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

Viewed by 102 travelers

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
Find Hotels in Chennai

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
Find Hotels in Mahabalipuram

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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