Make this trip your own
Create your own free, personalized itinerary in seconds — then sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version

5-Day Family Adventure: Chennai, Mahabalipuram, and Pondicherry

Viewed by 90 travelers

Day 1: Arrival & Exploration

Chennai, India

9:00AM

Breakfast at Murugan Idli Shop

Start your day with delicious fluffy idlis and sambar, a favorite local breakfast.
Located a short drive from major hotels in Chennai.
INR300, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Government Museum

Explore the rich art and history of Tamil Nadu through its impressive collections.
A 15-minute taxi ride from the breakfast location.
INR20, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Amethyst Cafe

Enjoy a relaxed meal in a beautiful garden setting, serving a variety of cuisines.
15-minute taxi ride from Museum.
INR800, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Marina Beach

Take a leisurely stroll along the iconic Marina Beach, perfect for family fun.
15-minute taxi ride from the cafe.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Barbeque Nation

Indulge in a family-friendly buffet with live grill on the table.
15-minute ride from Marina Beach.
INR1500, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Chennai

Day 2: Cultural Immersion

Chennai, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Sangeetha

Savor traditional South Indian breakfast like dosa and filter coffee.
Centrally located, easy access from major areas.
INR400, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Kapaleeshwarar Temple

Marvel at this beautiful temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, full of vibrant colors and sculptures.
10-minute taxi ride to Mylapore.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Explore Dakshinachitra

An interactive cultural village showcasing the art and crafts of South India.
45-minute drive from Mylapore.
INR70, 2.5 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Dakshinachitra Café

Enjoy local delicacies and snacks at the on-site café.
In the same location.
INR600, 1 hour

3:30PM

Visit Vandalur Zoo

Spend the afternoon at one of the largest zoos in India, great for kids and families.
30-minute drive from Dakshinachitra.
INR50, 3 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at the Fisherman’s Wharf

Savor delectable seafood dishes in a charming, coastal atmosphere.
20-minute taxi ride from the zoo.
INR1200, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Chennai

Day 3: Beachside Wonders

Mahabalipuram, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Paradise Beach Resort

Enjoy a hearty breakfast with ocean views before exploring Mahabalipuram.
Check-out from Chennai and travel to Mahabalipuram.
INR800, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Shore Temple

Explore this UNESCO World Heritage site, a stunning temple perched on the shore.
5-minute taxi ride from the resort.
INR30, 1 hour

11:00AM

Visit Arjuna’s Penance

Admire the massive rock carving depicting Mahabharata scenes, a sight to behold.
Within a short walking distance from Shore Temple.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Hotel Seashore

Enjoy a delicious meal with a mix of Indian and continental dishes.
5-minute taxi ride.
INR700, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Mahabalipuram Beach

Spend your afternoon relaxing on the sandy shore, building sandcastles with the family.
Short drive from the restaurant.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Visit Pancha Rathas

Discover the unique rock-cut temples, each carved like a chariot, perfect for photo ops.
15-minute taxi ride.
INR50, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at the Mami’s Kitchen

Dine on authentic South Indian dishes in a homely atmosphere.
5-minute taxi ride.
INR600, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Mahabalipuram

Day 4: A Taste of Pondicherry

Pondicherry, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café des Arts

Sip coffee and enjoy a croissant at this charming French café.
Travel from Mahabalipuram to Pondicherry, around 2-hour drive.
INR500, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Auroville

Visit this unique universal township known for its progressive community and architecture.
30-minute taxi ride from the café.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Satsanga

Enjoy a healthy lunch with vegetarian options in a peaceful setting.
Located within Auroville; seamless transition.
INR600, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit Pondicherry Museum

Learn about the city’s history and heritage in this informative museum.
30-minute ride back to Pondicherry.
INR25, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Stroll in the Botanical Gardens

Relax in the lush greenery of these historical gardens, perfect for a family stroll.
20-minute taxi ride.
INR30, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Villa Shanti

Enjoy a blend of Indian and French cuisine in a beautiful heritage property.
15-minute taxi ride from Botanical Garden.
INR1500, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Pondicherry

Day 5: Final Day Relaxation

Pondicherry, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Baker Street

Indulge in freshly baked pastries and breads at this delightful French bakery.
Located in the city center, easy access.
INR300, 1 hour

9:30AM

Beach Day at Promenade Beach

Spend a lazy day enjoying the sun, sand, and sea at this popular beach.
Short distance from the bakery.
Free, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Le Café

Dine at this charming beachfront café with a view of the ocean.
Located right on the Promenade Beach.
INR700, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Shopping at Goubert Market

Explore the vibrant marketplace for local goods and souvenirs.
10-minute taxi ride from Le Café.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Coffee Break at Café Xtasi

Relax with a cup of coffee or tea at this popular hangout spot.
Just a short walk from the market.
INR200, 1 hour

6:00PM

Farewell Dinner at the Indian Kaffe Express

Enjoy your last dinner with delicious fusion dishes perfect for all tastes.
15-minute taxi ride from the café.
INR1000, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Pondicherry
0
Like this trip? Make your own version.
A free, personalized itinerary in seconds — sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version

More About Chennai, Mahabalipuram, Pondicherry

Best Pondicherry Travel Deals
Travel Deals
Trip Packing List: December — Mahabalipuram, Pondicherry & Chennai (India)
Packing List
Itinerary created by AI-assisted, human-reviewed

Plan Your Chennai, Mahabalipuram, Pondicherry Trip

Cost Estimator
Estimate your trip budget
Packing List
Get a custom checklist
Weather Expert
Check weather & best time to go