3-Day Family Adventure in Mahabalipuram and Pondicherry

Day 1: Exploring Mahabalipuram

Mahabalipuram, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Bora Bora Beach Cafe

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Bora Bora Beach Cafe, known for its delightful pancakes and fresh fruit juices, providing a perfect fuel for your day ahead.
Located along the beach, this cafe offers a relaxed atmosphere with stunning views.
INR 800, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Shore Temples

After breakfast, head to the iconic Shore Temples, where the stunning architecture meets the beauty of the coastline.
A short 10-minute drive from the cafe to the temples.
INR 50, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Explore Arjuna's Penance

Marvel at the intricate carvings of Arjuna's Penance, a massive rock relief that tells a captivating mythological tale.
A 10-minute walk from the Shore Temples.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at The New Lighthouse Restaurant

Enjoy a family-friendly lunch at The New Lighthouse Restaurant, famous for its seafood and Indian cuisine with a great view of the ocean.
Just a 5-minute drive from Arjuna's Penance.
INR 1500, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit the Pancha Pandava Rathas

Next, explore the Pancha Pandava Rathas, a group of five monolithic temples that are a feast for the eyes and imagination.
A quick 8-minute drive from the restaurant.
INR 50, 1 hour

3:30PM

Relax at Mahabalipuram Beach

Unwind at Mahabalipuram Beach, where kids can play in the sand while adults take in the scenic landscapes.
A mere 5-minute drive or 15-minute walk from the Pancha Pandava Rathas.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Watch the Sunset

Catch a breathtaking sunset at the beach, a perfect ending to your day.
Stay glued to the beach area.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Moonrakers Restaurant

Savor a delightful dinner at Moonrakers, celebrated for its coastal cuisine and welcoming ambiance.
Just a 10-minute drive back into town.
INR 1700, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Journey to Pondicherry

Pondicherry, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at C Cafe

Begin your day in Mahabalipuram with a lovely breakfast at C Cafe, known for its refreshing chai and local breakfast options.
Located near the main beach.
INR 700, 1 hour

9:30AM

Depart for Pondicherry

After breakfast, pack up and get ready for your ride to Pondicherry, an exciting new destination.
A 2-hour drive along the ECR road.
INR 2000 (taxis), 2 hours

11:30AM

Check-in at Hotel

After arriving in Pondicherry, check-in at your family-friendly hotel, settling in for the adventures that await.
From the main road, follow signs to your hotel.
Varies, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at La Vespuccia

Head to La Vespuccia for a family lunch featuring delicious wood-fired pizzas and pasta that everyone can enjoy.
Walk or take a short cab ride to the restaurant.
INR 1200, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore Auroville

Visit Auroville, an experimental township nearby, where you can learn about sustainable living and see the Matrimandir.
A 30-minute drive from the restaurant.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Visit Pondicherry Beach

Enjoy some fun at Pondicherry Beach, ideal for sandcastle building and a variety of beach activities.
A 20-minute drive back into Pondicherry.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Sunset at Promenade

Stroll along the Promenade while watching the sunset over the Bay of Bengal, creating beautiful memories.
The Promenade is adjacent to the beach.
Free, 1 hour

7:30PM

Dinner at Surguru

End the day with a delicious dinner at Surguru, a restaurant known for its authentic South Indian meals that appeal to all ages.
Located close to the Promenade.
INR 1000, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Discovering Pondicherry

Pondicherry, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café des Arts

Start your final day at Café des Arts, where the French-style breakfast of croissants and pastries sets a charming tone.
In the French Quarter, easy to reach.
INR 800, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Botanical Gardens

Explore the beautiful Botanical Gardens, featuring stunning flora that is both educational and fun for the kids.
A short 10-minute drive from the cafe.
INR 30, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Discover the Aayi Mandapam

Visit the Aayi Mandapam, an architectural delight where kids can learn about local history through storytelling.
5-minute drive from Botanical Gardens.
Free, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Hotel Le Duc de Praslin

Enjoy lunch at Hotel Le Duc de Praslin, renowned for its delectable seafood platter and French cuisine.
Approximately 10 minutes from Aayi Mandapam.
INR 1500, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Visit the Pondicherry Museum

Spend some time at the Pondicherry Museum, home to fascinating exhibits that capture the essence of the region's history.
A drive back into central Pondicherry, about 15 minutes.
INR 50, 1 hour

3:00PM

Relax at Paradise Beach

Travel to Paradise Beach for a well-deserved leisurely afternoon filled with beach fun and relaxation.
A 30-minute boat ride from Chunnambar Boat House to the beach.
INR 300 (boat ride), 3 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Seafood Restaurant

Wrap up your adventure with dinner at The Seafood Restaurant, famed for its fresh catch and culinary flair.
A straightforward drive back into the city.
INR 2000, 1.5 hours
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