Chennai to Pondicherry

Day 1: Chennai – Kanchipuram – Pondicherry (190 km / 5 hrs drive)

After breakfast at your hotel, begin your journey from Chennai to Puducherry, covering approximately 190 kilometers in around 5 hours. En route, drive to Kanchipuram, one of the seven sacred cities of India, renowned for its ancient temples and silk heritage.

Begin the temple tour with a visit to the Kailasanathar Temple, known for its exquisite sandstone carvings and Pallava-era architecture. Continue to Ekambareswarar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva and associated with the Earth element (Prithvi Lingam). Proceed to Varadharaja Perumal Temple and Vaikundhaperumal Temple, both showcasing classic Dravidian architecture and spiritual significance. Also visit Kamakshi Amman Temple, an important Shakti Peetha dedicated to Goddess Parvati.

After completing the temple visits, continue your drive to Pondicherry. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and relax.

In the evening, visit Auroville and view the iconic Matrimandir from the designated viewpoint. Later, explore the Pondicherry Museum (subject to time) and enjoy a leisurely walk through the French Quarter, known for its colonial villas, colorful streets, boutiques, and cafés.

Dinner (optional) and overnight at hotel in Pondicherry.

Day 2: Pondicherry – Mahabalipuram – Chennai (160 km / 4 hrs drive)

After breakfast at your hotel, check out and begin your drive towards Chennai, covering approximately 160 kilometers in around 4 hours. En route, stop at Mahabalipuram, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its ancient rock-cut architecture and coastal monuments.

Begin the sightseeing tour with a visit to the Shore Temple, beautifully located along the Bay of Bengal and one of the earliest structural stone temples in South India. Continue to explore the Five Rathas (Pancha Rathas), monolithic rock-cut temples each built in a unique architectural style. Visit the Cave Temples adorned with intricate carvings and mythological depictions.

Proceed to witness Arjuna’s Penance, one of the largest open-air rock reliefs in the world, showcasing scenes from Indian epics with remarkable detail. Also visit Krishna’s Butterball, a massive balancing rock that has intrigued visitors for centuries.

After completing the sightseeing, continue your drive to Chennai. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel or airport for your onward journey.

• Assistance on arrival and departure
• 1 night accommodation in selected category hotel
• Daily breakfast at hotel
• Private air-conditioned vehicle for transfers and sightseeing
• English-speaking local guide as per program
• Monument entrance fees as per itinerary
• Bottled drinking water during travel
• All applicable government taxes

Hotels used or similar for 1 nights accommodation

Pondicherry x 1 night
3* - Shenbaga Hotel/ Annamalai International
4* - Le Pondy/ The Windflower Resort & Spa
5* - Palais De Mahe/ La Villa

• Any flight tickets
• Camera charges at monuments
• Meals other than mentioned in inclusions
• Personal expenses such as laundry, tips, beverages
• Optional activities
• Anything not mentioned in inclusions