6-Day Family Friendly Itinerary to Places on the Way to Pondicherry in November 2023

1. Day 1: Mahabalipuram
   1 hour 20 minutes (36.7 miles) from Chennai International Airport

   In the morning, visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Mahabalipuram. Explore the intricately carved temples and ancient rock-cut caves. In the afternoon, head to the Mahabalipuram Beach and relax by the Bay of Bengal. In the evening, visit the Crocodile Bank and observe over 2000 species of crocodiles.

2. Day 2: Pondicherry
   1 hour 25 minutes (67.7 miles) from Mahabalipuram

   In the morning, visit the famous Sri Aurobindo Ashram, a spiritual community founded in 1926. In the afternoon, explore the French Quarter and visit the Pondicherry Museum to learn about the city's French colonial history. In the evening, take a stroll along the Promenade Beach and enjoy the sea breeze.

3. Day 3: Auroville
   30 minutes (9.8 miles) from Pondicherry

   In the morning, visit the experimental township of Auroville, founded in 1968 with the goal of achieving human unity and sustainable living. Explore the Matrimandir, a golden globe meditation center, and the Auroville Botanical Gardens. In the afternoon, visit the Sadhana Forest, a reforestation project. In the evening, attend a cultural event at Auroville.

4. Day 4: Chidambaram
   1 hour 45 minutes (69.6 miles) from Auroville

   In the morning, visit the Nataraja Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva as the cosmic dancer. Admire the intricate sculptures and carvings of Hindu mythology. In the afternoon, visit the Pichavaram Mangrove Forest and take a boat ride through the serene waterways. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Tamil Nadu meal at a local restaurant.

5. Day 5: Thanjavur
   2 hours 30 minutes (79.3 miles) from Chidambaram

   In the morning, visit the Brihadeeswara Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the largest temples in India. Admire the towering vimana and the intricate frescoes. In the afternoon, visit the Thanjavur Palace and Art Gallery to learn about the city's royal history and art. In the evening, attend a classical music or dance performance at the Sangeetha Mahal.

6. Day 6: Trichy
   1 hour 20 minutes (40.3 miles) from Thanjavur

   In the morning, climb the 437 steps to reach the Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Admire the impressive gopurams, the largest of which is 72 meters tall. In the afternoon, visit the Rock Fort Temple, a fortress built on ancient rock formations. Enjoy panoramic views of the city from the top. In the evening, shop for souvenirs at the local markets.

Recommendations

Consider exploring the nearby cities of Kanchipuram and Tiruvannamalai, famous for their temples and spiritual significance. Take a day trip to the Gingee Fort, a 17th-century fortress with three hilltop citadels. To maximize your fun, try the local cuisine, including dosas, idlis, and filter coffee.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Mahabalipuram (4 hours, INR 500)
• Sri Aurobindo Ashram (2 hours, Free)
• Pondicherry Museum (2 hours, INR 10)
• Auroville (4 hours, Free)
• Nataraja Temple (2 hours, INR 50)
• Brihadeeswara Temple (2 hours, INR 250)
• Thanjavur Palace and Art Gallery (2 hours, INR 50)
• Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple (2 hours, Free)
• Rock Fort Temple (2 hours, INR 50)
• Local restaurant meals (6 days, INR 6000)
• Total Estimated Costs (excluding accommodation and transportation): INR 7010