4-Day South India Cultural and Spiritual Journey: Arunachalam, Rameshwaram, Thanjavur & Pondicherry

Day 1: Spiritual Arunachalam

Chennai, India on April 15, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Murugan Idli Shop

Enjoy a traditional South Indian breakfast featuring soft idlis and spicy chutneys at this popular local eatery, known to open from 7:00 AM onwards.
INR100, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Arunachaleswarar Temple

Explore this magnificent red granite temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, a major pilgrimage site and architectural marvel, open daily from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
Free, 2.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Sri Saravana Bhavan

Savor delicious vegetarian Tamil cuisine at this renowned chain offering dosas and thalis in a clean, comfortable setting, open till 10:00 PM.
INR200, 1 hour

2:00PM

Annamalai Hills Trek

Take a guided trek up part of the sacred Annamalai Hills for panoramic views and spiritual significance, available in the afternoon; hire a local guide for safety.
INR500, 3 hours

6:00PM

Evening Aarti at the Temple

Witness the vibrant evening aarti ceremony at Arunachaleswarar Temple, a deeply spiritual experience attracting devotees from all over.
Free, 1 hour

7:30PM

Dinner at The Grand Sweets and Snacks

Indulge in traditional South Indian sweets and snacks as well as simple meals, a great spot to taste local flavors, open till 10:00 PM.
INR250, 1 hour
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Day 2: Sacred Rameshwaram

Rameshwaram, India on April 16, 2025

7:00AM

Travel to Rameshwaram

Drive from Arunachalam area to Rameshwaram, approximately 5-6 hours by car or taxi; start early to maximize day time.
INR2000, 6 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Hotel Kaveri

Enjoy authentic Tamil seafood and vegetarian dishes in a comfortable restaurant near Rameshwaram temple, open past noon.
INR300, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Ramanathaswamy Temple

Explore one of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites, famous for its long corridors and sacred wells, open 6:00 AM to 1:30 PM and 3:30 PM to 9:00 PM.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dhanushkodi Beach

Visit the serene, somewhat deserted Dhanushkodi Beach to witness the sea and ruins of the old town, perfect for an afternoon stroll, open any time.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Hotel Tamil Nadu

Dine on traditional South Indian meals in a simple local restaurant known for hospitality and flavor, open till 9:00 PM.
INR250, 1 hour
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Day 3: Heritage Thanjavur

Thanjavur, India on April 17, 2025

7:00AM

Travel to Thanjavur

Drive from Rameshwaram to Thanjavur; approximately 6 hours journey. Leaving early ensures arrival in time for afternoon sightseeing.
INR2200, 6 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Hotel Sree Raja

Taste authentic Thanjavur cuisine with a variety of vegetarian options in a cozy setting, open through lunch hours.
INR250, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Brihadeeswarar Temple

Tour the UNESCO World Heritage site built by Raja Raja Chola I, a masterpiece of Dravidian architecture open from 6:00 AM to 6:30 PM.
INR40, 2.5 hours

5:30PM

Visit Thanjavur Royal Palace and Art Gallery

Explore the palace complex with its museum showcasing Chola bronzes and historic artifacts, open until 6:00 PM.
INR30, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Gnanam Mess

Enjoy traditional home-style Tamil meals in this popular local eatery known for authentic flavors, open until 9:00 PM.
INR200, 1 hour
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Day 4: Coastal Pondicherry

Pondicherry, India on April 18, 2025

7:30AM

Travel to Pondicherry

Drive from Thanjavur to Pondicherry, approximately 4 hours, enjoy scenic Andhra & Tamil Nadu countryside en route.
INR1800, 4 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Café des Arts

Dine in a charming French-style café offering continental and fusion dishes in Pondicherry’s French Quarter, open noon to 10:00 PM.
INR400, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore French Quarter

Stroll the quaint colonial streets with colorful architecture, quaint shops, and vibrant murals, perfect for leisurely walking, open all day.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Visit Sri Aurobindo Ashram

Learn about the spiritual community founded by Sri Aurobindo, open from 7:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM daily.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Evening at Promenade Beach

Relax by the sea at this popular beachfront promenade, taking in the sunset and local life, open any time.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Le Dupleix

Enjoy fine French and Indian cuisine in a heritage boutique hotel setting, perfect to end the trip with a memorable meal, open till 10:00 PM.
INR1500, 1.5 hours
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