One-Day Road Trip Itinerary in Tamil Nadu

Day 1: Cultural Exploration

Chennai, India

7:00AM

Breakfast at MTR

Start your day with a traditional South Indian breakfast at MTR (Mavalli Tiffin Rooms), where you can enjoy idli, dosa, and fragrant filter coffee.
From MTR, head to Mahabalipuram via East Coast Road (ECR).
INR 400, 1 hour

8:30AM

Visit Shore Temple

Explore the famous Shore Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning architecture and beautiful seaside views.
Drive to the Shore Temple; parking is available nearby.
INR 40, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Arjuna's Penance

Marvel at Arjuna's Penance, one of the largest rock carvings in the world, depicting the epic Mahabharata tale.
A short walk from the Shore Temple will take you to this site.
Included in entrance fee, 30 minutes

10:00AM

Explore Pancha Rathas

Discover the Pancha Rathas, a series of rock-cut temples with intricate carvings, representing different architectural styles.
A quick drive of 5 minutes takes you to Pancha Rathas.
Included in entrance fee, 1 hour

11:00AM

Drive to Kanchipuram

Head towards Kanchipuram, renowned for its temples and silk sarees, to soak up more of Tamil Nadu's rich heritage.
Approximately a 1-hour drive via NH 32.
N/A, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Saravana Bhavan

Savor a delicious lunch at the iconic Saravana Bhavan, known for its wide variety of vegetarian dishes and thalis.
Located centrally in Kanchipuram, easy to reach.
INR 350, 1 hour

1:00PM

Visit the Kailasanathar Temple

Explore the Kailasanathar Temple, the oldest temple in Kanchipuram, distinguished for its remarkable architecture and sacred atmosphere.
A short drive or walk, as it's centrally located.
INR 30, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit the Ekambareswarar Temple

Continue to Ekambareswarar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, and marvel at its towering gopurams and lush surroundings.
It's a brief drive from Kailasanathar Temple.
INR 30, 1 hour

3:00PM

Traditional Silk Shopping

Spend some time shopping for renowned Kanchipuram silk sarees from local weavers, a cultural staple of the city.
Visit any renowned silk shop in the city.
Varies based on selection, 1 hour

4:00PM

Return to Chennai

Begin your journey back to Chennai, reflecting on the day filled with cultural richness and stunning architecture.
Drive back via NH 32.
N/A, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Annalakshmi

End your day with a wholesome dinner at Annalakshmi, a lovely vegetarian restaurant that offers a buffet of Southern Indian dishes in a cultural ambiance.
Located at the heart of Chennai, easy to reach.
INR 600, 1 hour
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