4-Day Cultural and Nature Exploration in South India: Chennai to Pondicherry Itinerary

Day 1: Chennai Heritage Tour

Chennai, India on May 15, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Saravana Bhavan

Start your day with authentic South Indian breakfast staples like dosa and idli at this iconic Chennai restaurant known for its quality and traditional flavors.
INR250, 1h

9:30am

Visit Fort St. George

Explore this historic British fort and museum that displays Chennai's colonial past with artifacts and exhibitions.
INR15, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at The Marina

Enjoy delicious seafood dishes overlooking the famous Marina Beach, perfect for a midday meal with a view.
INR800, 1h

1:30pm

Marina Beach Walk and Leisure

Stroll along the Marina Beach, the second longest urban beach in the world, relax and enjoy the vibrant local life.
Free, 1h30m

3:00pm

Visit Kapaleeshwarar Temple

Discover this stunning Dravidian architecture temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, a spiritual and architectural delight.
Free, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at Southern Spice, Taj Connemara

Savor a fine dining experience featuring rich and authentic South Indian cuisine in an elegant setting.
INR1500, 1h30m
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Day 2: Mahabalipuram Rock Temples

Mahabalipuram, India on May 16, 2025

7:30am

Early Breakfast at Hotel

Have a light and early breakfast at your accommodation to start your journey to Mahabalipuram.
INR300, 1h

8:30am

Travel to Mahabalipuram

Drive approximately 1.5 hours from Chennai to Mahabalipuram, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
INR1500 (Taxi fare approx.), 1h30m

10:00am

Visit Shore Temple

Explore the iconic Shore Temple, known for its stunning seaside views and carved rock reliefs dating back to the 8th century.
INR40, 1h

11:30am

Explore Pancha Rathas

Visit the group of monolithic rock-cut structures shaped like chariots, illustrating Pallava architecture and mythology.
INR40, 1h

1:00pm

Lunch at Moonrakers

Enjoy fresh seafood and coastal Tamil cuisine in a cozy beachfront restaurant.
INR700, 1h

2:30pm

Visit Arjuna's Penance

Walk around the large rock relief depicting scenes from Indian mythology; it is one of the largest bas-reliefs in the world.
INR40, 1h

4:00pm

Relax at Mahabalipuram Beach

Spend some leisure time soaking up the sun or swimming at the scenic beach.
Free, 1h

6:00pm

Return to Chennai

Drive back to Chennai to rest for the night and prepare for the next day’s journey.
INR1500 (Taxi fare approx.), 1h30m

8:00pm

Dinner at Ponnusamy

Indulge in authentic spicy Chettinad cuisine, a local favorite known for its rich flavors.
INR600, 1h
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Day 3: Pondicherry French Heritage

Pondicherry, India on May 17, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Café des Arts

Begin your day with European-style breakfast in this charming café located in the French Quarter.
INR400, 1h

8:00am

Travel to Pondicherry

Drive about 3 hours south to the French colonial town of Pondicherry known for its unique heritage.
INR2500 (Taxi fare approx.), 3h

11:00am

Visit Sri Aurobindo Ashram

Explore this peaceful spiritual retreat established by Sri Aurobindo and The Mother, a place of meditation and learning.
Free, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Le Café

Dine on light snacks and refreshments with a front-row seat to the sea, enjoyed inside a historic colonial arcade.
INR500, 1h

2:00pm

Walk the French Quarter

Stroll through the picturesque streets lined with colonial villas, quaint shops, and vibrant street art.
Free, 2h

4:30pm

Visit Promenade Beach

Relax at the scenic beachfront promenade, popular for sunset walks and local food vendors.
Free, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at Villa Shanti

Savor French-Indian fusion dishes in a beautiful heritage home-turned-restaurant featuring a serene outdoor setting.
INR1200, 1h30m
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Day 4: Return & Local Markets

Pondicherry to Chennai, India on May 18, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Baker Street

Enjoy French bakery favourites like croissants and fresh coffee at this popular bakery before departure.
INR350, 1h

9:00am

Visit Pondicherry Local Market

Browse handicrafts, textiles, and fresh produce at the bustling market for memorable souvenirs.
Free, 1h

10:30am

Travel back to Chennai

Begin the journey back to Chennai for your onward travel or flight connections.
INR2500 (Taxi fare approx.), 3h

2:00pm

Lunch at Saravana Bhavan, Chennai

Conclude your trip with one last meal of delicious, traditional South Indian vegetarian cuisine at the renowned Saravana Bhavan near the airport.
INR300, 1h
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