Ultimate 4-Day Nature and Foodie Road Trip in Tamil Nadu

Day 1: Explore Chennai

Chennai, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Murugan Idli Shop

Start your day with fluffy idlis and spicy sambar at the iconic Murugan Idli Shop, a must-visit for foodies in Chennai.
Located in multiple places, the most popular branch is in T. Nagar. Easily reach via local transport or drive.
INR200, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the San Thome Basilica

A beautiful neo-gothic structure by the coast, ideal for a morning stroll and some reflection.
Drive to San Thome Basilica, approximately 8 km from T. Nagar.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Explore Marina Beach

Walk along the coast of Marina Beach, one of the longest urban beaches in the world, perfect for a leisurely time.
Marina Beach is just 3 km from San Thome Basilica.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Chettinad Restaurant

Relish authentic Chettinad cuisine featuring spicy chicken curry and aromatic rice at this eatery.
Drive to Chettinad Restaurant, about 6 km from Marina Beach.
INR700, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Travel to Kanchipuram

Begin your drive to Kanchipuram, a city known for its temples and silk sarees.
Drive for approximately 1.5 hours (75 km) to Kanchipuram.
N/A, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Visit the Ekambareswarar Temple

Explore this majestic temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, with its beautiful architecture and vast grounds.
Located in Kanchipuram city; parking available on site.
Free, 1 hour

5:30PM

Silk Weaving Workshop Tour

Learn about the famous Kanchipuram silk weaving process with a visit to a local workshop.
Find local workshops a short drive away from the temple.
INR500, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Saravana Bhavan

Indulge in a vegetarian meals featuring a variety of dosas and thalis at the famous Saravana Bhavan.
Located in the city center, easy to reach by car.
INR600, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Temple Town & Nature Bliss

Kanchipuram, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel Cornucopia

Enjoy a hearty South Indian breakfast with a variety of options including upma and pongal.
Located centrally in Kanchipuram.
INR300, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Kamakshi Amman Temple

Discover the spiritual vibe and beautiful architecture of this famous temple dedicated to Goddess Kamakshi.
Drive to the temple, about 4 km from the hotel.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Explore the Kanchi Kudil

Experience the traditional Tamilian lifestyle and crafts at this heritage museum.
Just 3 km drive from Kamakshi Amman Temple.
INR100, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Hotel Guru

Dig into a sumptuous meal featuring biriyani and local sweets at this popular restaurant.
Only 2 km away from the museum.
INR500, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Drive to Mahabalipuram

Set out towards Mahabalipuram known for its UNESCO heritage sites.
Enjoy the 1 hour scenic drive (66 km) to Mahabalipuram.
N/A, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit the Shore Temple

Admire the ancient architecture and stunning views of the sea while visiting the Shore Temple.
Parking available at the site.
INR40, 1 hour

4:30PM

Explore Arjuna's Penance

Marvel at the largest bas-relief in the world depicting Arjuna’s penance.
A short walk from the Shore Temple.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Moonrakers Restaurant

Feast on seafood and local delicacies at this beachside restaurant.
Located right on the beach, accessible by foot.
INR800, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Beach and Culture

Mahabalipuram, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Four Seasons

Kickstart your day with a delectable breakfast buffet featuring Indian and continental options.
Located in Mahabalipuram town.
INR600, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Pancha Rathas

Explore the five monolithic rock-cut temples, each a stunning architectural feat of ancient India.
Just a short drive (2 km) to the site.
INR40, 1 hour

11:00AM

Adventure at Crocodile Bank

Get up close with various species of crocodiles and alligators in this conservation center.
Approximately 10 km drive from Pancha Rathas.
INR500, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Seashore Restaurant

Enjoy fresh caught fish and curry with a seaside view.
Located near the Crocodile Bank, an easy drive.
INR700, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Relax at Mahabalipuram Beach

Unwind and soak up the sun at Mahabalipuram's sandy shores.
Beach access is convenient from the restaurant; park nearby.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Visit the Mahabalipuram Museum

Learn about the history and significance of Mahabalipuram through varied exhibits.
A quick drive back into town.
INR100, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Sea View Restaurant

Savor a mix of Indian and continental dishes with a breathtaking view of the ocean.
This restaurant is right on the beachfront.
INR900, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Charming Pondicherry

Pondicherry, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café des Arts

Enjoy a French-style breakfast of croissants and coffee at this charming café in the heart of Pondicherry.
Located in the French Quarter, right in the city center.
INR500, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Aurobindo Ashram

Join a peaceful meditation session and explore the serene surroundings of this influential spiritual community.
A short drive (2 km) from the café.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Stroll in Promenade Beach

Take a refreshing walk along the Promenade Beach and enjoy the sea breeze.
The beach stretches conveniently through the town.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Villa Shanti

Delight in a fusion of Tamil and French cuisine at this renowned restaurant.
Located within walking distance from Promenade Beach.
INR800, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore the Botanical Gardens

Discover a variety of tropical plants in these lush gardens, perfect for a relaxing afternoon.
A 3 km drive from Villa Shanti.
INR30, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Visit the French Quarters

Wander through the picturesque streets and admire the colonial architecture.
Drive or walk back to the city center.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Café Opera

Celebrate your trip with a delightful dinner featuring a range of eclectic dishes from regional specialties.
Located just off the French Quarter.
INR1000, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability