5-Day Family-Friendly Adventure in Tamil Nadu: A Road Trip Through Nature and Cityscapes

Day 1: Exploring Chennai

Chennai, India

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Saravana Bhavan

Start your day with a delicious South Indian breakfast at Saravana Bhavan, famous for its authentic dosa and idli.
Head northwest towards the coastal area.
INR 600, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit Marina Beach

Stroll along Marina Beach, one of the longest urban beaches in the world, where kids can enjoy building sandcastles and running along the shoreline.
Continue north from breakfast to the beach.
Free, 2 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Ponnusamy Hotel

Enjoy a fabulous local lunch at Ponnusamy Hotel, known for its spicy Chettinad cuisine, perfect for adventurous eaters.
Drive back from the beach to the hotel.
INR 1200, 1.5 hours

1:30 PM

Kapaleeshwarar Temple

Visit the stunning Kapaleeshwarar Temple, renowned for its colorful gopurams and beautiful sculptures, ideal for capturing family photos.
A short drive from Ponnusamy Hotel.
Free, 2 hours

4:00 PM

Government Museum

Explore the Government Museum, featuring an extensive collection of archaeological artifacts that are engaging for the whole family.
Drive towards Egmore area where the museum is located.
INR 100, 1.5 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at The Fisherman's Wharf

Savor a seaside dinner at The Fisherman's Wharf, offering a variety of seafood and local delicacies in a charming ambiance.
Head back towards the coast for dinner.
INR 2500, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Cultural Insights of Kanchipuram

Kanchipuram, India

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Hotel Saravana Bhavan

Enjoy a hearty breakfast featuring uthappam and filter coffee before heading out.
Start your road trip to Kanchipuram.
INR 600, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit Ekambareswarar Temple

Witness the grandeur of Ekambareswarar Temple, an important pilgrimage site with stunning architecture and a 3500-year-old mango tree.
Drive directly to the temple.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:30 AM

Kanchipuram Silk Weaving Center

Discover the traditional silk weaving process and shop for exquisite Kanchipuram silk sarees as souvenirs.
A short drive from the temple.
Free to enter, Silk prices vary, 1.5 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Methods for Nutrition

Enjoy a nutritious and leisurely lunch at Methods for Nutrition, specializing in healthy, local cuisine.
Head back into town for lunch.
INR 800, 1.5 hours

2:30 PM

Visit Varadaraja Perumal Temple

Explore the magnificent Varadaraja Perumal Temple, known for its intricate carvings and majestic towers.
Drive conveniently to the temple site.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:30 PM

Drive to Mahabalipuram

Embark on a scenic drive through the countryside to Mahabalipuram, enjoying the lush landscapes.
Route towards the coastal city.
Gas charges apply, 1.5 hours

6:30 PM

Dinner at Moonrakers Restaurant

Indulge in a delightful dinner at Moonrakers Restaurant, known for its seafood and beach views.
Head to the seaside for an evening meal.
INR 1800, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Heritage and Adventure in Mahabalipuram

Mahabalipuram, India

8:00 AM

Breakfast at The Village

Have a traditional breakfast at The Village, where local flavors burst to life.
Walk from your hotel to the nearby restaurant.
INR 700, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit Shore Temple

Marvel at the UNESCO World Heritage Site - Shore Temple, where brilliant stone carvings meet the breathtaking ocean.
Just a short drive away.
INR 50, 1 hour

11:00 AM

Explore Arjuna's Penance

Stroll through the impressive bas-relief of Arjuna's Penance, capturing family moments in its historical context.
A quick drive from the Shore Temple.
Free, 1 hour

12:30 PM

Lunch at Azzuri Bay

Enjoy a laid-back lunch at Azzuri Bay, famous for its coastal cuisine and beautiful views.
Head to this seaside restaurant.
INR 1200, 1.5 hours

2:00 PM

Visit Pancha Rathas

Explore the unique rock-cut temples known as Pancha Rathas, offering an adventurous opportunity for family photos and exploration.
Drive a short distance from the restaurant.
INR 50, 1.5 hours

4:00 PM

Beach Time at Mahabalipuram Beach

Relax and enjoy some beach time, perfect for unwinding and letting the kids play in the sand.
Head directly to the beach.
Free, 2 hours

6:30 PM

Dinner at The Fisherman's Wharf

Relish a dinner back at Fisherman's Wharf, experiencing local flavors one last time in Mahabalipuram.
Drive back to the restaurant.
INR 2500, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Charming Pondicherry

Pondicherry, India

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Le Cafe

Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at Le Cafe, enjoyed right by the beach.
Travel along the seaside route to the café.
INR 800, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit Auroville

Discover the unique commune of Auroville, where your family can explore sustainable living and visit the Matrimandir.
Drive to Auroville for about 30 minutes.
Free, 2 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Tanto Pizzeria

Savor wood-fired pizza at Tanto Pizzeria, a favorite among kids and adults alike.
Head back towards the city center.
INR 1200, 1.5 hours

1:30 PM

Explore the French Quarter

Wander through the charming streets of the French Quarter, admiring the colonial architecture and vibrant colors.
A short walk from the restaurant.
Free, 2 hours

4:00 PM

Check out the Beach Promenade

Relax and unwind on the Beach Promenade; the perfect place for the kids to play or for a family selfie.
Head to the promenade area.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:30 PM

Dinner at Cafe des Arts

Enjoy a unique dining experience at Cafe des Arts, known for its artistic surroundings and casual ambiance.
Short drive to the café.
INR 1500, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Majestic Ooty

Ooty, India

8:00 AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel, fueling up for a day full of adventure.
On-site at your hotel.
Included in stay, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Travel to Ooty

Set out on your journey to Ooty, where the scenic hills await you.
Prepare for a picturesque drive.
Gas charges apply, 3 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at the Hotel Darjeeling

Stop for a wonderful lunch at Hotel Darjeeling, known for its beautiful views and delicious meals.
Arrive in Ooty and drive to the restaurant.
INR 1200, 1.5 hours

1:30 PM

Visit Ooty Lake

Enjoy a boat ride at Ooty Lake, creating wonderful family memories on the water!
A short drive from the restaurant.
INR 800, 2 hours

4:00 PM

Explore Botanical Gardens

Wander through the lush greenery at Ooty Botanical Gardens, perfect for a family picnic.
Head a quick drive to the gardens.
INR 50, 2 hours

6:30 PM

Dinner at Earl's Secret

Finish your adventure with a memorable dinner at Earl's Secret, renowned for its ambiance and extensive menu.
Drive over to the restaurant.
INR 2000, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability