7-Day Family Friendly Itinerary in Tamil Nadu

Day 1: Explore Chennai

Chennai, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Murugan Idli Shop

Start your day with a scrumptious South Indian breakfast of fluffy idlis and fragrant sambar at the famous Murugan Idli Shop.
Navigate to the nearby Marina Beach for a morning walk.
INR 300, 1.5 hours

9:30AM

Visit Marina Beach

Enjoy the cool morning breezes and play in the soft sands of Marina Beach.
From the beach, head to the Government Museum.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Banana Leaf

Taste the essence of Tamil Nadu with a traditional banana leaf meal that will delight your senses.
After lunch, travel to the Government Museum by taxi.
INR 500, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Explore Government Museum

Delve into the rich history and culture of Tamil Nadu with engaging exhibits.
After the museum, head towards the Kapaleeshwarar Temple.
INR 100, 2 hours

4:00PM

Visit Kapaleeshwarar Temple

Admire the magnificent architecture and vibrant colors of this historic temple.
Travel to check into your hotel after this.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Anjappar Chettinad Restaurant

Savor Chettinad cuisine, famous for its rich spices and flavors, perfect to end your day.
Return to hotel or explore nearby areas after dinner.
INR 800, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Visit Mahabalipuram

Mahabalipuram, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your morning with a delicious breakfast at your hotel before heading out.
Drive to Mahabalipuram, approximately 1 hour from Chennai.
INR 400, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Shore Temple

Marvel at the beautiful Shore Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that showcases stunning granite architecture.
Walking distance to Pancha Rathas.
INR 500, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Visit Pancha Rathas

Discover the five monolithic temples known as Pancha Rathas, great for family photos.
Travel to the local beach for lunch.
INR 300, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Beach Resort Restaurant

Enjoy a delightful seafood lunch at a nearby beach resort with a fantastic view.
After lunch, head to Arjuna's Penance.
INR 700, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit Arjuna's Penance

Take in the largest bas-relief in the world, depicting the scene of Arjuna's penance.
Finish your day at the local market.
Free, 1 hour

4:00PM

Shopping at Local Market

Stroll through the local market, picking up souvenirs and unique handicrafts.
Return to Chennai for dinner.
INR 500, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Sangeetha Vegetarian Restaurant

End your day with a variety of vegetarian dishes that perfectly embody South Indian flavors.
Head back to your hotel.
INR 800, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Cultural Wonders of Kanchipuram

Kanchipuram, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before checking out of your hotel in Chennai.
Drive to Kanchipuram, approximately 2 hours.
INR 300, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Ekambareswarar Temple

Discover one of the largest temples in Kanchipuram, known for its towering gopuram.
Short drive to Kailasanathar Temple.
INR 100, 1 hour

11:00AM

Explore Kailasanathar Temple

Admire the intricate architecture and carvings of this ancient temple.
Move to the Silk Weaving Centre for lunch.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Kanchipuram Silk Weaving Centre

Enjoy traditional South Indian fare while exploring silk sarees.
Head to the Varadaraja Perumal Temple.
INR 500, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Varadaraja Perumal Temple

Recognized for its beautiful architecture and historical significance.
Tour the local area before returning to Pondicherry.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Travel to Pondicherry

Transition to the French-influenced town of Pondicherry, around 2 hours away.
Check into your hotel upon arrival.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Cafe des Arts

Savor delectable French dishes at this charming café while soaking in the vibrant culture.
Return back to hotel after dinner.
INR 800, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Pondicherry Bliss

Pondicherry, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Baker Street

Indulge in freshly baked pastries and a hearty breakfast at this popular café.
Head towards Auroville after breakfast.
INR 500, 1.5 hours

9:30AM

Visit Auroville

Explore the unique community and the Matrimandir that represents humanity's unity.
Return to the town for lunch at a local eatery.
Free, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at La Guinguette

Enjoy a delightful meal in a relaxed atmosphere near the beach.
Stroll around the Promenade Beach afterwards.
INR 700, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Relax at Promenade Beach

Spend some time soaking in the sun, and children can enjoy building sandcastles.
Move to the French Quarter to explore.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Explore French Quarter

Discover the beautiful architecture and colorful streets of the French Quarter, ideal for family walks.
Return to the hotel to freshen up.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Villa Shanti

Indulge in a fusion of Indian and French cuisine in a picturesque setting.
Post dinner, relax for the night.
INR 900, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Historical Treasures of Tanjore

Tanjore, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Relish a sumptuous breakfast at your hotel in Pondicherry.
Depart for Tanjore, approximately 3 hours drive.
INR 400, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Brihadeeswarar Temple

A UNESCO World Heritage site, it boasts incredible Chola architecture and historical significance.
Head to the Tanjore Palace.
INR 100, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Visit Tanjore Palace

Marvel at the royal heritage and impressive collections of art and artifacts.
Lunch at a local restaurant nearby.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Sree Ariya Bhavan

Savor authentic Tamil meals that Tanjore is known for.
Post lunch, move towards the Saraswathi Mahal Library.
INR 700, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit Saraswathi Mahal Library

Explore manuscripts and books, showcasing the rich literary heritage of Tamil Nadu.
Head back towards your hotel.
Free, 1 hour

4:00PM

Check into Hotel

Settle down and freshen up after your journey.
Dinner restaurant nearby.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Hotel Tanjore Hi

Enjoy dinner while reflecting on the day’s exploration.
Relax at the hotel post dinner.
INR 800, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 6: Cultural Capital Madurai

Madurai, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day with breakfast at your hotel in Tanjore.
Travel to Madurai, which is approximately 3 hours away.
INR 300, 1.5 hours

9:30AM

Visit Meenakshi Amman Temple

Experience the vibrant and bustling atmosphere of one of Tamil Nadu's most famous temples.
Navigate to the local market for shopping.
Free, 2 hours

11:30AM

Shop at Madurai Market

Pick up local handicrafts and souvenirs as keepsakes from your Madurai experience.
Lunch at a nearby restaurant.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Nattukottai Chettinad

Relish traditional Chettinad dishes that are both spicy and flavorful.
Visit Thirumalai Nayak Palace next.
INR 600, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Explore Thirumalai Nayak Palace

Discover the grandeur of this 17th-century palace with beautiful architecture.
Head towards the Gandhi Memorial Museum.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Visit Gandhi Memorial Museum

Learn about the life of Mahatma Gandhi and the Indian independence movement.
Return to the hotel for the evening.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Surya Hotel

Conclude the day with a mix of regional and continental cuisine.
Retire to your hotel for overnight stay.
INR 800, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 7: Spiritual Journey to Rameswaram

Rameswaram, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before checking out.
Drive to Rameswaram, which takes approximately 3 hours.
INR 300, 1.5 hours

9:30AM

Visit Ramanathaswamy Temple

Experience the divine atmosphere of the sacred Ramanathaswamy Temple, which is famous for its long corridors.
Head to the beach for some leisure time.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Relax at Dhanushkodi Beach

Spend time at the tranquil Dhanushkodi Beach, ideal for a family picnic.
Enjoy lunch afterwards.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at a Local Restaurant

Enjoy a casual meal with local flavors that will please every palate.
Visit the nearby beach for sightseeing.
INR 500, 1 hour

2:30PM

Sightseeing at Rameswaram Beach

Explore the natural beauty and soak up the sun at Rameswaram Beach.
Head back to the hotel to unwind.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Check into Hotel

Relax and refresh after a day filled with exploration.
Dinner at the hotel restaurant.
Free, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at Hotel Restaurant

Enjoy a tranquil dinner to reflect on the week’s adventures in Tamil Nadu.
Relax for your last night in the beautiful surroundings.
INR 800, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability