Affordable 5-Day Tamil Nadu Cultural and Nature Tour

Day 1: City and History

Chennai, Tamil Nadu on May 23, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Sangeetha Veg Restaurant

Enjoy a filling and budget-friendly South Indian breakfast of idli, dosa, and freshly brewed filter coffee at this popular local eatery.
INR100, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Fort St. George

Explore this historic British-era fort housing a museum with colonial artifacts and the oldest Anglican church in India. Open 9:00am - 5:00pm, entry fee is minimal.
INR15, 1h30m

11:30am

Explore Kapaleeshwarar Temple

Admire the beautiful Dravidian architecture and vibrant religious atmosphere of this iconic Hindu temple in Mylapore. Open till 8:00pm, free entry.
Free, 1h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Murugan Idli Shop

Relish traditional South Indian staples like idli, vada, and sambar at budget-friendly prices in this beloved Chennai spot.
INR150, 1h0m

2:30pm

Marina Beach walk

Spend your afternoon strolling the world's second-longest urban beach, enjoying local street food and cultural sights. Free entry, open all day.
Free, 1h30m

5:00pm

Visit Government Museum

Discover Tamil Nadu’s art and archaeology at one of India’s oldest museums. Open 9:30am - 5:00pm, closed on Fridays; entrance fee is nominal.
INR20, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Sukkubhai Hotel

Try authentic Chettinad cuisine which is spicy and flavourful, offered at reasonable prices in this local favourite.
INR250, 1h0m
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Day 2: Heritage and Shore Temples

Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu on May 24, 2025

7:30am

Travel to Mahabalipuram by bus

Take an economical bus from Chennai to Mahabalipuram. The journey takes about 1.5 hours through scenic coastal roads.
INR60, 1h30m

9:30am

Breakfast at Moonrakers Café

Enjoy affordable continental and South Indian breakfast near the beach before heading to the monuments.
INR150, 1h0m

10:30am

Visit Shore Temple and Pancha Rathas

Explore these UNESCO World Heritage rock-cut temples dating back to the 7th century, showcasing Pallava artistry. Open 6:00am - 6:00pm, entry fees apply.
INR40, 2h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at local eatery

Savour fresh seafood or vegetarian thali at one of the local budget-friendly restaurants near the Shore Temple.
INR200, 1h0m

2:30pm

Visit Mahabalipuram Beach

Relax by the beach or enjoy swimming and local vendors selling handicrafts. Free public beach, ideal for a laid-back afternoon.
Free, 2h0m

5:00pm

Return to Chennai by bus

Travel back to Chennai in the early evening to prepare for your next day’s journey.
INR60, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Hotel New Woodlands

Experience affordable and delicious vegetarian South Indian meals in one of Chennai’s long-established restaurants.
INR250, 1h0m
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Day 3: French Legacy and Spirituality

Pondicherry, Tamil Nadu on May 25, 2025

7:00am

Bus to Pondicherry

Catch an early public bus to Pondicherry; the ride takes approximately 3 hours and is budget-friendly.
INR150, 3h0m

10:00am

Breakfast at Baker Street

Enjoy affordable French-style pastries and coffee in this charming bakery located in the French Quarter.
INR200, 1h0m

11:00am

Explore French Quarter by walking

Wander through the colourful colonial streets, admire French architecture, and enjoy the quiet atmosphere. Free and open all day.
Free, 2h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Surguru

Taste traditional vegetarian Tamil Nadu meals served on banana leaves in this budget diner popular with locals and tourists.
INR120, 1h0m

2:30pm

Visit Sri Aurobindo Ashram

Experience the peaceful spiritual environment in this renowned ashram that welcomes visitors without charge.
Free, 1h0m

4:00pm

Promenade Beach stroll

Relax at the beachside promenade watching the sunset and enjoying street vendors. Free and open all day.
Free, 2h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Le Café

Enjoy affordable light meals and snacks with a beautiful sea view at this iconic 24/7 café.
INR250, 1h0m
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Day 4: Temple Town

Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu on May 26, 2025

7:00am

Travel to Thanjavur by train

Take an affordable early morning train from Pondicherry to Thanjavur, the cultural heartland famous for temples. Approximate journey time is 5 hours.
INR300, 5h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at local mess

Enjoy homely and inexpensive traditional Tamil meals in one of the small local eateries near the station.
INR100, 1h0m

1:30pm

Visit Brihadeeswarar Temple

Explore the magnificent UNESCO-listed temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, renowned for its grandeur and architectural brilliance. Open 6:00am - 9:00pm, minimal entry fee.
INR40, 2h0m

4:00pm

Thanjavur Royal Palace and Art Gallery

Visit the royal palace complex displaying Tanjore paintings and historical artefacts. Open 9:30am – 5:30pm, affordable entry.
INR40, 1h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at Hotel Dhana Restaurant

Savour budget-friendly South Indian meals, including thalis and dosa varieties, popular with locals.
INR180, 1h0m
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Day 5: Historic Madurai

Madurai, Tamil Nadu on May 27, 2025

7:00am

Train to Madurai

Reach Madurai early by train from Thanjavur, enabling a full day of sightseeing. Travel time is approx 3 hours, economical and comfortable.
INR250, 3h0m

10:30am

Breakfast at Murugan Idli Shop

Start your day with delicious, affordable South Indian breakfast staples in one of Madurai’s well-known eateries.
INR120, 1h0m

11:30am

Visit Meenakshi Amman Temple

Explore the sprawling and iconic Hindu temple complex known for its stunning gopurams and rich history. Open 6:00am - 12:30pm & 4:00pm - 10:00pm, no entry fee.
Free, 2h0m

2:00pm

Lunch at Amma Mess

Enjoy home-style, cheap meals favoured by locals, including rice, sambar, and vegetable curries served in a casual setting.
INR100, 1h0m

3:30pm

Explore Gandhi Memorial Museum

Learn about India’s independence history and Mahatma Gandhi’s legacy. The museum is affordable, open 9:30am - 5:00pm, closed on Mondays.
INR30, 1h30m

5:30pm

Evening at Vandiyur Mariamman Teppakulam

Relax by this vast temple tank known for its floating festival. Enjoy nature and local life; free access all day.
Free, 1h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at The Madurai Mess

End your tour savouring tasty and affordable South Indian dishes in one of Madurai’s popular budget restaurants.
INR180, 1h0m
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