Chengalpattu to Mahabalipuram, Kanchipuram, Arunachalam, Pondicherry and back: A South India Cultural and Spiritual Journey

Day 1: Mahabalipuram Exploration

Mahabalipuram, India on May 23, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Moonrakers Cafe

Start your day with a healthy and delicious breakfast at Moonrakers Cafe, which is known for fresh juices and South Indian dishes. It opens at 7 am.
INR300, 1h

8:30am

Visit Shore Temple

Explore the iconic Shore Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site by the sea, notable for its Dravidian architecture and picturesque ocean views. Opens at 6 am.
INR50, 1h30m

10:00am

Explore Pancha Rathas

View the five monolithic rock-cut temples named after the Pandavas, showcasing intricate carvings and ancient craftsmanship.
INR50, 1h

11:30am

Visit Arjuna’s Penance

Marvel at the giant bas-relief that depicts scenes from Indian mythology, one of the largest stone carvings in the world.
INR50, 45m

1:00pm

Lunch at The Wharf Restaurant

Enjoy fresh coastal cuisine and seafood specials at The Wharf, located near the beach with calming sea views. Open 12 pm to 4 pm.
INR600, 1h

2:30pm

Relax at Mahabalipuram Beach

Spend a relaxing afternoon on the pristine Mahabalipuram Beach, perfect for walking or just enjoying the coastal breeze.
Free, 2h

5:00pm

Drive to Kanchipuram

Begin your trip to Kanchipuram, around an hour’s drive away, to prepare for the next day of cultural exploration.
INR1000 (Taxi Fare approx.), 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Hotel Saratha Vilas

Enjoy authentic South Indian vegetarian cuisine at the hotel restaurant in Kanchipuram to recharge after travel.
INR400, 1h
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Day 2: Kanchipuram Temples

Kanchipuram, India on May 24, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Hotel Saratha Vilas

Start with a traditional South Indian breakfast including idlis, dosas, and filter coffee.
INR250, 1h

8:30am

Visit Kailasanathar Temple

Explore one of Kanchipuram's oldest temples, known for its intricate sandstone carvings and early Dravidian architecture. Opens at 6 am.
INR30, 1h

9:45am

Visit Kamakshi Amman Temple

Visit this famous temple dedicated to Goddess Kamakshi, a significant site for devotees and beautifully maintained. Opens at 5:30 am.
Free, 1h

11:00am

Silk Shopping

Explore Kanchipuram’s renowned silk saree shops for authentic handwoven silk sarees ideal for souvenirs.
Varies, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Sree Sabarees

Relish pure vegetarian meals like thalis and fresh South Indian dishes at this popular local restaurant. Open 12 PM onwards.
INR350, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Ekambareswarar Temple

Visit this massive temple complex dedicated to Lord Shiva with a towering gopuram and pleasant gardens. Opens till 7 PM.
No entry fee, 1h30m

4:00pm

Drive to Arunachalam Hills

Prepare for a scenic one-hour drive to the Arunachalam hills region for spiritual sightseeing the next day.
INR1000 (Taxi Fare approx.), 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at resort/hotel near Arunachalam Hills

Enjoy a quiet dinner featuring local Tamil cuisine ideally at your hotel or resort near the hills.
INR500, 1h
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Day 3: Arunachalam Spiritual Visit

Arunachalam Hills region, India on May 25, 2025

7:00am

Early Breakfast at hotel

Have an early hearty breakfast with fresh local ingredients to prepare for a spiritual day.
INR300, 1h

8:00am

Visit Arunachaleswarar Temple

Explore the revered Arunachaleswarar Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, famous for its massive temple complex and spiritual significance. Temple opens at 5:30 am.
Free, 2h

10:30am

Walk the Girivalam Path

Take a serene walk on the 14 km circumambulation path around Arunachala hill, sacred to devotees.
Free, 3h

1:30pm

Lunch at Madurai Mess

Enjoy a simple, authentic Tamil meal at Madurai Mess, renowned for its flavorful curries and dosas. Opens till 3 PM.
INR400, 1h

3:00pm

Drive to Pondicherry

Drive approximately 3 hours to the French-influenced coastal city of Pondicherry to wind down and explore colonial culture.
INR1500 (Taxi Fare approx.), 3h

6:00pm

Evening walk in Pondicherry Promenade

Enjoy a peaceful evening stroll along the Bay of Bengal to enjoy sea breeze and colonial architecture.
Free, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at Le Dupleix Restaurant

Dine at an elegant French colonial style restaurant serving Indo-French cuisine. Open from 12 PM to 10 PM.
INR800, 1h30m
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Day 4: Pondicherry Heritage Tour

Pondicherry, India on May 26, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Café des Arts

Enjoy a French-style breakfast with croissants and coffee at this charming café that opens at 8 am.
INR450, 1h

9:00am

Visit Aurobindo Ashram

Spend time at this spiritual community and ashram founded by Sri Aurobindo, a key attraction in Pondicherry. Open 7 am to 12 pm, 4 pm to 6 pm.
Free, 1h

10:30am

Explore French Quarter

Walk through the vibrant French Quarter to see colonial villas, colorful streets, and quaint shops.
Free, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at Surguru

Delight in traditional South Indian meals at this popular vegetarian restaurant in town. Open till 3 PM.
INR350, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Botanical Gardens

Relax in the well-maintained Botanical Gardens featuring exotic plants and a musical fountain. Open from 8 am to 6 pm.
INR20, 1h30m

4:00pm

Return to hotel and relax

Take rest after a day of touring before dinner and final night out in Pondicherry.
Free, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Villa Shanti

Enjoy a mix of Indian and French cuisine in a beautiful heritage setting. Open till 11 PM.
INR900, 1h30m
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Day 5: Return to Chengalpattu

Chengalpattu, India on May 27, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel in Pondicherry

Have a wholesome breakfast to end your trip on a refreshing note.
INR300, 1h

9:00am

Drive back to Chengalpattu

Travel back to Chengalpattu by car, approximately 2 hours journey, concluding your south Tamil Nadu cultural and spiritual tour.
INR1500 (Taxi Fare approx.), 2h

11:30am

Arrival in Chengalpattu and visit local market

Explore the local market in Chengalpattu for souvenirs and local snacks before your onward journey.
Varies, 1h
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