5-Day Road Trip Itinerary to Pondicherry - Explore the French Riviera of India

Day 1: Arrival in Chennai

Chennai, India

9:00AM

Breakfast at Murugan Idli Shop

Start your road trip with some delicious South Indian breakfast at Murugan Idli Shop, known for its fluffy idlis and coconut chutney.
Take a cab to Fort St. George.
INR300, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Fort St. George

Explore the historic Fort St. George, which gives insight into the colonial era of Chennai's rich history.
Walking tour around the fort.
INR100, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Fisherman's Fare

Savor fresh seafood at The Fisherman's Fare, right by the marina, serving authentic Chennai flavor.
Drive to Mahabalipuram (1.5 hours).
INR800, 1 hour

2:00PM

Arrive in Mahabalipuram and Visit Shore Temple

Marvel at the iconic Shore Temple, one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites that showcase ancient Dravidian architecture.
Walking to the temple from parking.
INR40, 1 hour

4:00PM

Explore Pancha Rathas

Discover the stunning rock-cut monuments at Pancha Rathas, each dedicated to a different character from the Mahabharata.
Short drive to Pancha Rathas.
INR20, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Hotel Mamalla Heritage

Indulge in traditional Tamil cuisine at Hotel Mamalla Heritage, known for its authentic Thali.
Drive back to the hotel.
INR600, 2 hours
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Day 2: Mahabalipuram to Auroville

Mahabalipuram, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Beach Club

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at The Beach Club, which offers stunning views of the ocean.
Walking from hotel.
INR500, 1 hour

9:30AM

Travel to Auroville

Set off towards Auroville, an experimental township known for its peaceful environment and spiritual heritage.
Drive from Mahabalipuram to Auroville (1 hour).
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Visit Matrimandir

Participate in a meditation session at Matrimandir, the center of Auroville, surrounded by beautiful gardens.
Follow signs to Matrimandir.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Solar Kitchen

Dine at Solar Kitchen, which serves organic vegetarian meals prepared by Auroville residents.
Short walk from Matrimandir.
INR400, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore Auroville Community

Take a stroll through Auroville's community and learn about its diverse cultural initiatives.
Walking tour.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Café Surf

Enjoy an international menu at Café Surf, a vibrant café popular among travelers and locals alike.
Drive from Auroville.
INR500, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Pondicherry Exploration

Pondicherry, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Baker Street

Start your day with a delectable breakfast at Baker Street, famous for its freshly baked pastries.
Short drive to Baker Street.
INR300, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Aurobindo Ashram

Seek tranquility at Aurobindo Ashram, a serene place full of spiritual energy.
Short walk from Baker Street.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Explore French Quarter

Wander through the French Quarter, admiring the colonial architecture and quaint streets.
Walking tour.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Le Café

Enjoy lunch with a view at Le Café, situated by the beach serving amazing coffee and light bites.
Short walk to the café.
INR400, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit the Pondicherry Museum

Delve into the heritage of Pondicherry at the Pondicherry Museum, showcasing artifacts from both French and Indian cultures.
Short drive from lunch.
INR150, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at The Indian Kaffe Express

Cap off your day with delightful Indian fare at The Indian Kaffe Express, known for its cozy atmosphere.
Short drive back to dinner spot.
INR500, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Beach and Nature in Pondicherry

Pondicherry, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café des Arts

Start your day with a French-style breakfast at Café des Arts, with delicious breakfast options and a quaint setting.
Short drive to the café.
INR350, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Serenity Beach

Spend some leisure time at Serenity Beach with golden sands and calming waves, perfect for relaxation.
Drive to Serenity Beach.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Au Café

Recharge with a light lunch at Au Café, known for its seafood and authentic culinary delights.
Short drive from beach.
INR500, 1 hour

1:30PM

Exploring Botanical Garden

Stroll through the lush greens of the Botanical Garden, discovering rare flora and tranquil paths.
Drive to Botanical Garden.
INR20, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Visit Paradise Beach

Take a ferry to Paradise Beach, famous for its serene beauty and tranquility away from the buzz of the city.
Ferry from the Botanical Garden.
INR300 (ferry cost), 3 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Surguru

End your day with classic South Indian dining experience at Surguru, known for its thalis and snacks.
Ferry back and drive to dinner location.
INR450, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Day of Local Culture

Chidambaram, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Spice Route

Enjoy a fare influenced by various South Asian cuisines to start your day right at The Spice Route.
Drive to The Spice Route.
INR400, 1 hour

9:30AM

Travel to Chidambaram

Drive towards Chidambaram, where you'll next immerse yourself in ancient temple traditions.
Drive from Pondicherry to Chidambaram (1.5 hours).
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Visit Nataraja Temple

Explore the grand Nataraja Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its stunning architecture and spiritual significance.
Drive to the temple.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Kaveri Restaurant

Enjoy an authentic South Indian meal at Kaveri Restaurant, known for their spicy biryanis and curries.
Short drive to the restaurant.
INR350, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore Chidambaram Town

Stroll through the charming town of Chidambaram exploring local markets and shops filled with traditional crafts.
Walking tour.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Dinner at Ananda Bhavan

Wrap up your trip with a hearty dinner at Ananda Bhavan, celebrated for its delicious vegetarian South Indian dishes.
Drive back to Ananda Bhavan.
INR500, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability