Budget-Friendly 4-Day Tamil Nadu Cultural and Nature Tour

Day 1: Chennai City Highlights

Chennai, Tamil Nadu on May 23, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Sangeetha Veg Restaurant

Enjoy a traditional South Indian breakfast with idli, dosa, and filter coffee in a highly affordable setting, popular among locals.
INR100, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Fort St. George

Explore the historic British colonial fort housing a museum that showcases Tamil Nadu’s colonial history. The museum is open from 9am to 5pm and offers budget entry fees.
INR50, 1h30m

11:30am

Walk along Marina Beach

Relax and enjoy the bustling atmosphere at one of the world’s longest urban beaches. The beach is open all day and is free to access.
Free, 1h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Murugan Idli Shop

Sample affordable and authentic South Indian dishes that locals love, providing a filling and budget-friendly meal.
INR150, 1h0m

2:30pm

Visit Kapaleeshwarar Temple

Admire the stunning Dravidian architecture and vibrant culture of this ancient temple located in Mylapore. Entry is free and the temple is open from 6am to 12:30pm and 4pm to 9pm.
Free, 1h0m

4:00pm

Explore Government Museum

Delve into art, archaeology, and natural history with an economical visit to this museum open from 9:30am to 5pm, except Fridays.
INR15, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Buhari Hotel

Dine on affordable North Indian and South Indian dishes loved by locals in this long-established Chennai eatery.
INR250, 1h0m
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Day 2: Mahabalipuram Heritage

Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu on May 24, 2025

7:00am

Travel to Mahabalipuram by bus

Catch a morning government bus from Chennai to Mahabalipuram; the 1.5-hour journey offers scenic coastal views and an inexpensive way to travel.
INR70, 1h30m

9:00am

Breakfast at local eatery

Enjoy a light South Indian breakfast such as idli or dosa at a small local restaurant serving authentic flavours at budget prices.
INR100, 0h45m

10:00am

Explore Shore Temple and Group of Monuments

Visit the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Shore Temple and nearby rock-cut temples and bas-reliefs, open from 6am to 6pm with a minor ticket cost.
INR40, 2h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Moonrakers

Choose affordable local seafood dishes or vegetarian meals with lovely views near the beach, ideal for budget travellers.
INR250, 1h0m

2:00pm

Visit Arjuna’s Penance and Pancha Rathas

Explore famous open-air rock sculptures that narrate ancient Indian legends, with free open access any time during daylight.
Free, 1h30m

4:00pm

Relax on Mahabalipuram Beach

Unwind on the sandy shores to enjoy a calm afternoon. Beaches are free and perfect for reflection or photography.
Free, 1h30m

6:00pm

Return to Chennai by bus

Bus back to Chennai is an inexpensive and comfortable option, taking roughly 1.5 hours.
INR70, 1h30m

8:00pm

Dinner at Siva Vikram Restaurant

Experience affordable Tamil Nadu cuisine with hearty meals, including popular thali platters that won’t stretch your budget.
INR200, 1h0m
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Day 3: Pondicherry Blend

Pondicherry, Tamil Nadu on May 25, 2025

7:00am

Travel to Pondicherry by bus

Board an early morning bus from Chennai to Pondicherry; the 3-hour journey is a cost-effective way to reach this charming coastal town.
INR200, 3h0m

10:30am

Breakfast at Baker Street

Relish French-style pastries and coffee at this popular bakery offering authentic yet affordable breakfast options.
INR200, 1h0m

11:30am

Explore French Quarter

Take a self-guided walking tour of Old Pondicherry’s French Quarter featuring colourful colonial architecture and tree-lined streets, free to explore any time.
Free, 2h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at Surguru

Enjoy delicious, budget-friendly South Indian vegetarian dishes typically served on banana leaves, a local favourite.
INR120, 1h0m

3:00pm

Visit Sri Aurobindo Ashram

Spend a peaceful afternoon at this renowned spiritual community; entry is free and the ashram is open from 8am to 12pm and 3pm to 6pm.
Free, 1h30m

5:00pm

Relax at Promenade Beach

Enjoy the cool sea breeze along the promenade, a pleasant, free public space perfect for sunset viewing and evening strolls.
Free, 1h30m

7:30pm

Dinner at Le Café

Dine by the sea at this vibrant café that offers a variety of affordable light meals and snacks 24/7, ideal for budget travellers.
INR250, 1h0m
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Day 4: Temple Town

Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu on May 26, 2025

7:00am

Travel to Kanchipuram by bus

Catch an early government bus from Pondicherry to Kanchipuram; the journey takes about 4 hours and is economical.
INR180, 4h0m

11:30am

Breakfast at local eatery

After arrival, try traditional South Indian breakfast dishes at a small local café, ideal for budget-conscious travellers.
INR100, 0h45m

12:30pm

Visit Ekambareswarar Temple

Explore this impressive ancient temple complex dedicated to Lord Shiva, known for its grand architecture and religious significance. Entry is free.
Free, 1h30m

2:00pm

Lunch at Hotel Tamil Nadu

Enjoy affordable Tamil Nadu vegetarian cuisine with tasty thali options to satisfy your hunger after temple visits.
INR150, 1h0m

3:30pm

Visit Kailasanathar Temple

Marvel at the oldest temple in Kanchipuram featuring exquisite early Dravidian architecture. The site is open until sunset and free to enter.
Free, 1h0m

5:00pm

Explore local silk markets

Browse the famous silk saree shops for a glimpse of traditional crafts for affordable souvenirs or window shopping.
Free (shopping optional), 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Hotel Saravana Bhavan

End your trip enjoying classic South Indian vegetarian dishes at this popular, budget-friendly restaurant chain.
INR200, 1h0m
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