3-Day Epic Road Trip Through South India: Kanipakam to Mahabalipuram

Day 1: Spiritual Start

Kanipakam, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Sri Lakshmi Restaurant

Start your day with a hearty South Indian breakfast featuring idli, vada, and sambar, accompanied by coconut chutney.
Walk or take a quick auto-rickshaw to the restaurant.
INR150, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Kanipakam Vinayaka Temple

Worship at the famed Kanipakam Vinayaka Temple, which is known for its powerful deity believed to bestow blessings.
A short drive (5 mins) to the temple.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Drive to Vellore

Head towards Vellore, famous for its formidable fort and rich history.
Take NH 42 heading northwest.
NA, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Aasai Restaurant

Enjoy a meal at Aasai Restaurant which serves authentic Chettinad cuisine, try the chicken biryani.
Easy access from the highway.
INR300, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore Vellore Fort

Stroll through the historical Vellore Fort, built in the 16th century and well-known for its impressive architecture.
5-minute drive from the restaurant.
INR50, 2 hours

3:30PM

Drive to Kanchipuram

Travel to Kanchipuram, the city of a thousand temples.
Take NH 4 heading east.
NA, 1 hour

4:30PM

Visit Ekambareswarar Temple

Experience the grandeur of Ekambareswarar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, known for its massive gopuram.
Short drive from where you park.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Saravana Bhavan

Conclude your day with dinner at Saravana Bhavan, enjoying their famous thali meals.
About 10-minute drive from the temple.
INR250, 1 hour

7:00PM

Check-in at Hotel

Relax at a local hotel for an overnight stay.
Hotel arrangements should be pre-booked.
INR1500 (approx.), 1 hour
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Day 2: Cultural Dive

Kanchipuram to Chennai, India

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a complimentary breakfast at the hotel, with options of dosa and upma.
Eat at your hotel.
Included, 1 hour

8:00AM

Drive to Chennai

Travel to Chennai, a vibrant mix of tradition and modernity.
Take NH 48 heading southeast.
NA, 2 hours

10:00AM

Visit Kapaleeshwarar Temple

Appreciate the stunning Dravidian architecture at the Kapaleeshwarar Temple in Mylapore.
10-minute drive from where you park.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Explore Marina Beach

Enjoy a walk along Marina Beach and absorb the scenic beauty and local culture.
15-minute drive from the temple.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Murugan Idli Shop

Savor delicious idlis and chutneys at the renowned Murugan Idli Shop.
Short drive from the beach.
INR200, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit Fort St. George

Discover the historical significance of Fort St. George and its museum.
15-minute drive from the restaurant.
INR20, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Drive to Mahabalipuram

Proceed to Mahabalipuram, renowned for its UNESCO heritage sites.
Take the East Coast Road (ECR).
NA, 1 hour

4:00PM

Explore Shore Temple

Marvel at the ancient Shore Temple, a stunning example of Dravidian architecture by the sea.
Nearby parking available.
INR600, 1 hour

5:00PM

Visit Arjuna's Penance

Visit the bas-relief sculpture of Arjuna's Penance, a significant landmark.
Short drive or walk from the Shore Temple.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Hotel Sea Breeze

Enjoy a seaside dinner at Hotel Sea Breeze, specializing in seafood delicacies.
Easy drive from the landmarks.
INR500, 1 hour

7:00PM

Check-in at Hotel

Relax at your hotel after an adventurous day.
Hotel pre-booked.
INR2000 (approx.), 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Majestic Finale

Mahabalipuram, India

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Indulge in a complimentary breakfast featuring local dishes.
At your hotel.
Included, 1 hour

8:00AM

Visit Pancha Rathas

Explore the remarkable rock-cut temples of Pancha Rathas, showcasing unique architecture.
Short drive from the hotel.
INR150, 1.5 hours

9:30AM

Relax at Mahabalipuram Beach

Unwind at Mahabalipuram Beach, take a swim or simply enjoy the sun.
Easily accessible from the town.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Drive back to Chennai

Travel back to Chennai for your onward journey.
Take the East Coast Road back to Chennai.
NA, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Hotel Saravana Bhavan in Chennai

Enjoy a flavorful South Indian lunch here before departing.
15-minute drive from the beach.
INR300, 1 hour

1:00PM

Visit Government Museum

Wander through the rich exhibits at the Government Museum, uncovering artifacts from the region.
5-minute drive from the restaurant.
INR50, 2 hours

3:00PM

Departure

Conclude your unforgettable road trip through Southern India!
Head towards your next destination or airport.
NA, NA
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