Family-Friendly Adventure: Pondicherry and Chennai Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring Pondicherry

Pondicherry, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Cafe des Arts

Start the day with a delightful breakfast in this charming café known for its French ambiance and delicious crepes.
Located in White Town, easily accessible by foot from most accommodations.
INR 600, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Aurobindo Ashram

Explore the serene ashram known for meditation and peace, perfect for a family experience of Indian spirituality.
Just a 10-minute walk from Cafe des Arts, making it conveniently close.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Stroll at Promenade Beach

Enjoy a relaxing walk along the coastline, perfect for snaps and quality family time.
A short 15-minute walk from the ashram along the beach.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Villa Shanti

Relish a hearty lunch featuring local and international dishes within a quaint heritage building.
Located in the same area, it takes approximately 10 minutes by foot.
INR 1200, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Pondicherry Museum

Discover the history and culture of Pondicherry, with engaging exhibits that the kids will enjoy.
Just a 10-minute drive or 20-minute walk from Villa Shanti.
INR 30, 1 hour

3:30PM

Explore Paradise Beach

Take a boat ride to the beautiful and pristine Paradise Beach for some relaxation and fun in the sun.
Boat rides are available from Chunnambar Boat House, around 15-20 minutes from the museum.
INR 300, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at La Café

Wind down with a scrumptious dinner right next to the beach, offering delightful views and vibrant flavours.
A quick boat ride back and then a 10-minute drive to La Café.
INR 1000, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Cultural Exploration

Pondicherry, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Baker Street

Enjoy a delectable breakfast of pastries and fresh-baked bread at this popular French bakery.
Located in White Town, close to many guesthouses.
INR 500, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Auroville

Experience the unique community of Auroville and its famous Matrimandir, an ideal outing for the whole family.
About a 30-minute taxi ride from Pondicherry.
Free to enter, INR 200 for the visitor centre tour., 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at the Auroville Visitor Centre Café

Savor healthy and organic meals at the café, perfect for a family meal.
Located adjacent to the visitor centre.
INR 800, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Botanical Garden

Discover a variety of flora in this peaceful garden, with lovely walking paths and shaded areas for a restful afternoon.
Return to Pondicherry, approximately a 30-minute drive away.
INR 20, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Visit Sri Manika Vinayakar Alayam

Admire the stunning architecture and vibrant details of this historic temple, engaging for both children and adults.
A 10-minute drive from the Botanical Garden.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Beach Time at Serenity Beach

Relax or play on the serene sands of Serenity Beach, a family-friendly area for unwinding.
A short 20-minute drive from the temple.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Le Club

End your family day with a delectable dinner featuring local seafood and Indian delights, perfect for refueling.
Just a 15-minute drive from Serenity Beach.
INR 1200, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Travel to Chennai

Chennai, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café de Flore

Start your day with scrumptious waffles and coffee at this unique eatery before heading to Chennai.
Easily accessible, and just a 10-minute drive from most hotels.
INR 700, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Chennai

Enjoy a scenic drive along the East Coast Road with striking views of the ocean and beautiful landscapes.
Take the ECR highway straight to Chennai, approximately 3 to 4 hours.
NA, 4 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Banana Leaf

Savour authentic South Indian cuisine served on a banana leaf, a fun cultural experience for the family.
Located centrally in Chennai, easily reached from the highway exit.
INR 800, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit the Government Museum

Explore a wide range of art, archaeology, and numismatics at one of India's oldest museums—a family hit!
Just a 15-minute drive from the restaurant.
INR 50, 2 hours

5:00PM

Wander around Marina Beach

Experience the longest urban beach in India, with a chance for kids to play in the sand and enjoy snacks from local vendors.
A short 10-minute drive from the museum.
Free, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at The Fisherman's Wharf

Indulge in delicious seafood in a vibrant setting, great for families looking to unwind after a long day.
Just 15 minutes from Marina Beach.
INR 1500, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Chennai Attractions

Chennai, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Saravana Bhavan

Embark on your day with a classic South Indian breakfast of idli and dosa at this beloved eatery.
Located in various locations around Chennai.
INR 500, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Kapaleeshwarar Temple

Explore the intricately designed temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, engaging for the entire family.
Located in Mylapore, approximately a 30-minute drive.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Explore the San Thome Basilica

Visit the iconic basilica built over the tomb of St. Thomas, in an area with lush gardens ideal for relaxation.
A quick 15-minute drive from the temple.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Anjappar Chettinad Restaurant

Taste the authentic flavors of Chettinad cuisine for a robust family lunch.
Just a 20-minute drive from the basilica.
INR 1200, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit the Chennai Rail Museum

Discover the rich history of Indian railways through interactive exhibits—perfect for kids and adults alike.
A 30-minute drive from the restaurant.
INR 20, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Family Fun at Guindy National Park

Interact with deer and peacock sightings in this urban national park, an entertaining experience for the whole family.
Just a 15-minute drive from the museum.
INR 30, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Barbeque Nation

Wrap up your family trip with a vibrant buffet dinner, offering a variety of grilled dishes that everyone will enjoy.
A short 20-minute drive from the national park.
INR 1500, 1.5 hours
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