3-Day Cultural and Coastal Journey from Chennai to Nagapattinam, Velankanni and Pondicherry

Day 1: Travel to Nagapattinam

Chennai to Nagapattinam, India on May 22, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Murugan Idli Shop

Start your day with traditional South Indian breakfast featuring soft idlis and flavourful chutneys at this popular Chennai eatery.
INR150, 1h0m

8:30am

Drive from Chennai to Nagapattinam

Begin a 7-hour scenic drive south-east to Nagapattinam covering approximately 320 km by road, passing through Tamil Nadu's lush countryside.
INR2000 (taxi fare approx.), 7h0m

3:30pm

Check-in and Rest

Check into a local hotel such as Hotel Cressent for comfort and relaxation after the journey.
INR2500 per night, 1h30m

5:00pm

Visit Nagapattinam Beach

Enjoy a peaceful walk along the quiet shoreline of Nagapattinam beach and witness the fishermen at work during the late afternoon.
Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Moonlight Restaurant

Savour fresh seafood and traditional Tamil dishes in a relaxed, friendly restaurant near the beach.
INR500, 1h0m
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Velankanni Pilgrimage

Nagapattinam - Velankanni, India on May 23, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a hearty South Indian breakfast with dosas and filter coffee to fuel up for the day.
Included in hotel stay, 0h45m

8:00am

Drive to Velankanni

A short 12 km drive to the famous Velankanni town, known for its revered Basilica.
INR300 (taxi fare approx.), 30m

8:45am

Visit Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health

Explore one of India's most famous Christian pilgrimage sites featuring stunning Gothic architecture and peaceful surroundings. The church opens from 6:00am to 8:00pm.
Free, 2h0m

11:00am

Visit Velankanni Beach

Take a stroll along the serene beach adjacent to the Basilica, ideal for relaxation and photography.
Free, 1h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Hotel Velankanni Residency

Enjoy local Tamil Nadu cuisine including traditional thali meals known for their variety and taste.
INR400, 1h0m

2:00pm

Return to Nagapattinam

Travel back to Nagapattinam to prepare for the next day journey.
Included in taxi fare, 30m

3:00pm

Visit Kayarohanaswami Temple

Explore this ancient and revered Hindu temple in Nagapattinam dedicated to Lord Shiva, noted for its Dravidian architecture.
Free, 1h0m

5:00pm

Relax at hotel

Rest and refresh at your accommodation.
Included in booking, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Hotel Cressent Restaurant

Experience authentic Tamil flavours with dishes like Chettinad chicken and vegetable kurma in a comfortable setting.
INR600, 1h0m
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Pondicherry Exploration

Nagapattinam - Pondicherry - Chennai, India on May 24, 2025

6:30am

Early Breakfast at hotel

Start your day early with energising breakfast to prepare for a full day trip to Pondicherry.
Included in hotel stay, 0h45m

7:30am

Drive to Pondicherry

Embark on a 3.5 hour, 180 km drive from Nagapattinam to the French colonial town of Pondicherry.
INR1500 (taxi fare approx.), 3h30m

11:00am

Visit Promenade Beach

Enjoy the scenic sea views along this popular beach front promenade, perfect for a leisurely walk in the morning breeze.
Free, 1h0m

12:00pm

Visit Sri Aurobindo Ashram

A peaceful spiritual retreat founded by Sri Aurobindo offering a quiet place for reflection; open from 8:00am to 12:00pm and 3:00pm to 6:00pm.
Free, 1h0m

1:15pm

Lunch at Cafe des Arts

Dine at this charming French-style café known for its continental and crepe options within the heritage zone.
INR700, 1h0m

2:30pm

Explore French Quarter

Walk through the colourful streets lined with colonial architecture, quaint boutiques and art galleries.
Free, 1h30m

4:00pm

Drive back to Chennai

Return on a 3-hour drive covering approximately 150 km to reach Chennai by evening.
INR2000 (taxi fare approx.), 3h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Murugan Idli Shop, Chennai

Conclude your trip with light and comforting South Indian dinner staples back at the famous local chain.
INR300, 1h0m
View Hotel Availability