Cultural heritage of Pondicherry- day trip from Chennai
Active
13h - 14h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
On this full-day tour explore the cultural heritage of Pondicherry, which is a unique blend of French and Tamil cultures. Get a glimpse of the spiritual legacy of this former French colony at Sri Aurobindo Ashram, which is dedicated to Sri Aurobindo Ghosh - a philosopher and freedom fighter. Visit Auroville, a unique global village that is home to people from over 50 countries.
Highlights
• Sri Aurobindo Ashram
• Aurobindo paper factory
• Pondicherry Museum
• Auroville, global village
Available options
1- 8 Travelers
Price based on 1-8 Pax Basis. <br/>Pickup included
What's included
Private air-conditioned vehicle from Chennai to Pondicherry and back
Private English speaking local guide
Breakfast at local restaurant ( beverage excluded)
02 bottles of mineral water
Hotel pick-up and drop-off
Detailed itinerary
1
You will be picked up from your hotel in Chennai early in the morning from where you will be taken to Pondicherry, a 3-hour drive away. En route, stop for breakfast at a local restaurant.
As you drive into the city, you will notice the strong French influence in the facades of the mediterranean style houses, the local bakeries and the roads and avenues. On your arrival in Pondicherry, visit Sri Aurobindo Ashram. Soak in the ambience of the ashram, which reflects a synthesis of yoga and modern science. Founded in 1926, the Ashram has a community of around 2,000 people who are engaged in voluntary community service. Visit the paper factory there and see how paper is produced from cotton rags and then processed with techniques like silk screen printing and marbling.
2
Next visit the Pondicherry Museum. The museum has a collection of rare bronze and stone sculptures dating back to the Pallava and Chola dynasties. It also has several artefacts excavated from Arikamedu, an ancient port that had trade links with the Romans.
Enjoy lunch (own expense) at a French - Indian fusion restaurant and savor the flavors unique to this region.
3
After lunch you will be driven to Auroville. Located at a distance of 7 miles from Pondicherry, Auroville is an experimental township that was founded in 1968 and is today home to people of several nationalities. Auroville, literally translates to the ‘City of Dawn’. People from over 50 nations of the world reside here and the architecture of the township reflects this universality. Follow your guide to Matrimandir, known by locals as ‘Temple of the Mother’, where you will get a close look at its gold-plated dome and lotus-shaped urn that stretches nearly 100 feet. Your guide will give you a deeper understanding of this temple’s significance for practitioners and teachers of Integral Yoga.
At the end of your trip, you will be driven back to Chennai and dropped off at your hotel.
What's not included
Gratuities
Food and drinks, unless specified
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Children under 15 must be accompanied by an adult
Meeting point
We will pick up traveler from their hotels / fixed point within city center.
Important notes
Hotel pickups commence approximately 30 - 60 minutes prior to this time, exact pickup time will be advised on reconfirmation.
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.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
