3-Day Cultural and Coastal Adventure in Tamil Nadu, India

Day 1: Explore Chennai Highlights

Chennai, India on May 1, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Murugan Idli Shop

Start your day with traditional South Indian breakfast favorites like idli, dosa, and filter coffee at this popular local eatery known for its authentic flavors.
INR100, 1h

9:30am

Visit Kapaleeshwarar Temple

Explore this vibrant Dravidian-style temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, renowned for its intricate architecture and spiritual ambiance. It opens from 6:00am to 11:00am and again 5:00pm to 9:00pm.
Free, 1h30m

11:30am

Stroll along Marina Beach

Enjoy a leisurely walk on one of the longest urban beaches in the world, spotting local vendors and soaking in the coastal atmosphere.
Free, 1h

1:00pm

Lunch at Dakshin Restaurant

Savor traditional South Indian cuisine in an elegant setting specializing in dishes from Tamil Nadu and surrounding states.
INR500, 1h

2:30pm

Visit Fort St. George Museum

Discover Chennai’s colonial history in this 17th-century British fort featuring historic artifacts and exhibits. Open 9:00am to 5:00pm.
INR15, 1h30m

4:15pm

Shopping and Walk at T Nagar

Explore one of Chennai’s busiest shopping districts famous for textiles, jewelry, and local markets.
Varies, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Peshawri

Enjoy north-western Indian cuisine in a cozy atmosphere, perfect to end your first day with rich flavors.
INR800, 1h30m
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Day 2: Temples and Shorelines

Mahabalipuram, India on May 2, 2025

7:30am

Travel to Mahabalipuram

Drive south along the scenic East Coast Road, approximately 60 km from Chennai. Travel time is about 1.5 hours.
INR500 (Taxi), 1h30m

9:30am

Breakfast at Moonrakers Restaurant

Enjoy a light breakfast comprising fresh juices, idlis, and South Indian coffee with a seaside view.
INR300, 1h

10:30am

Explore Shore Temple and Pancha Rathas

Visit these UNESCO World Heritage Sites representing magnificent 7th-century rock-cut temples and monolithic rock structures. Open 6:00am to 6:30pm.
INR40, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch at The Beach Shack

Enjoy coastal cuisine featuring fresh seafood right on the beachfront with relaxed ambiance.
INR600, 1h

2:30pm

Visit Mahabalipuram Sculpture Museum

Learn about ancient South Indian history and art via exquisite stone sculptures. Open 9:30am to 5:30pm.
INR40, 1h

4:00pm

Relax at Mahabalipuram Beach

Spend late afternoon unwinding on the sandy beach, watching fishermen and enjoying the sunset.
Free, 1h30m

6:30pm

Dinner at Mamalla Bhavan

Dine on authentic Tamil Nadu and Andhra cuisines with home-style flavors in a charming setting.
INR400, 1h
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Day 3: French Influences & Spiritual Sights

Pondicherry, India on May 3, 2025

7:30am

Travel to Pondicherry

Head south from Mahabalipuram to Pondicherry, a distance of approximately 100 km, about 2 hours by car.
INR700 (Taxi), 2h

9:30am

Breakfast at Café des Arts

Savor French-style pastries and coffee at this charming café in the French Quarter, blending European and Indian culinary traditions.
INR350, 1h

10:30am

Visit Sri Aurobindo Ashram

Experience the spiritual atmosphere of this renowned ashram established by Sri Aurobindo, open daily from 7:00am to 12:00pm and 4:00pm to 6:30pm.
Free, 1h30m

12:15pm

Explore French Quarter on foot

Walk the colorful streets lined with colonial villas, quaint shops, and street art, offering a glimpse into Pondicherry’s unique history.
Free, 1h30m

1:45pm

Lunch at Le Dupleix

Enjoy a fine dining experience offering French and Indian fusion dishes in a heritage villa setting.
INR700, 1h30m

3:30pm

Relax at Promenade Beach

Unwind by the sea at this peaceful beachfront promenade, ideal for afternoon walks and watching the sunset.
Free, 1h30m

5:30pm

Visit Manakula Vinayagar Temple

Conclude your trip with a visit to this colorful Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha, open till 8:00pm.
Free, 30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Villa Shanti

Relish traditional Tamil and continental dishes in a graceful heritage home ambiance to end your cultural journey.
INR800, 1h30m
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