10-Day Road Trip Itinerary: Discover Pondicherry and Rameshwaram

Day 1: Welcome to Pondicherry

Pondicherry, India

9:00 AM

Breakfast at Baker Street

Start your day at Baker Street, indulging in freshly baked croissants and artisanal coffee.
Head to the vibrant French Quarter, which is a short walk from here.
INR500, 1.5 hours

10:30 AM

Visit Auroville

Explore Auroville, an internationally renowned township that promotes sustainable living and community.
Drive 15 km north for about 30 minutes to reach Auroville.
Free, 3 hours

2:00 PM

Lunch at Tanto Pizzeria

Enjoy authentic wood-fired pizzas at Tanto in Auroville with a serene ambiance.
Head back to Pondicherry centre, a drive of about 30 minutes.
INR800, 1.5 hours

4:00 PM

Promenade Beach

Stroll along the scenic Promenade Beach, watching the sunset by the Masalamani statue.
It's a short 10-minute drive from the town.
Free, 2 hours

7:00 PM

Dinner at Le Dupleix

Savour exquisite Indian and French cuisine at Le Dupleix, where the ambiance reflects the charm of colonial architecture.
Located nearby on Rue surcouf.
INR1200, 2 hours
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Day 2: Culture and History

Pondicherry, India

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Café des Arts

Start your day at Café des Arts with pancakes and fresh fruit juices in a picturesque setting.
Located in the French Quarter, it's just a short walk away.
INR600, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit Sri Aurobindo Ashram

Experience tranquility at Sri Aurobindo Ashram, a peaceful spiritual community.
Just 10 minutes' drive from the café.
Free, 2 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Villa Shanti

Enjoy a relaxed meal at Villa Shanti, offering a mix of Indo-French cuisine.
A short 10-minute drive from the Ashram.
INR1000, 1.5 hours

2:00 PM

Explore Botanical Garden

Enjoy a stroll in the Botanical Garden, with its stunning flower beds and century-old trees.
About a 10-minute drive from the restaurant.
INR20, 1.5 hours

4:00 PM

Visit Puducherry Museum

Discover artefacts of Puducherry's history and heritage at the Puducherry Museum.
Only a 5-minute drive from the garden.
INR150, 1.5 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at The New Year

Try regional South Indian dishes at The New Year for authentic flavours.
Located in the heritage area, just around the corner.
INR700, 2 hours
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Day 3: Relaxing and Reflection

Pondicherry, India

8:00 AM

Breakfast at The Indian Kaffe Express

Fuel up with healthy breakfast options and a great cup of coffee.
Conveniently located in the city centre.
INR500, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit Arikamedu

Explore the archaeological site of Arikamedu, once a thriving Roman trade centre.
A short 7 km drive, takes about 15 minutes.
INR20, 2 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Surguru

Dig into flavoursome South Indian thalis at Surguru, a local favourite.
Head back toward the town, around a 15-minute drive.
INR600, 1.5 hours

2:00 PM

Visit Serenity Beach

Unwind at Serenity Beach, where you can relax or take part in water sports.
A 15-minute drive from the restaurant.
Free, 3 hours

5:30 PM

Visit Auroville Matrimandir

Explore the iconic Auroville Matrimandir, a symbol of spiritual aspirations.
Drive back to Auroville, about 30 minutes from Serenity Beach.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:30 PM

Dinner at The Fisherman's Wharf

Enjoy a seafood feast with local flavours at The Fisherman’s Wharf.
Back to Pondicherry town for about 30 minutes.
INR1200, 2 hours
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Day 4: Journey to Rameshwaram

Rameshwaram, India

7:00 AM

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at your hotel to fuel up for the trip.
On-site at the accommodation.
Included, 1 hour

8:00 AM

Drive to Rameshwaram

Embark on a scenic 2.5-hour drive to Rameshwaram, crossing the beautiful Pamban Bridge.
The journey will take you 170 km along National Highway 87.
N/A, 2.5 hours

11:00 AM

Check-in at hotel

Arrive at Rameshwaram and check into your hotel, refreshing from the journey.
The hotel will be a short drive from the main attractions.
INR1500, 1 hour

12:30 PM

Lunch at Hotel Tamil Nadu

Savour traditional South Indian cuisine at Hotel Tamil Nadu.
Nearby your hotel.
INR600, 1.5 hours

2:00 PM

Visit Ramanathaswamy Temple

Explore the famous Ramanathaswamy Temple, renowned for its impressive architecture.
It's centrally located, a short drive from the hotel.
Free, 2 hours

4:30 PM

Visit Agni Theertham

Experience the sacred Agni Theertham and take a purifying dip in the sea.
Just a 10-minute drive from the temple.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at Royal Restaurant

Enjoy fresh catch seafood and local specialities at the Royal Restaurant.
Located near the beach area.
INR800, 2 hours
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Day 5: Island Exploration

Rameshwaram, India

7:00 AM

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a refreshing breakfast at your hotel before heading out.
Dining in-house.
Included, 1 hour

8:00 AM

Drive to Dhanushkodi

Take a drive to Dhanushkodi, the ghost town and a picturesque spot for photography.
A 30-minute drive along the coastline.
Free, 1 hour

10:00 AM

Explore Dhanushkodi

Explore the ruins and pristine beaches of the abandoned Dhanushkodi.
Walking around the area.
Free, 3 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Dhanushkodi

Pack a picnic lunch or dine at makeshift eateries nearby.
Options available in Dhanushkodi.
INR300, 1.5 hours

2:30 PM

Visit Kothandaramaswamy Temple

Visit this ancient temple located on the way back from Dhanushkodi.
A short drive from Dhanushkodi.
Free, 1 hour

4:00 PM

Relax at the beach

Head to the local beach for relaxation or swimming.
A short 15-minute drive.
Free, 2 hours

6:30 PM

Dinner at the hotel

Conclude your day by enjoying dinner at your hotel, reflecting on the day’s adventures.
Dining in-house.
INR600, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Rameshwaram Highlights

Rameshwaram, India

7:30 AM

Breakfast at hotel

Start your morning with a wholesome breakfast buffet at your hotel.
Available in-house.
Included, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Visit Villoondi Tirtham

Discover the sacred well, Villoondi Tirtham, and its mythological significance.
Approx. 15-minute drive.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00 AM

Visit Adam's Bridge

Admire the stunning view of the iconic Adam's Bridge, also known as Ram Setu.
A 15-minute drive from Villoondi Tirtham.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Hotel Brindavan

Savour delectable South Indian fare at Hotel Brindavan.
Nearby Adam's Bridge.
INR700, 1.5 hours

3:00 PM

Visit the Wax Museum

Explore the quirky Wax Museum showcasing models of famous personalities.
A quick 10-minute drive.
INR100, 1 hour

4:30 PM

Explore local markets

Wander through Rameshwaram's local markets and shop for souvenirs.
In the town area, a short drive away.
Varies, 1.5 hours

6:30 PM

Dinner at Spice & Rice

End your day with a delightful meal at Spice & Rice, offering a mix of local and global cuisine.
A drive back to town.
INR900, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Travel to Kanyakumari

Kanyakumari, India

7:00 AM

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before your journey to Kanyakumari.
Dining in-house.
Included, 1 hour

8:30 AM

Drive to Kanyakumari

Set off for Kanyakumari, about 3 hours away through lush landscapes.
Approx. 240 km via National Highway 87.
N/A, 3 hours

11:30 AM

Check-in at hotel

Arrive and check into your hotel in Kanyakumari to refresh.
In the central tourist area.
INR2000, 1 hour

12:30 PM

Lunch at Sea View Restaurant

Enjoy a meal with ocean view at Sea View Restaurant, renowned for seafood.
Nearby your hotel.
INR800, 1.5 hours

2:00 PM

Visit Vivekananda Rock Memorial

Take a ferry to visit Vivekananda Rock Memorial and experience its serene beauty.
Boat services available from the coast.
INR150, 2 hours

5:00 PM

Explore Kanyakumari Beach

Stroll along Kanyakumari Beach, witnessing the convergence of three seas.
Short walk from the ferry dock.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:30 PM

Dinner at Hotel Seaface

Dine at Hotel Seaface, offering a local cuisine mix at their rooftop restaurant.
In close proximity.
INR1000, 2 hours
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Day 8: Kanyakumari Adventure

Kanyakumari, India

7:30 AM

Breakfast at hotel

Start your day with a delicious breakfast in your hotel.
Available in-house.
Included, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Visit the Kanyakumari Temple

Pay your respects at the ancient Kanyakumari Temple, dedicated to Goddess Durga.
A short drive or walk from your hotel.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00 AM

Visit Thiruvalluvar Statue

Take in views of the impressive Thiruvalluvar Statue standing tall amidst the sea.
Accessible from the beach area.
Free, 1 hour

12:30 PM

Lunch at Rani Hotel

Taste local delicacies at Rani Hotel, famed for its spicy fishes.
Nearby the temple.
INR600, 1.5 hours

2:00 PM

Explore surrounding villages

Take a short drive or auto ride to explore nearby fishing villages.
Rent a vehicle or use local autos.
Varies, 2 hours

4:30 PM

Relax at beach

Spend your afternoon relaxing at the beach, soaking up the sun.
Back to Kanyakumari beach.
Free, 2 hours

7:00 PM

Dinner at The Ocean View

Delight in a variety of cuisines with an ocean view at The Ocean View.
Located along the beachfront.
INR900, 2 hours
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Day 9: Cultural Exploration in Madurai

Madurai, India

7:00 AM

Breakfast at hotel

Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at your hotel in Kanyakumari.
Dining in-house, hotel based.
Included, 1 hour

8:30 AM

Drive to Madurai

Embark on a drive to Madurai, approximately 2.5 hours away.
A drive of roughly 136 km on National Highway 38.
N/A, 2.5 hours

11:00 AM

Check-in at hotel

Arrive and check in at your hotel in Madurai, freshening up for your day.
In the main city area.
INR1500, 1 hour

12:30 PM

Lunch at Azhagar Kovil

Enjoy traditional Tamil cuisine at Azhagar Kovil, a popular local eatery.
A short drive from the hotel.
INR700, 1.5 hours

2:00 PM

Visit Meenakshi Amman Temple

Marvel at the grandeur of the Meenakshi Amman Temple, an architectural marvel.
Only a few minutes from the restaurant.
Free, 2.5 hours

5:00 PM

Explore local markets

Wander through Madurai's bustling local markets for handicrafts and textiles.
Just around the corner from the temple.
Varies, 1.5 hours

7:00 PM

Dinner at Sri Sabarees

Experience local cuisine at the vegetarian-friendly Sri Sabarees, highly rated by locals.
Located near the markets.
INR500, 1.5 hours
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Day 10: Departure from Madurai

Madurai, India

7:00 AM

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy your final breakfast at the hotel before departure.
Dining in-house.
Included, 1 hour

8:30 AM

Visit Gandhi Museum

Visit the Gandhi Memorial Museum and learn about the life of Mahatma Gandhi.
A short drive from your hotel.
INR30, 1.5 hours

10:00 AM

Explore Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace

Explore the stunning architecture of the Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace.
Just a few kilometers away.
INR50, 1.5 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Heritage Restaurant

Savor a traditional South Indian thali at the Heritage Restaurant.
In the city centre.
INR600, 1.5 hours

2:00 PM

Return Rental Car

Return the rental car and prepare for your onward journey.
At the rental company’s location.
Varies, 1 hour

3:00 PM

Departure

Depart from Madurai, taking with you wonderful memories of your trip.
Head to the airport or train station.
Varies, N/A
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