5-Day Road Trip Itinerary to Famous Temples in Tamil Nadu

Day 1: Chennai Temples

Chennai, India on February 14, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Saravana Bhavan

Start your day with a hearty South Indian breakfast at the iconic Saravana Bhavan, known for its delicious dosas and idlis.
Head towards the Kapaleeshwarar Temple!
INR 300, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Kapaleeshwarar Temple

Explore this stunning 7th-century temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, famed for its grand architecture and vibrant gopuram.
Next, drive to the Parakala Mutt Temple.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:15AM

Visit Parakala Mutt

Wander through this revered monastery that showcases ancient manuscripts and traditional rituals.
After this cultural immersion, lunch at a local restaurant.
INR 500, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at The Grand Sweets and Snacks

Enjoy authentic Tamil snacks and a light lunch at this popular eatery famous for its sweets and savories.
Next, head towards the Santhome Basilica.
INR 400, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Santhome Basilica

Visit this stunning church built over the tomb of St. Thomas, an apostle of Jesus Christ, reflecting a blend of architectural styles.
Finish the day at Theosophical Society.
Free, 1 hour

4:00PM

Visit Theosophical Society

Stroll through the beautiful gardens and ancient banyan tree at one of Chennai's serene spots.
Return to your hotel to rest and refresh.
Free, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at Aasai Restaurant

Indulge in a traditional Tamil dinner featuring biryani and various curries to fuel your energy for the road trip.
Prepare for the next day to Kanchipuram.
INR 700, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Kanchipuram Exploration

Kanchipuram, India on February 15, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel Saravana Bhavan

Enjoy another delicious breakfast at your hotel before heading out.
Drive to Kailasanathar Temple.
INR 300, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Kailasanathar Temple

Marvel at the intricate carvings and exquisite architecture of this magnificent temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Next, stop at the Varadaraja Perumal Temple.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:15AM

Visit Varadaraja Perumal Temple

Admire the beautiful idol of Lord Vishnu and learn about the temple's historical significance.
It's time for lunch at a nearby restaurant.
INR 500, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Murugan Idli Shop

Try out their famous idlis and chutneys to experience local flavors.
Head towards the Kamakshi Amman Temple.
INR 400, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Kamakshi Amman Temple

Worship at this prominent Shakti temple dedicated to Goddess Kamakshi, which is renowned for its spiritual ambiance.
Wrap up with a visit to the Kanchipuram Handloom Emporium.
Free, 1 hour

4:00PM

Shopping at Kanchipuram Handloom Emporium

Browse through beautiful silk sarees and traditional handicrafts made in this silk city.
Drive to Mahabalipuram after your shopping.
INR 600 (Shopping), 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Ocean View Resort

Savor a seafood dinner coupled with a stunning view of the beach.
Rest for the night at your accommodation in Mahabalipuram.
INR 800, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Mahabalipuram Sightseeing

Mahabalipuram, India on February 16, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Azzuri Bay

Enjoy a refreshing breakfast with local specialties by the beach to start your day right.
Drive to the Shore Temple.
INR 400, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Shore Temple

Discover this UNESCO World Heritage site, a stunning temple complex overlooking the shore of the Bay of Bengal.
Proceed to the Arjuna's Penance.
Entry INR 10, 1 hour

11:00AM

Visit Arjuna's Penance

Marvel at the intricately carved rock relief depicting the legendary tale of Arjuna from the Mahabharata.
Next, go for lunch at a local eatery.
INR 500, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at The Fruit Shop on GNo

Refuel with a refreshing meal that includes fresh juices and healthy salads.
Visit the Pancha Rathas after lunch.
INR 350, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Pancha Rathas

Explore the iconic five chariots, each dedicated to a different deity, showcasing remarkable rock-cut architecture.
Take a break and relax on the beach.
Free, 1 hour

4:30PM

Beach Time at Mahabalipuram Beach

Enjoy the sun, sand, and surf while relaxing on the picturesque beach.
Head back to your hotel to freshen up.
Free, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at Grand Bay Restaurant

Indulge in a delightful dinner with an assortment of North Indian and South Indian dishes overlooking the beach.
Spend the night at your hotel.
INR 800, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Tiruvannamalai Temples

Tiruvannamalai, India on February 17, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Garden Restaurant

Enjoy a wholesome breakfast featuring traditional South Indian dishes before heading out.
Drive to Arunachaleswarar Temple.
INR 400, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Arunachaleswarar Temple

Delve into the sacred atmosphere of this prominent Shiva temple, known for its towering gopuram and vibrant festivals.
Next, head to the Ramana Maharshi Ashram.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Visit Ramana Maharshi Ashram

Experience tranquility as you visit the ashram founded by the revered saint Ramana Maharshi.
Enjoy lunch close to the ashram.
INR 500, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Hotel Aakash Inn

Savor a delicious vegetarian meal to recharge before visiting the next temple.
Drive to visit the Virupaksha Cave.
Free, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Virupaksha Cave

Explore the ancient cave where Ramana Maharshi spent years in meditation.
Continue to the Skandasramam.
Free, 1 hour

4:00PM

Visit Skandasramam

Gain insights into the spiritual practice and enjoy the serene surroundings of this sacred site.
Return to your hotel to relax.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Sri Ramana Ashram Kitchen

Dine on a simple yet fulfilling meal served at the ashram to complete your spiritual journey.
Prepare for your journey to Madurai tomorrow.
INR 200, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Madurai Temples

Madurai, India on February 18, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel Heritage

Relish a traditional breakfast to kickstart your day in the historic city of Madurai.
Drive to Meenakshi Amman Temple.
INR 400, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Meenakshi Amman Temple

Experience the divine atmosphere at this iconic temple dedicated to Goddess Meenakshi, famous for its stunning architecture and vibrant culture.
Next, head to Thirumalai Nayakkar Mahal.
Entry INR 50, 1 hour

11:00AM

Visit Thirumalai Nayakkar Mahal

Explore the majestic palace known for its Indo-Saracenic architecture and grand courtyards.
Time for lunch at a local restaurant.
INR 500, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Amma Mess

Savor authentic South Indian flavors, including rice and various curry dishes that are popular among locals.
Visit the Gandhi Museum after lunch.
Free, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit Gandhi Museum

Learn about India's freedom struggle and Mahatma Gandhi's influence at this informative museum.
Finish the day with a visit to Alagar Koil.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Visit Alagar Koil

Conclude your temple journey at this scenic temple situated in the hills, dedicated to Lord Alagar, offering a serene view.
Return to Madurai for your final dinner.
Free, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at Hotel Heritage

Relish a farewell dinner featuring a variety of local and regional specialties to conclude your memorable journey.
Prepare for departure or continue your travels.
INR 600, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability