Explore Spirituality and Serenity: 3-Day Itinerary in Tiruvannamalai and Pondicherry

Day 1: Spiritual Awakening

Tiruvannamalai, India

7:00 AM

Breakfast at Hotel Ramakrishna

Start your day with a traditional South Indian breakfast comprising idli, sambar, and dosa, served with coconut chutney.
Head to Hotel Ramakrishna, located near the Arunachala Hill.
INR 200, 1 hour

8:30 AM

Visit Arunachala Temple

Explore the mystical Arunachala Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, while witnessing the morning rituals.
Just a 10-minute walk from the hotel.
Free, 2 hours

10:30 AM

Climbing Arunachala Hill

Embark on a scenic trek up Arunachala Hill for breathtaking views and a unique spiritual experience.
The base of the hill is near the temple entrance.
Free, 3 hours

1:30 PM

Lunch at Hotel Vasantha Bhavan

Refuel with a delicious thali meal, offering a variety of vegetarian dishes at this local favorite.
A short drive from the hill's base.
INR 300, 1 hour

3:00 PM

Visit Sri Ramana Maharshi Ashram

Immerse yourself in the peaceful ambiance of the ashram and learn about the life of the renowned sage, Ramana Maharshi.
Just a 10-minute drive from the restaurant.
Free, 2 hours

5:30 PM

Sunset at Skandashram

Gather at Skandashram, a serene location atop the hill, perfect for viewing the sunset and meditating.
A 30-minute hike from the ashram.
Free, 2 hours

7:30 PM

Dinner at Azhagar Restaurant

Enjoy a dinner of delicious biryani paired with raita and fresh salad, a perfect way to end your spiritual day.
Head back down to town, a short drive from Skandashram.
INR 400, 1 hour
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Day 2: Journey to the Coast

Tiruvannamalai to Pondicherry, India

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Hotel Ramakrishna

Dine on a fulfilling breakfast of uttapam and filter coffee to energize yourself for the day ahead.
Enjoy breakfast at the same hotel before departure.
INR 200, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Departure to Pondicherry

Set off for Pondicherry, enjoying the scenic route which takes you through lush landscapes.
A quick 2-hour drive along NH38.
INR 1000 (taxi fare), 2 hours

11:00 AM

Arrival and Check-in at Hotel de Pondicherry

Check in to this charming hotel that reflects the French heritage of the city.
Located in the heart of Pondicherry, easy to find.
INR 2500 per night, 1 hour

12:30 PM

Lunch at Café des Arts

Savor a hearty French lunch featuring crepes and a fresh garden salad in an artistic setting.
Just a short walk from the hotel, located in White Town.
INR 600, 1 hour

2:00 PM

Explore the French Quarter

Wander through the colorful streets of the French Quarter adorned with colonial architecture and quaint boutiques.
Stroll through the nearby streets of the city.
Free, 2 hours

4:00 PM

Visit Aurobindo Ashram

Experience tranquility at Aurobindo Ashram, founded by Sri Aurobindo, and reflect in its peaceful gardens.
Just a 10-minute walk from the French Quarter.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00 PM

Stroll along Promenade Beach

Take a leisurely walk along the Promenade Beach as the sun sets over the Bay of Bengal.
Head towards the beach from the ashram, a short walk.
Free, 1 hour

7:30 PM

Dinner at Villa Shanti

Dine in this colonial-style restaurant, enjoying locally inspired dishes such as Tamil seafood curry.
Located a short distance from Promenade Beach.
INR 800, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Leisurely Exploration

Pondicherry, India

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Hotel de Pondicherry

Enjoy a refined breakfast with fresh fruit, yogurt, and French pastries at your hotel.
Breakfast is served at the hotel restaurant.
INR 300, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit Auroville

Travel to Auroville, an experimental township known for its unity and community-oriented ethos.
A 30-minute taxi ride from Pondicherry.
INR 500 (taxi fare), 1.5 hours

11:00 AM

Explore Matrimandir

Visit the iconic Matrimandir, which serves as a center for meditation and tranquility in Auroville.
Guided tours to the Matrimandir can be arranged through Auroville's visitor center.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at The Solar Kitchen

Enjoy a delicious, organic meal at this famous Auroville eatery, known for its sustainable practices.
Located within the Auroville township, a short walk.
INR 400, 1 hour

2:30 PM

Return to Pondicherry

Head back to your hotel, relaxing in the picturesque countryside along the way.
A taxi ride back to Pondicherry.
INR 500 (taxi fare), 1 hour

3:30 PM

Shop at Rue Aurobindo

Explore local shops and boutiques along Rue Aurobindo for unique souvenirs and handicrafts.
A short walk from your hotel.
Free (shopping costs depend on your choice), 1.5 hours

5:30 PM

Visit Sri Manakula Vinayagar Temple

Visit the famous Ganesh temple known for its vibrant architecture and spiritual aura.
Just a 10-minute walk from the shopping area.
Free, 1 hour

7:00 PM

Dinner at Le Café

Wrap up your trip with a seaside dinner at Le Café, indulging in a mix of Indian and Continental cuisine.
Located along the beach promenade, easy to locate.
INR 700, 1.5 hours
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