Southern India: Nature and Spiritual Journey

  1. Day 1: Theni
    3 hours 30 min (111 km) from Velankanni

    Visit the Meghamalai Wildlife Sanctuary and enjoy the fresh air, scenic views and wildlife. Take a 2-hour trek to the Thousand Acre Tea Plantation, where you can learn about tea making and enjoy a cup of freshly brewed tea. After lunch, visit the Sothuparai Dam for serene views and a boat ride. End the day with a visit to the Grizzled Giant Squirrel Wildlife Sanctuary to catch a glimpse of the rare squirrel.

  2. Day 2: Velankanni
    5 hours 30 min (254 km) from Theni

    Begin your day with a visit to the Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health to appreciate the intricate architecture and spirituality. Spend some time at the Velankanni Beach for fun activities and a view of the Bay of Bengal. Next, head to the Nagapattinam Museum to learn about the history of the region. Don't miss the Kodikkarai Wildlife Sanctuary for a chance to see flamingoes, pelicans and other migratory birds. End the day with a relaxing boat ride along the Vellar River.

  3. Day 3: Pondicherry
    2 hours 30 min (130 km) from Velankanni

    Begin with a visit to the Sri Aurobindo Ashram to learn about the teachings of Sri Aurobindo and his disciples. Walk along the Promenade Beach for a picturesque view of the Bay of Bengal. Next, head to the Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, a beautiful neo-gothic structure. Visit the Pondicherry Museum to appreciate the art and history of the region. End the day with a visit to Auroville, an experimental township with a unique community and culture.

Time and Cost Estimates

  • Meghamalai Wildlife Sanctuary (2 hours, free)
  • Thousand Acre Tea Plantation (1.5 hours, INR 500)
  • Sothuparai Dam (1 hour, INR 100)
  • Grizzled Giant Squirrel Wildlife Sanctuary (1 hour, INR 50)
  • Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health (1 hour, free)
  • Velankanni Beach (2 hours, free)
  • Nagapattinam Museum (1.5 hours, INR 50)
  • Kodikkarai Wildlife Sanctuary (2 hours, INR 100)
  • Sri Aurobindo Ashram (1.5 hours, free)
  • Promenade Beach (1 hour, free)
  • Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus (1 hour, free)
  • Pondicherry Museum (1.5 hours, INR 10)
  • Auroville (2 hours, free)

  • Total Estimated Costs: INR 810

Useful Tips

If you have more time, consider visiting the Kurinjimala Sanctuary or the Kumbakkarai Falls in Theni. In Velankanni, you can spend more time at the beach, go scuba diving or explore the Masilamani Nathar Temple. In Pondicherry, you can visit the Matrimandir in Auroville, go on a heritage walk with INTACH or try some delicious French cuisine at the many cafes in the French Quarters.

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