7-Day Family Adventure and Culture Immersion in Nadu Naadu and Thondai Naadu Regions of Tamil Nadu

Day 1: Explore Chennai

Chennai, India

9:00AM

Breakfast at Saravana Bhavan

Start your adventure with a delicious South Indian breakfast at the iconic Saravana Bhavan, enjoying their famous dosa and filter coffee.
Take a local taxi to Saravana Bhavan.
INR 600, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit the Government Museum

Discover the rich history and culture of Tamil Nadu at the Government Museum, home to ancient artifacts, bronze sculptures, and textiles.
Drive to the museum, approximately 30 minutes from breakfast.
INR 100, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Anjappar Chettinad

Enjoy a flavorful Chettinad meal at Anjappar Chettinad, known for its spicy non-vegetarian dishes.
15-minute drive from museum.
INR 1200, 1 hour

3:00PM

St. Thomas Mount

Climb up St. Thomas Mount for stunning views of the city and to learn about its historical significance.
30-minute drive from lunch.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Explore Marina Beach

Relax at the iconic Marina Beach, take a stroll along the shore, and enjoy local snacks from the vendors.
15-minute drive from St. Thomas Mount.
Cost of snacks INR 200, 2 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Barbeque Nation

Experience a delightful buffet dinner with grilled meats and a variety of dishes at Barbeque Nation.
10-minute drive from Marina Beach.
INR 3000, 2 hours
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Day 2: Heritage of Mahabalipuram

Mahabalipuram, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Gajalee Restaurant

Enjoy a seaside breakfast with a view, sampling local specialties like poha and idli.
Drive to Mahabalipuram (1 hour).
INR 800, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Shore Temple

Explore the magnificent Shore Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and learn about its architecture and history.
Located a short drive from breakfast.
INR 250, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Moonrakers Restaurant

Savor fresh seafood at Moonrakers, along with local dishes, in a relaxed atmosphere.
5-minute drive from the temple.
INR 1500, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit the Pancha Rathas

Explore the stunning rock-cut temples and learn about their historical significance and storytelling.
10-minute drive from lunch.
INR 250, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Explore Arjuna's Penance

Admire the intricate carvings on this huge bass relief that tells the story of Arjuna from the Mahabharata.
5-minute drive from Pancha Rathas.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Shopping at Mahabalipuram Market

Browse the local shops for souvenirs, including stone carvings and handicrafts.
Walk from Arjuna's Penance.
Cost varies, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Seaside Restaurant

Enjoy a beachside dinner with a mix of continental and Indian cuisine, perfect for families.
5-minute walk from the market.
INR 2000, 2 hours
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Day 3: Temples and Culture of Kanchipuram

Kanchipuram, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel TamilNadu

Fuel up with a wholesome breakfast featuring traditional south Indian items.
Drive to Kanchipuram (1 hour).
INR 700, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Ekambareswarar Temple

Marvel at one of the largest temples in Kanchipuram, known for its towering gopurams and sacred mango tree.
15-minute drive from breakfast.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Visit Kanchi Kudil

Explore this cultural heritage center showcasing the way of life in Kanchipuram in the 18th century.
Drive for 10 minutes from Ekambareswarar Temple.
INR 100, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Hotel Saravana Bhavan

Enjoy a traditional Tamil lunch with items like sambar rice and rasam.
Drive for 15 minutes.
INR 800, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit the Kailasanathar Temple

Visit this ancient temple that showcases exquisite rock-cut sculptures and historical significance.
10-minute drive from lunch.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Silk Weaving Experience

Visit a local silk weaving workshop and see how Kanchipuram is famous for its handwoven silk sarees.
5-minute drive.
INR 300, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Aasai Veg Restaurant

Indulge in a variety of vegetarian dishes, perfect for a family dinner.
Drive for 15 minutes.
INR 1200, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Charming Pondicherry

Pondicherry, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café des Arts

Begin your day with a French-inspired breakfast, enjoying croissants and fresh coffee.
Drive to Pondicherry (1.5 hours).
INR 800, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Aurobindo Ashram

Visit this serene spiritual center and learn about Sri Aurobindo's philosophy.
5-minute walk from the café.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Visit French War Memorial

See this significant monument honoring French soldiers that adds to the city’s colonial charm.
15-minute walk.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Villa Shanti

Enjoy a meal in a beautifully restored heritage building, offering a mix of Indian and Continental dishes.
10-minute walk.
INR 1500, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore Serenity Beach

Spend some time relaxing at the picturesque Serenity Beach, enjoying the sun and sand.
15-minute drive from lunch.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Visit Pondicherry Museum

Discover the cultural heritage of Pondicherry at this insightful museum.
Drive back (30 minutes).
INR 100, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Indian Kaffe Express

Try fusion food that incorporates local flavors with international cuisine.
10-minute drive.
INR 1200, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Rural Adventure in Tindivanam

Tindivanam, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel Kodaikanal

Enjoy a traditional breakfast consisting of idli and chutneys.
Drive to Tindivanam (1 hour).
INR 700, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Sri Sukkra Bhagavathi Temple

Peruse this famous temple known for its beautiful architecture and unique rituals.
15-minute drive from breakfast.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Participate in Farming Activities

Experience rural life and participate in local agriculture, learning about farming techniques.
Local arrangements recommended.
Free (local charges may apply), 2.5 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Local Village Home

Relish authentic Tamil meals, including sambar and rice, prepared by a local family.
Arranged by local hosts.
INR 800, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Local Handicrafts Workshop

Learn about traditional crafts and try your hand at pottery or weaving.
10-minute drive.
INR 300, 2 hours

5:30PM

Return to Tindivanam

Return to town for some leisure time in the market amidst local shops.
5-minute drive.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Hotel Aryaas

Enjoy a delicious vegetarian buffet with a variety of local offerings.
Drive for 15 minutes.
INR 1000, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Exploration of Cuddalore

Cuddalore, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel Pudukottai

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a popular local restaurant.
Drive to Cuddalore (1 hour).
INR 700, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Cuddalore Beach

Relax at the serene beach, allowing the kids to play in the sand and enjoy the coastal views.
15-minute drive.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Visit and Learn at Our Lady of Remedies Church

Explore this beautiful church with history, learning about its significance in the local community.
15-minute drive.
Free, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Hotel Ambica

Experience local cuisine with fish fry and rice dishes that Cuddalore is known for.
10-minute drive.
INR 1200, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore the Backwaters

Take a traditional boat ride along the backwaters, witnessing rural life and wildlife.
Boat tours can be arranged locally.
INR 1500, 2 hours

6:00PM

Visit Thiruvizhandhan Perumal Temple

Gaze upon the stunning architecture and vibrant rituals at this ancient temple.
15-minute drive.
Free, 1 hour

7:30PM

Dinner at Gopal’s Restaurant

Savor a mix of vegetarian and non-vegetarian local dishes for a delightful family dinner.
10-minute drive.
INR 1200, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Return to Chennai

Chennai, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel Subam

Enjoy your last breakfast at the simple yet flavorful local hotel.
Drive back to Chennai (1.5 hours).
INR 700, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Valluvar Kottam

Wrap up your trip with a visit to this memorial honoring the Tamil poet Thiruvalluvar.
15-minute drive.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Shopping at Pondy Bazaar

Explore the bustling markets of Chennai and shop for some last-minute souvenirs.
15-minute drive.
Cost varies, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Karthik’s Kitchen

Indulge in tasty home-cooked meals at a local favorite where diners can also watch the kitchen in action.
30-minute drive.
INR 1000, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Birla Planetarium

Engage with interactive exhibits and learn about astronomy, which can be both fun and educational for kids.
15-minute drive.
INR 200, 2 hours

6:00PM

Farewell Dinner at The Fisherman’s Wharf

Enjoy a grand farewell dinner with a variety of seafood specialties and a fusion of local flavors at this vibrant venue.
15-minute drive.
INR 2500, 2 hours

8:00PM

Departure

Bid farewell to Chennai with cherished memories and experiences of Nadu Naadu and Thondai Naadu.
Head to Chennai Airport.
Varies, 30 minutes
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