5-Day Ultimate Tamil Nadu Itinerary: Culture, Cuisine & Heritage

Day 1: Cultural Dive

Chennai, India

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Rayar's Mess

Start your day with traditional South Indian breakfast like idli and dosai at this beloved local eatery.
Located in Mylapore, a 30-minute drive from the city center.
INR200, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit Kapaleeshwarar Temple

Explore this stunning temple adorned with intricate carvings, which is a landmark of Tamil culture.
20-minute drive from the breakfast spot.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00 AM

Marina Beach

Stroll through the famous Marina Beach and soak in the vibrant local atmosphere.
Just a 15-minute drive from the temple.
Free, 1 hour

12:30 PM

Lunch at Murugan Idli Shop

Enjoy a delicious spread of soft idlis and tangy sambar, a must-try vegetarian meal.
30-minute drive from Marina Beach.
INR300, 1 hour

2:00 PM

Explore Fort St. George

Visit this historic fort and museum to learn about the colonial past of Chennai.
20 minutes away from the lunch spot.
INR100, 2 hours

4:30 PM

Shopping at T. Nagar

Find unique textile and jewelry shops in this bustling area, perfect for souvenir shopping.
20-minute drive from the fort.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:30 PM

Dinner at Hotel Saravana Bhavan

Savor a delightful thali experience featuring various South Indian dishes in a cozy ambiance.
10-minute drive from T. Nagar.
INR500, 1.5 hours

8:00 PM

Relax at your hotel

Wind down and enjoy a peaceful night in preparation for the next day’s adventure.
Return to your hotel nearby.
COST VARY BY HOTEL, Sleep
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Historical Marvels

Mahabalipuram, India

7:30 AM

Breakfast at Hotel Sea Breeze

Enjoy a hearty breakfast with a view of the ocean to fuel your day of exploration.
Drive from Chennai to Mahabalipuram (1 hour).
INR250, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Explore Shore Temple

Marvel these ancient UNESCO World Heritage Sites, comprising intricately carved temples right by the sea.
10-minute drive from the breakfast spot.
INR250, 1 hour

10:30 AM

Pancha Rathas

Visit the rock-cut chariots dedicated to the Pandava brothers, showcasing stunning rock-cut architecture.
15-minute drive from Shore Temple.
INR150, 1 hour

12:00 PM

Lunch at Hotel Mammal’s Seafood

Savor fresh seafood caught from the waters nearby at this popular local spot.
5-minute drive from Pancha Rathas.
INR800, 1.5 hours

1:30 PM

Visit Arjuna's Penance

Discover one of the largest rock carvings in the world, depicting scenes of a lion hunt and a celestial gathering.
10-minute drive from the lunch spot.
INR150, 1 hour

3:00 PM

Beach Relaxation

Unwind at the tranquil beach, taking in the sun and the gentle waves.
10-minute drive from Arjuna's Penance.
Free, 2 hours

5:30 PM

Sunset at the Beach

Capture stunning sunset views while enjoying the serene surroundings.
Stay at the beach.
Free, 1 hour

6:45 PM

Dinner at Theevu Plage

Sample local dishes or relax with a hot coffee while enjoying ocean views.
5-minute walk from the beach.
INR600, 1.5 hours

8:15 PM

Return to hotel

Head back to your hotel and relax after a day well-spent.
Drive back to your accommodation.
COST VARY BY HOTEL, Sleep
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Temple Town Exploration

Kanchipuram, India

7:30 AM

Breakfast at Hotel Richi Rich

Fuel your day with a traditional South Indian breakfast, perfect before diving into history.
Drive from Mahabalipuram to Kanchipuram (1 hour).
INR300, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Visit Ekambareswarar Temple

Explore one of the largest temples in Kanchipuram, known for its remarkable gopuram and lush gardens.
15-minute drive from the hotel.
Free, 1.5 hours

10:30 AM

Kailasanathar Temple

Admire the architecture and carvings of this ancient temple, one of the oldest in Kanchipuram.
20-minute drive from Ekambareswarar Temple.
Free, 1 hour

12:00 PM

Lunch at Saravana Bhavan

Relish an authentic thali meal featuring a variety of vegetarian dishes, bringing all flavors to your plate.
10-minute drive from the temple.
INR400, 1 hour

1:00 PM

Visit Varadaraja Perumal Temple

This temple showcases stunning architecture and is dedicated to Lord Vishnu.
5-minute drive from the lunch spot.
Free, 1 hour

2:30 PM

Visit Kanchipuram Silk Weavers

Watch local artisans at work and purchase beautiful silk sarees that Kanchipuram is famed for.
10-minute drive from the temple.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00 PM

Visit Thoopul, the residence of Pillaiyar

Explore the peaceful atmosphere of this temple complex and learn about its significance.
15-minute drive from the weavers.
Free, 1 hour

5:30 PM

Dinner at A2B (Adyar Ananda Bhavan)

Enjoy a delightful mix of traditional and modern Indian dishes in a family-friendly environment.
20-minute drive from Thoopul.
INR450, 1.5 hours

7:00 PM

Return to hotel

Head back to your hotel for a restful evening after a rich day of exploration.
Drive back to accommodation.
COST VARY BY HOTEL, Sleep
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Ancient Temples and Vibrant Culture

Madurai, India

6:30 AM

Travel to Madurai

Take an early morning train or bus to Madurai to maximize your day.
Travel time 8 hours.
INR500, Travel

3:00 PM

Hotel Check-In

Arrive in Madurai and check into your accommodation to refresh.
29-30 minutes from Madurai Junction.
COST VARY BY HOTEL, 1 hour

4:00 PM

Visit Meenakshi Amman Temple

Witness the stunning gopuram and intricate sculptures of this iconic temple known for its divine atmosphere.
Short drive from hotel.
Free, 1 hour

5:30 PM

Explore Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace

A magnificent palace showcasing Indo-Saracenic architecture, complete with beautiful gardens.
15-minute drive from the temple.
INR100, 1.5 hours

7:00 PM

Dinner at Azhagar Perumal Kovil Restaurant

Taste traditional Tamil Nadu cuisine including delectable non-vegetarian dishes.
25-minute drive from the palace.
INR600, 1.5 hours

8:30 PM

Return to hotel

Head back to your accommodation for a well-deserved rest.
Drive back to hotel.
COST VARY BY HOTEL, Sleep
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Nature and Scenic Views

Ooty, India

7:00 AM

Travel to Ooty

Enjoy a scenic drive to Ooty, a charming hill station known for its breathtaking landscapes.
5-hour drive from Madurai.
INR1500 (for taxi), Travel

12:00 PM

Lunch at The Ace

Enjoy a delightful selection of Indian and Continental dishes in a cozy café setting.
Check into hotel first.
INR500, 1.5 hours

1:30 PM

Visit Ooty Lake

Take a leisurely stroll or a boat ride on the scenic Ooty Lake, surrounded by lush greenery.
5-minute drive from the cafe.
INR100 (for boat ride), 1.5 hours

3:00 PM

Explore Botanical Gardens

Discover exotic flora and splendid landscaping in one of India's most well-maintained gardens.
10-minute drive from Ooty Lake.
INR50, 2 hours

5:30 PM

Visit Doddabetta Peak

Ascend the highest peak in the Nilgiri Hills to enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding area.
30-minute drive from Botanical Gardens.
INR10, 1.5 hours

7:00 PM

Dinner at Durham Town

Taste local cuisine with an interesting twist in a lovely setting.
30-minute drive from Doddabetta Peak.
INR700, 1.5 hours

8:30 PM

Return to hotel and rest

End your journey in peace, reflecting on the wonderful experiences of Tamil Nadu.
Drive back to hotel.
COST VARY BY HOTEL, Sleep
View Hotel Availability