Sacred Temples Of South Tamil ...
5 Nights / 6 Days
- Inclusions
Embark on a fascinating journey along the scenic East Coast Road (ECR) of Tamil Nadu covering the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Mahabalipuram and the charming French colonial town of Pondicherry (Puducherry). This carefully crafted itinerary offers a perfect blend of ancient Tamil heritage, stunning coastal landscapes, and unique Franco-Tamil cultural fusion.
Arrive at Chennai International Airport. Transfer to Mahabalipuram (60 km) along scenic East Coast Road. Check into hotel and refresh. Afternoon exploration of UNESCO World Heritage site - visit Shore Temple complex (8th century), Arjuna's Penance (massive 27-meter relief carving), and Five Rathas (Pancha Rathas) - monolithic temple structures carved from single granite pieces. Evening sunset viewing at seashore with Shore Temple silhouette. Overnight in Mahabalipuram.
After breakfast, visit Krishna's Butter Ball, Mahishasura Mardini Cave with sculpted panels, and Krishna Mandapam rock-cut temple. Explore Sculpture Museum and stone carving workshops. Drive to Pondicherry (95 km/2 hours) along picturesque East Coast Road. Check into hotel. Evening stroll along Promenade Beach (Goubert Avenue) with Gandhi statue and colonial buildings. Dinner with French, Tamil, or fusion cuisine options. Overnight in Pondicherry.
Heritage walking tour of French Quarter (White Town) through tree-lined boulevards and colonial buildings. Visit Immaculate Conception Cathedral, Notre Dame des Anges Church, and Tamil Quarter architecture. Afternoon visit to Sri Aurobindo Ashram. Continue to Auroville (12 km), viewing Matrimandir meditation center and learning about sustainable community at Visitor's Center. Evening shopping at local markets for handmade paper, aromatic candles, and leather goods. Overnight in Pondicherry.
Morning visit to Pondicherry Museum with Roman settlement artifacts, Sacred Heart Basilica, and Government Botanical Gardens (1826). Optional visit to Paradise Beach (8 km) via boat ride across Chunnambar backwaters. Transfer to Chennai International Airport (170 km/3.5 hours) for departure.
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