5-Day Family Adventure Road Trip in Southern India: Mahabalipuram to Thanjavur

Day 1: Beach Fun

Mahabalipuram, India

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Seashore Holistic Restaurant

Start your day with a hearty breakfast overlooking the Ocean, enjoying fresh seafood dishes and local delicacies.
Located near the shore, easy walking distance.
INR 800, 1.5 hours

10:00 AM

Visit Shore Temple

Explore this UNESCO World Heritage site, marveling at the intricate carvings and stunning ocean views.
Short drive or walk from the restaurant.
INR 50, 2 hours

12:30 PM

Lunch at The Whale's Spot

Enjoy a family-friendly meal with an extensive menu catering to all age groups, featuring local flavors and refreshments.
5-minute drive from Shore Temple.
INR 1200, 1 hour

2:00 PM

Explore Pancha Rathas

Discover the five monolithic rock-cut temples, learning about their historical significance while having fun exploring the surroundings.
10-minute drive from the restaurant.
INR 50, 2 hours

5:00 PM

Beach Playtime

Spend the evening relaxing on the beautiful Mahabalipuram beach building sandcastles or splashing in the waves.
Just a few minutes from Pancha Rathas.
Free, 2 hours

7:30 PM

Dinner at Ocean's Edge

Savor delicious seafood and Indian dishes in a cozy atmosphere with ocean views to end your first day.
5-minute walk from the beach.
INR 1500, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Cultural Escape

Puducherry, India

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Bread & Chocolate

Enjoy a delightful meal featuring freshly baked bread, pastries, and delicious coffee, perfect for the family.
Drive from Mahabalipuram, about 1 hour.
INR 1000, 1.5 hours

9:30 AM

Explore Auroville

Visit this unique township known for its sustainable living and beautiful Matrimandir, offering an educational experience for the family.
20-minute drive from the restaurant.
Free, 2.5 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Cafe des Arts

Enjoy a light and flavorful lunch at this enchanting café, known for its ambiance and international menu options.
30-minute drive from Auroville.
INR 1200, 1.5 hours

2:00 PM

Visit Sri Aurobindo Ashram

Experience the tranquil environment and rich philosophies of this spiritual community, allowing the family to explore and reflect.
10-minute drive from the café.
Free, 1 hour

3:30 PM

Relax at Pondicherry Beach

Unwind at this stunning beach, where kids can play while adults take a leisurely stroll along the shore.
10-minute drive from the Ashram.
Free, 2 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at La Casa

Indulge in a mix of Indian and Continental cuisine within a vibrant setting to wrap up the day.
10-minute drive from the beach.
INR 1800, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Temple Trail

Chidambaram, India

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Hotel Saradharam

Start your day with a warm South Indian breakfast, featuring traditional dosas and idlis that kids will love.
Drive from Puducherry, around 2 hours.
INR 800, 1.5 hours

10:00 AM

Visit Nataraja Temple

Marvel at the iconic temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, known for its stunning architecture and vibrant festivals.
5-minute drive from the breakfast spot.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Ananda Bhavan

Relish a scrumptious vegetarian lunch offering a variety of local dishes, sure to satisfy everyone's palate.
5-minute drive from the temple.
INR 1000, 1 hour

1:30 PM

Explore Thillai Kali Amman Temple

A short visit to this historic temple gives insights into local culture and beliefs, which can be fascinating for kids.
10-minute drive from lunch.
Free, 1 hour

3:00 PM

Shopping at Chidambaram Market

Experience the local culture by shopping for handicrafts and souvenirs in the bustling market - a fun activity for the whole family.
5-minute drive from the temple.
Variable, 2 hours

5:00 PM

Dinner at Hotel Saradharam

Wind down your day with a delightful dinner at a local favorite, featuring a range of vegetarian and non-vegetarian options.
5-minute drive from the market.
INR 1200, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Cultural Connection

Kumbakonam, India

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Adyar Ananda Bhavan

Fuel up with a delicious breakfast of traditional South Indian fare, perfect for families.
Drive from Chidambaram, about 1 hour.
INR 800, 1.5 hours

10:00 AM

Visit Airavatesvara Temple

Explore this UNESCO-listed temple, famed for its architecture and sculptural beauty - a treat for the family.
15-minute drive from breakfast.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Hotel Sadhabhishekam

Savor a hearty lunch with a variety of vegetarian options, reflecting the rich culinary traditions of the region.
15-minute drive from the temple.
INR 900, 1.5 hours

1:30 PM

Visit Kumbakonam Market

Experience the vibrant atmosphere and shop for local snacks, temple offerings, and unique handmade items.
5-minute drive from lunch.
Variable, 2 hours

3:30 PM

Explore Mahamaham Tank

Visit this sacred water tank famous for its religious significance and stunning surroundings, a perfect stop for the family.
5-minute drive from the market.
Free, 1 hour

5:00 PM

Dinner at Udupi Sri Krishna Bhavan

Enjoy a wholesome dinner with a focus on vegetarian options, beloved by locals and tourists alike.
10-minute drive from the tank.
INR 1000, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Heritage Tour

Thanjavur, India

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Hotel Gnanam

Start your final day with a delicious breakfast, featuring a range of options to cater to all tastes.
Drive from Kumbakonam, approximately 30 minutes.
INR 800, 1.5 hours

10:00 AM

Visit Brihadeeswarar Temple

Marvel at this magnificent UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its towering architecture and historical relevance.
Short drive from breakfast.
INR 50, 2 hours

12:30 PM

Lunch at Kannappa Hotel

Indulge in a family-friendly meal featuring a variety of traditional dishes served in a welcoming atmosphere.
5-minute drive from the temple.
INR 1200, 1.5 hours

2:00 PM

Explore Thanjavur Palace

Discover the rich history of the Maratha dynasty through exhibits and the intricately designed Darbar Hall.
10-minute drive from lunch.
INR 100, 2 hours

4:30 PM

Visit Saraswathi Mahal Library

Step into this treasure trove of ancient manuscripts and literature, intriguing for both adults and children.
5-minute drive from the palace.
INR 50, 1.5 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at Hotel Gnanam

Celebrating the end of your journey with a casual dinner, taking time to enjoy stories from each day's adventures.
Return to Hotel Gnanam.
INR 1200, 1.5 hours
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