Family Friendly 7-Day Itinerary for Pondicherry and Chennai

Day 1: Explore Pondicherry

Pondicherry, India

8:00AM

Visit Paradise Beach

Start your day with a visit to the serene Paradise Beach, perfect for relaxing and enjoying the sun. The beach offers various water sports activities for the whole family.
Paradise Beach is located 8 km from the city centre. You can take a local taxi or auto-rickshaw to reach there. The travel time is approximately 30 minutes.
Free, 2 hours

11:00AM

Explore Auroville

Head to Auroville, an experimental township known for its sustainable living practices and spiritual atmosphere. Visit the Matrimandir and take a walk around the beautiful gardens.
Auroville is about 10 km from Pondicherry. You can hire a taxi or use a rental bike to reach there. The journey takes around 40 minutes.
Entry to Matrimandir: INR 150 per person, 3 hours

3:00PM

Indulge in French Cuisine at Le Dupleix

Enjoy a delicious lunch at Le Dupleix, a charming French restaurant in the heart of Pondicherry. Try their signature dishes and desserts.
Le Dupleix is located in White Town, Pondicherry. It's easily accessible by walking or a short taxi ride from Auroville.
Approx. INR 800 per person, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Visit Promenade Beach

Spend your evening at Promenade Beach, a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. Enjoy the sea breeze and catch a beautiful sunset.
Promenade Beach is located in the city centre, easily reachable by walking or a short drive from Le Dupleix.
Free, 2 hours
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Day 2: Cultural Day in Pondicherry

Pondicherry, India

9:00AM

Explore Arikamedu Archaeological Site

Start your day by visiting the Arikamedu Archaeological Site, an ancient Roman trading post with ruins and artefacts dating back centuries.
Arikamedu is located about 4 km from the city centre. You can hire a local guide or take a taxi to reach there. The journey takes around 20 minutes.
Entry fee: INR 20 per person, 2 hours

11:00AM

Shopping at Mission Street

Explore the vibrant shops and boutiques on Mission Street. Buy some unique souvenirs and handicrafts to remember your trip.
Mission Street is in the city centre of Pondicherry and can be reached by walking or a short taxi ride from Arikamedu.
Varies based on purchases, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Satsanga

Have a delicious lunch at Satsanga, a popular restaurant serving a mix of Indian and international cuisine. Try their thali for a taste of local flavours.
Satsanga is located near Mission Street. It's a short walk from the shopping area.
Approx. INR 500 per person, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Pondicherry Museum

Explore the rich history and culture of Pondicherry at the Pondicherry Museum. Admire the artefacts and exhibits showcasing the region's heritage.
The museum is located in the city centre, easily accessible by walking or a short taxi ride from Satsanga.
Entry fee: INR 15 per person, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Discover Chennai's Heritage

Chennai, India

9:00AM

Explore Fort St. George

Begin your day by exploring Fort St. George, the first English fortress in India. Learn about its history and visit the museum inside.
Fort St. George is located in the heart of Chennai. You can hire a taxi or use public transport to reach there. The journey takes around 30 minutes.
Entry fee: INR 50 per person, 2 hours

11:30AM

Visit Kapaleeshwarar Temple

Head to Kapaleeshwarar Temple, a famous Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Marvel at the colourful architecture and intricate carvings.
Kapaleeshwarar Temple is located in Mylapore, Chennai. You can take a taxi or local bus to reach there. The travel time is approximately 20 minutes.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Murugan Idli Shop

Enjoy a traditional South Indian meal at Murugan Idli Shop, known for its delicious idlis and dosas. Taste authentic flavours of Chennai.
Murugan Idli Shop has multiple branches in Chennai. Choose the nearest one from Kapaleeshwarar Temple for a quick lunch.
Approx. INR 300 per person, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Government Museum

Visit the Government Museum in Chennai to see a diverse collection of art, archaeology, and numismatics. Learn about Tamil Nadu's heritage.
The museum is located in Egmore, Chennai. You can take a taxi or local train to reach there. The journey takes around 30 minutes.
Entry fee: INR 50 per person, 2 hours
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Day 4: Marina Beach and Shopping

Chennai, India

9:00AM

Relax at Marina Beach

Spend your morning at Marina Beach, the second-longest urban beach in the world. Take a leisurely stroll along the shore and enjoy the sea breeze.
Marina Beach is located in the city centre of Chennai. You can walk or take a short taxi ride from your accommodation.
Free, 2 hours

11:00AM

Shopping at T. Nagar

Explore the bustling streets of T. Nagar, a popular shopping district in Chennai. Shop for traditional clothes, jewellery, and souvenirs.
T. Nagar is easily accessible by taxi or public transport from Marina Beach. The journey takes around 15 minutes.
Varies based on purchases, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Saravana Bhavan

Have a delicious vegetarian lunch at Saravana Bhavan, a renowned restaurant chain known for its authentic South Indian dishes.
Saravana Bhavan has multiple branches in Chennai, including one in T. Nagar. Enjoy a hearty meal before continuing your day.
Approx. INR 400 per person, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Express Avenue Mall

Explore Express Avenue Mall, a popular shopping destination with a variety of stores, entertainment options, and food courts. Shop and relax.
Express Avenue Mall is located in Royapettah, Chennai. You can take a taxi or public transport from T. Nagar to reach there. The journey takes around 20 minutes.
Free entry, shopping costs vary, 2 hours
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Day 5: Return to Pondicherry

Pondicherry, India

9:00AM

Visit Chunnambar Boat House

Start your day by visiting Chunnambar Boat House for a relaxing boat ride along the backwaters. Enjoy the scenic views and peaceful surroundings.
Chunnambar Boat House is located around 8 km from Pondicherry. You can hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach there. The travel time is approximately 30 minutes.
Boat ride: INR 200 per person, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore Serenity Beach

Spend some time at Serenity Beach, a quiet and picturesque spot perfect for swimming and enjoying the coastal beauty. Relax under the sun.
Serenity Beach is located near Chunnambar Boat House. You can take a short walk or a quick taxi ride to reach there.
Free, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Bay of Buddha

Enjoy a delicious lunch at Bay of Buddha, a seaside restaurant offering a mix of Asian cuisines. Savour the seafood and serene ambience.
Bay of Buddha is located near Serenity Beach. It's a short drive or walk from the beach.
Approx. INR 700 per person, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Visit Aurobindo Ashram

Explore the Aurobindo Ashram, a spiritual community founded by Sri Aurobindo and the Mother. Experience tranquillity and meditation practices.
Aurobindo Ashram is located in the heart of Pondicherry. You can walk or take a short taxi ride from Bay of Buddha.
Donations welcome, 2 hours
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Day 6: Historical Sites in Chennai

Chennai, India

9:00AM

Visit Valluvar Kottam

Begin your day by visiting Valluvar Kottam, a monument dedicated to the Tamil poet and philosopher Thiruvalluvar. Admire the architectural marvel.
Valluvar Kottam is located in Nungambakkam, Chennai. You can take a taxi or public transport to reach there. The journey takes around 30 minutes.
Entry fee: INR 20 per person, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore Theosophical Society

Head to Theosophical Society, a peaceful oasis in the city with gardens, shrines, and a library. Learn about its significance in Chennai's history.
Theosophical Society is located in Adyar, Chennai. You can hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach there. The travel time is approximately 20 minutes.
Free, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Annalakshmi Restaurant

Enjoy a traditional vegetarian lunch at Annalakshmi Restaurant, known for its authentic South Indian cuisine served in a unique dining experience.
Annalakshmi Restaurant is located near Theosophical Society. It's a short walk or drive from the society.
Approx. INR 600 per person, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Visit San Thome Basilica

Explore the majestic San Thome Basilica, a Roman Catholic cathedral built over the tomb of St. Thomas. Admire the Gothic architecture and history.
San Thome Basilica is located in Mylapore, Chennai. You can take a taxi or local bus to reach there. The journey takes around 20 minutes.
Donations welcome, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Final Day in Chennai

Chennai, India

9:00AM

Explore Guindy National Park

Start your day with a visit to Guindy National Park, a green oasis in the midst of the city. Discover native flora and fauna on a nature walk.
Guindy National Park is located in Guindy, Chennai. You can hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach there. The journey takes around 30 minutes.
Entry fee: INR 20 per person, 2 hours

11:30AM

Discover DakshinaChitra

Head to DakshinaChitra, a heritage village showcasing the art, architecture, and cultural traditions of South India. Explore the crafts and performances.
DakshinaChitra is located in Muttukadu, Chennai. You can take a taxi or public transport to reach there. The travel time is approximately 45 minutes.
Entry fee: INR 250 per person, 2 hours

2:30PM

Lunch at Murugan Mess

Enjoy a traditional Tamil Nadu meal at Murugan Mess, a local eatery known for its authentic flavours and hearty portions. Taste the regional delicacies.
Murugan Mess has multiple branches in Chennai. Choose the nearest one from DakshinaChitra for a satisfying lunch.
Approx. INR 400 per person, 1 hour

4:00PM

Shopping at Phoenix Marketcity

Explore Phoenix Marketcity, a modern shopping mall with a wide range of brands, entertainment options, and dining choices. Shop for souvenirs.
Phoenix Marketcity is located in Velachery, Chennai. You can take a taxi or public transport to reach there from Murugan Mess. The journey takes around 30 minutes.
Free entry, shopping costs vary, 2 hours
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