Three-Day Itinerary for Chennai and Pondicherry

  1. Day 1: Chennai
    2 hours (138 km) from Pondicherry

    Start your day with a visit to Marina Beach, the longest urban beach in India. Take a stroll, enjoy the sea breeze, and grab some street food from the vendors. Next, head to the Kapaleeswarar Temple, a stunning example of Dravidian architecture. Observe the rituals performed by locals and explore the surrounding streets filled with shops and boutiques. End your day at the Fort St. George, a historical landmark built in 1644. Visit the museum and learn about the early days of British rule in India.

  2. Day 2: Pondicherry
    15 minutes (6 km) from Auroville

    Start your day with a stroll along the Promenade Beach and soak in the French influence on the architecture. Afterwards, visit the Sri Manakula Vinayagar Temple and admire the colorful sculptures and painted walls. Next, head to Auroville, an experimental international community promoting peace and sustainability. Take a tour of the Matri Mandir, a meditation space, and enjoy the tranquility of the surrounding gardens.

  3. Day 3: Pondicherry
    3 hours (135 km) from Mahabalipuram

    Start your day by exploring the charming French Quarter and take in the architecture, cafes, and boutique shops. Next, visit the Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, a stunning example of neo-Gothic architecture. Afterwards, head to Paradise Beach for some sun, sand, and sea. End your day at the Chunnambar Boat House, where you can take a boat ride and cruise along the backwaters of Pondicherry.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Marina Beach - Free
  • Kapaleeswarar Temple - 1-2 hours ($3)
  • Fort St. George - 2-3 hours ($5)
  • Promenade Beach - Free
  • Sri Manakula Vinayagar Temple - 1 hour ($2)
  • Auroville - 2-3 hours (Matrimandir Viewing Point - $10)
  • Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus - Free
  • Paradise Beach - Free
  • Chunnambar Boat House - 1 hour ($10)

  • Total Estimated Costs - $20

Useful Tips

If you have an extra day, consider taking a day trip to Mahabalipuram, an ancient port city known for its shore temples and rock-cut sculptures. If you're short on time, skip Fort St. George or Chunnambar Boat House and spend more time at your favorite locations. Don't forget to bring plenty of sunscreen and hydration as the weather can be hot and humid.

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