Pondicherry to Ramaswaram: A Family-Friendly 3-Day Itinerary in May 2023

  1. Day 1: Explore the French Quarter of Pondicherry
    5 hours 45 minutes (199 km) from Pondicherry to Chidambaram

    Start your day with a visit to the Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, a stunning 100-year-old church with neo-gothic architecture. Then, head over to the Pondicherry Museum, which showcases the rich history and culture of the region. After that, explore the charming streets of the French Quarter, with its colonial architecture and quaint boutiques. End your day with a delicious dinner at Surguru Spot, famous for its authentic South Indian cuisine.

  2. Day 2: Discover the Temples of Chidambaram and Thanjavur
    4 hours 15 minutes (183 km) from Chidambaram to Thanjavur

    Start your day by visiting the Nataraja Temple in Chidambaram, dedicated to Lord Shiva. This temple is famous for its intricate carvings and sculptures, depicting various dance forms. After that, head over to the Brihadeeswara Temple in Thanjavur, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the largest temples in India. End your day with a visit to the Thanjavur Palace, which houses a museum with exhibits on the region's history and culture.

  3. Day 3: Explore the Ramanathaswamy Temple in Rameswaram
    1 hour 43 minutes (56 km) from Thanjavur to Rameswaram

    Start your day with a visit to the iconic Ramanathaswamy Temple, one of the holiest Hindu shrines in India. This temple is known for its stunning architecture and intricate carvings, and is believed to have been built by Lord Rama himself. After that, head over to the Pamban Bridge, a marvel of engineering that connects Rameswaram to mainland India. End your day with a relaxing stroll on Dhanushkodi Beach, where the Bay of Bengal meets the Indian Ocean.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus (1 hour, free)
  • Pondicherry Museum (1-2 hours, INR 10 per person)
  • French Quarter (2-3 hours, free)
  • Surguru Spot (1 hour, INR 500 for a family of four)
  • Nataraja Temple (1 hour, free)
  • Brihadeeswara Temple (1-2 hours, INR 50 per person)
  • Thanjavur Palace (1 hour, INR 10 per person)
  • Ramanathaswamy Temple (1-2 hours, free)
  • Pamban Bridge (30 minutes, free)
  • Dhanushkodi Beach (1-2 hours, free)
  • Total Estimated Costs: INR 560 for a family of four
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