3-Day Family Road Trip Itinerary in Tamil Nadu

Day 1: Explore Chennai

Chennai, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Murugan Idli Shop

Start your day with a feast of soft idlis and piping hot sambar at the famous Murugan Idli Shop, a family favourite.
Located in various places in Chennai, the one in Vivekananda Nagar is recommended.
INR 600, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Government Museum

Explore the expansive Government Museum showcasing ancient artefacts and regional history, with plenty of educational insights for the kids.
Drive for 15 minutes to the Government Museum.
INR 200, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Dindigul Thalappakatti

Savour an authentic Tamil Nadu meal featuring their signature biryani, perfect for refuelling after a morning of explorations.
Drive for 20 minutes to reach the restaurant.
INR 800, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit the Guindy National Park

Enjoy a nature walk in Guindy National Park, where the family can spot deer and various birds amidst the greenery.
A short 15-minute drive from lunch.
Free Entry, 2 hours

4:00PM

Chennai Marina Beach

Head to the iconic Marina Beach, where the children can build sandcastles and enjoy the sea breeze.
Drive approximately 30 minutes to the beach.
Free Entry, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Mathura Restaurant

Conclude your day with a delicious family dinner with traditional South Indian dishes in a comfortable setting.
Drive about 20 minutes from the beach.
INR 900, 1 hour
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Day 2: Historical Kanchipuram

Kanchipuram, India

7:30AM

Breakfast at Saravana Bhavan

Fuel your day with a scrumptious breakfast at Saravana Bhavan, indulging in dosas and filter coffee.
Drive to Kanchipuram, about 2 hours from Chennai.
INR 600, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Ekambareswarar Temple

Discover the magnificent Ekambareswarar Temple, which is famous for its lush surroundings and history that kids will find captivating.
A short drive of 10 minutes from the restaurant.
Free Entry, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Silk Weaving Workshop

Take the family to a local silk weaving workshop where you can witness artisans at work and learn about Kanchipuram's famous silk sarees.
Drive 15 minutes to the workshop.
Free Entry, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Hotel Tamil Nadu

Recharge with a hearty lunch featuring regional dishes, perfect to satisfy the whole family.
A quick 10-minute drive from the workshop.
INR 700, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit the Varadaraja Perumal Temple

Explore Varadaraja Perumal Temple, known for its beautiful architecture and serene environment conducive to family photo opportunities.
Drive 15 minutes to the temple.
Free Entry, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Shopping for Silk Sarees

Take some time to shop for exquisite silk sarees, a perfect souvenir from Kanchipuram.
Nearby local shops accessible by a short drive.
Varies based on purchase, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Aasai Restaurant

Indulge in a delightful dinner featuring vegetarian South Indian dishes, sure to please everyone in the family.
Drive within Kanchipuram, approximately 10 minutes.
INR 800, 1 hour
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Day 3: Coastal Adventures in Mahabalipuram

Mahabalipuram, India

7:30AM

Breakfast at New Arya Bhavan

Begin the day with a lovely breakfast at New Arya Bhavan, with options like uttapam and fresh juices.
Travel from Kanchipuram to Mahabalipuram, around 2 hours drive.
INR 600, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit the Shore Temple

Marvel at the ancient Shore Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where the family can appreciate picturesque ocean views and rich history.
Drive for 15 minutes to the site.
INR 900, 1 hour

10:30AM

Explore Pancha Rathas

Next, visit Pancha Rathas, a set of monolithic rock-cut temples, sparking imagination and curiosity in young and old alike.
A quick 10-minute drive from the Shore Temple.
INR 500, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Sea Crest

Enjoy a delicious meal at Sea Crest, overlooking the beach and offering various seafood choices for the family's palate.
Drive 10 minutes to the restaurant.
INR 1000, 1 hour

1:30PM

Beach Time at Mahabalipuram Beach

Spend the afternoon at Mahabalipuram Beach, relaxing on the sand, and letting the kids splash in the gentle waves.
The beach is just steps away from the restaurant.
Free Entry, 2 hours

4:00PM

Visit Arjuna's Penance

Head over to Arjuna's Penance, a massive rock relief sculpture that will amaze both children and adults, making for great photos.
A short walk or 5-minute drive.
Free Entry, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Hotel Tamil Nadu

Round off your family trip with a wholesome dinner at Hotel Tamil Nadu, offering varied local dishes perfect for sharing.
Drive approximately 15 minutes to the dinner destination.
INR 800, 1 hour
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