjoy South Indian thali served in a relaxed ambience.
5-minute drive.
INR 600, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Krishna's Butterball

A gigantic boulder that seems to defy gravity, offering a great photo opportunity.
10-minute drive.
Free, 1 hour

4:00PM

Relax at Mahabalipuram Beach

Spend the afternoon unwinding on the beach or taking a dip.
5-minute drive.
Free, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Cove

Finish your day with delicious coastal cuisine in a cozy beach setting.
15-minute drive.
INR 1000, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Mahabalipuram

Day 3: Temples of Kanchipuram

Kanchipuram, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel Tamil Nadu

Try traditional Tamil breakfast options to fuel your day full of exploration.
Drive to Kanchipuram (about 1 hour).
INR 300, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Kanchi Kamakshi Temple

Admire the architecture and serene atmosphere of this ancient temple dedicated to Goddess Kamakshi.
5-minute drive.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Visit Ekambareswarar Temple

Explore one of the largest temples in Kanchipuram, known for its 1000-pillared hall.
5-minute drive.
Free, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Hotel Saravana Bhavan

Relish traditional South Indian meals in a vibrant setting.
5-minute drive.
INR 600, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Varadaraja Perumal Temple

Explore this temple known for its intricate sculptures and beautiful carvings.
10-minute drive.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Kanchipuram Handloom Weaving

Experience the traditional weaving process of the famous Kanchipuram sarees.
Local artisans in town.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Aasai Vegetarian Restaurant

Enjoy delicious vegetarian fare reflecting the culinary traditions of Kanchipuram.
15-minute drive.
INR 500, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Kanchipuram

Day 4: Charming Pondicherry

Pondicherry, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Cafe du Palais

Savor a delightful breakfast with French pastries and coffee in a cozy setting.
Drive to Pondicherry (about 2 hours).
INR 400, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Aurobindo Ashram

Experience tranquility at this spiritual center founded by Sri Aurobindo.
10-minute drive.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore French Quarter

Stroll through the charming streets adorned with colonial architecture and vibrant bougainvillea.
Walking tour.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Villa Shanti

Enjoy a fusion of Indian and French cuisines in a beautiful setting.
5-minute walk.
INR 800, 2 hours

3:00PM

Visit Promenade Beach

Relax and unwind on the beachfront, indulging in local snacks from nearby stalls.
5-minute drive.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Visit The Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus

Admire the beautiful neo-Gothic architecture of this stunning church.
10-minute drive.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Surguru

Feast on local culinary delights including idli and dosa before winding down your day.
15-minute drive.
INR 500, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Pondicherry

Day 5: Peaceful Auroville

Auroville, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Solitude Farm

Start your day with organic breakfast options in a serene environment.
Drive to Auroville (about 30 minutes).
INR 400, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Matrimandir

Explore this spiritual center, a large golden globe symbolizing peace.
Drive to Matrimandir entrance.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Visit Auroville Marketplace

Shop for handmade goods and organic products made by the community.
5-minute drive.
Free, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Auroville’s Solar Kitchen

Enjoy a buffet-style meal, focusing on sustainability and local produce.
5-minute walk.
INR 600, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore the Community

Meet locals and hear about Auroville’s groundbreaking community living projects.
Walking tour.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Relax at the beach nearby

Spend some quiet time soaking in the sun and sand.
15 minutes drive.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Loving Hut

Satisfy your cravings with healthy vegan dishes in a peaceful setting.
10-minute drive.
INR 700, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Auroville

Day 6: Chidambaram's Artistic Temples

Chidambaram, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel Saravana Bhavan

Start your day with a filling breakfast of traditional Tamil meals.
Drive to Chidambaram (about 2 hours).
INR 300, 1 hour

9:30AM

Nataraja Temple Visit

Explore the famous temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, known for its intricate carvings.
5-minute drive.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Visit Chidambaram Art Gallery

Delve into the local art and heritage on display at this quaint gallery.
10-minute drive.
INR 100, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Annai Azhagiya Perumal Hotel

Savor local vegetarian cuisine in a friendly atmosphere.
10-minute drive.
INR 600, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit the Pichavaram Mangrove Forest

Experience the beauty of the mangroves on a canoeing trip through the serene waters.
35-minute drive.
INR 500, 2.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Vasantham Hotel

Enjoy delicious regional specialties before concluding your day.
30-minute drive back.
INR 700, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Chidambaram

Day 7: Heritage in Thanjavur

Thanjavur, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel Sriram

Start your day with a traditional South Indian breakfast.
Drive to Thanjavur (about 2 hours).
INR 600, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Brihadeeshwara Temple

Admire the grandeur of this UNESCO World Heritage Site and its stunning architecture.
5-minute drive.
INR 50, 2 hours

11:30AM

Visit Thanjavur Royal Palace

Explore the exquisite artifacts and paintings housed in this historic palace.
5-minute drive.
INR 100, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Rajasthani Restaurant

Feast on a delicious Rajasthani thali meal.
5-minute drive.
INR 600, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Thanjavur Art Gallery

Discover traditional Tanjore paintings and artifacts.
5-minute drive.
INR 100, 1 hour

4:30PM

Visit Schwartz Church

Marvel at the architecture of this 18th-century church.
5-minute drive.
Free, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at Hotel Ambica

Conclude your day with traditional South Indian dinner options.
10-minute drive.
INR 500, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Thanjavur

Day 8: Cultural Trichy

Trichy, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Sangeetha Veg Restaurant

Delight in South Indian breakfast options before heading out.
Drive to Trichy (about 1 hour).
INR 300, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Rock Fort Temple

Climb the rock fort and immerse yourself in the breathtaking views and historic temples.
10-minute drive.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Visit Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple

Explore one of the largest temple complexes in India, known for its intricate carvings.
20-minute drive.
Free, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Anjappar

Enjoy a sumptuous meal of Chettinad cuisine in a lovely ambiance.
15-minute drive.
INR 700, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Visit the Gandhi Museum

Learn about Mahatma Gandhi's life and his contributions through exhibits and artifacts.
15-minute drive.
INR 50, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Stroll around Kaveri River

Take a peaceful walk along the river and unwind from the day's activities.
15-minute drive.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Hotel Tamilnadu

Indulge in authentic Tamil cuisine for a perfect end to your day.
10-minute drive.
INR 600, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Trichy

Day 9: Historical Madurai

Madurai, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel Sri Subham

Fuel up with a traditional South Indian breakfast before your journey.
Drive to Madurai (about 2 hours).
INR 300, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Meenakshi Amman Temple

Explore the stunning architecture and intricate sculptures of this famous temple.
10-minute drive.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Explore Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace

Wander through the grand palace showcasing Indo-Saracenic architecture.
10-minute drive.
INR 100, 1 hour

1:30PM

Lunch at the Murugan Idli Shop

Savor the best idlis in town at this popular eatery.
5-minute drive.
INR 400, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Gandhi Museum

Learn about the history of the Indian independence movement in this informative museum.
10-minute drive.
INR 50, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Stroll around the Meenakshi Amman Temple area

Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere and local shops around the temple.
Walking distance.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Hotel Sri Saravana Bhavan

Conclude your day with a wholesome dinner featuring local delicacies.
5-minute drive.
INR 600, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Madurai

Day 10: Nature at Kodaikanal

Kodaikanal, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Royal Hotel

Enjoy a delightful breakfast with a view before heading to the hills.
Drive to Kodaikanal (about 3.5 hours).
INR 400, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Kodaikanal Lake

Take a peaceful boat ride on this tranquil lake surrounded by lush greenery.
5-minute walk.
INR 300, 2 hours

12:00PM

Visit Coaker's Walk

Enjoy stunning views of the valleys and mountains while strolling along this scenic walkway.
20-minute drive.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at The Carlton

Savor a luxurious meal with beautiful views of Kodaikanal Lake.
15-minute drive.
INR 1200, 2 hours

3:30PM

Visit Pillar Rocks

Explore the breathtaking rock formations that rise dramatically from the forested landscape.
30-minute drive.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Hilltop Restaurant

End your day with a delightful dinner featuring local and continental cuisines.
15-minute drive.
INR 800, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Kodaikanal

Day 11: Glimpse of Dindigul

Dindigul, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel Tamilnadu

Enjoy a hearty breakfast with local flavors in Dindigul.
Drive to Dindigul (about 2 hours).
INR 300, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Dindigul Fort

Witness the historical Dindigul Fort and enjoy panoramic views from the top.
10-minute drive.
INR 100, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Visit the Pillaiyar Patthi

See the majestic temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha.
10-minute drive.
Free, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Hotel Anbu

Delight in various local dishes, famous for their taste and flavors.
10-minute drive.
INR 500, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Dindigul Lock

Explore the historic site known for its locks and the craftsmanship behind them.
15-minute drive.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Vasantham

Enjoy your meal with a variety of vegetarian options.
15-minute drive.
INR 600, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Dindigul

Day 12: Return to Chennai

Chennai, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at a local eatery

Finish your journey with breakfast at a local favorite, trying any South Indian delicacies you might have missed.
Drive back to Chennai (about 2.5 hours).
INR 300, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Chennai's Local Markets

Last-minute shopping at local markets, picking souvenirs and sarees.
Drive to T. Nagar.
Free, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Ponnusamy Hotel

Indulge in a assorted meal featuring local specialties for a final feast.
10-minute drive.
INR 600, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Kapaleeshwarar Temple (if missed)

Spend some time visiting this iconic temple if not done previously.
20-minute drive.
Free, 1 hour

4:00PM

Relax at your Accommodation

Take the rest of the afternoon to relax or organize your bags.
Back to the hotel.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Farewell Dinner at The Spice Route

Wrap up your 12-day journey with a sumptuous dinner featuring Southeast Asian cuisine.
Drive to the restaurant.
INR 1200, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Chennai
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