Chennai Culinary Adventure: A 3-Day Foodie Road Trip

Day 1: Explore Chennai

Chennai, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Ratna Cafe

Start your adventure with some iconic South Indian dishes like idli, dosa, and sambar at the beloved Ratna Cafe.
Head to Ratna Cafe located at 27, 28, 29, Dr R K Salai, Mylapore, Chennai.
INR 500, 1.5 hours

9:30AM

Visit Kapaleeshwarar Temple

Explore the beautiful architecture and vibrant culture of the famous Kapaleeshwarar Temple, a fine example of Dravidian-style architecture.
Located in Mylapore, it's a short 10-minute drive from the cafe.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Stroll Marina Beach

Take a relaxed walk along Marina Beach, one of the longest urban beaches in the world, and savor the salty sea breeze.
Only a 15-minute drive from the temple.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Murugan Idli Shop

Enjoy a delicious lunch featuring their famous idlis and an array of delectable chutneys.
Drive for 20 minutes to reach the Murugan Idli Shop in multiple locations including T. Nagar.
INR 600, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Fort St. George

Explore Fort St. George, the first British fortress in India, and delve into its extensive museum, showcasing the history of colonial India.
A 25-minute drive from the restaurant.
INR 50, 2 hours

4:30PM

Visit the Government Museum

Dive into Tamil Nadu's rich cultural tapestry at the Government Museum, featuring various artifacts and works of art.
Just a 10-minute drive from Fort St. George.
INR 15, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Pavilion

Unwind and enjoy a fine dining experience with a mix of South Indian and continental dishes at The Pavilion in the ITC Grand Chola.
Just a 15-minute drive from the museum.
INR 2000, 2 hours

8:30PM

Enjoy a Cultural Show at Kalakshetra

Immerse yourself in the art and culture of India by attending a captivating classical dance performance at the Kalakshetra Foundation.
A 30-minute drive from The Pavilion.
INR 500, 2 hours
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Day 2: Day Trip to Mahabalipuram

Mahabalipuram, India

7:30AM

Breakfast at Hotel Saravana Bhavan

Fuel up for your trip with a hearty traditional South Indian breakfast at the vegetarian favorite, Hotel Saravana Bhavan.
A short 15-minute drive from your accommodation in Chennai.
INR 500, 1.5 hours

9:00AM

Drive to Mahabalipuram

Enjoy a scenic drive to Mahabalipuram, known for its rock-cut temples and structures, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Take the ECR road for a scenic 1.5-hour drive (58 km).
Fuel INR 200, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Visit Shore Temple

Explore the iconic Shore Temple, known for its intricate carvings and stunning location by the sea.
Located in Mahabalipuram, just a 10-minute drive from the entrance.
INR 50, 1 hour

11:30AM

Visit Arjuna's Penance

Marvel at the world's largest bas-relief sculpture, depicting Arjuna's penance and showcasing ancient Indian art.
A 5-minute drive from Shore Temple.
INR 20, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Sea Breeze Restaurant

Savor delectable seafood while overlooking the beach at the highly-rated Sea Breeze Restaurant.
Located close to the shoreline, a short 10-minute drive from Arjuna's Penance.
INR 800, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Pancha Rathas

Discover the five chariots carved from rock, each representing different architectural styles and mythology.
A 15-minute drive from the restaurant.
INR 50, 1 hour

3:00PM

Relax at Mahabalipuram Beach

Spend a leisurely afternoon unwinding at Mahabalipuram Beach, where you can enjoy the sun and sand.
This beach is just a 5-minute drive from Pancha Rathas.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Drive Back to Chennai

Make your way back to Chennai as you reflect on the day's explorations and experiences.
Return to Chennai via the ECR road, about 1.5-hour drive back.
Fuel INR 200, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Sangeetha Veg Restaurant

Wind down the day with a wholesome vegetarian dinner at Sangeetha, known for its variety and quality.
A 30-minute drive from Mahabalipuram back to Chennai.
INR 1000, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Return to Chennai

Chennai, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at New Ratna Cafe

Enjoy a classic breakfast treat of vada and dosas to kickstart your final day in Chennai.
Located just a short drive from your accommodation.
INR 400, 1.5 hours

9:30AM

Visit Guindy National Park

Immerse yourself in nature at Guindy National Park, known for its wildlife and lush greenery in the midst of the city.
A 25-minute drive from the cafe.
INR 30, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore Chennai Snake Park

Visit the Chennai Snake Park nearby to learn about various snake species and conservation efforts.
A short drive of about 10 minutes from Guindy National Park.
INR 50, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Anjappar Chettinad

Indulge in a flavorful Chettinad meal, renowned for its spicy dishes and authentic flavors.
About 25-minute drive from the snake park.
INR 1000, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit Valluvar Kottam

Pay homage at the Valluvar Kottam, a memorial dedicated to the poet and philosopher Tiruvalluvar.
Only a 15-minute drive from Anjappar Chettinad.
INR 20, 1 hour

3:30PM

Shop at Pondy Bazaar

Have some fun shopping at Pondy Bazaar for local goods, textiles, and souvenirs.
A 10-minute drive from Valluvar Kottam.
Free, depends on shopping, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Beach House Restaurant

Cap off your adventure with a beautiful view of the sea and a relaxed dinner at Beach House Restaurant, tucked away from the city's buzz.
A 30-minute drive from Pondy Bazaar.
INR 1500, 2 hours

7:30PM

Departure

As your memorable trip in Chennai comes to an end, reflect on the delicious food and wonderful experiences.
Head back to your accommodation or catch your transport.
N/A, 1 hour
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