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7-Day Itinerary: Pondicherry & Chennai

Saturday, December 23, 2023: Arrival in Pondicherry

Start your trip by exploring the charming town of Pondicherry. In the morning, visit the iconic Sri Aurobindo Ashram, a spiritual community founded in 1926. Afternoon can be spent exploring the French Quarter, known for its colonial architecture and quaint cafes. In the evening, head to Promenade Beach for a leisurely walk along the shoreline.

  • Sri Aurobindo Ashram: Free entry, 2 hours
  • French Quarter: Free to explore, 3 hours
  • Promenade Beach: Free entry, 1 hour
Sunday, December 24, 2023: Auroville

Embark on a day trip to Auroville, an experimental township located near Pondicherry. Start your morning with a visit to the Matrimandir, a golden globe meditation center. In the afternoon, explore the Auroville Forest, a green oasis offering nature trails and serene surroundings. End the day by attending the evening meditation session at Matrimandir.

  • Matrimandir: Free entry, 2 hours
  • Auroville Forest: Free entry, 3 hours
  • Evening Meditation at Matrimandir: Free, 1 hour
Monday, December 25, 2023: Pondicherry Museum & Beaches

Spend the morning at Pondicherry Museum, which houses an impressive collection of artifacts showcasing the region's history and culture. Afterward, head to Paradise Beach, a scenic spot accessible by boat, for a relaxing afternoon. In the evening, enjoy some shopping at the local markets and grab dinner at a local restaurant.

  • Pondicherry Museum: INR 10 (USD 0.14), 2 hours
  • Paradise Beach: Boat ride cost - INR 200 (USD 2.78), 4 hours
  • Shopping & Dinner: Variable cost, 2 hours
Tuesday, December 26, 2023: Travel to Chennai

Check out from your hotel in Pondicherry and travel to Chennai by road. Upon arrival, visit the majestic Kapaleeshwarar Temple, known for its Dravidian architecture. In the afternoon, explore the vibrant Marina Beach, the second-longest urban beach in the world. In the evening, take a stroll along the bustling streets of George Town and indulge in some delicious street food.

  • Kapaleeshwarar Temple: Free entry, 2 hours
  • Marina Beach: Free entry, 3 hours
  • George Town Street Food: Variable cost, 2 hours
Wednesday, December 27, 2023: Fort St. George & Government Museum

Start your day by visiting Fort St. George, the first English fortress in India. Explore its historical significance and visit the St. Mary's Church within the fort. In the afternoon, head to the Government Museum, which houses a vast collection of art, archaeology, and natural history exhibits. In the evening, take a relaxing boat ride on the Coovum River.

  • Fort St. George: INR 5 (USD 0.07), 2 hours
  • Government Museum: INR 15 (USD 0.21), 3 hours
  • Coovum River Boat Ride: INR 300 (USD 4.17), 1 hour
Thursday, December 28, 2023: Mahabalipuram Excursion

Embark on a day trip to Mahabalipuram, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its ancient temples and rock-cut sculptures. Start your day by exploring the Shore Temple and the Five Rathas. Afterward, visit the famous Arjuna's Penance, a magnificent relief sculpture. In the evening, relax at the beautiful Mahabalipuram Beach.

  • Shore Temple: INR 600 (USD 8.34), 2 hours
  • Five Rathas: INR 500 (USD 6.95), 2 hours
  • Arjuna's Penance: INR 500 (USD 6.95), 2 hours
  • Mahabalipuram Beach: Free entry, 2 hours
Friday, December 29, 2023: Shopping & Departure

Spend your last day in Chennai exploring the vibrant shopping districts. Begin with a visit to T Nagar, one of the city's largest shopping areas, known for its silk sarees and jewelry. In the afternoon, head to Pondy Bazaar for more shopping options. Finish your trip with a farewell dinner and depart from Chennai.

  • T Nagar Shopping: Variable cost, 3 hours
  • Pondy Bazaar Shopping: Variable cost, 2 hours
  • Farewell Dinner: Variable cost, 2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For off the beaten path attractions, consider visiting the Theosophical Society in Chennai, a serene place with beautiful gardens and a library. Another hidden gem is Gingee Fort, located a few hours from Pondicherry, offering stunning views and a glimpse into history. Locals also love to explore the quaint streets of Mylapore in Chennai, known for its temples, cultural events, and street food.

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