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

Day 1: Pillayarpatti Temples

Pondicherry to Nagapattinam on May 17, 2025

7:00am

Early Breakfast at Surguru Spot, Pondicherry

Start early with a hearty South Indian breakfast of idlis, vadas, and filter coffee at Surguru Spot, famous for authentic flavors. Opens at 7:00am.
INR150, 1h

8:00am

Travel to Pillayarpatti Vinayagar Temple

Drive approximately 3.5 hours (~170 km) southwest toward Pillayarpatti near Sivagangai to visit the ancient and sculpturally rich Vinayagar Temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha.
Transport cost varies, 3.5h

11:30am

Visit Pillayarpatti Vinayagar Temple

Explore the 7th-century rock-cut temple housing gigantic Vinayagar idols believed to be extremely powerful and divine. The temple is open 5:00am-12:00pm, 4:00pm-8:30pm.
Free entry, 1.5h

1:00pm

Lunch at Alagar Restaurant, near Pillayarpatti

Savor South Indian vegetarian dishes at this local restaurant known for good ambiance and tasty meals. Opens 12:00pm-3:00pm.
INR250, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Thiruvadanai Murugan Temple

Drive about 40 minutes (20 km) to Thiruvadanai to see the Murugan Temple famed for its peaceful setting and beautiful architecture. Temple open 6:00am-12:00pm, 4:00pm-8:00pm.
Free entry, 1h

3:30pm

Travel to Nagapattinam

Drive approximately 2 hours (90 km) east to Nagapattinam for evening temple visits and overnight stay.
Transport cost varies, 2h

5:30pm

Visit Soundararajaperumal Temple, Nagapattinam

Visit this Vishnu temple known for intricately carved pillars and calm spiritual environment. Open until 7:00pm.
Free entry, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Hotel Surya, Nagapattinam

Enjoy flavorful Tamil dishes, including vegetarian and seafood options, at Hotel Surya to conclude the day. Open till 10:00pm.
INR350, 1h

8:30pm

Overnight Stay in Nagapattinam

Rest at a comfortable hotel in Nagapattinam for the next day's journey.
Varies, Overnight
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Day 2: Rameshwaram Exploration

Nagapattinam to Rameshwaram on May 18, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Begin your day with a filling breakfast provided by the hotel or nearby café to fuel up for sightseeing.
Included or INR150, 1h

8:00am

Drive to Rameshwaram

Travel about 3.5 hours (~170 km) southeast to the island city of Rameshwaram, a major pilgrimage destination.
Transport cost varies, 3.5h

11:30am

Visit Ramanathaswamy Temple

Discover the grandeur of the Ramanathaswamy Temple, famous for its long stone corridors and sacred significance in Hinduism. Open 6:00am-12:00pm, 4:00pm-9:00pm.
Free entry, 2h

1:30pm

Lunch at Hotel Sri Murugan

Enjoy traditional Tamil vegetarian dishes and refreshing beverages at Hotel Sri Murugan, a well-regarded local eatery.
INR300, 1h

2:30pm

Relax at Agnitheertham Beach

Visit this sacred sea-side spot where pilgrims perform ritual baths, offering a tranquil and scenic atmosphere.
Free, 1h

3:30pm

Explore Dhanushkodi Ruins

Take a short drive to explore the hauntingly beautiful ruins of Dhanushkodi, a once-thriving town destroyed by a cyclone. Open during daylight hours.
Transport cost varies, 1.5h

5:30pm

Dinner at Hotel Ramakrishna

Wrap up your trip with delicious seafood and traditional Tamil food at this popular Rameshwaram eatery. Open till 9:00pm.
INR400, 1h

7:00pm

Prepare for Departure or Overnight Stay

Depending on your plans, either prepare for return travel to Pondicherry or stay another night in Rameshwaram.
Varies, Flexible
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