Explore Tiruvannamalai Temples and Pondicherry Coastal Charm: A 3-Day South India Itinerary

Day 1: Tiruvannamalai Exploration

Tiruvannamalai, India on June 19, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Sri Kamatchi Bhavan

Enjoy traditional South Indian dishes like idli and dosas at this popular local eatery, perfect to fuel your day exploring Tiruvannamalai.
INR150, 1h0m

9:00am

Visit Arunachaleswarar Temple

Explore this magnificent 9th-century Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, renowned for its massive gopurams and spiritual significance.
Free, 2h0m

11:30am

Walk around Sathanur Dam Pond

Relax by the peaceful Sathanur Dam pond located near Tiruvannamalai, a great spot for photography and enjoying natural scenery.
Free, 1h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Hotel Rathna Residency

Savor authentic South Indian thali meals known for diverse flavors, ideal to experience local cuisine.
INR250, 1h0m

2:30pm

Visit Ramana Ashram

Discover the peaceful ashram dedicated to the sage Ramana Maharshi where one can meditate and learn about his teachings.
Free, 1h30m

4:30pm

Climb to Girivalam Path

Take a scenic walk around the sacred mountain in the late afternoon, a spiritual and cultural experience common among locals and pilgrims.
Free, 2h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Sri Ramana Residency

Enjoy a hearty dinner with a variety of vegetarian South Indian dishes in a welcoming atmosphere.
INR300, 1h0m
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Day 2: Nearby Temple Tour

Near Tiruvannamalai, India on June 20, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at local café

Start your day with a simple breakfast of pongal and filter coffee at a local café near Tiruvannamalai.
INR120, 0h45m

8:30am

Visit Gingee Fort

Explore the historical Gingee Fort about 40 km from Tiruvannamalai, known for its impressive architecture and hilltop views.
INR10, 3h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Gingee local restaurant

Taste regional Tamil Nadu cuisine featuring fresh vegetarian options in a modest restaurant near Gingee Fort.
INR200, 1h0m

1:30pm

Visit Ulagalantha Perumal Temple in Kanchipuram

Drive to the famous temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu known for its massive idol of the Trivikrama form and intricate carvings, about an hour’s drive from Gingee.
Free, 2h0m

4:00pm

Return to Tiruvannamalai

Drive back to Tiruvannamalai to rest and prepare for next day’s journey.
Taxi fare approx INR600, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Annamalaiyar Nellai Mess

Dine on authentic Tamil cuisine known for its flavorful curry dishes and thalis in Tiruvannamalai.
INR250, 1h0m
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Day 3: Pondicherry Coastal Day

Pondicherry, India on June 21, 2025

7:30am

Travel from Tiruvannamalai to Pondicherry

Depart early for the 2-hour drive to Pondicherry, a charming coastal town known for its colonial heritage and beaches.
Taxi fare approx INR1500, 2h0m

9:30am

Breakfast at Café des Arts

Enjoy French-style breakfast with pastries and strong coffee at this quaint café in white town Pondicherry.
INR350, 1h0m

10:45am

Walk around Promenade Beach

Stroll along the scenic seaside promenade, ideal for leisurely views of the Bay of Bengal and spotting historic monuments.
Free, 1h30m

12:30pm

Visit Sri Aurobindo Ashram

Explore this spiritual community and museum offering insight into the teachings of Sri Aurobindo and The Mother.
Free, 1h0m

1:45pm

Lunch at Le Dupleix

Taste refined fusion cuisine blending French and Tamil flavors in a serene colonial-style setting.
INR600, 1h0m

3:00pm

Visit Auroville

Tour the international township dedicated to sustainability and human unity, about 10 km from Pondicherry center. Visit the Matrimandir viewing point.
Free, 2h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Villa Shanti

Dine on elegant South Indian and French-inspired dishes in a charming heritage villa.
INR700, 1h30m
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