3-Day Cultural and Nature Exploration in Tamil Nadu, India

Day 1: Heritage and City Sights

Chennai, India on July 1, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Murugan Idli Shop

Start your day with a traditional South Indian breakfast of idlis and dosas at Murugan Idli Shop, renowned for its authentic flavours and fresh ingredients.
INR150, 1h00m

9:30am

Visit Kapaleeshwarar Temple

Explore this historic Dravidian temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, noted for its stunning architecture and vibrant worship practices. It opens from 6 am to 11 am.
Free, 1h30m

11:00am

Stroll Marina Beach

Enjoy a relaxing walk along Marina Beach, one of the longest urban beaches in the world, popular for its lively atmosphere and local snacks.
Free, 1h00m

1:00pm

Lunch at Saravana Bhavan

Savour traditional Tamil vegetarian cuisine at Saravana Bhavan, famous for its dosas, uttapams, and thalis. Open from 11 am to 10 pm.
INR350, 1h00m

3:00pm

Visit Government Museum

Discover Tamil Nadu’s cultural heritage, including ancient sculptures, archaeological artifacts, and colonial-era exhibits. Museum is open from 10 am to 5 pm.
INR15, 2h00m

6:00pm

Dinner at The Marina

Experience fresh seafood and coastal Tamil Nadu specialities with sunset views at The Marina restaurant, open till 11 pm.
INR800, 1h30m
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Day 2: Ancient Architecture and Beaches

Mahabalipuram, India on July 2, 2025

7:00am

Travel to Mahabalipuram

Depart early from Chennai to Mahabalipuram by car or taxi, about a 1.5 to 2 hour drive along East Coast Road.
INR1500, 2h00m

9:30am

Breakfast at Moonrakers

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast with a sea view, offering a variety of South Indian and continental options. Open from 7 am to 11 am.
INR400, 1h00m

10:30am

Explore Shore Temple and Pancha Rathas

Visit these UNESCO World Heritage sites showcasing Pallava dynasty rock-cut architecture dating back to the 7th century, open 7 am to 6 pm.
INR40, 3h00m

2:00pm

Lunch at The Wharf

Relish coastal Tamil cuisine and fresh seafood at this popular beachfront restaurant, open from noon to 10 pm.
INR700, 1h30m

4:00pm

Relax at Mahabalipuram Beach

Spend a peaceful afternoon on the sandy shores of Mahabalipuram Beach, perfect for swimming and photography.
Free, 2h00m

6:30pm

Dinner at Zaika

Sample delicious North Indian and Mughlai cuisine at Zaika restaurant, known for its flavorful kebabs and biryanis. Open till 10 pm.
INR600, 1h30m
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Day 3: French Heritage and Relaxation

Pondicherry, India on July 3, 2025

7:00am

Travel to Pondicherry

Drive from Mahabalipuram to Pondicherry, which takes about 2 hours via ECR highway.
INR1200, 2h00m

9:30am

Breakfast at Café des Arts

Enjoy French-inspired breakfast in a charming colonial café, famous for its croissants and coffee. Open from 8 am to 11:30 am.
INR350, 1h00m

10:30am

Visit French Quarter and Promenade Beach

Explore the colorful colonial streets, boutiques, and the scenic Promenade Beach with statues and lighthouse. Free and open all day.
Free, 3h00m

2:00pm

Lunch at Le Dupleix

Taste refined French and Indian fusion cuisine in a heritage hotel setting. Open 12 pm to 3 pm and 7 pm to 10 pm.
INR900, 1h30m

4:00pm

Visit Auroville

Experience the spiritual community and visit the Matrimandir, a meditation centre (visiting Matrimandir requires prior booking), open 9 am to 5 pm.
Donation-based, 2h00m

7:00pm

Dinner at Villa Shanti

Dine in a serene heritage villa with excellent local and continental dishes in Pondicherry. Open till 10 pm.
INR850, 1h30m
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