Scenic South India Journey: Bangalore to Pondicherry via Tiruvannamalai

Day 1: Travel and Spiritual Exploration

Bangalore to Tiruvannamalai, India on June 28, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Airlines Hotel, Bangalore

Start your day with a hearty South Indian breakfast of idli, dosa, and filter coffee at this iconic Bangalore eatery known for its authentic flavors and early opening hours.
INR150, 1h

8:30am

Drive from Bangalore to Tiruvannamalai

Embark on a scenic 3.5 to 4-hour drive covering approximately 190 km heading southeast via NH77, enjoying the transition from urban Bangalore to the spiritual hills of Tiruvannamalai.
INR0, 4h

12:30pm

Lunch at Hotel Ramakrishna, Tiruvannamalai

Enjoy a traditional Tamil Nadu thali lunch featuring a variety of curries and rice dishes, ideal for recharging before afternoon exploration.
INR300, 1h

1:30pm

Visit Arunachaleswarar Temple

Visit one of the largest temples in India, renowned for its Dravidian architecture and spiritual significance as a major Shiva temple. Open from 6:00 AM to 12:30 PM and 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM.
Free, 2h

3:30pm

Explore Girivalam Path

Experience the serene 14 km circumambulation path around the sacred Arunachala hill. Ideal for spiritual reflection and to witness local devotees on their pilgrimage.
Free, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Annapoorna Restaurant

Savor delicious Tamil vegetarian dishes at this popular local restaurant known for clean, flavorful meals.
INR250, 1h

7:30pm

Check-in and Overnight Stay

Stay overnight at a comfortable hotel like Hotel Girivihar to rest before the drive to Pondicherry the next day.
INR1500, Overnight
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Day 2: Cultural and Coastal Experience

Tiruvannamalai to Pondicherry, India on June 29, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Hotel Girivihar

Enjoy a simple and filling breakfast of dosas and tea to fuel your trip towards Pondicherry.
INR150, 1h

8:00am

Drive from Tiruvannamalai to Pondicherry

Begin a 3-hour drive heading southeast on NH38 covering about 90 km to the French colonial coastal town of Pondicherry.
INR0, 3h

11:00am

Check-in at Hotel and Freshen Up

Settle into a charming boutique hotel like Villa Shanti located near the French Quarter.
INR2500, 1h

12:00pm

Lunch at Café des Arts

Relish continental and fusion cuisine inside a cozy, art-filled cafe famous for its relaxed ambiance and quality food.
INR400, 1h

1:30pm

Walk through Pondicherry French Quarter

Explore the charming streets lined with colonial architecture, colorful buildings, and quaint boutiques in this picturesque quarter.
Free, 2h

3:30pm

Visit Sri Aurobindo Ashram

Tour this peaceful spiritual community founded by Sri Aurobindo, open 9:00 AM to 12:30 PM and 2:00 PM to 5:30 PM, for insights into Indian spirituality and philosophy.
Free, 1h

4:30pm

Relax at Promenade Beach

Enjoy the sea breeze and sunset views along the popular seafront promenade, an ideal place for a stroll or sitting by the water.
Free, 1.5h

6:00pm

Dinner at Le Dupleix

Experience fine dining with a mix of Indian and French cuisine at this elegant heritage restaurant nestled in a colonial mansion.
INR800, 1.5h

7:30pm

Overnight Stay in Pondicherry

Retire for the night to your hotel to relax and prepare for onward travel or exploration.
Included, Overnight
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