Epic Road Trip Itinerary: Hyderabad to South India’s Temple Trail

Day 1: Journey Begins

Hyderabad, India

6:00AM

Flight to Chennai

Start your adventure early with a direct flight from Hyderabad to Chennai, which will set the pace for your South Indian temple trail.
Head to Rajiv Gandhi International Airport for your flight.
INR3000, 1.5 hours

8:00AM

Breakfast at hotel in Chennai

Enjoy a traditional South Indian breakfast at your hotel, perhaps idli, sambar, and filter coffee, preparing you for the journey ahead.
Choose a hotel near the airport for convenience.
INR500, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Mahabalipuram

Hit the road to Mahabalipuram, renowned for its rock-cut temples and shorelines, making the 90-minute journey worth every minute.
Take the ECR (East Coast Road) for the most scenic route.
INR1000 for fuel, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Explore Shore Temple

Visit the UNESCO-listed Shore Temple, where the artistry of stone sculptures beautifully contrasts with the azure waters.
Easily accessible by car from the main town area.
INR50, 1 hour

11:30AM

Visit Arjuna's Penance

Marvel at Arjuna's Penance, one of the largest bas-reliefs in the world depicting the story of the Mahabharata.
Just a short drive or walk from the Shore Temple.
Free, 30 minutes

12:00PM

Lunch at a Local Restaurant

Relish some delectable seafood dishes or South Indian thali at a local eatery like Moonrakers or The Fisherman's Wharf.
Located within the town and easily accessed.
INR700, 1 hour

1:00PM

Drive to Kanchipuram

Continue your journey to Kanchipuram, famous for its temples and silk sarees, only a short drive away.
Take the NH 32 route for the quickest journey.
INR500 for fuel, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Ekambareswarar Temple

Visit the Ekambareswarar Temple, one of the most prominent temples dedicated to Lord Shiva in Kanchipuram.
Well marked and accessible from the town centre.
Free, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Kanchi Silk Weaving

Discover the exquisite craftsmanship of Kanchipuram silk sarees by visiting local weavers.
Look for shops around the temple area.
Varies, 1 hour

4:00PM

Drive to Chidambaram

Next, set off for Chidambaram, home of the famous Nataraja Temple, as a pivotal stop on your temple excursion.
Take the NH 45 route; it's about a 2-hour drive.
INR800 for fuel, 2 hours

6:00PM

Evening Aarti at Nataraja Temple

Partake in the evening aarti at the Nataraja Temple, a spiritual experience that is both energising and calming.
The temple is located in the city centre.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at a Local Diner

Savour authentic Chettinad cuisine at a local diner, with spicy chicken curry and fragrant rice.
Many restaurants near the temple area specialize in regional food.
INR600, 1 hour

8:00PM

Check-in to hotel

Rest and recharge at a comfortable hotel in Chidambaram, preparing for the next day's adventures.
Book a hotel in advance for convenience.
INR2000, 1 hour
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