2-Day Weekend Temple and Sightseeing Trip from Pondicherry to Rameshwaram

Day 1: Temple Exploration

Pondicherry to Nagapattinam on May 17, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Surguru Spot

Start your day with authentic South Indian breakfast including dosas and idlis at Surguru Spot, known for its fresh and tasty offerings. Opens at 7:00am.
INR150, 1h

8:30am

Travel to Chidambaram

Drive approximately 2.5 hours (~150 km) northeast from Pondicherry to Chidambaram to visit the famous Nataraja Temple, a renowned shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva's dance form.
Free entry, 2h

11:00am

Visit Nataraja Temple

Explore the magnificent 10th century Nataraja Temple complex, notable for its stunning Dravidian architecture and spiritual significance. Open 6:00am-12:00pm and 4:00pm-8:00pm.
Free entry, 1h

12:00pm

Travel to Karaikal

Drive about 1 hour (34 km) southeast to Karaikal, a coastal town with beautiful temples and serene beaches.
Transport cost varies, 1h

1:00pm

Lunch at New Nithyahar Restaurant, Karaikal

Enjoy a delicious South Indian meal with seafood specialties at New Nithyahar, a well-rated local restaurant. Open 11:30am-3:30pm.
INR300, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Karaikal Ammayar Temple

Explore the peaceful Karaikal Ammayar Temple dedicated to the revered saint Ammayar, surrounded by spiritual ambiance and interesting sculptures.
Free entry, 45m

3:00pm

Travel to Nagapattinam

Drive approximately 1.5 hours (70 km) west to Nagapattinam, a town with notable temples and coastal views.
Transport cost varies, 1.5h

4:30pm

Visit Soundararajaperumal Temple

This ancient Vishnu temple in Nagapattinam is known for its classical architecture and serene setting. Open until 7:00pm.
Free entry, 1h

6:00pm

Dinner at Hotel Surya

End your day with traditional Tamil cuisine at Hotel Surya, known for its flavorful meals and vegetarian options. Open till 10:00pm.
INR350, 1h

7:30pm

Stay overnight in Nagapattinam

Book a comfortable hotel for overnight stay to rest before the next day's journey.
Varies, Overnight
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Rameshwaram Highlights

Nagapattinam to Rameshwaram on May 18, 2025

7:00am

Early Breakfast at hotel

Have an early breakfast provided by the hotel or a nearby café to start your day fresh.
Included or INR150, 1h

8:00am

Drive to Rameshwaram

Travel approximately 3.5 hours (170 km) south-east towards Rameshwaram, the sacred island city known for its magnificent temples.
Transport cost varies, 3.5h

11:30am

Visit Ramanathaswamy Temple

Explore the majestic Ramanathaswamy Temple, famous for its long corridors, sculpted pillars, and sacred importance in Hinduism. Open 6:00am-12:00pm, 4:00pm-9:00pm.
Free entry, 2h

1:30pm

Lunch at Hotel Sri Murugan

Enjoy a hearty lunch featuring local Tamil and vegetarian dishes at Hotel Sri Murugan, recommended for its clean and tasty meals.
INR300, 1h

2:30pm

Visit Agnitheertham Beach

Relax at this sacred bathing spot beside the sea, where pilgrims cleanse themselves before temple visits. It has beautiful views and a spiritual atmosphere.
Free, 1h

3:30pm

Visit Dhanushkodi Ruins

Take a short trip to the nearby ghost town Dhanushkodi, known for its intriguing ruins and lovely coastal views. Open daylight hours.
Transport cost varies, 1.5h

5:30pm

Dinner at Rameshwaram Hotel Ramakrishna

Taste fresh seafood and South Indian delicacies at Hotel Ramakrishna, a popular local spot. Open till 9:00pm.
INR400, 1h

7:00pm

Prepare for return or overnight stay

Decide whether to stay overnight in Rameshwaram or start your return trip to Pondicherry based on your schedule.
Varies, Flexible
View Hotel Availability