Exploring South India: A 6-Day Journey Through Temples and Coastlines

Day 1: Chennai Exploration

Chennai, India on March 20, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Saravana Bhavan

Start your day with a classic South Indian breakfast at Saravana Bhavan, famous for its dosas and idlis.
INR 300, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Government Museum

Explore diverse collections of art and archaeology in one of the oldest museums in India.
INR 15, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Anjappar Restaurant

Savour Chettinad-style meals renowned for their rich spicy flavours at Anjappar.
INR 500, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit Kapaleeshwarar Temple

Admire the stunning Dravidian architecture and participate in the vibrant rituals at this ancient temple.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Walk around Marina Beach

Enjoy the sea breeze and scenic views at the second-longest urban beach in the world.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Visit Santhome Cathedral

Explore this historical cathedral built over the tomb of St Thomas, one of the twelve apostles.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Barbeque Nation

Enjoy a delightful buffet of grilled delicacies and Indian dishes at this popular spot.
INR 800, 1.5 hours

Day 2: Kanchipuram Temples

Kanchipuram, India on March 21, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel Saradharam

Enjoy a hearty South Indian breakfast before heading out. Their pongal and coffee are particularly recommended.
INR 250, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Ekambareswarar Temple

Marvel at one of the largest temples in Kanchipuram, dedicated to Lord Shiva, known for its beautiful architecture.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Visit Kanchi Kudil

Step back in time at this museum showcasing the traditional life and culture of Kanchipuram.
INR 30, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Hotel Dasaprakash

Taste delicious local cuisine with a variety of vegetarian options served in a traditional setting.
INR 400, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Kailasanathar Temple

Explore the oldest temple in Kanchipuram, famous for its intricate carvings and historical significance.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Shop for Kanchipuram Silk Sarees

Browse exquisite silk sarees, a hallmark of Kanchipuram's rich textile heritage.
Varies, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Hotel Kanchipuram

Savour a simple yet satisfying meal with local flavours, perfect for ending your day.
INR 300, 1 hour

Day 3: Mahabalipuram Delight

Mahabalipuram, India on March 22, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Last Resort

Enjoy a continental breakfast with a view of the sea before heading out to explore.
INR 350, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Shore Temple

This UNESCO World Heritage site offers a magnificent view of the coastline with its iconic temple structures.
INR 40, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore the Pancha Rathas

Witness the beautifully carved rock-cut temples, each dedicated to a different deity, in a stunning landscape.
INR 50, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Moonrakers

Indulge in fresh seafood dishes and local specialties at this beachside restaurant.
INR 600, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Visit Arjuna's Penance

Admire the world's largest bas-relief sculpture depicting a scene from the Mahabharata.
INR 20, 1 hour

2:30PM

Relax at the Beach

Spend a leisurely afternoon enjoying the sandy beaches and the gentle waves.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Sunset at the Beach

Catch the stunning sunset over the Bay of Bengal, a perfect end to your day.
Free, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at Seashore Destiny

Dine on local Indian and continental cuisine with views of the ocean.
INR 700, 1.5 hours

Day 4: Pondicherry Serenity

Pondicherry, India on March 23, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café des Arts

Savour a leisurely breakfast in a quaint café with French-inspired dishes and great coffee.
INR 400, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Auroville

Experience this spiritual township dedicated to peace and community living, visit the Matrimandir.
Free, 2 hours

11:30AM

Explore the Pondicherry Museum

Discover the rich heritage of the region through artifacts and exhibits in this historical museum.
INR 20, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at The Promenade

Enjoy a stylish lunch with dishes inspired by both local and international cuisines by the waterfront.
INR 600, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Stroll along the Promenade Beach

Relax and take in the seaside views while strolling along the vibrant promenade.
Free, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit the French Quarter

Explore the charming streets lined with colonial architecture and quaint boutiques.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Visit Sri Aurobindo Ashram

Experience the spiritual atmosphere of one of the most famous ashrams in India.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at La Casa

Enjoy a fine dining experience with exquisite French cuisine in a chic setting.
INR 900, 1.5 hours

Day 5: Chidambaram & Tiruvannamalai

Chidambaram, India on March 24, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Saravana Bhavan

Start your day with a hearty South Indian breakfast at this beloved chain.
INR 300, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Nataraja Temple, Chidambaram

Discover one of the most revered temples in Hinduism, dedicated to Lord Shiva and known for its stunning architecture.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Drive to Tiruvannamalai

En route, enjoy the scenic views as you head to your next destination.
Varies, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at The Hotel Arunai

Savour delicious South Indian meals in a casual dining atmosphere.
INR 400, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Arunachaleswarar Temple

Explore this ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, set against the backdrop of the sacred Arunachala hill.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Visit Ramana Ashram

Experience the tranquil atmosphere at this spiritual retreat founded by the famous sage Ramana Maharshi.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Vegetarian Hotel

Feast on wholesome vegetarian dishes popular among locals.
INR 350, 1 hour

Day 6: Tirupati and Surroundings

Tirupati, India on March 25, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel Mayura

Enjoy a buffet breakfast featuring a mix of South Indian and continental dishes to fuel your day.
INR 500, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Tirupati Balaji Temple

Pay homage at one of the richest and most famous temples in India dedicated to Lord Venkateswara.
Free, 2 hours

11:30AM

Drive to Kalagasti

Enjoy the brief scenic drive to the nearby Kalagasti.
Varies, 30 minutes

12:00PM

Visit Kalagasti Temple

Famous for its unique architecture and believed to be an ancient site for Vastu Shastra.
Free, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Local Restaurant in Tirupati

Experience authentic Andhra cuisine at a local restaurant that focuses on thalis.
INR 400, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Tiruthani Temple

Explore this serene temple dedicated to Lord Murugan, situated in a picturesque hill setting.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Return to Tirupati and rest

Relax and refresh yourself before dinner.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Hotel Blue Fox

Enjoy a casual dining experience with a menu that includes regional and international flavours.
INR 600, 1.5 hours