Itinerary
- Day 1
Vellore - Pondicherry
You'll start by heading to Kanchipuram to explore its temple district, where you can see the Kailasanathar Temple dating back to the 8th century and the Varadharaja Temple with its intricate carvings. From there, drive to Vellore to check out the 16th-century fort and the Sri Lakshmi Narayani Golden Temple, which has impressive architecture and religious significance. Later, continue driving to Pondicherry, get settled into your hotel, and spend the evening walking around the French Colony (75°F/24°C). You might grab dinner near the beach or explore the colonial-era streets at a relaxed pace.
- Start point
- Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India (Pick up from Chennai airport or from your hotel)
- Meals
- Breakfast
Included Activities
- Visit Kailasanathar Temple
- Explore Ekambareswarar Temple
- Visit Varadharaja Temple
- Visit Kamakshiamman Temple
- Tour Vellore Fort
- Visit Jalakandeswarar Temple
- Visit Sri Lakshmi Narayani Golden Temple
- Stroll through French Colony
- Visit Auroville
Optional Activities
- Relax on Pondicherry beach
Landmarks/POIs Kailasanathar Temple Ekambareswarar Temple Varadharaja Temple Kamakshiamman Temple Vellore Fort Jalakandeswarar Temple Sri Lakshmi Narayani Golden Temple French Colony, Pondicherry Auroville - Day 2
Chennai
After breakfast, you'll head out to see Auroville's Matrimandir, a spiritual and architectural landmark, then visit the Pondicherry Museum to understand the area's history. Wander through the French Colony again if you want to catch details you missed, then drive to Mahabalipuram. Spend time at the Monolithic Temples (the Rathas), which are carved from single rock formations, and the Shore Temple right along the coast. You'll also see Krishna's Butterball, a massive rock formation that seems to defy gravity. Later, head back to Chennai and check out of your hotel.
- Meals
- Breakfast
Included Activities
- Visit Matrimandir at Auroville
- Explore Pondicherry Museum
- Walk through French Colony
- Visit Monolithic Temples (Rathas)
- Visit Shore Temple
- Explore Cave Temples
- View Krishna's Butterball
Landmarks/POIs Matrimandir, Auroville Pondicherry Museum Monolithic Temples (Rathas), Mahabalipuram Shore Temple Cave Temples, Mahabalipuram Krishna's Butterball
