Budget-Friendly 3-Day Rail/Train Trip in Pondicherry

Day 1: Exploring Pondicherry

Pondicherry, India

8:00AM

Arrive in Pondicherry

Begin your day by arriving in the charming town of Pondicherry, known for its French colonial architecture and serene beaches.
Take a train from Chennai to Pondicherry, which takes around 3 hours.
INR 200, 3 hours

11:00AM

Visit Auroville

Head to Auroville, an experimental township focused on sustainable living and spiritual practice. Explore the Matrimandir and enjoy the peaceful ambiance.
Take a local bus or auto-rickshaw from Pondicherry city centre to Auroville, which is about a 30-minute drive.
INR 50, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Auroville

Enjoy a delicious and affordable vegetarian meal at one of the restaurants in Auroville, offering organic and healthy options.
Explore Auroville for lunch options.
INR 150, 1 hour

3:00PM

Relax at Promenade Beach

Spend the afternoon relaxing at Promenade Beach, watching the waves and enjoying the sea breeze. Take a leisurely walk along the promenade.
Take a short walk from Auroville to Promenade Beach.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Explore White Town

Wander around White Town, the French Quarter of Pondicherry, known for its vibrant streets, colourful buildings, and trendy cafes.
Walk or take a cycle rickshaw from Promenade Beach to White Town.
Free, 2 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at a Local Eatery

End your day with a budget-friendly dinner at a local eatery, trying out some authentic South Indian dishes.
Explore the streets of White Town for dinner options.
INR 200, 1 hour
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Day 2: Cultural Exploration

Pondicherry, India

9:00AM

Breakfast at Baker Street

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Baker Street, a popular bakery known for its pastries and coffee.
Walk or take a short ride to Baker Street in the city centre.
INR 100, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Sri Aurobindo Ashram

Explore the spiritual haven of Sri Aurobindo Ashram, a place of meditation and tranquillity. Learn about the teachings of Sri Aurobindo and The Mother.
Walk from Baker Street to Sri Aurobindo Ashram.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Saravana Bhavan

Enjoy a traditional South Indian thali at Saravana Bhavan, a popular vegetarian restaurant known for its authentic flavours.
Walk to Saravana Bhavan from Sri Aurobindo Ashram.
INR 200, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Pondicherry Museum

Visit Pondicherry Museum to learn about the history and culture of the region. Explore artefacts, sculptures, and exhibits showcasing the heritage of Pondicherry.
Walk from Saravana Bhavan to Pondicherry Museum.
INR 50, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Shopping at Mission Street

Shop for souvenirs and handicrafts at Mission Street, a bustling market area with a variety of local products and trinkets.
Take a short walk from Pondicherry Museum to Mission Street.
Variable, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Relax at Rock Beach

Unwind at Rock Beach, a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. Watch the sunset, listen to the waves, and enjoy the evening vibes.
Walk or take a short ride from Mission Street to Rock Beach.
Free, 2 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Sree Sweets

Indulge in some local sweets and savouries at Sree Sweets, a popular eatery known for its delectable snacks and desserts.
Stroll along Rock Beach to Sree Sweets for dinner.
INR 150, 1 hour
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Day 3: Return to Chennai

Pondicherry, India

8:00AM

Check Out from Hotel

Bid farewell to Pondicherry and check out from your accommodation, getting ready for your return journey to Chennai.
Prepare for your departure from Pondicherry.
Variable, 1 hour

10:00AM

Explore Local Market

Before leaving, take a stroll through the local market to pick up some last-minute souvenirs and gifts.
Walk from your hotel to the local market for some shopping.
Variable, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Hotel Anandha Inn

Enjoy a farewell lunch at Hotel Anandha Inn, savouring a mix of South Indian and North Indian dishes before departing for Chennai.
Head to Hotel Anandha Inn for lunch.
INR 250, 1 hour

2:00PM

Departure to Chennai

Catch your train back to Chennai, reminiscing about the wonderful experiences and memories made during your budget-friendly rail trip to Pondicherry.
Take a train from Pondicherry to Chennai, which takes around 3 hours.
INR 200, 3 hours
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