Pickup offeredSee the meeting and pickup details below
Overview
Embark on a captivating journey from Chennai to Pondicherry via Kanchipuram and Mahabalipuram. Explore Kanchipuram's rich cultural heritage with its numerous temples, including the renowned Kailasanathar and Varadharaja Perumal Temples. Continue to Mahabalipuram to witness the marvels of Dravidian architecture, such as the Five Rathas, Shore Temple, and Arjuna's Penance. Conclude your day in the serene surroundings of Pondicherry, where you can relax on the beach. On the second day, immerse yourself in spiritual exploration at Sri Aurobindo Ashram and Auroville, and discover Pondicherry's colonial charm before returning to Chennai.
Options
Price using 5 star hotels
Stay in 5 star hotels: + Private Car with Driver + Private Guides + Entrance & activities charges mentioned in the itinerary.
Pickup included
Price using 3 star hotels
Stay in 3 star hotels: + Private Car with Driver + Private Guides + Entrance & activities charges mentioned in the itinerary.
Pickup included
Tour Price Without Hotels
Includes: Private Car with Driver + Private Guides + Entrance & activities charges mentioned in the itinerary.
Pickup included
Price using 4 star hotels
Stay in 4 star hotels: + Private Car with Driver + Private Guides + Entrance & activities charges mentioned in the itinerary.
Pickup included
What's included
Private AC car/van for airport transfers, sightseeing, and excursions as per the program.
Monument entrances and activity charges mentioned in the itinerary.
English speaking tour guide on sightseeing days (local guide in each city), as per the program
Expenses of personal nature like liquor, laundry, tips, telephone, fax, internet, etc.
Gratuities and optional activities.
What to expect
Day 1: Chennai - Kanchipuram - Pondicherry (200kms)
Chennai (Madras)
Pass by
7:30 AM: Depart from Chennai and journey towards Pondicherry via Kanchipuram, a city revered for its ancient temples and spiritual significance.
1h
Explore the sacred marvels, starting with the Kailasanathar Temple, an architectural gem dedicated to Lord Shiva. Admire its intricate carvings and serene ambiance, which offer a glimpse into the rich heritage of South Indian temple architecture.
Ekambareswarar Temple
30m
Continue your exploration to the Ekambareswarar Temple, where the towering gopurams and the sacred mango tree, believed to be over 3,500 years old, create an aura of divinity and tranquility. Then, visit the Varadharaja Temple, a magnificent shrine dedicated to Lord Vishnu, showcasing remarkable sculptures and ornate pillars.
45m
Proceed to the Vaikundhaperumal Temple, steeped in history and spirituality, before concluding your Kanchipuram tour with a visit to the Kamakshiamman Temple, an embodiment of feminine energy and devotion.
Pondicherry
Pass by
After exploring Kanchipuram, continue your journey to Pondicherry, soaking in the picturesque landscapes along the way. Check into your Pondicherry hotel upon arrival.
1h
Visit Auroville, an experimental community founded by the spiritual leader Mirra Alfassa. Explore the breathtaking Matrimandir, a futuristic spherical temple adorned with golden discs, and take a peaceful walk in the surrounding gardens.
Pondicherry Museum
45m · Admission ticket included
Discover the rich collection of bronze sculptures, temple lamps, handicrafts, and art at the Pondicherry Museum, offering insights into the region's cultural heritage.
French Quarter
2h
Wander through the French Quarter of Pondicherry, with its charming mustard streets, colonial villas, and vibrant Tamil settlements. Explore iconic landmarks such as the White Town area, the French War Memorial, and the Pondicherry Promenade (Goubert Avenue), offering stunning views of the Bay of Bengal.
Arulmigu Manakula Vinayagar Temple
30m
Optionally, visit the Manakula Vinayagar Temple, a historic Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha, known for its vibrant architecture and religious significance.
Day 2: Pondicherry - Mahabalipuram - Chennai (160kms/ 2hrs approx)
Pondicherry
Pass by
After breakfast at your Pondicherry hotel, embark on a journey to Mahabalipuram.
30m · Admission ticket included
Explore the awe-inspiring monolithic temples, including the Five Rathas, showcasing the evolution of Dravidian-style architecture, and the 7th-century Cave Temples adorned with panels in the Mamalla style.
15m
Witness the legendary Krishna's Butterball, a colossal granite boulder defying gravity, and marvel at its intriguing history.
Shore Temple
1h · Admission ticket included
Visit the timeless Shore Temple, built from granite blocks in the 7th century under King Narsimha-Varman II Rajasimha, and admire its exquisite carvings and architectural elegance.
Arjuna's Penance
1h · Admission ticket included
Explore the monumental Arjuna's Penance, one of the world's largest rock-cut reliefs, depicting scenes from the Mahabharata and daily life.
Tiger Cave
1h · Admission ticket included
Optionally, you can visit the Tiger Cave, a rock-cut Hindu temple complex surrounded by lush greenery and offering serene surroundings for meditation.
Chennai (Madras)
Pass by
As the day unfolds, journey back to Chennai, where you'll be dropped off at your hotel or the airport.
Meeting and pickup
Pickup details
A private chauffeur-driven air-conditioned vehicle will be provided for the entire tour. Pickup is available from all hotels, residences, and other accommodations in Chennai, as well as from Chennai International Airport (MAA). Travelers arriving at the airport will be welcomed and assisted by our office executive. Please provide your hotel or flight details at least 3 days before the tour. Office executive and driver contact details will be shared one day prior to the tour.
Additional information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation policy
If you cancel at least 6 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.<br>If you cancel between 2 and 6 day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a 50% refund.<br>If you cancel within 2 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.
