Mahabalipuram Pondichery

Why Should Visit ?

• Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site monuments in Mahabalipuram, showcasing exquisite rock-cut temples and sculptures dating back to the 7th century.
• Experience the French colonial architecture and tranquil ambiance of Pondicherry, known for its picturesque beaches and vibrant cultural scene.
• Discover the spiritual significance of Auroville and the Sri Aurobindo Ashram in Pondicherry, offering retreats for meditation and self-discovery.
• Enjoy the scenic beauty of the Bay of Bengal coastline and indulge in water sports activities such as surfing and swimming.
• Immerse yourself in the rich history, culture, and cuisine of Tamil Nadu and the French Quarter of Pondicherry.

Tour Highlights

• Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site monuments in Mahabalipuram, including the Shore Temple, Pancha Rathas, and Arjuna's Penance.
• Explore the Mahabalipuram Beach and relax amidst the picturesque setting of the Bay of Bengal.
• Experience the vibrant culture and cuisine of Tamil Nadu with visits to local markets and eateries.
• Discover the French colonial heritage of Pondicherry with guided tours of the French Quarter and Aurobindo Ashram.
• Relax and unwind at the serene beaches of Pondicherry, such as Promenade Beach and Paradise Beach.

Proposed Itinerary

• Day 01
  ARRIVAL IN MAHABALIPURAM - SIGHTSEEING - Arrive in Mahabalipuram and transfer to your hotel.
  After check-in and refreshments, embark on a sightseeing tour of Mahabalipuram.
  Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site monuments, including the Shore Temple, Pancha Rathas, and Arjuna's Penance.
  Explore the Mahabalipuram Beach and witness the beautiful sunset over the Bay of Bengal.
  Return to the hotel for dinner and overnight stay.
• Day 02
  MAHABALIPURAM TO PONDICHERRY - AUROVILLE VISIT - After breakfast, check out from the hotel and proceed to Pondicherry.
  En route, visit Auroville, an international township and spiritual community founded by Mirra Alfassa (The Mother) and designed by architect Roger Anger.
  Explore the Matrimandir, an architectural marvel and center for meditation, and learn about the philosophy of Auroville.
  Continue your journey to Pondicherry and check in to your hotel.
  In the evening, explore the French Quarter of Pondicherry and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.
  Overnight stay in Pondicherry.
• Day 03
  PONDICHERRY SIGHTSEEING - DEPARTURE - After breakfast, embark on a sightseeing tour of Pondicherry.
  Visit the Sri Aurobindo Ashram, founded by Sri Aurobindo and The Mother, and immerse yourself in its serene ambiance.
  Explore the Promenade Beach and enjoy leisure time by the seaside.
  Visit other attractions such as Auroville Beach, Paradise Beach, and the Old Lighthouse.
  In the afternoon, check out from the hotel and transfer to the airport or railway station for your departure.

Mamallapuram (Mahabalipuram):

Today we will leave for Mamallapuram, earlier known as Mahabalipuram. En-route we will visit Kanchipuram, known as the city of thousand temples. It is one of the seven sacred cities of Hindus, and was the capital of the early Cholas as far back as the 2nd century BC. Kanchipuram was a major seat of Tamil learning as well as an important place of pilgrimage for Buddhists, Jains and Hindus. Apart from temples, the city is also famous for its silk weavers, who settled here some 400 years ago and have given it an enviable reputation.

Later continue drive to Mamallapuram. Upon arrival check into the hotel. After fresh-n-up we will proceed sightseeing around Mamallapuram, the ancient port of Pallavas. The pallavas have created many marvelous monuments with sculptural panels, caves, Monolithic Rathas and Temples. Krishna Mandapam has a big bas relief, notable for its realistic representation. The world's largest bas relief measuring 27m x 9m, whale back shaped rock contains figures of gods, demi-gods, men beasts, birds and representation of the entire creation. Shore Temple, one of the oldest in south dating back to 8th century AD is a good example of the first phase of structural temples constructed in Dravidian style. The Five Rathas are a group of five monolithic temples, each created in different style. In the evening transfer to the hotel for overnight stay.

Sri Aurobindo Ashram: The Sri Aurobindo Ashram located on rue de la Marine, is one of the most well-known ashrams in India. The ashram was set up in 1926 by one of India‟s famous sons Sri Aurobindo, who originally came to Pondicherry to escape persecution by the British. Sri Aurobindo, a saint-yogi, philosopher-poet, taught Integral Yoga, a new system of mind development, a synthesis of yoga and modern science. Madame Mirra Richard Alfassa, a French painter-sculptor-musician who had followed the same path on her own, joined him later. She is now known as the Mother. After the death of Sri Aurobindo, "the Mother" continued the social work till she died in 1973 at the age of 93. The idea of Auroville or the “City of Down” was conceived by „The Mother‟.

The Pondicherry Museum: The Pondicherry Museum is located on Saint Louis street and is open between 10.00-17.00 hrs on all days except Mondays and national holidays. The museum is located in the former residence of the French Administrator. The museum has a

collection of rare bronzes and stone sculptures from the Pallava and Chola dynasties, objects found in Arikamedu site (an ancient port just 7km from city that traded with the Roman empire), Greek and Roman jars, 200 year old beads made from glass and precious stones, a wide collection of temple lamps and even objects from the Tsung period in China.

Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus: The Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, located on the South Boulevard, SubbayahSalai, is a white and brown neo-gothic church. It was built by French missionaries in the 1700‟s. It is one of Pondicherry‟s finest Catholic churches.

Manakula Vinayagar Koil Temple: This temple is more than 300 years old and is dedicated to Ganesha. It has a golden spire.

Inclusions

• Accommodation: 2 nights' stay in well-appointed hotels in Mahabalipuram and Pondicherry.
• Meals: Daily breakfast at the hotel.
• Transportation: Airport/railway station transfers and sightseeing tours in a private vehicle.
• Guided Tours: Experienced tour guide for sightseeing tours in Mahabalipuram and Pondicherry.
• Entrance Fees: All entry fees and charges for the mentioned attractions.
• 24/7 Assistance: On-call assistance during the tour.

Exclusions

• Airfare or train tickets to and from Mahabalipuram and Pondicherry.
• Any additional meals or beverages not mentioned in the itinerary.
• Personal expenses such as laundry, telephone calls, and tips.
• Any optional activities or excursions not included in the tour itinerary.
• Food : Meals while on Trek ( Veg + Egg) Morning Evening Tea with Light Snacks during the Trek.
• Travel insurance and visa fees (if applicable).

Terms And Conditions:

• Booking: A non-refundable deposit is required to confirm the booking, with the balance due before the start of the tour.
• Cancellation Policy: Cancellation charges apply as per the company's policy.
• Itinerary Changes: The company reserves the right to modify the itinerary or substitute accommodations and activities if necessary due to unforeseen circumstances.
• Health and Safety: Participants are responsible for their health and safety during the tour, and the company is not liable for any accidents or injuries.
• Responsibility: The company acts only as an agent for transportation and accommodation arrangements and is not liable for any loss, damage, or injury resulting from acts of negligence of third-party service providers.
• Liability: The company is not liable for any loss, damage, or inconvenience caused by force majeure events such as natural disasters, political unrest, or transportation disruptions.
• Book Now: Contact La Ruta Tours and Travels to book your Mahabalipuram Pondicherry Tour and experience the perfect blend of history, culture, and relaxation in South India's coastal gems.