3-Day Family-Friendly Itinerary: Discover the Temples of Tamil Nadu

Day 1: Chennai Exploration

Chennai, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Saravana Bhavan

Start your day with a delicious South Indian breakfast at Saravana Bhavan, famous for its idlis and dosas.
Located in T. Nagar, easily accessible by taxi.
INR 500, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Kapaleeshwarar Temple

Explore the intricately carved Kapaleeshwarar Temple in Mylapore, dedicated to Lord Shiva, known for its beautiful gopuram (temple tower).
A short taxi ride from Saravana Bhavan.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Explore Santhome Cathedral

Visit the historic Santhome Cathedral, built over the tomb of St. Thomas, one of the apostles of Jesus.
A quick drive from Kapaleeshwarar Temple.
Free, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Murugan Idli Shop

Enjoy a hearty meal at Murugan Idli Shop, famous for its spicy chutneys and crispy idlis.
Located nearby, a short taxi ride.
INR 400, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit the Government Museum

Take a family-friendly tour of the Government Museum showcasing ancient sculptures and artifacts.
About 20 minutes by taxi from the lunch spot.
INR 100, 2 hours

5:00PM

Relax at Marina Beach

Unwind at Marina Beach, enjoy the waves, and let the kids play in the sand.
A short drive from the museum.
Free, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Fisherman’s Wharf

Indulge in a delectable seafood dinner at Fisherman’s Wharf, perfect for winding down your day.
Located along the beach, easy to reach.
INR 1200, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Kanchipuram Temples

Kanchipuram, India

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel Sarath Residency

Fuel up with breakfast at Hotel Sarath Residency, where you can enjoy a variety of South Indian dishes.
Located in Kanchipuram, easy to access.
INR 400, 1 hour

8:30AM

Visit Ekambareswarar Temple

Begin the day at Ekambareswarar Temple, one of the Panchabhoota Sthalams dedicated to Lord Shiva, known for its massive 57-meter tall gopuram.
Just a short taxi ride from your hotel.
Free, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Visit Kailasanathar Temple

Explore the ancient Kailasanathar Temple, revered for its beautiful stone carvings and blend of architectural styles.
Another short drive within Kanchipuram.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Ananda Bhavan

Dig into a flavorful lunch at Ananda Bhavan, famous for its thali meals and traditional Tamil food.
Just a short ride from Kailasanathar Temple.
INR 600, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Varadaraja Perumal Temple

After lunch, visit Varadaraja Perumal Temple, known for its intricate sculptures and peaceful atmosphere.
A short drive to the temple.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Shopping for Silk Sarees

Take a quick trip to the local silk saree shops and explore the vibrant textiles Kanchipuram is known for.
Nearby shopping area, easy to access.
Free (Shopping cost varies), 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Sangeetha Veg Restaurant

Enjoy dinner at Sangeetha Veg Restaurant, well-known for its rich variety of vegetarian dishes.
Located conveniently within the town.
INR 500, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Mahabalipuram Marvels

Mahabalipuram, India

7:30AM

Breakfast at a local café

Start with breakfast at a local café with fresh filter coffee and parathas.
Various options close to your hotel.
INR 400, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Shore Temple

Visit the iconic Shore Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and marvel at its stunning architecture overlooking the Bay of Bengal.
Close to the town center, reachable by taxi.
INR 40, 1 hour

10:30AM

Explore Pancha Rathas

Next, explore the Pancha Rathas, a group of monolithic rock-cut temples, perfect for kids to run around and explore.
A short taxi ride from the Shore Temple.
INR 40, 1.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Hotel Sea Breeze

Savor delicious seafood and local dishes at Hotel Sea Breeze, overlooking the beach.
Located conveniently in Mahabalipuram.
INR 800, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Arjuna's Penance

Marvel at Arjuna's Penance, a massive bas-relief that tells the story of Arjuna's austerities.
Nearby, a short walk from lunch.
Free, 1 hour

3:30PM

Relax at Mahabalipuram Beach

Enjoy some family time at Mahabalipuram Beach, unwind and enjoy beach activities.
Easy to walk to from Arjuna's Penance.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Fisherman’s Wharf

End your day with a delightful dinner at Fisherman’s Wharf, enjoying the sound of the waves and a variety of cuisines.
Easy drive from the beach.
INR 1200, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability