4-Day South India Cultural and Culinary Exploration Itinerary

Day 1: Chennai City Tour

Chennai, India on April 25, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Murugan Idli Shop

Start your day with a traditional South Indian breakfast of fluffy idlis and crispy dosas at this popular local eatery known for authentic flavors.
INR150, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Kapaleeshwarar Temple

Explore this beautiful 7th-century Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, featuring Dravidian architecture and vibrant temple rituals.
Free, 1h30m

11:30am

Walk around Marina Beach

Enjoy a stroll along one of the longest urban beaches in the world, perfect for local street food and people-watching.
Free, 1h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Saravana Bhavan

Taste classic South Indian vegetarian dishes, including thalis and uttapams, at this globally recognized restaurant chain.
INR300, 1h0m

2:30pm

Visit Fort St. George

Discover the historic fort built by the British East India Company, housing a museum showcasing colonial artifacts.
INR50, 1h30m

5:00pm

Shopping at T Nagar Market

Explore Chennai’s bustling shopping district for textiles, jewelry, and souvenirs.
Varies, 1h30m

7:30pm

Dinner at Ponnusamy Hotel

Enjoy a hearty meal featuring famous Chettinad cuisine, known for its rich spices and flavor.
INR500, 1h30m
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Day 2: Pondicherry Exploration

Pondicherry, India on April 26, 2025

7:30am

Travel to Pondicherry

Drive approximately 3 hours from Chennai to charming Pondicherry, a fusion of French colonial heritage and Tamil culture.
INR1200 (Taxi), 3h0m

11:00am

Breakfast at Café des Arts

Enjoy a French-style breakfast with fresh croissants and coffee in a cozy garden setting.
INR350, 1h0m

12:30pm

Visit Sri Aurobindo Ashram

Experience the peaceful atmosphere of this renowned spiritual community founded by Sri Aurobindo and The Mother.
Free, 1h0m

2:00pm

Lunch at Villa Shanti

Dine on a blend of traditional Tamil and French fusion dishes in an elegant villa setting.
INR700, 1h0m

3:30pm

Walk along Promenade Beach

Relax at the seaside promenade with views of the Bay of Bengal and colonial architecture.
Free, 1h0m

5:00pm

Explore French Quarter

Stroll through quaint streets lined with pastel-colored buildings, cafes, and boutique shops.
Free, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Le Dupleix

Savor French-inspired cuisine with local ingredients in a charming courtyard restaurant.
INR800, 1h30m
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Day 3: Heritage & Beach Day

Mahabalipuram, India on April 27, 2025

7:00am

Travel to Mahabalipuram

Drive about 1.5 hours south to explore the UNESCO World Heritage site known for its ancient rock temples and carvings.
INR600 (Taxi), 1h30m

8:30am

Breakfast at Moonrakers

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast overlooking the sea with continental and Indian options.
INR400, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Shore Temple

Experience the iconic 8th-century stone temple complex built on the shores of the Bay of Bengal.
INR40, 1h0m

10:45am

Explore Pancha Rathas

View the five monolithic rock-cut temples, each shaped like a chariot, showcasing Pallava architecture.
INR40, 1h0m

12:15pm

Lunch at Surf Turf

Relish fresh seafood and South Indian delicacies just steps from the beach.
INR600, 1h0m

1:30pm

Relax at Mahabalipuram Beach

Spend a few relaxing hours on the sandy beach, swimming or just soaking up the sun.
Free, 2h0m

4:00pm

Return to Chennai

Head back to Chennai to prepare for your departure or next day activities.
INR600 (Taxi), 1h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at The Marina

Enjoy a variety of South Indian and seafood dishes with a sea view ambiance in Chennai.
INR700, 1h30m
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Day 4: Cultural Immersion

Chennai, India on April 28, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at The Tea Room from Bombay

Indulge in gourmet teas and breakfast with a blend of Indian and Continental options in a stylish café.
INR350, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Government Museum

Explore South India's second oldest museum showcasing art, archaeology, and anthropology collections.
INR15, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Ratna Cafe

Enjoy classic South Indian meals like masala dosa and vadai at this iconic, budget-friendly eatery.
INR250, 1h0m

1:30pm

Visit San Thome Basilica

Tour the beautiful cathedral built over the tomb of St. Thomas, featuring neo-Gothic architecture.
Free, 1h0m

3:00pm

Evening at Chennai Citi Centre Mall

Shop for local and international brands, relax at cafés, or catch a movie before your journey ends.
Varies, 2h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Dakshin, ITC Grand Chola

Treat yourself to upscale, authentic South Indian cuisine in a luxurious setting to end your trip.
INR1500, 1h30m
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