Ultimate Road Trip Itinerary Through Tamil Nadu

Day 1: Explore Chennai

Chennai, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Ratna Cafe

Start your day with the traditional South Indian breakfast of idli and sambar at Ratna Cafe, a local favorite.
Located in Mylapore, easily accessible from your hotel.
INR 200, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Marina Beach

Stroll along the iconic Marina Beach, taking in the picturesque views and vibrant local culture.
A short drive from Ratna Cafe.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore Fort St. George

Discover the rich colonial history at Fort St. George, housing a museum and ancient church.
Located 15 minutes from Marina Beach.
INR 100, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Banana Leaf

Savor some authentic Tamil Nadu cuisine with a vegetarian thali at Banana Leaf, known for its fresh flavors.
Short drive from Fort St. George.
INR 350, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Kapaleeshwarar Temple

Admire the stunning Dravidian architecture of this ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Just 10 minutes away by car.
Free, 1 hour

4:00PM

Shopping at T Nagar

Explore the bustling streets of T Nagar, perfect for shopping for traditional sarees and gold jewelry.
15-minute drive from the temple.
Variable, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Rock

Dine at The Rock for a fusion of South Indian dishes and global cuisine in a lively atmosphere.
Located near USConsulate.
INR 700, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Mahabalipuram Adventure

Mahabalipuram, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Moonrakers

Enjoy a delightful breakfast comprising pancakes and fresh juices at Moonrakers.
Conveniently located near your accommodations.
INR 250, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Shore Temple

Experience the beauty of the Shore Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, right by the beach.
A quick drive from the restaurant.
INR 600, 2 hours

12:00PM

Explore Pancha Rathas

Marvel at the five monolithic rock-cut temples, showcasing the exquisite craftsmanship of ancient India.
Only 10 minutes drive from Shore Temple.
INR 150, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at The Water's Edge

Relish a seafood platter while enjoying views of the ocean at The Water's Edge.
Located near Pancha Rathas.
INR 800, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Arjuna's Penance

Observe the impressive bas-relief depicting Arjuna's penance, a significant historical sculpture.
Just 5 minutes away.
Free, 1 hour

4:30PM

Visit Crocodile Bank

Discover various species of crocodiles and alligators at this well-maintained conservation center.
10 minutes drive from Arjuna's Penance.
INR 300, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Seafood Shack

Enjoy a relaxed dinner with local seafood delicacies at Seafood Shack, savoring the fresh catch of the day.
Located within Mahabalipuram.
INR 600, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Charming Pondicherry

Pondicherry, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Cafe des Arts

Start your day with a delicious French breakfast, featuring croissants and coffee, at the cozy Cafe des Arts.
Drive to Pondicherry takes approximately 1 hour.
INR 250, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Auroville

Visit Auroville, an experimental township, and meditate at the Matrimandir.
A short drive from Cafe des Arts.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Stroll in the French Quarter

Wander through the charming streets of the French Quarter to admire colonial architecture and colorful buildings.
Quick 15-minute drive from Auroville.
Free, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at La Casita

Enjoy an appetizing mix of Indian and French cuisine at La Casita, a popular local spot.
Located in the heart of the French Quarter.
INR 500, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Pondicherry Museum

Learn about the region's history and culture through engaging exhibits at the Pondicherry Museum.
Nearby the French Quarter.
INR 150, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Beach Time at Promenade Beach

Relax by the serene waters of Promenade Beach, enjoying sunset views and local snacks.
5-minute drive from the museum.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Villa Shanti

Dine at Villa Shanti for a mix of traditional Tamil and French-inspired dishes in a beautiful garden setting.
Located close to Promenade Beach.
INR 800, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Cultural Kumbakonam

Kumbakonam, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Adyar Ananda Bhavan

Enjoy a traditional breakfast of vada and pongal at this renowned chain popular among locals.
Drive to Kumbakonam takes approximately 1.5 hours.
INR 200, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Mahamaham Tank

Visit the sacred Mahamaham Tank, known for its spiritual significance and beautiful temples surrounding it.
Located near the town center.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Visit Adi Kumbeswarar Temple

Marvel at the architecture of one of the oldest temples in Kumbakonam, dedicated to Lord Shiva.
A short drive from the tank.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Nannilam Restaurant

Savor traditional Tamil cuisine at Nannilam, known for its thalis and sea food.
Located nearby the temple.
INR 400, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Temple of Swaminatha Swamy

Discover the famous temple dedicated to the deity known for its rich history and intricate architecture.
15-minute drive from the restaurant.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Visit Kumbakonam Market

Explore the bustling Kumbakonam Market for local handicrafts, spices, and souvenirs.
Located on the way back to the town center.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Hotel Sangeetha

Enjoy a delightful dinner featuring South Indian specialties in a cozy setting.
Close to the market area.
INR 600, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Cultural Thanjavur

Thanjavur, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Kumbakonam Coffee

Start your day with strong South Indian filter coffee and breakfast options at Kumbakonam Coffee.
Drive to Thanjavur takes approximately 30 minutes.
INR 150, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Brihadeeswarar Temple

Marvel at the architectural grandeur of this UNESCO World Heritage site, an iconic landmark of Thanjavur.
A quick drive to the temple.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Explore Thanjavur Royal Palace

Discover the history of the Thanjavur Maratha dynasty and view beautiful artworks in the palace museum.
Close proximity to the temple.
INR 500, 2 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Saravana Bhavan

Enjoy a range of delicious vegetarian South Indian dishes at Saravana Bhavan, famous for thalis.
Short drive from the palace.
INR 400, 1 hour

3:30PM

Visit Thanjavur Art Gallery

Explore a collection of traditional Tanjore paintings and bronze sculptures showcasing the local artistry.
Easily reachable from the restaurant.
INR 200, 1 hour

5:00PM

Visit the Saraswathi Mahal Library

Explore this historical library housing rare manuscripts and ancient texts from the Maratha period.
Close to the art gallery.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Anandhaas

Dine at Anandhaas, known for its authentic South Indian meals, served with buffet options.
Nearby the city center.
INR 700, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 6: Historical Madurai

Madurai, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Dasaprakash

Savor traditional South Indian breakfast dishes like dosa and idli at Dasaprakash.
Drive to Madurai takes about 2.5 hours.
INR 250, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Meenakshi Temple

Discover the stunning architecture and vivid sculptures at the sacred Meenakshi Temple.
Located in the heart of the city.
Free, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Visit Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace

Explore the grandeur of Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace, showcasing Indo-Saracenic architecture.
Just a short drive from the temple.
INR 100, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Kumar Mess

Indulge in authentic Madurai-style meals, including the famous biryani at Kumar Mess.
Easily reachable from the palace.
INR 500, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Gandhi Museum

Learn about Mahatma Gandhi's life and his association with Madurai at this well-curated museum.
A 20-minute drive from Kumar Mess.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Explore local markets

Stroll through the bustling markets of Madurai, experiencing its vibrant local culture.
Located near the museum.
Free, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at The India Tea House

Relax at The India Tea House, enjoying a variety of teas along with snacks and light meals.
Back to the city center.
INR 300, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 7: Sacred Rameswaram

Rameswaram, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Woodlands Hotel

Kickstart your day with a hearty breakfast including uthappam and filter coffee at Woodlands.
Drive to Rameswaram takes approximately 3 hours.
INR 200, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Ramanathaswamy Temple

Explore the sacred Ramanathaswamy Temple, known for its magnificent architecture and spiritual significance.
Located near the main town.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Visit Agni Tirtham

Experience the holy Agni Tirtham, where devotees perform rituals and take holy dips.
A short walk from the temple.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at a Local eatery

Try local seafood specialties and rice dishes at one of the local eateries.
Nearby the temple.
INR 300, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Dhanushkodi

Take a scenic drive to Dhanushkodi, exploring the hauntingly beautiful remnants of this ghost town.
Approximately a 30-minute drive from Rameswaram.
Free, 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Sea View Restaurant

Enjoy a delicious dinner featuring coastal cuisine with a view of the sunset over the ocean.
Return back to Rameswaram town.
INR 500, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability