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3-Day South India Adventure from Chennai to Pondicherry and Mahabalipuram

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Day 1: Pondicherry Exploration

Pondicherry, India on August 5, 2025

7:00am

Departure from Chennai to Pondicherry

Start early morning for the 3-hour scenic drive south along ECR to Pondicherry, a charming coastal town known for its French colonial heritage.
INR500, 3h0m

10:30am

Breakfast at Café Des Arts

Enjoy a French-style breakfast with croissants and espresso in a quaint café setting that reflects Pondicherry’s heritage.
INR400, 1h0m

11:30am

Explore French Quarter

Stroll through colorful streets lined with colonial villas, boutique shops, and charming cafes to soak in the unique atmosphere.
Free, 2h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at Le Dupleix

Dine on traditional French-Indian fusion dishes in an elegant heritage hotel setting located in the heart of the French Quarter.
INR800, 1h30m

3:00pm

Visit Aurobindo Ashram

Relax and experience spiritual peace at this famous ashram founded by Sri Aurobindo, open daily from 9am to 12pm and 2pm to 5pm.
Free, 1h0m

4:30pm

Walk along Promenade Beach

Enjoy a serene beach walk with views of the Bay of Bengal, popular among locals and tourists alike, perfect during sunset.
Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Villa Shanti

Savor South Indian classics and seafood in a stylish colonial bungalow with a warm ambiance, open until 10pm.
INR900, 1h30m
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Day 2: Heritage at Mahabalipuram

Mahabalipuram, India on August 6, 2025

8:00am

Travel from Pondicherry to Mahabalipuram

A short 1.5-hour drive west to the heritage town famous for its UNESCO-listed temples and rock sculptures.
INR400, 1h30m

9:30am

Breakfast at Moonrakers

Start with a casual breakfast offering fresh breads, coffee, and local flavors, open from 8am.
INR350, 1h0m

10:30am

Visit Shore Temple

Explore the 8th-century Shore Temple overlooking the sea, a beautiful example of early Dravidian architecture, open from 6am to 6pm.
INR50, 1h0m

11:30am

Explore Pancha Rathas

Visit the five monolithic rock-cut temples converted into chariots, a fascinating group of monuments to discover.
INR50, 1h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at The Seafood Restaurant

Enjoy fresh local seafood dishes in a beachfront setting, serving till 3pm.
INR700, 1h0m

2:00pm

Mahabalipuram Beach Walk

Relax on the sandy beaches or take a gentle stroll, soaking in the coastal charm before returning.
Free, 1h0m

3:30pm

Return to Chennai

Drive back to Chennai, approximately 1.5 hours, afternoon traffic permitting.
INR500, 1h30m

5:00pm

Check-in and Rest at Chennai Hotel

Settle into your Chennai accommodation with time to relax before dinner.
Varies, 2h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Murugan Idli Shop

Traditional South Indian vegetarian dinner with famous idlis, dosas, and chutneys, open till 10pm.
INR300, 1h0m
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Day 3: Chennai City Tour

Chennai, India on August 7, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Café Coffee Day

Start your day with a quick coffee and light breakfast at this popular chain, opens at 7am.
INR200, 30m

8:30am

Visit Kapaleeshwarar Temple

Explore this iconic 7th-century Dravidian temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, vibrant with local religious activity, open from 6am to 12pm and 4pm to 8pm.
Free, 1h0m

9:30am

Explore Fort St George

Discover the first British fortress in India, now a museum showcasing colonial history, open from 8:30am to 5pm.
INR50, 1h0m

10:30am

Stroll Marina Beach

Walk along one of the longest urban beaches in the world, enjoy street snacks and the sea breeze.
Free, 1h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Buhari Hotel

Experience famous Chennai biryani and other delicious South Indian non-vegetarian dishes, open till 3pm.
INR600, 1h0m

1:30pm

Shopping and local market visit

Visit T Nagar, Chennai’s bustling shopping district with garments, jewelry, and handicrafts to pick souvenirs.
Varies, 2h0m

3:30pm

Return to hotel and pack

Relax and prepare for departure or continue your onward journey.
Free, 1h0m
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