Comprehensive 3-Day South India Coastal Experience: Chennai to Kanyakumari

Day 1: Explore Chennai

Chennai, India on April 29, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Sangeetha Veg Restaurant

Start your day with authentic South Indian breakfast favorites such as idli, dosa, and filter coffee at this popular local vegetarian restaurant, open from 6:30am to 10:30pm.
INR 150, 1h

9:30am

Visit Kapaleeshwarar Temple

Explore this historic Dravidian-style Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, renowned for its intricate architecture and cultural significance. Open from 6:00am to 11:30am and 5:00pm to 9:00pm.
Free, 1h30m

11:15am

Stroll at Marina Beach

Enjoy a relaxing walk along one of the longest urban beaches in the world, a perfect spot to experience local life and scenic sea views.
Free, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at The Marina

Savor fresh seafood and coastal cuisine with a sea view at this well-known restaurant near Marina Beach. Open from 11:00am to 10:30pm.
INR 700, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Fort St. George Museum

Explore the museum to learn about Chennai’s colonial history inside the iconic 17th-century fort. Open 9:00am to 5:00pm; closed on Mondays.
INR 20, 1h30m

4:00pm

Shopping at T Nagar

Experience one of Chennai's busiest shopping districts offering traditional silk sarees, jewelry, and handicrafts.
Varies, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner at BBQ Nation

Enjoy a lively buffet with a variety of grilled meats and vegetarian options in a modern atmosphere. Open until 11:30pm.
INR 900, 1h30m

Day 2: Mahabalipuram and Pondicherry

Along the East Coast, India on April 30, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel or local eatery in Chennai

Have an early breakfast to prepare for the day’s travel south along the coast.
INR 250, 45m

8:00am

Travel to Mahabalipuram

Drive south along the scenic East Coast Road for approximately 1.5 hours to reach the UNESCO World Heritage town of Mahabalipuram.
Transport cost varies, 1h30m

9:30am

Explore Shore Temple and Pancha Rathas

Visit these iconic 7th-century monuments showcasing Pallava architecture and rock-cut sculptures, open from 6:00am to 6:00pm daily.
INR 40, 2h

11:45am

Lunch at Moonrakers

Dine at a well-known seafood restaurant famous for fresh catch and coastal dishes, located near the beach. Open 12:00pm to 3:30pm and 7:00pm to 10:30pm.
INR 800, 1h

1:00pm

Drive to Pondicherry

Continue southwards, crossing into Pondicherry; drive approximately 2 hours through serene coastal landscapes.
Transport cost varies, 2h

3:00pm

Visit French Quarter

Explore charming colonial streets lined with colorful buildings, boutiques, and cafes. Open for strolling anytime.
Free, 1h

4:15pm

Promenade Beach Walk

Enjoy a peaceful walk along the waterfront promenade, ideal for sunset views in the late afternoon.
Free, 1h

6:30pm

Dinner at Café des Arts

Experience French-Indian fusion cuisine in a cozy vintage setting, open until 11:00pm.
INR 600, 1h30m

Day 3: Kanyakumari Highlights

Kanyakumari, India on May 1, 2025

6:00am

Early Breakfast in Pondicherry

Have an early and light breakfast before your road trip south to Kanyakumari, around 5-6 hours drive.
INR 250, 45m

6:45am

Drive to Kanyakumari

Depart early morning for Kanyakumari, the southernmost tip of India where the Arabian Sea, Bay of Bengal, and Indian Ocean meet.
Transport cost varies, 6h

1:00pm

Lunch at Hotel Sea View

Enjoy a meal with a sea view featuring South Indian and seafood delicacies, open from 12:00pm to 3:00pm.
INR 700, 1h

2:30pm

Visit Vivekananda Rock Memorial

Take a ferry to this iconic monument dedicated to Swami Vivekananda, offering stunning sea views and spiritual ambiance. Ferry runs 7:00am to 5:00pm.
INR 120, 1h30m

4:15pm

Explore Thiruvalluvar Statue

Visit the majestic statue of the Tamil poet and philosopher located near Vivekananda Rock Memorial.
Included with ferry ticket, 30m

5:00pm

Sunset at Kanyakumari Beach

Witness the breathtaking sunset where three seas converge, a must-see natural spectacle.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Hotel Sangamam

Relish traditional Tamil Nadu cuisine with local specialties in a welcoming atmosphere. Open until 9:30pm.
INR 600, 1h