3-Day Tamil Nadu Temple Tour: Ancient Heritage and Spiritual Splendor

Day 1: Chennai Temple Tour

Chennai, Tamil Nadu on May 7, 2025

8:30AM

Breakfast at Murugan Idli Shop

Start your day with traditional South Indian idlis and filter coffee at this popular local eatery, known for authentic flavors.
INR200, 1h0m

9:45AM

Kapaleeshwarar Temple Visit

Visit this iconic temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, showcasing Dravidian architecture with vibrant sculptures and sacred tanks. It's a spiritual hotspot in Mylapore, Chennai.
Free, 2h0m

12:00PM

Lunch at Dakshin

Enjoy flavors of traditional South Indian cuisine including dosa and sambar in a refined setting within the Crowne Plaza Hotel.
INR700, 1h0m

1:15PM

Sri Parthasarathy Temple

Explore this ancient temple dedicated to Lord Krishna featuring exquisite carvings and regular pujas, reflecting Chennai’s spiritual heritage.
Free, 1h0m

3:00PM

San Thome Basilica

Visit this historical Catholic basilica built over the tomb of Saint Thomas, blending colonial architecture with spiritual significance.
Free, 1h0m

7:00PM

Dinner at The Marina

Dine on fresh seafood and traditional Tamil Nadu dishes overlooking the Marina Beach, offering a relaxed ambiance.
INR800, 1h30m

Day 2: Mahabalipuram Heritage

Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu on May 8, 2025

7:30AM

Breakfast at Moonrakers Cafe

Enjoy a hearty breakfast including South Indian and continental dishes in this cozy, garden-style cafe.
INR300, 1h0m

8:45AM

Shore Temple

Explore the shore-facing temple complex dating back to the 8th century, a UNESCO World Heritage Site admired for its architectural beauty and ocean backdrop.
INR200, 1h15m

10:15AM

Pancha Rathas

Visit the five monolithic rock-cut temples, resembling chariots and highlighting remarkable Pallava craftsmanship.
INR200, 1h15m

12:00PM

Lunch at The Whale

Savor fresh coastal cuisine with a variety of Tamil Nadu seafood and vegetarian options in a quaint seaside restaurant.
INR700, 1h0m

2:00PM

Arjuna’s Penance and Descent of the Ganges

Admire the large open-air reliefs depicting epic stories from the Mahabharata and the descent of the holy Ganges river.
INR200, 1h0m

4:00PM

Travel to Thanjavur

Depart for Thanjavur, approximately 3.5-hour drive, check into your hotel upon arrival.
Taxi fare approx INR4000, 3h30m

8:00PM

Dinner at Sree Annapoorna

Enjoy authentic Tamil vegetarian cuisine in a popular local restaurant offering flavorful meals and great ambiance.
INR500, 1h0m

Day 3: Thanjavur Temple Visit

Thanjavur and Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu on May 9, 2025

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Have a traditional South Indian breakfast with options like dosa and upma to energize for the day.
Included in hotel stay, 1h0m

8:00AM

Brihadeeswarar Temple

Visit this UNESCO World Heritage temple, also called the Big Temple, built by Raja Raja Chola I, renowned for its majestic architecture and giant Shiva lingam.
INR50, 2h0m

11:00AM

Travel to Tiruchirappalli

Drive to Trichy, roughly 1.5 hours from Thanjavur.
Taxi fare approx INR1200, 1h30m

12:30PM

Lunch at Adyar Ananda Bhavan

Relish South Indian vegetarian specialties at this well-known chain, perfect for quick yet delicious meals.
INR400, 1h0m

2:00PM

Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple

Visit the largest functioning Hindu temple complex in the world, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, noted for its Dravidian architecture and vibrant festivals.
Free, 2h0m

5:00PM

Evening Tea at The Grand Trichy

Relax with a cup of South Indian filter coffee or tea in this upscale hotel lobby café.
INR250, 0h30m

7:00PM

Dinner at The Raintree

Conclude your temple tour with a fine dining experience, featuring a mix of traditional and contemporary South Indian cuisine.
INR800, 1h30m