3-Day South India Cultural and Nature Exploration

Day 1: Chennai Cultural Immersion

Chennai, Tamil Nadu on May 27, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Saravana Bhavan

Start your day with a delicious traditional South Indian breakfast including dosas and filter coffee at this iconic vegetarian restaurant open from 7:00am to 11:00pm.
INR300, 1h

9:30am

Visit Kapaleeshwarar Temple

Explore this historic 7th-century Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, showcasing classic Dravidian architecture; it's an immersive cultural experience open from 6:00am to 12:00pm and 4:00pm to 8:30pm.
Free, 1h30m

11:30am

Walk along Marina Beach

Enjoy a stroll on one of the world’s longest urban beaches, vibrant with local vendors and serene ocean views; best visited during the morning to avoid crowds and heat.
Free, 1h

1:00pm

Lunch at The Marina

Savor fresh seafood and traditional Tamil dishes by the beach at this well-known restaurant open from 12:00pm to 10:00pm.
INR600, 1h

3:00pm

Government Museum Chennai

Discover South India's rich history and art with exhibits including archaeological artifacts and ancient paintings; open from 9:30am to 5:00pm.
INR15, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Peshawri

Indulge in North Indian kebabs and tandoori fare in a stylish setting, open from 7:00pm to 11:30pm.
INR1200, 1h30m
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Day 2: Pondicherry French Charm

Pondicherry, Tamil Nadu on May 28, 2025

7:00am

Travel to Pondicherry

Depart early from Chennai to Pondicherry by car or bus, approximately 3 hours south along the east coast.
INR700, 3h

10:30am

Breakfast at Café des Arts

Enjoy French-inspired breakfast pastries and freshly brewed coffee in a charming colonial setting open from 8:00am to 11:00am.
INR400, 1h

11:45am

Explore French Quarter

Walk around this picturesque area filled with colorful colonial buildings, boutiques, and cafes; a perfect place for photography and soaking in Pondicherry’s unique heritage.
Free, 2h

2:00pm

Lunch at Le Dupleix

Dine on a mix of French and Indian fusion dishes in a heritage hotel, open from 12:00pm to 3:00pm.
INR800, 1h

3:30pm

Visit Aurobindo Ashram

Tour this spiritual community established by Sri Aurobindo, learning about its philosophies and serene gardens; open until 6:00pm.
Free, 1h30m

5:30pm

Relax at Promenade Beach

Spend a peaceful evening watching the waves and enjoying sea breeze along the rocky promenade; best at sunset.
Free, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at Villa Shanti

Savor traditional Tamil cuisine in a cozy, historic villa open until 10:30pm.
INR700, 1h30m
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Day 3: Heritage & Shorelines

Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu on May 29, 2025

7:00am

Travel to Mahabalipuram

Drive about one hour south from Pondicherry to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Mahabalipuram.
INR500, 1h

8:30am

Breakfast at Moonrakers Cafe

Enjoy a healthy, organic breakfast including continental and South Indian options, open from 8:00am to 11:00am.
INR350, 1h

9:30am

Explore Shore Temple and Pancha Rathas

Visit the iconic 7th-century Shore Temple and the monolithic Pancha Rathas, significant examples of Pallava architecture and art; site open from 6:00am to 6:00pm.
INR200, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at The Seafood Restaurant

Feast on fresh local seafood cooked in regional styles just minutes from the beach, open from 12:00pm to 10:00pm.
INR700, 1h

1:30pm

Visit Mahabalipuram Beach

Relax or take a short swim at this quieter and scenic beach popular with artists and tourists alike.
Free, 1h

3:00pm

Mahabalipuram Sculpture Workshop

Participate in or observe stone carving workshops to learn about traditional artistic techniques, open until 5:00pm.
INR300, 1h30m

5:00pm

Return to Chennai or Overnight in Mahabalipuram

Choose to drive back to Chennai (approx 1.5 hours) or stay overnight in local accommodations to explore more the next day.
Varies, Variable
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