Chennai-Pondicherry-Chidambaram- Kumbakonam-Tanjore-Trichy-5N

Pickup from Chennai airport or junction and begin a scenic coastal drive towards Pondicherry. Known for its French charm and spiritual aura, the town offers a perfect blend of culture and tranquility.

• Auroville – An experimental international township dedicated to human unity, famous for the Matrimandir meditation dome and peaceful surroundings. Visitors can explore the visitor center, exhibitions, and handicraft boutiques.
  (Open – 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM, Closed on Sundays)

Halt at Pondicherry.

After breakfast, proceed for a relaxed day exploring Pondicherry’s temples, colonial streets, and serene beachfront promenades.

• Manakula Vinayagar Temple – A historic Ganesha temple renowned for its vibrant carvings and spiritual significance, attracting devotees from across the country.
  (Open – 5:30 AM to 12:30 PM & 4:00 PM to 9:30 PM, No weekly holiday)

• Sri Aurobindo Ashram – A globally respected spiritual center promoting integral yoga and meditation, offering a calm atmosphere for reflection. Silence is maintained within the premises.
  (Open – 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM & 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM, No weekly holiday)

• Rock Beach – A scenic promenade ideal for morning or evening walks, featuring refreshing sea breezes and picturesque views of the Bay of Bengal.
  (Open – 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM, No weekly holiday)

• French Quarter Puducherry – Characterized by mustard-yellow villas, bougainvillea-lined streets, and colonial architecture, this area reflects Pondicherry’s European heritage.
  (Open – Accessible throughout the day, No weekly holiday)

• Pondy Marina Beach – A peaceful stretch perfect for unwinding, enjoying sunset views, and soaking in the relaxed coastal vibe.
  (Open – 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM, No weekly holiday)

Halt at Pondicherry.

After breakfast and checkout, travel towards Chidambaram, one of Tamil Nadu’s most sacred Shaivite destinations, before continuing to the temple town of Kumbakonam.

• Thillai Nataraja Temple – Dedicated to Lord Shiva as the Cosmic Dancer, this iconic temple represents the element of space (Akasha) among the Pancha Bhoota temples. Its golden roof and intricate sculptures are architectural marvels.
  (Open – 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM & 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM, No weekly holiday)

• Mahamaham Tank – A sacred temple tank associated with the grand Mahamaham festival held once every 12 years. Pilgrims believe a dip here cleanses sins.
  (Open – 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM, No weekly holiday)

• Sarangapani Temple – One of the Divya Desams dedicated to Lord Vishnu, known for its towering gopuram and chariot-shaped sanctum symbolizing divine movement.
  (Open – 6:30 AM to 12:30 PM & 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM, No weekly holiday)

Halt at Kumbakonam.

After breakfast and checkout, visit a UNESCO-listed masterpiece before proceeding to Thanjavur, the cultural capital of the Chola dynasty.

• Airavatesvara Temple – A UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its exquisite stone carvings, musical steps, and classic Dravidian architecture built by the Cholas.
  (Open – 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM, No weekly holiday)

• Brihadeeswarar Temple – Popularly called the Big Temple, this 1,000-year-old architectural wonder features a massive granite dome and towering vimana.
  (Open – 6:00 AM to 12:30 PM & 4:00 PM to 8:30 PM, No weekly holiday)

• Thanjavur Maratha Palace – A historic palace complex housing royal artifacts, bell towers, and ancient manuscripts reflecting the region’s regal past.
  (Open – 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, No weekly holiday)

• Thanjavur Art Gallery – Showcasing bronze idols, stone sculptures, and traditional South Indian art, this gallery is a treasure trove for history enthusiasts.
  (Open – 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, Closed on Fridays)

Halt at Tanjore.

After breakfast and checkout, drive to Tiruchirappalli, a major spiritual hub known for its ancient temples and river island shrines.

• Samayapuram Mariamman Temple – One of the most powerful Shakti temples in Tamil Nadu, revered for fulfilling devotees’ prayers.
  (Open – 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM, No weekly holiday)

• Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple – The largest functioning Hindu temple complex in the world, dedicated to Lord Vishnu reclining on Adisesha. Its seven prakarams symbolize spiritual progression.
  (Open – 6:00 AM to 1:00 PM & 3:00 PM to 9:00 PM, No weekly holiday)

• Jambukeswarar Temple – Representing the element of water among the Pancha Bhoota temples, this shrine features an underground stream flowing beneath the sanctum.
  (Open – 5:30 AM to 1:00 PM & 3:00 PM to 8:30 PM, No weekly holiday)

Halt at Trichy.

After breakfast and checkout, conclude your journey with a visit to one of Trichy’s most iconic landmarks before proceeding for departure.

• Tiruchirappalli Rockfort Temple – Perched atop a 273-foot rock estimated to be billions of years old, this temple offers panoramic city views after a rewarding climb.
  (Open – 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM, No weekly holiday)

Proceed to Trichy airport or junction for your onward journey.