Chennai to Pondicherry: A Perfect 3-Day South India Coastal Getaway

Day 1: Heritage and Coastal Views

Chennai to Mahabalipuram, India on April 25, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Sangeetha Veg Restaurant

Start your day with a classic South Indian breakfast of idli, dosa, and filter coffee at this popular Chennai eatery known for its authentic flavours.
INR250, 1h0m

9:30am

Drive to Mahabalipuram

Embark on a scenic 1.5-hour drive southwards along the East Coast Road to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Mahabalipuram, famed for its rock-cut temples and shore temple.
INR600 (cab fare approx.), 1h30m

11:00am

Visit Shore Temple

Explore the iconic 8th century Shore Temple, renowned for its stunning Dravidian architecture overlooking the Bay of Bengal. It opens from 9:00am to 5:30pm.
INR40, 1h0m

12:15pm

Explore Pancha Rathas

Wander around the five monolithic rock-cut temples known as Pancha Rathas, carved in the shape of chariots, each dedicated to different Pandava brothers.
INR40, 45m

1:00pm

Lunch at Moonrakers Restaurant

Feast on fresh seafood delicacies with coastal views at Moonrakers, famed for its prawn curry and local catches.
INR700, 1h0m

2:30pm

Visit Mahabalipuram UNESCO Heritage Site Museums and Sculptures

Discover intricate sculptures and ancient art forms in the heritage zone, highlighting Tamil Nadu’s Pallava dynasty artistry.
INR40, 1h0m

4:00pm

Relax on Mahabalipuram Beach

Unwind on the serene beach with a sunset view. Walk along the sandy shoreline and watch fishermen at work.
Free, 1h30m

6:00pm

Check-in and Dinner at Radisson Blu Resort Temple Bay

Enjoy dinner at the resort’s beachside restaurant offering authentic Tamil and continental dishes with a relaxing ambiance.
INR1500 approx., 1h30m
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Day 2: Pondicherry Heritage and French Influence

Mahabalipuram to Pondicherry, India on April 26, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at the Resort

Enjoy a hearty breakfast buffet featuring local and international cuisine at your resort before a day of exploration.
Included in hotel stay, 1h0m

9:00am

Drive to Pondicherry

Travel 1.5 hours south from Mahabalipuram to Pondicherry, a charming town with a blend of French colonial architecture and Tamil culture.
INR800 (cab fare approx.), 1h30m

10:30am

Explore French Quarter

Walk along the quaint streets of the French Quarter, admire colonial mansions, colourful buildings, and vibrant cafés. Best explored by foot or bicycle.
Free, 2h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Café des Arts

Dine al fresco in this bohemian-style café serving delicious continental dishes and refreshing beverages.
INR600, 1h0m

2:00pm

Visit Aurobindo Ashram

Experience spiritual calm at the Aurobindo Ashram, open 8:00am to 12:00pm and 2:00pm to 5:30pm, a peaceful place with beautiful gardens.
Free, 1h0m

3:15pm

Relax at Promenade Beach

Stroll along the seaside promenade, watch the sunset and local fishermen, and enjoy the breeze on this peaceful beach.
Free, 1h30m

5:00pm

Tea at Le Café

Sip tea or coffee at this iconic beachside café known for its ambience and views overlooking the sea.
INR200, 30m

7:30pm

Dinner at Villa Shanti

Savour traditional Tamil and French fusion cuisine in a stylish colonial bungalow setting for an atmospheric dining experience.
INR1000, 1h30m
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Day 3: Cultural Immersion and Return

Pondicherry to Chennai, India on April 27, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Baker Street

Relish freshly baked French pastries, croissants and strong coffee in this popular bakery, open from 7:00am.
INR350, 1h0m

9:00am

Visit the Botanical Gardens

Discover diverse plant species and tranquil pathways in these well-maintained gardens open 8:00am to 6:00pm.
INR30, 1h0m

10:30am

Explore Pondicherry Museum

Learn about local history, French influence and art at the Pondicherry Museum open 9:00am to 5:00pm.
INR50, 1h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Surguru

Enjoy traditional South Indian meals served on banana leaves at this popular local vegetarian eatery.
INR400, 1h0m

1:30pm

Drive back to Chennai

Return on a 3-hour journey north to Chennai, completing your enriching coastal trip.
INR1200 (cab fare approx.), 3h0m
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