In search of a serene getaway from the bustling city life of Chennai, I embarked on a memorable journey to Pondicherry via the picturesque East Coast Road (ECR). Known for its scenic views and charming stops, ECR promised a delightful road trip. Instead of the usual car ride, I decided to travel by public transport, making the experience more immersive and authentic. The journey would take me through several interesting spots, including Muttukadu Boating, VGP Universal Kingdom, Snow Kingdom, Dakshina Chitra, Cholamandal Artists Village, Kovalam Beach, Mahabalipuram, and Tiger Cave.
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Setting Off from Chennai
I started my journey early in the morning to make the most of the day. Chennai’s mornings are always a blend of the cool breeze from the Bay of Bengal and the subtle hum of the city waking up. I boarded a bus from Koyambedu Bus Terminus, Chennai’s largest bus station, which would take me along the East Coast Road.
Muttukadu Boating on East Coast Road
My first stop was Muttukadu, known for its boating facilities. Muttukadu is a backwater area about 36 kilometers from Chennai, and it’s a popular spot for water sports and boating. The Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation (TTDC) runs the Muttukadu Boat House, offering various types of boats, including rowboats, pedal boats, and motorboats.
As the bus dropped me off, I could see the sun rising over the calm waters of the backwaters, casting a golden hue. I opted for a pedal boat, which allowed me to leisurely explore the serene waters while taking in the natural beauty around me. The sight of migratory birds and the gentle sway of the water made it a peaceful and refreshing start to my journey.
After the boating, I grabbed a quick breakfast at a small nearby eatery. A plate of hot idlis with sambar and coconut chutney, accompanied by a strong filter coffee, was just what I needed to fuel the day ahead.
VGP Universal Kingdom and Snow Kingdom
Next, I took another bus to VGP Universal Kingdom, one of the oldest and most popular amusement parks in Chennai, located on ECR. The park was alive with the sounds of laughter and the smell of freshly made snacks. I spent a couple of hours there, enjoying various rides and attractions. The Ferris wheel offered a fantastic view of the coastline, while the water rides provided a cool respite from the morning heat.
Adjacent to the amusement park is the Snow Kingdom, an indoor snow theme park. It was quite a contrast to the sunny outdoors. Inside, the temperature dropped significantly, and I was surrounded by snow-clad structures and ice sculptures. It was a delightful experience to build snowmen, slide on ice, and have a snowball fight, all while being in a tropical city.
Feeling a bit chilly after my snowy adventure, I stepped out and enjoyed a tender coconut from a street vendor. The refreshing coconut water was perfect to rehydrate and keep me going.
Dakshina Chitra
Continuing south, my next destination was Dakshina Chitra, an open-air museum dedicated to South Indian heritage and culture. The museum, which is about 25 kilometers from Chennai, showcases the traditional architecture, crafts, and lifestyles of the southern states of India.
I took a bus from the VGP Universal Kingdom stop to Dakshina Chitra. As I entered the museum, I was greeted by the sight of beautifully reconstructed heritage houses from Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh. Each house was meticulously detailed, with traditional furnishings and artifacts that transported me back in time.
One of the highlights was watching artisans at work – potters shaping clay, weavers at their looms, and craftsmen carving intricate designs into wood. The vibrant cultural performances, including folk dances and music, added to the enriching experience. I also enjoyed a traditional South Indian meal at the in-house restaurant, where I savored the flavors of dosas, sambar, rasam, and various chutneys.
Cholamandal Artists’ Village
A short bus ride from Dakshina Chitra brought me to the Cholamandal Artists’ Village. Established in 1966, it is one of the oldest artists’ collectives in India and home to several renowned contemporary artists. The village is a peaceful haven away from the urban hustle, surrounded by lush greenery and dotted with galleries and studios.
Walking through the village, I visited several galleries showcasing paintings, sculptures, and mixed-media artworks. The art was diverse and thought-provoking, reflecting the rich cultural tapestry of India. Interacting with the artists and understanding their creative processes was an inspiring experience.
Before leaving, I enjoyed a refreshing glass of fresh mango juice from a local vendor. The sweet and tangy flavor was perfect for the warm afternoon.
Kovalam Beach
Kovalam Beach, also known as Covelong Beach, was my next stop. Located about 40 kilometers from Chennai, Kovalam is a serene fishing village known for its clean, sandy shores and azure waters. I took a local bus from Cholamandal Artists’ Village to reach the beach.
The sight of the vast ocean, with waves gently lapping at the shore, was mesmerizing. I spent some time walking along the beach, feeling the cool sand beneath my feet and the gentle sea breeze on my face. The beach was dotted with colorful fishing boats and shacks selling seafood and snacks.
Feeling a bit hungry, I decided to try some local seafood at one of the beach-side shacks. I savored a plate of freshly fried fish with a side of spicy chutney. The flavors were vibrant and complemented the laid-back atmosphere of the beach perfectly.
Crocodile Bank
After a short drive from the beach, I arrived at this fascinating reptile park, home to a wide variety of crocodiles and alligators. The sight of these powerful creatures basking in the sun and swimming in their enclosures was both thrilling and humbling. The knowledgeable staff provided interesting facts about the different species and their conservation efforts. Walking through the park, I felt a deep appreciation for these ancient reptiles and the important work being done to protect them. The Crocodile Bank is a must-visit for anyone interested in wildlife and nature conservation.
Mahabalipuram
From Crocodile Bank, I continued my journey to Mahabalipuram, also known as Mamallapuram. This ancient port city, located about 60 kilometers from Chennai, is renowned for its UNESCO World Heritage-listed temples and rock-cut sculptures. I took a bus from Kovalam to Mahabalipuram, eager to explore its historical treasures.
Shore Temple and Pancha Rathas
My first stop in Mahabalipuram was the iconic Shore Temple, which stands majestically by the sea. The temple, built in the 7th century, is a stunning example of Dravidian architecture. Its intricate carvings and detailed sculptures left me in awe of the craftsmanship of ancient artisans.
Next, I visited the Pancha Rathas, a collection of five monolithic rock-cut temples shaped like chariots. Each Ratha is dedicated to a different Hindu deity and showcases unique architectural styles. The sheer scale and detail of these structures were impressive, and I spent considerable time exploring and photographing them.
Krishna’s Butter Ball and Arjuna’s Penance
Another fascinating site in Mahabalipuram is Krishna’s Butter Ball, a giant boulder that precariously balances on a small hillock. It’s a popular spot for tourists to take amusing photos, pretending to push or hold the boulder.
Nearby, I visited Arjuna’s Penance, an enormous rock relief depicting various scenes from Hindu mythology. The intricate carvings, spanning over 30 meters in length and 15 meters in height, were mesmerizing. The detail and artistry involved in creating this masterpiece were truly remarkable.
Tiger Cave
Before heading to Pondicherry, I made a quick stop at Tiger Cave, located about 5 kilometers north of Mahabalipuram. Despite its name, Tiger Cave is not an actual cave but an open-air theater carved out of rock. The site gets its name from the tiger-head carvings that adorn the cave-like structure.
The peaceful surroundings, with lush greenery and a nearby beach, made it a perfect spot to relax and reflect on the journey so far. I sat under the shade of a tree, enjoying a chilled bottle of coconut water and some ice apples from a local vendor. The natural sweetness of the ice apples was refreshing and invigorating.
Continuing to Pondicherry
With the sun beginning to set, I resumed my journey to Pondicherry. The final leg of the trip along ECR was a scenic drive with the coastline on one side and picturesque landscapes on the other. The bus ride was comfortable, and I enjoyed watching the changing hues of the sky as dusk approached.
Arrival in Pondicherry
I arrived in Pondicherry in the evening, just as the streets were coming alive with lights and activity. Pondicherry, with its French colonial architecture, charming cafes, and serene beaches, promised a delightful end to my journey.
Exploring the French Quarter
After checking into my hotel, I set out to explore the French Quarter, also known as White Town. The streets, lined with colonial-era buildings painted in pastel shades, exuded a quaint charm. I wandered through the narrow lanes, taking in the sights and sounds of this beautiful town.
I stopped at a cozy café for dinner, where I enjoyed a delicious meal of crepes and a cup of hot chocolate. The café had a relaxed ambiance, with soft music playing in the background and the gentle hum of conversation filling the air.
Serenity Beach and Auroville
The next morning, I visited Serenity Beach, located about 10 Kilometers from Pondicherry. True to its name, the beach was peaceful and less crowded than other popular beaches. I spent some time walking along the shore, collecting seashells, and simply enjoying the tranquil environment.
From Serenity Beach, I headed to Auroville, an experimental township founded by Mirra Alfassa, known as “The Mother,” and inspired by the teachings of Sri Aurobindo. Auroville aims to be a universal town where people from all over the world live in harmony and peace.
Matrimandir
The highlight of Auroville is the Matrimandir, a golden spherical structure that serves as a place for silent concentration and meditation. The surrounding gardens and the serene atmosphere make it a perfect place for reflection and introspection. Although entry into the inner chamber of the Matrimandir is restricted and requires prior booking, the view from the outside was impressive.
Local Cuisine and Farewell
Before concluding my trip, I explored more of Pondicherry’s local cuisine. I visited a popular eatery known for its traditional Tamil dishes and French-inspired cuisine. I relished a meal of spicy Chettinad chicken, coconut rice, and crispy appalams (papadums), followed by a dessert of creamy crème brûlée.
As I prepared to return to Chennai, I felt a deep sense of satisfaction and fulfillment. The journey from Chennai to Pondicherry through East Coast Road had been a perfect blend of adventure, culture, history, and natural beauty. Traveling by public transport had allowed me to experience the local way of life more intimately and meet wonderful people along the way.
Personal Reflections
The journey from Chennai to Pondicherry via East Coast Road is a testament to the beauty and diversity of Tamil Nadu’s coastal region. From the tranquil waters of Muttukadu to the artistic haven of Cholamandal Artists’ Village, the historical wonders of Mahabalipuram, and the serene beaches of Pondicherry, every stop along the way offered unique experiences and unforgettable memories.
Traveling by public transport not only made the journey more affordable but also enriched it with spontaneous interactions and authentic encounters. Whether it was sipping tender coconut water, enjoying fresh fruit juices, or savoring local delicacies, the trip was a sensory delight that left me with a deeper appreciation for the region’s culture and natural beauty.
As I boarded the bus back to Chennai, I knew that this journey would remain etched in my memory as one of the most enriching and enjoyable travel experiences of my life.
