Exclusive Day Tour from Chennai to Discover Pondicherry

Chennai , India

Exclusive Day Tour from Chennai to Discover Pondicherry

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(2 reviews)

12h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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About this experience

Experience a day of exploration from Chennai to Pondicherry, discovering spiritual retreats, colonial architecture, serene beaches, lush gardens, historic churches, and vibrant local markets.

Available options

Exclusive Day Tour from Chennai to Discover Pondicherry

Pickup included

What's included

Bottled water

Air-Conditioned Transportation: Enjoy comfortable travel in air-conditioned vehicles.

All Fees and Taxes

Access our dedicated customer service team at any time, day or night.

Benefit from the knowledge and expertise of our professional, English-speaking guides.

Detailed itinerary

07:00 AM - Meet and Greet

Our friendly and knowledgeable driver will meet you at your hotel or Chennai Airport. After a warm welcome, you'll be comfortably seated in our air-conditioned vehicle for your journey.

07:15 AM - Departure to Pondicherry

Embark on a scenic drive to Pondicherry, the charming coastal town known for its French colonial architecture and vibrant culture. The journey will take approximately 3 hours.

Head to Auroville, an experimental township founded on the principles of human unity. Visit the Matrimandir, a unique meditation center with its distinctive golden globe structure (subject to prior permission).

Sri Aurobindo Ashram, a spiritual community offering a peaceful retreat.

Stop 3

Arulmigu Manakula Vinayagar Temple, dedicated to Lord Ganesha, known for its beautiful carvings and vibrant atmosphere.

Stroll through the French Quarter, admiring the colorful colonial buildings, quaint cafes, and tree-lined streets.

Take a leisurely walk along Promenade Beach, enjoying the scenic views of the Bay of Bengal and the refreshing sea breeze.

Explore the Pondicherry Museum, home to a collection of artifacts that showcase the rich cultural heritage of the region, including sculptures, archaeological findings, and colonial-era furniture.

Discover the diverse flora at the Pondicherry Botanical Garden, a serene spot with a variety of exotic plants, trees, and a musical fountain.

Visit the Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, an impressive church known for its Gothic architecture and vibrant stained glass windows.

Explore the Immaculate Conception Cathedral, a historic church with beautiful architecture and a serene ambiance.

Admire the Our Lady of Angels Church, a charming church known for its unique blend of French and Indian architectural styles.

Enjoy a visit to the Pondicherry Lighthouse, a historic lighthouse offering panoramic views of the town and the sea.

Stop 12

After a delightful day of exploration, we will head back to Chennai. The journey will take approximately 3 and half hours. Arrive at your designated location in Chennai. Our representative will ensure you have a smooth drop-off, concluding a memorable day excursion.

What's not included

Expenses incurred for lunch will not be covered or reimbursed.

Any personal expenses, personal shopping, leisure activities, will not be covered or reimbursed.

Tips and gratuities given for services will not be covered or reimbursed.

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Chennai

Chennai, the capital of Tamil Nadu, is a vibrant coastal city known for its rich history, cultural heritage, and bustling streets. It's a melting pot of tradition and modernity, offering everything from ancient temples to modern IT hubs.

Top Attractions

Marina Beach

Marina Beach is one of the longest urban beaches in the world, stretching over 13 km along the Bay of Bengal.

Beach 1-2 hours Free

Fort St. George

This historic fort was the first English fortress in India and is now a museum showcasing the city's colonial past.

Historical 1-2 hours INR 50

Kapaleeshwarar Temple

This ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is a stunning example of Dravidian architecture and a major pilgrimage site.

Religious 1-2 hours Free

Government Museum

One of the oldest museums in India, it houses a vast collection of artifacts, including bronze sculptures, paintings, and historical artifacts.

Museum 2-3 hours INR 25

Breezy Beach

A quieter alternative to Marina Beach, Breezy Beach is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.

Beach 2-3 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Dosa

A thin, crispy crepe made from fermented rice and lentil batter, often served with sambar and chutney.

Breakfast/Lunch Vegetarian

Idli

Soft, steamed rice cakes made from fermented batter, typically served with sambar and chutney.

Breakfast Vegetarian

Filter Coffee

A strong, aromatic coffee made using a traditional filter, often served with milk and sugar.

Drink Non-vegetarian

Chettinad Chicken

A spicy, flavorful chicken dish from the Chettinad region, known for its unique blend of spices.

Lunch/Dinner Non-vegetarian

Popular Activities

Scuba diving Snorkeling Surfing Beach visits Spa treatments Yoga Temple visits Music and dance performances

Best Time to Visit

November to February

This is the best time to visit Chennai as the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing.

25°C to 35°C 77°F to 95°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Tamil
Widely spoken: English, Hindi
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Indian Rupee (INR)

Time Zone

GMT+5:30

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

Chennai is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur, especially in crowded areas. Exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings.

Important Precautions:

• Use licensed taxis or app-based services like Ola and Uber.
• Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night.
• Avoid carrying large amounts of cash.

Getting there

By air

Chennai International Airport • 20 km from city center

By train

Chennai Central, Chennai Egmore

By bus

Koyambedu, CMBT

Getting around

Public transport

The Chennai Metro is a modern, efficient, and air-conditioned system that covers major parts of the city.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Ola, Uber

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Mylapore T. Nagar Besant Nagar

Day trips

Mahabalipuram

60 km from Chennai • Half day to full day

A UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its ancient temples, rock-cut caves, and sculptures.

Kanchipuram

75 km from Chennai • Full day

A historic city known for its ancient temples, silk sarees, and religious significance.

Pondicherry

160 km from Chennai • Overnight

A former French colony with a unique blend of French and Indian cultures, known for its beaches, architecture, and spiritual centers.

Festivals

Pongal • January Chennai Music Season • December-January Chennai Film Festival • December

Pro tips

Visit the city's temples and historical sites early in the morning to avoid the heat and crowds.
Try the local street food, but be cautious and choose vendors with high turnover to ensure freshness.
Use app-based services like Ola and Uber for convenient and reliable transportation.
Explore the city's vibrant street art and mural scene, with numerous murals and art installations throughout the city.
Visit the city's beaches, such as Marina Beach and Breezy Beach, for a relaxing break from the bustling city life.