Road trip - Chettinad Trails & Coastal Tales
A 7-day road trip covering Rameshwaram, Chettinad & Tharangambadi. A trip focused on exploring few of the south-eastern coastal cities and world famoud food of Chettinad
A week-long road trip along Tamil Nadu’s eastern coast, from the sacred shores of Rameshwaram to the heritage lanes of Chettinad and the serene beaches of Tharangambadi. A journey filled with history, culture, architecture, and coastal charm — perfect for slow travel, cultural immersion, good food, and timeless stories
Travel details
Total distance 1500 kilometers approx
Total driving time 28 hours
Route 🚗 Bengaluru -> Rameshwaram -> Chettinad -> Tranquebar -> Bangalore
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Bengaluru to Rameshawaram - The Long Drive, Pamban Bridge view rewards
25 Sep 2025
Our trip began early, at 6:15 am from Bangalore, with Rameshwaram as the destination. This was the longest drive of the journey, so we made sure to start with full energy. By 8 am we stopped at Murugan Idli on NH44, a place already buzzing with people. Breakfast was a proper South Indian spread—podi idlis dripping with ghee, sweet pongal, dosa, uttapam, and strong filter coffee. A perfect start!
From there, the road took us through Krishnagiri, Salem, Namakkal, Karur, Dindigul, Madurai, Ramanathapuram, and finally Rameshwaram. The entire drive took about 10.5 hours, including a long lunch break in Madurai. We ate at New Shree Ram Mess—fresh, tasty food with enough parking nearby, which was a relief when traveling with kids. Traffic wasn’t too bad except while leaving Bangalore and later inside Madurai city.
The most exciting part was crossing the Pamban Bridge before entering Rameshwaram. The sea on both sides, dotted with colorful fishing boats, made the drive absolutely scenic and memorable.
Once we reached, we stopped for tea and a short break before heading out. Our first stop was Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam’s house, a simple yet inspiring place that reminded us of his humble beginnings. For dinner, we decided to be adventurous and tried a small local eatery called Jaya Seafood. The place was basic, but the seafood was fresh and cooked right in front of us. We ordered pomfret and prawns, which turned out delicious, though a bit oily. The highlight was the shrimps with Kerala parotta—an unexpectedly great combo!
We ended the day at our hotel, Boomerang, which was new, clean, and very comfortable. The service was warm and welcoming—just what we needed after a long day on the road.
Highlights
- ✅ Views from the Pamban bridge were spectacular
- ✅ Food at Murugan Idli and Shree Ram Mess if you are looking for low key delicious affair
- ✅ Seafood in Rameshwaram
- ❌ Commercialization of the Dr APJ Abdul Kalam's house. Some stuff was interesting
Photos
Our breakfast stop at the end of 2nd hour of trip start. Thankfully we beat most of the traffic, by the time we were done, waiting was 30 minutes
Our humble lunch stop in Madurai that did not disappoint for food
Delicious meal at the Shree Ram Mess in Madurai
View from the pamban bridge on one of the sides. Full of colorful boats
The Dr APJ Abdul Kalam's house. A collection of memorebilia and some of his belongings. House is massively rennovated now and commercialized
The amazingly fresh fish fry
The amazingly fresh fish fry
Spicy & sweet prawns with Kerela prataha
Accommodation
Boomerank Rameshwaram
A recently built hotel with spacious, functional rooms that feels fresh and well maintained. The real highlight, though, is the warm and attentive service — every staff member is cheerful and eager to help. The property has a clean pool and is managed well, though the in-house kitchen wasn’t operational during our stay. To make up for it, the team happily arranged food from different restaurants outside and ensured it was delivered just the way we wanted. Conveniently located between Rameswaram town and the Pamban Bridge, it’s a practical and value-for-money choice that I’d recommend
Places to Eat
Murugan Idli
📍 Murugan Idli Shop, Binapalli Village, NH 44
Famous for its Podi Idli and Sweet Pongal the breakfast dishes are soaked in ghee and podi masala. They are a must try if you like rich south indian dishes. Sweet Pongal made from jaggery, cahswes and other rich ingredients are worth sampling even if you have never tried before. It gets crazy crowded after 8 am with often wait times extending to 30 minutes and more. So recommedn that you reach by 7:30 am or so to beat the traffic
New Sri Ram Mess
A humble setup with AC and Non AC seating areas. The Thali cost was around INR 150 per person. With great service, freshly prepared food that was delicious and local. Highly recommended if you are looking for a fixed menu, all vegeterian and a quick turn around. There is also a car parking nearby on the same street if you are driving down
Jaya Seafood
📍 Hotel Sangeeth Palace, Rameshwaram
It is a small hole in the wall. Not marked on the map however very close to Hotel Sangeeth Palace. Look on your left (if Hotel Sangeeth Palace is on your left) and find Jaya Seafood. Great service and people. You should be willing to compromise on the setup of the kitchen and area for freshly prepared food. A bit oily
Additional Considerations
The toll road costed around 700-800 INR between Bangalore and Rameshwaram. You can park the car at the Rameshwaram end of Pamban bridge and walk down to the middle to observe the old and the new bridges on the train track that have been built to let the ships pass. Plan for Madurai as the food stopover. If you would like temple visit as well, you will need to plan better and start earlier
Day 2: Dhanushkodi, Sea Breeze & A Train over the Pamban
26 Sep 2025
After a relaxed breakfast at the hotel, we decided to keep the day light but interesting. Our plan was simple: drive to Dhanushkodi, visit the lighthouse, try some water sports, take the train ride over the Pamban Bridge, and wrap it all up with a nice dinner.
We started around 9 am, and the drive to Dhanushkodi was an experience in itself. The road is flanked by the sea on both sides—one side with restless waves crashing hard, the other side calm and flat like a lake. Even the kids noticed the stark contrast and kept pointing it out. We stopped at a small beach with a steep slope into the water, splashed around for a bit, and clicked a few pictures before moving on.
The Dhanushkodi Lighthouse was our next stop. Unlike old lighthouses where you climb up spiral staircases, this one had a lift, managed by staff who let visitors up in batches. From the top, the view was spectacular—salty wind blowing hard on our faces and endless blue on all sides. Looking down, we could spot the remains of the “ghost town” of Dhanushkodi, which was wiped out in the 1964 cyclone. The ruins of churches and houses are still half-buried in the sand, standing as a quiet reminder of what once was. (Access to the actual light is restricted now; visitors are only allowed up to the viewing floor.)
We had hoped for water sports next, but since the tide was low, most activities were shut. Luckily, snorkeling was still available. The kids were thrilled to get into the sea, and we managed to spot corals, colorful fish, sea cucumbers, and even urchins. The corals here are large but not as vibrant as we had imagined. Still, it was a fun, refreshing experience.
By lunch, we were famished. We headed back to the hotel and ordered food in from a nearby restaurant. A short rest later, it was time for the part we were most excited about—the train journey over the Pamban Bridge.
We bought general tickets for just ₹94 for two adults and boarded the 4:30 pm train from Rameshwaram station. The general coach was crowded, so we stood near the open gate for the best view. Pro tip for future travelers: since Rameshwaram is the starting point, sleeper coaches are usually empty—you can buy sleeper or even general tickets and sit there comfortably until ticket checking begins. Don’t book AC, though—the windows are sealed and you’ll miss the magic.
As the train slowly crossed the bridge, it felt surreal. Water stretched endlessly on both sides, fishing boats looked like toy models, and the salty breeze rushed in. The kids were wide-eyed, and honestly, so were we. On the other side, we got off at Mandapam, the first town after the bridge, and took an auto back to Rameshwaram (₹500 for the ride).
We picked up our car from the station, stopped for filter coffee, and ended the day with dinner at Ahaan Restaurant (Daiwik Hotels). Instead of the buffet, we went with à la carte—service was a bit slow since they were understaffed that day, but the food was good. By the time we returned to our hotel, everyone was ready to crash after a full and satisfying day.
Highlights
- ✅ Snorkeling and view of the corals for the first time in India
- ✅ Views from the train over the Pamban bridge
- ✅ Drive to Dhanushkodi and the beach there to enjoy the water
- ❌ The expensive Auto ride from Madappam to Ramehswaram
Photos
Beach at Dhanushkodi. Emerld green waters with steep slope into the sea
View from the Light House at Dhanushkodi
The majestic light house at Dhanushkodi
Enroute to do snorkling
All aboard for the Pamban bridge view
Snorkling under water to see corals and sea creatures
The Mandappam train station that we disembarked on
The view of the sea from the train bridge
View from the light house
Accommodation
Boomerank Rameshwaram
A recently built hotel with spacious, functional rooms that feels fresh and well maintained. The real highlight, though, is the warm and attentive service — every staff member is cheerful and eager to help. The property has a clean pool and is managed well, though the in-house kitchen wasn’t operational during our stay. To make up for it, the team happily arranged food from different restaurants outside and ensured it was delivered just the way we wanted. Conveniently located between Rameswaram town and the Pamban Bridge, it’s a practical and value-for-money choice that I’d recommend
Places to Eat
Ahaan Restaurant
📍 Ahaan Restaurant Rameshwaram
The restaurant itself was a wierd setup, a very large hall that looked like a Banquet hall turned restaurant. The service was a bit slow, however the food was ok. We tried vegeterian dishes and they were all decently good. If you are looking for a mid range place to try with predictable food, then we recommend it. Don't expect stellar service or fantastic ambience
Additional Considerations
The beach at Dhanushkodi has a steep slope, so keep a close watch on kids when they play near the water. The lighthouse now uses a lift, so elderly visitors will find it easier to go up, but access to the top light is not allowed. Water activities depend heavily on tides—call ahead if snorkeling or boating is a priority. For the train ride over Pamban, avoid AC tickets; sleeper class offers comfort with open windows, while general class guarantees energy and views if you don’t mind the crowd. Autos from Mandapam to Rameshwaram can be pricey, so check rates beforehand or arrange a pickup
Day 3: From Science to Spice: Rameshwaram to Chettinad
27 Sep 2025
Day 3 was a mix of exploration and easy downtime. We started around 9:30 am, our first stop being the Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Memorial. Phones weren’t allowed inside, so we left them in the car and took a quiet tour. The memorial showcases his life through photographs, personal belongings, and achievements—a simple yet powerful tribute to one of India’s most loved presidents. The kids found it fascinating, especially to see how a man from such humble beginnings went on to become a scientist and the “People’s President.”
Next, we paused at the Pamban Bridge, this time on foot. It was sunny but breezy, and walking on the bridge gave us a closer look at its engineering marvel. The bridge opens up for ships to pass and otherwise carries trains between the island and the mainland—quite a sight to imagine!
From there, we began our drive towards Pudukkottai, in the Chettinad region. Chettinad isn’t one city but a cluster of around 75 villages once home to the wealthy Chettiyar community, known for their business ventures across South and Southeast Asia. Their grand ancestral homes—called havelis or villas—reflect their prosperity and exquisite taste.
We had booked a stay at Chidambaram Vilas, one of the finest restored heritage mansions in the area. The property was stunning—sprawling courtyards, antique furniture, and charming relics from another era. The rooms had beautiful old photographs, wooden ceilings, and even a hand-pulled fan made of rope and cloth—a true window into the past.
After settling in, we drove to Kanadukathan, a nearby town known for its grand Wadiyar Palace and the Lotus Restaurant opposite it. Lunch there was a treat! The authentic Chettinad cuisine lived up to its reputation—bold flavors, rich spices, and perfectly balanced heat. Historically, since Chettinad was a dry region with limited water, locals relied heavily on sun-drying ingredients and using strong spices for preservation. That legacy still shines through in their cooking.
We explored the Wadiyar Haveli, admiring its unique architecture—large courtyards, long corridors, and beautifully laid-out rooms for everything from family gatherings to weddings. Each section told a story about how life once revolved around the home.
Back at Chidambaram Vilas, we took a dip in the pool and joined an evening cooking session organized by the hotel. The kids loved drawing water from an old well with a rope and pulley. Later, we had tea and snacks in the open courtyard as the sun began to set.
Dinner was relaxed. Though the buffet was extensive, we opted for à la carte, picking a few simple dishes from the same menu. After eating to our hearts’ content, we took a slow walk around the property under the moonlight. The mansion looked even more magical at night—quiet, dignified, and full of history. Before calling it a day, we climbed up to the terrace for one last look at the property glowing under the night sky. Soon, we were all tucked in, ready to explore more the next morning.
Highlights
- ✅ Chidambaram Vilas and the rooms at the property were prefect relaxing blend for the time spent in Chettinad
- ✅ The food. All meals including the lunch, tea and dinner were fantastic local fares
- ✅ The placid swimming pool and our relaxed time spent in it at the Vila
Photos
View from the pamdan bridge while leaving Rameshwaram
One of the halls in the haveli
The exquisitely carved doors for the second entrance to the haveli's veranda
Our room in the Vila. Mix of heritage style and modern comforts
Frames on the walls in the room
Frames on the walls in the room
Lotus Chettinad restaurant. Another beautiful vila
During our visit there were golu dolls in one of the verandas
A cooking class organized by Vila folks to demonstrate Chettinad cuisine
The outcome of the cooking session
Dropping the bucket to fetch water from the water well at the Vila
The swimming pool at the property that we relaxed into
The beautiful vila in the moonlight from the terrace
The menu for the buffet as well as the A-la-carte if you want to order
Different things to do at the Haveli
Accommodation
Chidambaram Vilas
📍 Chidambaram Vilas, Pudukkottai
A heritage property owned by a Chettiar business family, this place beautifully blends the old with the new. It offers every modern comfort while surrounding you with nostalgia and history—each wall and room seems to tell a story. The property itself is worth a visit, with a serene swimming pool, delicious local cuisine, and thoughtful experiences like village walks, traditional art lessons such as garland-making, and authentic Chettinad cooking sessions. It’s a must-visit and an absolute delight. There are several other heritage villas in the region, each with its own charm, but Chidambaram Vilas stands out as one of the most elegant and expansive. There’s also ample parking if you’re driving there.
Places to Eat
Lotus Chettinad
📍 Lotus Chettinad, Kanadukathan Town
A property similar to Chidambaram Vilas, we didn’t stay here but decided to visit for lunch—and it was absolutely worth it. Among all the dishes we tried, the fish curry with steamed rice stood out as the clear winner. The tangy tamarind flavor in the curry was simply outstanding! Highly recommend this place if you’re looking for a great meal in the area
Additional Considerations
Phones and cameras aren’t allowed inside Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Memorial, so keep valuables safely in your car or hotel. Plan to reach Chettinad before dark, as the village roads can be confusing at night. Book heritage walks or cooking sessions at properties like Chidambaram Vilas in advance, the availability of the property is difficult. Chettinad cuisine is rich and spicy—check spice levels before ordering, especially for kids. Carry some cash, since many local spots and guides may not accept cards.
Day 4: Walking Through History in Chettinad
28 Sep 2025
Day 4 began with a village walk around Pudukkottai, giving us a glimpse into how time has shaped Chettinad and its people. Our guide shared stories of how the Chettiyars, once a powerful business community, migrated abroad during World War II when their trade was affected. Many of their grand ancestral homes—called vilas—are now owned by expats or caught up in family disputes.
The villages were built in a grid layout, designed for easy surveillance in older times. With their flourishing businesses, these families often stored huge sums of cash at home, so the men would sleep inside to guard the wealth. Schools, hospitals, and libraries were often co-funded by the Chettiyars and the government—though the land still belongs to the Chettiyar families today.
Every house in Chettinad is a show of grandeur and global influence. Marble came from Italy, glass from Belgium, and idols from across Southeast Asia. You can even spot design elements inspired by Burma, Indonesia, and Malaysia—countries where many Chettiyars once ran businesses.
After the walk and a garland making session, we indulged in a hearty breakfast. Once we were ready, we set out to explore local crafts. Our first stop was a cotton weaving unit, where we saw how the famous Chettinad cotton is made. The intricate weaving, the rhythm of the looms, and the soft texture of the fabric were fascinating to watch. Of course, a bit of saree shopping followed!
Next, we visited a small factory that made Athangudi tiles, known for being handcrafted, eco-friendly, and brightly colored. Watching the process was mesmerizing—workers carefully poured colored liquid into stencils, topped it with sand and cement, and left it to dry. Each tile was made by hand, though we couldn’t help noticing how tough the conditions were, with no safety gear in sight. The finished tiles, though, looked absolutely stunning—each one unique.
Our next stop was the Athangudi Palace, another grand Chettinad home that’s open to visitors. The architecture and antique-filled corridors felt like stepping back in time. While it was impressive, we still found Chidambaram Vilas more captivating in its charm and upkeep.
By lunchtime, we were at The Bangala in Karaikudi, the first heritage property in the region to open for tourists. It’s less ornate than the other vilas but has earned its fame for its food—and rightly so. Their set lunch menu was incredible, a feast of authentic Chettinad flavors that left us both full and sleepy.
After lunch, we walked through the Karaikudi antique market, a treasure trove of vintage furniture, brass items, and old collectibles. We didn’t buy much, except for one memorable find—a stone grinder (silbatta) made from local stone that weighed at least 15–20 kilos!
By late afternoon, we returned to our villa for a nap. Evening followed the same comforting rhythm—tea and snacks, a swim, and a round of photos. Dinner was light and quick; after a day full of walking, driving, and exploring, we were ready to call it a night.
Highlights
- ✅ Local artisan visit to cotton weaving and tile making
- ✅ Vila tours for different vilas in the region
- ✅ Mouthwatering lunch at The Bangala
Photos
Houses on the village tour
Burma idols in the vila due to south east asian influence
Making garland in the morning
A veranda in the Chidambaram Vila
A hand crafted Athangudi tiles
Weaving of cotton cloth to create sarees, towel, dress material
Woven cotton sarees in the handloom
Spinning cotton reels for the weaving
The entry to the Bangala in Karaikudi
The amazing Bangala meal in Karikudi
The spiral staircase leading to the rooftop
Accommodation
Chidambaram Vilas
📍 Chidambaram Vilas, Pudukkottai
A heritage property owned by a Chettiar business family, this place beautifully blends the old with the new. It offers every modern comfort while surrounding you with nostalgia and history—each wall and room seems to tell a story. The property itself is worth a visit, with a serene swimming pool, delicious local cuisine, and thoughtful experiences like village walks, traditional art lessons such as garland-making, and authentic Chettinad cooking sessions. It’s a must-visit and an absolute delight. There are several other heritage villas in the region, each with its own charm, but Chidambaram Vilas stands out as one of the most elegant and expansive. There’s also ample parking if you’re driving there.
Places to Eat
The Bangala
The Bangala is known as the first Chettinad heritage home turned into a hotel, and its food completely lives up to the reputation. The set lunch menu is an absolute treat—served in traditional style, featuring a variety of local Chettinad dishes that balance spice, flavor, and freshness perfectly. Every item felt thoughtfully prepared, and the service was warm and unhurried. The meal ended up being so hearty that we walked out sleepy and satisfied. A definite must-visit for anyone exploring Karaikudi!
Additional Considerations
Early morning is the best time for village walks—it’s cooler and quieter. Most Chettinad craft workshops (like cotton weaving or tile-making) welcome visitors, but check timings in advance. Athangudi tiles are heavy and fragile—carry them only if you’re driving. The Bangala’s lunch is a must-try; make reservations ahead, especially on weekends. Karaikudi antique market is a great stop even if you don’t plan to shop—it’s like an open museum of old-world charm.
Day 5: From Heritage to the Coast: Chettinad to Tharangambadi
29 Sep 2025
Day 5 began at an easy pace since our next stop, Tharangambadi (also known as Tranquebar), was just about a 3.5-hour drive from Chettinad. We lingered over the extensive breakfast buffet at our villa one last time before hitting the road around 9:30 am.
The drive was smooth and uneventful, except for one delightful discovery—roadside cashew sellers! Rows of stalls with freshly roasted cashews tempted us, and of course, we couldn’t resist picking up a few packets. They were crisp, flavorful, and made for the perfect travel snack.
By 1:30 pm, we arrived in Tharangambadi, a quiet seaside town with a fascinating history. This was once a Danish colony, established in 1620 when the King of Tanjore, Raghunatha Nayak, leased the land to Danish Admiral Ove Gjedde. While the British, Dutch, and French were expanding trade elsewhere, the Danes chose this serene corner of the Coromandel Coast to set up their port. The king granted them 32 square kilometers along with nearby villages, and soon after, they built the Dansborg Fort, which still stands strong facing the sea.
Our stay was at the Bungalow by the Beach, right opposite the fort. This charming heritage property, restored by Neemrana Hotels, perfectly captures the old-world Danish feel. The building carries the grace of age—spiral staircases, high ceilings, vintage portraits, and walls painted in warm, sunny colors. Each room is named after a Danish ship, which in turn took its name from a royal princess. The sea-facing view and the salty breeze made it instantly relaxing.
We ordered lunch, which took a while since everything was freshly prepared, but it was worth the wait. On that day, there were only two families staying at the property, so the service was slow but personal and friendly.
The rest of the day was pure relaxation. We spent the afternoon lounging in our airy rooms and later walked down to the beach right across the fort. The kids had a great time playing in the sand and running along the water’s edge. As evening fell, the area around the fort came alive—local families gathered, food stalls opened up, and the air was filled with laughter and the smell of fried snacks.
The afternoon heat gave way to a cool coastal breeze, and the whole place took on a festive yet peaceful vibe. We watched the sunset by the sea, grabbed a simple dinner back at the bungalow, and called it an early night. It was the kind of day that feels slow and perfect—the sea, the breeze, and the quiet charm of an old town full of stories.
Highlights
- ✅ Rustic rooms at the Bunglow by the beach in Tranquebar
- ✅ Enjoying the Sea at Tharangamwadi / Tranquebar
- ✅ Roasted cashews from the roadside on the way to Tranquebar
Photos
The last buffet breakfast at the Chidambaram vilas
Fishcurry ordered at the Bunglow by the beach
Laziness setting in while ordering the food
Our rustic room with an extra bed to sleep comfortably
Painting in the room depicting Danish personas
Painting in the room depicting Danish personas
Playing at the sea in evening, in a cool evening
Accommodation
Bunglow by the beach, Tranquebar
📍 Bunglow by the beach, Tranquebar
Bungalow by the Beach is a charming heritage property managed by Neemrana Hotels, located right opposite the historic Dansborg Fort and overlooking the sea. The rooms are spacious, breezy, and thoughtfully decorated with vintage furniture and bright colors that reflect the coastal vibe. The food is limited but freshly prepared, though service can be on the slower side, which feels fitting for the relaxed pace of the town. The staff are warm and helpful.If you’re looking for luxury in the conventional sense, this may not be it—but if you love heritage stays with soul, character, and ocean views, this place is perfect
Additional Considerations
The Neemrana Bungalow by the Beach is a heritage property, so expect slower service but a more authentic, old-world experience. There are not many other options to stay except a few more properties. Evenings are the best time to explore Tranquebar—the beachside fort area turns lively with locals and food stalls. Carry light cottons and sun protection; afternoons can get quite hot. Roadside roasted cashews between Chettinad and Tharangambadi are a must-try (and make for great travel snacks). The fort and nearby museum close early in the evening, so plan sightseeing accordingly if you intend to visit inside.
Day 6: Dolphins, History, and a Perfect Goodbye
30 Sep 2025
Our last day of the trip began early as we woke up around 5:45 am to catch the sunrise from the terrace. We could imagine how stunning it would’ve been to watch the sun rise over the sea—if only the clouds hadn’t decided to join us that morning. After waiting a bit, we gave up, went back to sleep, and started the day a little later on a more relaxed note without much of a plan—just some sightseeing around Tharangambadi before heading home the next day. We started around 9:30 am and made our way to the Danish Fort, right on the beach. The fort was under renovation, but parts of it were open to visitors. Inside, a small museum displayed artifacts and cultural pieces from the Danish period—maps, coins, and trade items that gave a glimpse of how life might have been here centuries ago.
Next, we visited the Governor’s House, which was also being restored, and then walked to the Commander’s House and Maritime Museum. These had a few rooms with posters, photographs, and old items from the colonial days. It wasn’t a long tour, but it was interesting enough to keep the kids engaged for a while. By the time we finished, the sun had started to get harsh, so we decided to go for a drive.
The drive led us to a stretch of road that extended right into the sea—a peaceful dead end with endless blue on all sides. We paused there for a bit, enjoying the view and the sea breeze before heading back into town.
We explored the small streets of Tranquebar by car, picked up some fresh fruits from local vendors, and looked for a new lunch spot for a change of menu. We found another nearby hotel and decided to walk there—it’s easy to do since the town is tiny and everything is close by. Lunch was simple and decent, though nothing memorable.
After returning to our bungalow, we rested for a bit before stepping out in the evening for some beach time—and it turned out to be the highlight of the day. As we stood by the shore, we noticed a large pod of dolphins swimming past, leaping in and out of the waves. There must have been at least 30 to 40 of them, gliding close to the surface and chasing fish. It was a magical sight—one of those moments that catches you completely by surprise. Watching them play in their natural setting felt like the perfect farewell gift from the sea.
After the excitement settled, we took a dip in the swimming pool and spent some more time splashing around as the sun went down. Later that evening, dinner was served on the veranda, in a quiet and beautifully arranged setup. The food was lovely, but more than that, it was the calm and the sound of the waves that made it special.
As we wrapped up the evening and headed to bed, it felt like the trip had come full circle—six days filled with new sights, stories, and a deeper sense of connection with Tamil Nadu’s coast. The next day would be a long drive back to Bangalore, but that night, we fell asleep with the sound of the sea and the memory of dolphins still fresh in our minds.
Highlights
- ✅ Watching Dolphins pass by the beach fishing and frolicking
- ✅ Learning and reading up the history of Danish trading setup in India
Photos
Tharangamwadi village with beautiful houses
The Dansborg fort under rennovation
A view of the beach from the Dansborg
A antique chess seen at the maritime museum in Tranquebar
More frames of Danish personas in the property
A rare occassion where we saw dolphins passing by the beach in large numbers and catching fishes
Freshly prepared pasta for the kids in the dinner
An open veranda in the property where they arranged a private dinner for us to enjoy
Accommodation
Bunglow by the beach, Tranquebar
📍 Bunglow by the beach, Tranquebar
Bungalow by the Beach is a charming heritage property managed by Neemrana Hotels, located right opposite the historic Dansborg Fort and overlooking the sea. The rooms are spacious, breezy, and thoughtfully decorated with vintage furniture and bright colors that reflect the coastal vibe. The food is limited but freshly prepared, though service can be on the slower side, which feels fitting for the relaxed pace of the town. The staff are warm and helpful.If you’re looking for luxury in the conventional sense, this may not be it—but if you love heritage stays with soul, character, and ocean views, this place is perfect
Additional Considerations
The Danish Fort and museums close by afternoon, so it’s best to visit in the morning before it gets too hot. The town is small—perfect for walking, but carry caps and water since there’s limited shade. Don’t miss an evening at the beach near the fort; if you’re lucky, you might spot dolphins too. Dining options are limited in Tharangambadi, so plan ahead or call hotels to confirm if they’re open for walk-ins. The road into the sea makes for a great photo stop—just be cautious of tides and loose sand near the end.
Day 7: The Long Drive Home
1 Oct 2025
The final day of our trip was all about the journey back from Tranquebar to Bangalore. We packed up and were ready by 8:30 am, finished breakfast by 9:15, and hit the road shortly after. The drive was smooth and uneventful—about eight hours in total. With clear roads and light traffic, especially on the stretch through Salem, we made good time.
Since breakfast had been heavy, we skipped lunch until later in the day, finally stopping at Hotel Saravana Bhavan Classic in Bayanapalli for a quick meal. By 4:30 pm, we were back home—tired but content.
The rest of the evening was spent unpacking, unwinding, and doing what every traveler does at the end of a good vacation—reluctantly admitting it’s over. This was our second big trip of 2025, and as we sat at home reminiscing about the beaches, forts, and Chettinad mansions, we couldn’t help but already start dreaming about where 2026 might take us next.
Highlights
- ✅ A smooth no traffic jam drive from Tranquebar to Home!
- ❌ The vacation was over
Photos
The bunglow by the beach that we stayed in
Waiting for the lunch to come in Sarvana bhavan
Reviewing the history of Tranquebar on the way back from the leaflet we picked from Museum
Accommodation
Bunglow by the beach, Tranquebar
📍 Bunglow by the beach, Tranquebar
Bungalow by the Beach is a charming heritage property managed by Neemrana Hotels, located right opposite the historic Dansborg Fort and overlooking the sea. The rooms are spacious, breezy, and thoughtfully decorated with vintage furniture and bright colors that reflect the coastal vibe. The food is limited but freshly prepared, though service can be on the slower side, which feels fitting for the relaxed pace of the town. The staff are warm and helpful.If you’re looking for luxury in the conventional sense, this may not be it—but if you love heritage stays with soul, character, and ocean views, this place is perfect
Places to Eat
Hotel Saravana Bhavan Classic, Bayanapalli
📍 Hotel Saravana Bhavan Classic, Bayanapalli
The food for fresh and tasty. The toilets were extremely bad and we dared not use them. Service was quick. Would recommend an alternate place only because if you are stopping here you may also want clean toilets which this place could not offer
Additional Considerations
Start early from Tranquebar to avoid afternoon traffic near Salem. The Salem route is in good condition—plan short breaks to keep the drive easy. Carry snacks and water, as food options are limited until you reach Krishnagiri. Saravana Bhavan at Krishnagiri is a reliable stop for clean washrooms and fresh South Indian food