Spiritual and Coastal Summer Escape: Arunachalam Temple and Pondicherry in South India

Day 1: Temple Visit & Spiritual Trek

Arunachalam, Tamil Nadu, India on April 17, 2025

6:30AM

Breakfast at local eatery

Start early with a traditional South Indian breakfast of idlis, dosa, and filter coffee at a nearby eatery to fuel your day.
INR150, 45 minutes

7:30AM

Visit Arunachalam Temple

Explore Arunachalam Temple, nestled on a hilltop renowned for its scenic views and cooler climate which is ideal in summer.
Free, 2 hours

9:30AM

Start Giripradakshina Trek

Embark on the 14 km Giripradakshina circumambulation trek around the Arunachalam Hill, a sacred and refreshing summer activity.
Free, 4 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at nearby vegetarian restaurant

Enjoy a traditional Tamil vegetarian meal including sambar, rasam, and curd rice at a local restaurant.
INR300, 1 hour

2:30PM

Rest and Relax

Relax in the cool surroundings or meditate after the trek to rejuvenate yourself.
Free, 1 hour

3:30PM

Visit Local Market

Browse the nearby local market to shop for souvenirs, fruits, and snacks.
Varies, 1 hour

5:00PM

Evening Tea and Snacks

Have tea with savory South Indian snacks like vada or bajji at a local tea stall.
INR100, 30 minutes

6:00PM

Travel to Pondicherry

Depart Arunachalam and travel by car or bus to Pondicherry, approx 3 hours drive, to experience coastal charm.
INR500-700, 3 hours
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Day 2: Coastal Exploration & French Heritage

Pondicherry, Tamil Nadu, India on April 18, 2025

7:30AM

Breakfast at Baker Street

Start your day with freshly baked croissants and coffee at Baker Street, a popular French-style bakery open from 7:00AM.
INR250, 45 minutes

8:30AM

Visit Sri Aurobindo Ashram

Explore the serene Sri Aurobindo Ashram, a famous spiritual community and meditation center open from 8:00AM to 12:00PM.
Free, 1.5 hours

10:15AM

Stroll along Promenade Beach

Enjoy a peaceful morning walk along the Promenade Beach, taking in sea views and historical monuments without the afternoon heat.
Free, 1 hour

11:30AM

Explore French Quarter

Wander the charming French Quarter with its colonial architecture, boutique shops, and quiet cafes.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Café des Arts

Delight in French and continental cuisine in a quaint atmosphere at Café des Arts, open from 9AM to 9PM.
INR600, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Auroville

Take a short drive to Auroville, an experimental township focused on sustainable living, open from 9AM to 5PM.
Free, 2.5 hours

5:15PM

Evening at Serenity Beach

Relax on Serenity Beach, a less crowded and calm spot perfect for enjoying the sunset away from the city heat.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Le Dupleix

Savor a delicious meal with French and fusion South Indian dishes at Le Dupleix, open until 10PM.
INR800, 1.5 hours
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