2-Day Summer Cultural and Coastal Tour: Arunachalam and Pondicherry Experience

Day 1: Arunachalam Spiritual Trek

Arunachalam, Tamil Nadu, India on April 17, 2025

7:00AM

Breakfast at local dhaba

Start early with a hearty South Indian breakfast of idlis and filter coffee at a local roadside eatery near Arunachalam to fuel your trek.
INR150, 45 minutes

8:00AM

Trek Arunachalam Hill

Embark on a trek of Arunachalam Hill, revered for its unique summer temperature drop and spiritual significance with 1400 steps to the summit temple.
Free, 3 hours

11:30AM

Visit Lord Murugan Temple at the Summit

Explore the ancient Lord Murugan Temple at the hilltop, known for its vibrant architecture, panoramic views, and cool summer breeze.
Free, 45 minutes

12:30PM

Descend Arunachalam and Lunch

Return down the hill and enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant offering traditional Tamil food like sambar rice and rasam.
INR350, 1 hour

2:00PM

Drive to Pondicherry

Drive approximately 2.5 hours from Arunachalam to the coastal city of Pondicherry, enjoying scenic Tamil Nadu landscapes on the way.
INR1200 by cab, 2.5 hours

4:30PM

Check-in and Relax at Hotel

Settle into your hotel in Pondicherry and rest from the day’s activities.
Varies, 1 hour

6:00PM

Evening Walk on Promenade Beach

Enjoy a leisurely walk along the scenic Promenade Beach, appreciating the sea breeze and colonial architecture lining the shore.
Free, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Villa Shanti

Dine on fusion French-Indian cuisine in this charming heritage restaurant, ideal for savoring Pondicherry’s unique culinary scene.
INR700, 1 hour

Day 2: Pondicherry Heritage & Culture

Pondicherry, Tamil Nadu, India on April 18, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Baker Street

Begin your day with freshly baked French pastries and strong coffee at this popular bakery on Mission Street.
INR300, 45 minutes

9:00AM

Visit Aurobindo Ashram

Experience peace at the Aurobindo Ashram, a spiritual community known for its meditation spaces and serene gardens open from 8AM to 12PM and 3PM to 5:30PM.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore French Quarter

Walk through the French Quarter’s colorful colonial buildings, bougainvillaea-lined streets, and quaint cafes to soak in Pondicherry’s heritage.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Le Dupleix

Savor sophisticated South Indian and French dishes in this elegant heritage hotel’s restaurant with garden setting.
INR650, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Pondicherry Botanical Gardens

Relax amidst exotic plants and shaded walking paths in the Botanical Gardens, a refreshing green oasis ideal for a summer afternoon.
INR20, 1 hour

3:30PM

Head to Serenity Beach

Unwind on the quiet Serenity Beach known for its clean sands and calm waters, perfect for a relaxing swim or sunset views.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Return and Dinner at Surguru

End your day with a traditional Tamil vegetarian meal at Surguru, a beloved chain known for its authentic flavors and quick service.
INR350, 1 hour