4-Day Family Friendly Itinerary: Chennai, Thirupati Temple & Sri Kalahasthi Temple

Day 1: Exploring Chennai

Chennai, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Murugan Idli Shop

Start your day with delicious soft idlis and filter coffee at Murugan Idli Shop, a local favorite.
Walk or take a local auto-rickshaw to reach the restaurant.
INR 300, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Kapaleeshwarar Temple

Explore the famous Kapaleeshwarar Temple, a magnificent example of Dravidian architecture.
A short 15-minute drive will take you to the temple.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Marina Beach

Take a stroll along the Marina Beach, perfect for family pictures and enjoying the sea breeze.
A 20-minute drive from the temple.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Fisherman's Wharf

Enjoy a delightful lunch with seafood and local cuisine while overlooking the beautiful waterfront.
A 15-minute drive from the beach.
INR 1200, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore the Government Museum

Discover fascinating exhibits, including ancient artifacts and natural history at the Government Museum.
A 10-minute drive from lunch.
INR 30, 2 hours

5:30PM

Shopping at Phoenix Marketcity

Spend the evening shopping and browsing at one of Chennai's largest malls, featuring international brands.
A 25-minute drive from the museum.
Varies, 2 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Barbeque Nation

Indulge in a family-friendly buffet with a range of grilled dishes and sides to choose from.
10-minute drive from the mall.
INR 1800, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Thirupati Temple Visit

Thirupati, India

6:00AM

Depart for Thirupati

Start early for the 3-hour drive to Thirupati to beat the crowds at the famous Venkateswara Temple.
Use a pre-booked taxi or family van for comfort.
Approximately INR 3000, 3 hours

9:00AM

Breakfast at local eateries

Have a local breakfast at a nearby eatery such as Balaji Bhavan, known for its good sambar and chutney.
Situated a short walk from the temple.
INR 250, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Venkateswara Temple

Explore the grandeur of the Venkateswara Temple, one of the richest temples in the world.
Follow local signage to reach the temple.
Free (donations welcome), 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Hotel M fragrance

Enjoy a hearty lunch at Hotel M fragrance for classic South Indian fare.
A short drive from the temple.
INR 800, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore the local market

Take some time to explore the nearby Purasawalkam market for local sweets and souvenirs.
Short drive or walk from the restaurant.
Varies, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Departure for Sri Kalahasthi

Head to Sri Kalahasthi, a famous temple town known for its unique temple architecture.
30-minute drive from Thirupati.
Included in previous transportation cost, 0.5 hours

4:30PM

Visit the Sri Kalahasthi Temple

Explore the renowned Sri Kalahasthi Temple, famous for its serpent worship and serene atmosphere.
Directly off the main route.
Free (donations welcome), 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Hotel Sri Krishna

Finish the day with a delicious meal at Hotel Sri Krishna offering regional dishes.
Near the temple.
INR 700, 1 hour

7:30PM

Return to Thirupati for an overnight stay

Head back to your hotel in Thirupati for the night.
30-minute drive back.
Included in previous transportation cost, 0.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Cultural Experiences at Sri Kalahasthi

Sri Kalahasthi, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at your hotel before starting the day.
On-site at the hotel.
INR 500, 1 hour

9:00AM

Explore Sri Kalahasthi Temple Complex

Take your time to explore the temples around the complex and learn about the legends associated with them.
Entry is direct from the hotel.
Free, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Visit the Vayu Lingam

Participate in a worship ritual at the Vayu Lingam, surrounded by divine energy and tranquility.
Easily accessible from the temple complex.
Free (donations welcome), 1 hour

11:30AM

Travel to Kalahasthi village

Explore the cultural charm of Kalahasthi village, visiting local shops and interacting with artisans.
A 10-minute drive from the temple.
Included in previous transportation cost, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Kalahasthi Restaurant

Enjoy a local meal at Kalahasthi Restaurant, offering tasty vegetarian options.
In the village, easy access.
INR 600, 1 hour

1:30PM

Return to Thirupati

Head back to Thirupati for a relaxing afternoon.
30-minute drive from the village.
Included in previous transportation cost, 0.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Akasaganga Waterfall

Take a short hike to the scenic Akasaganga Waterfall, ideal for a refreshing family photo opportunity.
A 15-minute drive from Thirupati city center.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Explore Thirupati Balaji Museum

Learn about local heritage and history at the Thirupati Balaji Museum, engaging for all ages.
10-minute drive from the waterfall.
INR 50, 1 hour

5:30PM

Dinner at Aharam Restaurant

Enjoy a family dinner with a variety of foods, from curries to dosas, sure to please everyone.
A 15-minute drive from the museum.
INR 800, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Return to Chennai

Chennai, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Savor a delightful breakfast at your hotel before checking out.
On-site at the hotel.
INR 500, 1 hour

9:00AM

Checkout and Depart for Chennai

Start your journey back to Chennai, reminiscing about the wonderful experiences.
Use a pre-booked taxi or vehicle.
INR 3000, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Saravana Bhavan

Refuel with an authentic South Indian meal at Saravana Bhavan, popular for its thali offering.
Located in central Chennai.
INR 600, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit the Chennai Snake Park

Explore the exotic world of reptiles at Chennai Snake Park, a unique attraction for kids and families.
A short drive from lunch.
INR 250, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore the Shree Ayyappan Temple

Visit this serene temple that harmonizes traditional architecture and a peaceful ambiance.
A 20-minute drive from the snake park.
Free, 1 hour

4:30PM

Visit Iskcon Temple Chennai

Marvel at the serene beauty of Iskcon Temple, where spirituality meets artistry.
A 15-minute drive from the previous temple.
Free (donations welcome), 1 hour

5:30PM

Dinner at Anjappar Chettinad

Conclude your trip with a delightful Chettinad dinner known for its rich flavors and spices.
A 20-minute drive from Iskcon Temple.
INR 1200, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Return to Hotel or Departure

Relax and reflect on your amazing trip as you return to your hotel or head to the airport for your onward journey.
Depending on your next steps.
Varies, 1 hour
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