Family Nature Escape: 3-Day Tamil Nadu Road Trip to Scenic and Offbeat Spots

Day 1: Hill Station and Nature

Chennai, Yelagiri Hills, Tiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu on May 11, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Saravana Bhavan, Chennai

Start early with a wholesome South Indian breakfast including dosas and idlis, perfect for kids and adults, open from 6am.
INR350, 1h

8:30am

Drive to Yelagiri Hills

Enjoy a scenic 3-hour drive to Yelagiri, a lesser-known hill station with greenery and peaceful environment ideal for families.
Fuel approx. INR1300, 3h

11:30am

Nature Walk and Punganoor Lake

Explore the serene lake with boating options and easy trails around the hills, a great outdoor activity for kids, open all day.
Boating INR150 per ride, 2h

1:30pm

Lunch at Hill Top Restaurant, Yelagiri

Family-friendly restaurant offering local Tamil and vegetarian dishes with scenic views of the hills.
INR800, 1h

3:00pm

Visit Swamimalai Hill Viewpoint

A short trek suitable for kids to enjoy panoramic views of Yelagiri’s lush landscapes and valleys.
Free, 1h

4:30pm

Drive to Tiruvannamalai

About 1.5-hour drive to Tiruvannamalai, known for its spiritual significance and natural surroundings.
Fuel approx. INR500, 1h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at Annamalai Mess, Tiruvannamalai

Enjoy traditional, homely Tamil food with simple, tasty vegetarian dishes ideal for family dining.
INR600, 1h
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Day 2: Hills and Waterfalls

Tiruvannamalai, Kolli Hills, Tamil Nadu on May 12, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel in Tiruvannamalai

Start with a simple, nutritious breakfast to prepare for the hill trekking and nature exploration ahead.
Included or approx. INR300, 1h

8:00am

Drive to Kolli Hills

A 4.5-hour drive to the less explored Kolli Hills, famous for green landscapes and pleasant climate, a hidden gem for nature lovers.
Fuel approx. INR1500, 4h30m

12:30pm

Lunch at a local eatery near Kolli Hills

Sample authentic local cuisine in a modest setting that is friendly for families and children.
INR600, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Arapaleeswarar Temple and Falls

Enjoy nature with a short trek to peaceful waterfalls and historic temples in the Kolli Hills area, great for kids to explore.
Free, 2h

4:30pm

Easy family hike and sightseeing

Explore easy nature trails around Kolli Hills, perfect for children to experience the outdoors safely.
Free, 1h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at the guest house or local restaurant in Kolli Hills

Enjoy a relaxed meal with simple vegetarian dishes sourced locally in a family-friendly environment.
INR500, 1h
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Day 3: Coastal Pilgrimage and Return

Kolli Hills, Velankanni, Chennai, Tamil Nadu on May 13, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Kolli Hills accommodation

Enjoy a fresh and light breakfast to get ready for the travel day, suitable for kids and adults alike.
Included or INR300 approx., 1h

8:00am

Drive to Velankanni

A 3-hour drive to Velankanni, known for its serene coastal town and famous Basilica, a place of calm for kids and adults.
Fuel approx. INR1100, 3h

11:00am

Visit Velankanni Basilica and Beach

Spend time at the peaceful basilica and relax on the adjoining beach, a quiet spot ideal for families looking to unwind.
Free, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch at Sri Krishna Bhavan, Velankanni

Simple, clean vegetarian restaurant serving tasty meals preferred by families traveling with children.
INR600, 1h

2:00pm

Drive back to Chennai

Return drive of about 7 hours to Chennai, with options to stop for breaks and refreshments to keep kids comfortable.
Fuel approx. INR2000, 7h

9:00pm

Dinner at home or nearby restaurant in Chennai

End the trip with light dinner, either at home or a relaxed local spot close by for family convenience.
Varies, 1h
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