5-Day Itinerary in Pondicherry, Kerala, and Mahabalipuram

Day 1: Exploring Pondicherry

Pondicherry, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café des Arts

Begin your day with a delicious French breakfast at Café des Arts, famous for its croissants and charming ambiance.
Walk to the café, located in the heart of the French Quarter.
INR 300, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Aurobindo Ashram

Spend your morning in quiet reflection at the peaceful Aurobindo Ashram, founded by Sri Aurobindo Ghosh.
A short 10-minute walk from the café.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Villa Shanti

Savor a flavorful lunch in a heritage hotel setting at Villa Shanti, where local cuisine meets Colonial influence.
Head southeast along Rue Suffren for about 10 minutes.
INR 700, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore Promenade Beach

Walk off your lunch at Promenade Beach, perfect for leisurely strolls and snapping memorable photos.
A 5-minute walk from Villa Shanti.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Visit the Pondicherry Museum

Discover the history of Pondicherry at the Pondicherry Museum, with exhibits of local art and cultural heritage.
A 15-minute walk north from the beach.
INR 20, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Le Club

End your day with a delightful dinner at Le Club, a charming place serving Mediterranean cuisine with cozy ambiance.
A short 8-minute walk from the museum.
INR 800, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Auroville Experience

Pondicherry, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Baker Street

Enjoy fresh pastries and coffee at Baker Street, a beloved local bakery nestled in the city center.
A 10-minute walk from your accommodation.
INR 250, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Auroville

Embark on a trip to Auroville, an experimental township that promotes harmony and sustainable living.
Take a taxi for approx. 30 minutes.
INR 200 for the taxi, Half day

1:00PM

Lunch at Auroville Visitors Center

Dine at the Auroville Visitors Center, where dishes are made with organic produce, reflecting the spirit of the community.
At the Visitors Center itself, which is walking distance from your morning visit.
INR 500, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore Auroville Matrimandir

Discover the iconic Matrimandir, a beautiful meditation center surrounded by tranquil gardens.
Walking path from the Visitor Center.
Free admission, 2 hours

5:00PM

Return to Pondicherry

Head back to Pondicherry to relax and absorb the day's experiences.
Taxi back to Pondicherry.
INR 200, 30 minutes

7:00PM

Dinner at Satsanga

Wrap up the day with dinner at Satsanga, where Indian flavors and healthy ingredients come together in wholesome dishes.
A 10-minute drive or a 25-minute walk from central Pondicherry.
INR 600, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Journey to Kerala

Kochi, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a lovely breakfast at your hotel before checking out and heading to Kochi.
Within your hotel premises.
INR 300, 1 hour

9:00AM

Travel to Kochi

Depart for Kochi, soaking in the scenic drive as you leave behind Pondicherry.
Taxi ride for approximately 4 hours.
INR 2500, 4 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Kashi Art Café

Arrive in Kochi and refuel at Kashi Art Café, known for its artistic vibe and delicious Indian fusion dishes.
5-minute drive from your drop-off point.
INR 650, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Fort Kochi

Wander around the vibrant streets of Fort Kochi, adorned with colonial architecture and unique shops.
A pleasant walk from the café.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Visit the Chinese Fishing Nets

Watch the stunning sunset at the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets, an emblem of Kochi's coastal culture.
Just a short walk from Fort Kochi.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at The Rice Boat

Indulge in fresh seafood and Kerala-style dishes at The Rice Boat, located by the waterfront.
Head northwest along the coast for about 10 minutes.
INR 1200, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Exploring Kerala's Culture

Kochi, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at your hotel to prepare for a day of exploration.
Within your hotel premises.
INR 300, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit the Kerala Folklore Museum

Immerse yourself in the local culture at the Kerala Folklore Museum, showcasing traditional art and history.
A 30-minute taxi ride.
INR 100, 2 hours

11:30AM

Visit Jewish Synagogue

Discover the history of the Jewish community in Kochi by visiting the historic Paradesi Synagogue.
Taxi ride for 10 minutes.
INR 500, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Ginger House Restaurant

Enjoy the delicious flavors of Kerala cuisine at Ginger House, overlooking the waterway.
Located near the synagogue; a 5-minute walk.
INR 700, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Relax at Cherai Beach

Unwind at Cherai Beach, enjoying the serene atmosphere and beautiful views of the Arabian Sea.
Taxi ride for about 30 minutes.
Free, 2-3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Seagull

Dine at the Seagull restaurant with a stunning sunset view, known for its seafood specialties.
Return to central Kochi, approx. 30 minutes.
INR 900, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Seaside Wonders of Mahabalipuram

Mahabalipuram, India

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day with an early breakfast before heading to your next stop.
Within your hotel premises.
INR 300, 1 hour

8:00AM

Travel to Mahabalipuram

Set off for Mahabalipuram and enjoy the coastal scenery along the way.
Taxi ride, approximately 1.5 hours.
INR 1500, 1.5 hours

9:30AM

Visit Shore Temple

Marvel at the ancient Shore Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site with exquisite stonework and scenic views.
A short distance from your hotel.
INR 600, 1 hour

11:00AM

Explore Arjuna's Penance

Witness the spectacular relief carvings at Arjuna's Penance, depicting stories from Indian mythology.
Walk approximately 10 minutes from Shore Temple.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at The New Lighthouse Cafe

Enjoy a delightful meal at The New Lighthouse Cafe, known for its sea views and fresh local dishes.
A 10-minute walk from Arjuna's Penance.
INR 500, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Pancha Rathas

Discover the historic monolithic rock-cut temples at Pancha Rathas, showcasing unique Dravidian architecture.
A 10-minute drive from the cafe.
INR 150, 1 hour

4:00PM

Relax at Mahabalipuram Beach

Unwind at Mahabalipuram Beach, enjoying some leisure time along the shoreline.
Just a 5-minute walk from the Pancha Rathas.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Moonrakers

End your journey with a memorable dinner at Moonrakers, known for its vibrant atmosphere and delectable seafood.
A short 10-minute walk from the beach.
INR 800, 2 hours
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