Efficient South India Rail and Bus Journey: Guntur to Chennai, Pondicherry, Tiruvannamalai and Return

Day 1: Guntur to Chennai

Guntur, India on June 9, 2025

9:00PM

Train Departure from Guntur

Board the overnight train from Guntur to Chennai, ensuring a comfortable sleeper berth to arrive fresh the next morning.
INR 500-1500, Overnight

Day 2: Chennai to Pondicherry

Chennai, India on June 10, 2025

6:00AM

Arrival at Chennai Central

Reach Chennai Central station early morning after your overnight journey, ready to begin your day.
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7:30AM

Breakfast at Murugan Idli Shop

Enjoy authentic South Indian breakfast with idlis and dosas at this famous Chennai eatery, open from 6 AM.
INR 100-200, 1h

9:00AM

Train to Pondicherry

Board the morning train from Chennai to Pondicherry, a comfortable journey of approximately 3 hours.
INR 150-400, 3h

12:00PM

Arrival at Pondicherry

Arrive at Pondicherry station and check into your accommodation to freshen up for the day’s exploration.
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1:00PM

Lunch at Café des Arts

Savor French-inspired cuisine in this charming café in White Town, open from 11 AM to 10 PM.
INR 400-700, 1h

2:30PM

Promenade Beach Walk

Enjoy a relaxing stroll along Pondicherry’s seafront promenade, a great way to soak in the local vibe.
Free, 1h

4:00PM

Visit Aurobindo Ashram

Explore this spiritual retreat at your leisure, open daily from 8 AM to 12 PM and 2 PM to 7 PM.
Free, 1h30m

7:00PM

Dinner at Le Dupleix

Dine at the elegant Le Dupleix restaurant offering a blend of Indian and French cuisines, open till 11 PM.
INR 600-1200, 1h30m

Day 3: Explore Pondicherry

Pondicherry, India on June 11, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Baker Street

Start your day with French pastries and coffee at this popular bakery, open from 7 AM.
INR 200-400, 1h

9:30AM

Visit Pondicherry Museum

Discover local history and artifacts, the museum opens at 9 AM and closes at 1 PM.
INR 50, 1h

11:00AM

Explore Botanical Gardens

Wander through well-maintained gardens featuring diverse plant species, open 9 AM to 6 PM.
INR 20, 1h30m

1:00PM

Lunch at Surguru Spot

Sample traditional Tamil meals in a casual setting, open from 11 AM to 10 PM.
INR 300-500, 1h

3:00PM

Visit Serenity Beach

Relax or take a swim at this quieter beach away from the town, accessible all day.
Free, 2h

7:00PM

Dinner at The Promenade Hotel

Enjoy upscale dining with seaside views, perfect for a memorable meal in Pondicherry.
INR 800-1500, 1h30m

Day 4: Pondicherry to Tiruvannamalai

Pondicherry, India on June 12, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café Xtasi

Enjoy a casual breakfast with freshly baked bread and coffee, open from 8 AM.
INR 200-400, 1h

9:30AM

Visit Manakula Vinayagar Temple

A vibrant Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha, open early morning till evening.
Free, 1h

11:00AM

Last stroll around White Town

Explore colonial architecture and quaint streets for last-minute photos and shopping.
Free, 1h30m

1:00PM

Lunch at Café Carmel

Known for Mediterranean and Indian dishes, open 11 AM to 9 PM.
INR 400-700, 1h

5:00PM

Bus to Tiruvannamalai

Depart by bus in the evening for Tiruvannamalai. The journey is approximately 3-4 hours.
INR 150-300, 3-4h

9:00PM

Arrival at Tiruvannamalai

Reach Tiruvannamalai late night and check into accommodation for rest.
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Day 5: Tiruvannamalai to Guntur

Tiruvannamalai, India on June 13, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Ramana Puri Shop

Enjoy traditional South Indian breakfast items near the town center.
INR 100-200, 1h

9:30AM

Visit Arunachaleswarar Temple

Explore the grand Shiva temple, an important pilgrimage site, open from 5 AM to 10 PM.
Free, 2h

12:00PM

Lunch at Local Eatery

Have a traditional Tamil lunch with local flavors at any popular nearby restaurant.
INR 200-400, 1h

3:00PM

Explore Local Markets

Browse colorful markets for handicrafts and souvenirs before departure.
Free, 2h

7:00PM

Train to Guntur

Board the evening train back to Guntur, completing your journey through South India.
INR 500-1500, Overnight