Who doesn’t love a good road trip, especially one in India?!
Well, I’ve got you covered.
If you’re looking for a fun weekend getaway in Southeast India, I highly recommend a road trip from Chennai to Pondicherry along the East Coast Road (ECR). There are so many things to see on this picturesque route, which hugs the coastline of the Bay of Bengal.
While Chennai itself is worth a visit, (check out my Chennai travel guide for more info), a trip south of Chennai, down the East Coast Road, is full of cultural sites worth stopping to see on your way to Pondicherry.
In this post, I break down all of the spots that should be on your list for your road trip from Chennai to Pondy.
So buckle up and let’s get started!
Pro Travel Tip: Chennai is the city formerly known as Madras, and Pondicherry is technically called Puducherry now. However, most locals still call the city Pondicherry, or Pondy, for short, so in this post, that’s what I’m sticking with!
Chennai to Pondicherry – The Basics For Your Road Trip
The distance from Chennai to Pondicherry along the East Coast Road is 151 kilometers and takes approximately 3 hours, depending on traffic. Of course, that’s without making any stops.
For this itinerary, you’ll want to plan on spending most of the day sightseeing, arriving in Pondicherry in the late afternoon or early evening. Of course, you can skip a few things and shorten your trip, or spend more time at the various sites and arrive later. The beauty of a road trip is that there is that you can plan your own agenda!
Pro Travel Tip: If you want to stay somewhere overnight on your road trip down to Pondicherry, I highly recommend the Intercontinental in Mahabalipuram. This beachfront resort is one of my husband’s and my favorite hotels in India. It also makes for a great weekend escape from Chennai in its own right.
Related: Read my full hotel review of the Intercontinental Mahabalipuram
Things to See on Your Road Trip From Chennai to Pondicherry
Cholamandal Artists’ Village – Your first stop involves a bit of culture. The Cholamandal Artists’ Village actually houses the largest artists’ commune in India and is credited with having started the Madras movement of art. The small museum on the grounds is full of contemporary art from Indian artists, and it’s worth having a stroll around the village as well.
Kovalam Beach – Not to be confused with Kovalam Beach in Kerala, Kovalam along the East Coast Road is known for its fresh fish market. If you are into photography, I highly recommend getting their early in the morning to catch all the action. The beach itself, is also picture-worthy, especially at sunrise and in the early morning light. (If you’re aiming to get here early, it will mean skipping the Cholamandal Artists’ Village unless you don’t mind backtracking on your road trip.)
Alamparai Fort – Built in the 17th century during the Mughal era, we wanted to see this rambling seaside fortress but unfortunately, it was closed for restoration when we took our trip. I highly recommend a stop at the Alampari Fort if/when it re-opens.
The One Place You Must Visit on Your Road Trip
If you only have time to make one stop during your road trip from Chennai to Pondicherry, I recommend Mahabalipuram.
Mahabalipuram – (also known as Mamallapuram), is a small town on the coast with a group of historic structures that are a UNESCO World Heritage site. The temples and monuments were built by the Pallava dynasty in the 7th and 8th centuries.
There are 5 main sites you want to see here. For sure, the highlight is the Shore Temple, which has a commanding perch above the sea. Second is Pancha Rathas, a complex of 5 monuments that are carved chariots, and an example of monolithic rock-cut architecture.
Third, is Arjana’s Penance, also known as Descent of the Ganga. This structure is a massive bas relief that stretches over 100 feet. It’s carved with humans, elephants and other animals. Fourth, there are the cave temples, 8 in total, each with a different theme. And last but certainly not least, is Krishna’s butterball, a massive boulder, that appears to be balanced on a slope. While it looks like it might roll over any second, it’s been this way for over 1000 years.
Keep Driving! You’ve Almost Made it to Pondicherry!
The Matramandir at Auroville
Auroville – On the outskirts of Pondicherry is Auroville, an experimental township dedicated to the ideal of Human Unity. It was founded by Mirra Alfassa (the Mother) in 1968 and is affiliated with the Sri Aurobindo Ashram (in Pondicherry). The highlight of Auroville is the Matrimandir, a giant geodesic dome, surrounded by 12 petals. It is meant to represent the soul of the city.
Auroville is a magical place worth visiting but I recommend going early in the morning to beat the crowds. So your best bet is to do this after you’ve arrived in Pondicherry. It makes sense to get settled in and perhaps go the next day.
Pondicherry – You made it! This French colonial coastal city is a true delight and one of my favorite places in India. To learn more about this city, including where to stay, eat, and things to do, check out my full Pondicherry travel guide.
Pro Travel Tip: If you only have time to make one stop on this trip, it should be Mahabalipuram.
Are you Ready to Take a Road Trip From Chennai to Pondicherry?
Having fun outside the Cafes des Arts in Pondicherry
What do you think?
Are you guys ready to explore the east coast road from Chennai to Pondicherry?
When I was living in Chennai, driving south on the East Coast Road was one of my favorite weekend trips. If you make it to South India (or live in Chennai), I hope you’ll have a chance to take this road trip too.
Want more tips and travel guides for India? Check out these posts!
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