Sacred Temples and Serene Pondicherry: A 7-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Temple Trail

Chennai, Tamil Nadu

8:00AM

Kapaleeshwarar Temple

Start your day with a visit to the iconic Kapaleeshwarar Temple, known for its Dravidian architecture and vibrant rituals.
Kapaleeshwarar Temple is located in Mylapore, approximately 30 minutes drive from Chennai city center.
INR 100, 2 hours

11:00AM

Marundeeswarar Temple

Head to Marundeeswarar Temple to experience the peaceful ambiance and intricate stone carvings depicting mythological stories.
Marundeeswarar Temple is around 45 minutes drive from Kapaleeshwarar Temple.
INR 50, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Murugan Idli Shop

Enjoy a delicious South Indian meal at the famous Murugan Idli Shop known for its authentic flavors and variety of chutneys.
Murugan Idli Shop is located near Marundeeswarar Temple.
INR 300, 1 hour

3:00PM

Ashtalakshmi Temple

Visit Ashtalakshmi Temple, dedicated to the eight forms of Goddess Lakshmi, for blessings and architectural beauty.
Ashtalakshmi Temple is a short drive from Marundeeswarar Temple.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Kapaleeshwarar Temple Evening Aarti

Witness the mesmerizing evening aarti ceremony at Kapaleeshwarar Temple, immersing yourself in the spiritual energy of the place.
Head back to Kapaleeshwarar Temple in Mylapore for the evening aarti.
Free, 1 hour
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Day 2: Temple Tranquility

Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu

8:00AM

Kanchi Kailasanathar Temple

Begin your day with a visit to Kanchi Kailasanathar Temple, the oldest structure in Kanchipuram known for its intricate architecture and historical significance.
Kanchi Kailasanathar Temple is around 2 hours drive from Chennai.
INR 200, 2 hours

11:00AM

Ekambareswarar Temple

Explore Ekambareswarar Temple, one of the Pancha Bhoota Stalas representing the element Earth, and marvel at its towering gopurams.
Ekambareswarar Temple is a short distance from Kanchi Kailasanathar Temple.
INR 100, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Saravana Bhavan

Indulge in a scrumptious South Indian thali at Saravana Bhavan, a popular restaurant chain known for its authentic flavors.
Saravana Bhavan is located near Ekambareswarar Temple.
INR 400, 1 hour

3:00PM

Varadharaja Perumal Temple

Visit Varadharaja Perumal Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, and admire the intricate sculptures and vibrant temple rituals.
Varadharaja Perumal Temple is a short drive from Ekambareswarar Temple.
INR 50, 1 hour

5:00PM

Shopping at Kanchipuram Silk Saree Showrooms

Explore the renowned Kanchipuram Silk Saree showrooms and shop for exquisite silk sarees known for their rich colors and intricate designs.
Head to the Kanchipuram Silk Saree showrooms in the city center.
Variable, 2 hours
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Day 3: Pondicherry Arrival

Pondicherry

8:00AM

Travel from Kanchipuram to Pondicherry

Embark on a scenic drive from Kanchipuram to Pondicherry, enjoying the changing landscapes and serene views along the way.
Pondicherry is approximately 3 hours drive from Kanchipuram.
INR 500, 3 hours

12:00PM

Check-in at Hotel

Settle into your accommodation in Pondicherry and freshen up before beginning your exploration of the charming town.
Check-in at your selected hotel in Pondicherry.
Variable, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Le Dupleix

Enjoy a leisurely French-inspired lunch at Le Dupleix, a colonial-style restaurant known for its delectable fusion cuisine.
Le Dupleix is located in the French Quarter of Pondicherry.
INR 800, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Promenade Beach

Stroll along the picturesque Promenade Beach, feeling the cool sea breeze and admiring the views of the Bay of Bengal.
Head to Promenade Beach located in the heart of Pondicherry.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Shopping at Goubert Market

Explore the vibrant Goubert Market for local handicrafts, souvenirs, and street food to experience the essence of Pondicherry.
Goubert Market is located near Promenade Beach.
Variable, 2 hours
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Day 4: French Quarter Exploration

Pondicherry

8:00AM

Aurobindo Ashram

Begin your day with a visit to Aurobindo Ashram, a spiritual community founded by Sri Aurobindo and The Mother, known for its tranquil ambiance.
Aurobindo Ashram is located in the French Quarter of Pondicherry.
Free, 2 hours

11:00AM

Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus

Explore the majestic Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, a stunning Gothic-style church with beautiful stained glass windows.
The Basilica is a short walk from Aurobindo Ashram.
Free, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Rendezvous

Indulge in a sumptuous meal at Rendezvous, a cozy restaurant offering a mix of Indian and Continental dishes in a quaint setting.
Rendezvous is located in the French Quarter near the Basilica.
INR 600, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Auroville

Visit the experimental township of Auroville, known for its focus on sustainable living, spiritual practices, and unique architecture.
Auroville is a short drive from Pondicherry city.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Villa Shanti

Savor a delightful dinner at Villa Shanti, a charming restaurant serving gourmet French and Indian fusion dishes in a serene courtyard setting.
Villa Shanti is located in the French Quarter of Pondicherry.
INR 1000, 2 hours
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Day 5: Beach Bliss

Pondicherry

8:00AM

Paradise Beach

Embark on a boat ride to Paradise Beach, a secluded paradise with golden sands and clear blue waters, perfect for relaxation and water activities.
Take a boat from Chunnambar Boat House to reach Paradise Beach.
INR 200 (Boat Ride), 4 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Tanto Pizzeria

Enjoy a delicious wood-fired pizza at Tanto Pizzeria, a cozy eatery near the beach offering a variety of Italian delights.
Tanto Pizzeria is located near Paradise Beach.
INR 500, 1 hour

2:00PM

Water Sports at Serenity Beach

Experience adrenaline-pumping water sports at Serenity Beach, including surfing, kayaking, and paddleboarding for an adventurous afternoon.
Serenity Beach is a short drive from Paradise Beach.
INR 1000 (approx.), 2 hours

5:00PM

Relax at Rock Beach

Wind down your day by relaxing at the popular Rock Beach, watching the sunset and enjoying the lively atmosphere of street performers and vendors.
Rock Beach is located in the heart of Pondicherry.
Free, 2 hours
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Day 6: Cultural Immersion

Pondicherry

8:00AM

Chunnambar Boat House

Embark on a boat ride from Chunnambar Boat House to explore the backwaters and mangrove forests of Pondicherry, immersing yourself in nature's beauty.
Chunnambar Boat House is a short drive from the city center.
INR 300, 2 hours

11:00AM

French War Memorial

Pay homage to the soldiers who sacrificed their lives during World War I at the French War Memorial, a serene and historic site.
The French War Memorial is located near the Promenade Beach.
Free, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Carte Blanche

Indulge in a gourmet meal at Carte Blanche, a fine dining restaurant offering a fusion of French and local cuisine in an elegant setting.
Carte Blanche is located in the French Quarter of Pondicherry.
INR 1200, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Bharati Government Park

Visit Bharati Government Park, a lush green space perfect for a leisurely stroll amidst nature and historical monuments.
Bharati Government Park is located in the heart of Pondicherry.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Shopping at Casablanca

Explore Casablanca for unique handicrafts, home decor, and souvenirs, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Pondicherry.
Casablanca is located in the French Quarter near Bharati Government Park.
Variable, 2 hours
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Day 7: Farewell Pondicherry

Pondicherry

8:00AM

Breakfast at Baker Street

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at Baker Street, a charming bakery known for its delectable pastries, cakes, and freshly brewed coffee.
Baker Street is located in the White Town area of Pondicherry.
INR 300, 1 hour

9:00AM

Auroville Bakery

Visit Auroville Bakery to pick up some organic bread, cookies, and other baked goods as souvenirs before heading back.
Auroville Bakery is located near Auroville.
INR 200, 1 hour

11:00AM

Departure

Bid adieu to the charming town of Pondicherry and head towards your onward journey with beautiful memories of the temples and serenity of Pondicherry.
Make necessary arrangements for your departure based on your travel plans.
Variable, N/A
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