3-Day Cultural and Scenic Exploration of Tamil Nadu, India

Day 1: Chennai City Sights

Chennai, India on May 21, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Saravana Bhavan

Start your day with a traditional South Indian breakfast at Saravana Bhavan, famous for its dosas and idlis, offering an authentic taste of Tamil Nadu cuisine.
INR200, 1h

9:30am

Visit Kapaleeshwarar Temple

Explore this 7th-century Dravidian-style temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, marvel at its intricate carvings and vibrant gopuram towers, which represent the heart of Chennai's cultural heritage.
Free, 1h30m

11:30am

Tour Fort St. George

Discover the historic Fort St. George, the first British fortress in India, with a museum showcasing colonial artifacts and the storied past of Chennai.
INR15, 1h

1:00pm

Lunch at Murugan Idli Shop

Relish light and delicious South Indian dishes like soft idlis, vadas, and flavorful chutneys that are perfect for a midday meal.
INR150, 1h

2:30pm

Walk along Marina Beach

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Marina Beach, Asia’s longest urban beach, perfect for a relaxing stroll and people watching.
Free, 1h

4:00pm

Visit Government Museum

Explore South India’s second oldest museum featuring rich collections of archaeology, art, and natural history, a great place to learn about regional culture.
INR15, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Ponnusamy Hotel

Enjoy classic Tamil Nadu non-vegetarian cuisine, famous for its spicy Chettinad chicken and seafood dishes, in a friendly local setting.
INR350, 1h30m
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Day 2: Temple and Heritage Trail

Mahabalipuram, India on May 22, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a continental or South Indian style breakfast at your hotel before departing to Mahabalipuram.
Included in accommodation, 1h

9:00am

Drive to Mahabalipuram (Approx 1.5 hours from Chennai)

Travel to the coastal town famous for its UNESCO World Heritage rock-cut monuments and temples.
Transport costs vary, 1h30m

10:30am

Explore Shore Temple

Visit this iconic 7th-century temple complex by the sea, renowned for its ancient architecture and sculptures dedicated to Lord Shiva and Vishnu.
INR40, 1h

11:45am

Visit Pancha Rathas

See the monolithic rock-cut temples shaped like chariots, each with unique carvings, representing the Pandava brothers from the Mahabharata.
INR40, 45m

12:45pm

Lunch at Moonrakers Restaurant

Dine on coastal Indian and seafood dishes while enjoying views of the Bay of Bengal.
INR400, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Arjuna’s Penance and Cave Temples

Explore the elaborate bas-relief sculpture depicting mythological stories and nearby rock-cut cave temples boasting exquisite carvings.
INR40, 1h

4:00pm

Relax on Mahabalipuram Beach

Unwind at the sandy beach, enjoy the sunset and local atmosphere before heading to your hotel.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at The Wharf Restaurant

Savour freshly cooked Tamil seafood cuisine with a serene ocean view to wind down your day.
INR450, 1h30m
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Day 3: French Colonial Charm

Pondicherry, India on May 23, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your last day with a refreshing breakfast before departure to Pondicherry.
Included in accommodation, 1h

8:30am

Travel to Pondicherry (Approx 1.5 hours from Mahabalipuram)

Drive southwards to the former French colony, famous for its unique blend of French and Indian cultures.
Transport cost varies, 1h30m

10:00am

Visit Promenade Beach

Enjoy a walk along the picturesque waterfront promenade lined with historic buildings and statues.
Free, 1h

11:15am

Explore French Quarter

Walk through colourful colonial streets with French architecture, chic cafés and boutique shops, capturing Pondicherry’s unique heritage.
Free, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Café des Arts

Treat yourself to French-inspired dishes in a quaint setting, popular for breakfast and lunch.
INR400, 1h

2:30pm

Visit Aurobindo Ashram

Discover this peaceful spiritual centre founded by Sri Aurobindo, a major attraction for seekers of yoga and meditation.
Free, 1h

4:00pm

Relax at Serenity Beach

Spend a tranquil late afternoon at Serenity Beach, perfect for a calm swim and watching the sunset.
Free, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Le Dupleix

Dine in style at this heritage hotel offering French and Indian fusion cuisine in a charming colonial ambience.
INR600, 1h30m
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