4-Day Itinerary: Exploring Tiruvanamalai and Pondicherry

Day 1: Sacred Start

Tiruvanamalai, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel Arunachala

Begin your day with a complimentary breakfast at Hotel Arunachala, savoring South Indian delicacies like idli and dosa.
Walk to the dining area located within the hotel.
INR 300, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Arunachala Temple

Experience the spiritual ambiance of the Arunachala Temple, an important pilgrimage site dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Drive or walk to the temple, just 2 km from the hotel.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Heaven Restaurant

Enjoy a delightful lunch of North Indian and South Indian dishes at The Heaven Restaurant, well-known for its outdoor seating.
5-minute drive from the temple.
INR 500, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Climb Arunachala Hill

Challenge yourself with a scenic hike up Arunachala Hill, taking in breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape along the way.
A moderate 40-minute trek starts from the base of the hill.
Free, 2 hours

3:30PM

Relax at Ramana Ashram

Spend some quiet time at the serene Ramana Ashram, reflecting and soaking in the tranquility.
A quick 10-minute drive down the hill.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Aakash Hotel

After a day of exploration, enjoy a delectable dinner featuring local Tamil Nadu cuisine at Aakash Hotel.
Short 10-minute drive from Ramana Ashram.
INR 600, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Spiritual Exploration

Tiruvanamalai, India

7:30AM

Breakfast at Sri Ramana Ashram Canteen

Start your day with a simple breakfast at the ashram, enjoying the peaceful ambiance of the surroundings.
Travel back to Ramana Ashram for breakfast.
INR 150, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Virupaksha Cave

Discover the serene Virupaksha Cave, known for its connection to the saint Ramana Maharshi.
A 30-minute hike up the hill from the ashram.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Explore the local markets

Dive into the vibrant local markets of Tiruvanamalai, shopping for handmade crafts and herbal remedies.
5-minute drive from the cave.
Variable, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Ramana’s Kitchen

Relish a wholesome vegetarian meal at Ramana’s Kitchen, focusing on local ingredients and practices.
Walk back to Ramana’s Kitchen, a 10-minute walk from the market.
INR 400, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit Parvathamalai Temple

Embark on an adventurous journey to the iconic Parvathamalai Temple, perched atop a challenging hill.
Hire a taxi for a 30-minute ride to the base of the hill.
Free, 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Hotel Ashirwad

Indulge in freshly prepared Indian dishes at Hotel Ashirwad, known for its delicious thali options.
Return to the town center, 30-minute taxi ride.
INR 550, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Coastal Charm

Pondicherry, India

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel Aishwarya

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at Hotel Aishwarya, trying their local French toast or upma.
A simple 5-minute walk from your hotel.
INR 250, 1 hour

8:30AM

Drive to Pondicherry

Make your way to Pondicherry and experience the scenic road lined with palm trees.
Hire a taxi and enjoy the 2-hour drive.
INR 2,000, 2 hours

10:30AM

Visit Aurobindo Ashram

Explore the spiritual Aurobindo Ashram, a serene sanctuary for those seeking peace.
Short drive to the ashram from your arrival point.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Café des Arts

Savor the Parisian vibe at Café des Arts, enjoying crepes and freshly brewed coffee.
A 10-minute walk from the ashram.
INR 500, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Visit Promenade Beach

Unwind on the beautiful Promenade Beach, watching the waves and strolling along the coastline.
A quick 15-minute walk from the café.
Free, 2 hours

3:30PM

Pondicherry Museum

Learn about the rich history of Pondicherry at the Pondicherry Museum, featuring artifacts from French colonial times.
5-minute drive or 20-minute walk from the beach.
INR 150, 1 hour

5:00PM

Dinner at La Villa

Enjoy a gourmet dinner at La Villa, known for its exquisite fusion dishes and elegant ambiance.
A short 10-minute drive from the museum.
INR 1,200, 2 hours
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Day 4: Cultural Immersion

Pondicherry, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Baker Street

Treat yourself to a delightful breakfast at Baker Street, famous for its freshly baked pastries.
A short 10-minute walk from your hotel.
INR 300, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore the French Quarter

Stroll through the charming streets of the French Quarter, admiring the vibrant colonial architecture.
A leisurely 30-minute walk from the café.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Visit Sri Aurobindo Ashram

Return to the Sri Aurobindo Ashram for a deeper exploration of its philosophy and teachings.
10-minute walk back from the French Quarter.
Free, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Villa Shanti

Savor a blend of Indian and Continental cuisine at Villa Shanti, immersing yourself in its relaxed ambiance.
10-minute walk from the ashram.
INR 600, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Art & Culture Walk

Join an art and culture walk to engage with local artists and craftsmen, celebrating the rich heritage of Pondicherry.
Meet at the designated point in the town center.
INR 800, 2 hours

3:30PM

Relax at Serenity Beach

Wind down at Serenity Beach, a tranquil spot perfect for relaxation and meditation beside the waves.
15-minute drive from the town center.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at The Indian Kaffe Express

Conclude your journey with a delightful dinner at The Indian Kaffe Express, known for its blend of traditional and modern Indian dishes.
20-minute drive from Serenity Beach.
INR 500, 1.5 hours
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