Classic French-style breakfast in the heart of the French Quarter; great for people-watching and starting your walk. Café des Arts typically opens from about 8:00am (verify current hours).
Leisurely seaside walk along the Promenade to see colonial buildings, the Gandhi statue and the Bay of Bengal; ideal for early morning light and a relaxed orientation of the city. Public promenade is open year-round (outdoor).
Visit the Ashram’s common areas and peaceful grounds to experience Pondicherry's spiritual heart; it's calm and quiet — many visitors sit in the Samadhi hall. Typical visiting hours are mornings and late afternoons (e.g., ~6:00am–12:00pm and ~3:00pm–6:30pm) — confirm locally and maintain silence and modest dress.
Comfortable Indo-French restaurant in a heritage home serving Pondicherry-style coastal and French-influenced dishes; a good spot to sample local seafood and tiffin-style options. Typical lunch service midday (confirm reservation at busy times).
Small, well-curated museum highlighting archaeology, colonial-era artifacts and local history; useful for context on the region. Typical opening hours around mid-morning to late afternoon (e.g., 9:30am–12:30pm & 2:00pm–5:00pm) — verify current schedule.
Stroll the tree-lined lanes, colorful colonial villas and boutiques selling handmade goods, textiles and local souvenirs; relaxed exploration and photo stops in cooler afternoon light.
Return to the Promenade for sunset views; Le Café (seafront) is a popular spot for coffee or a light snack while watching the sea — many cafés operate into the evening (confirm hours).
Well-regarded restaurant blending French and South Indian flavors in a calm courtyard setting — excellent choice for a relaxed, elevated dinner in town. Typical dinner service in the evening (check reservation availability).
Light, wholesome breakfast and fresh-baked goods at the Auroville Bakery; great before exploring the Matrimandir area. Bakery typically opens early (around 7:30am–8:00am) — confirm current times.
Stop at the Visitor Centre for an orientation film and visit the Matrimandir viewpoint; inner Matrimandir visits require advance booking (free) and the Visitor Centre hours are usually morning and afternoon (e.g., 9:00am–12:30pm, 2:00pm–5:00pm). Confirm bookings and arrive early.
Simple, healthy, budget-friendly community lunch with locally sourced ingredients — a good way to taste Auroville's communal dining. Solar Kitchen typically serves lunch around midday (check exact service window).
Browse handicrafts, textiles, natural cosmetics and Auroville-made goods; a chance to pick unique souvenirs and support local artisans. Shops generally open late morning to early evening, but hours vary by store.
Serenity Beach is popular with beginner surfers and for peaceful sunsets; surf lessons and board rentals are available (lessons typically run in the morning and late afternoon) — check operator schedules and book lessons in advance if needed.
Reliable, authentic South Indian vegetarian meals (thalis and tiffin dishes) — budget-friendly and open into the evening in many locations. Good option for a hearty, simple dinner near the town center.
French-style pastries and hearty breakfast options to fuel a beach day; Baker Street is a popular local bakery with morning service (confirm opening time).
Scenic boat ride to Paradise Beach (often called Paradise/Plage) with white sand and calm waters — Chunnambar boat services usually operate from morning until mid-afternoon (typical trips from ~9:00am with return boats before sunset); plan your return time with the boat operator and carry sun protection.
Casual seafood and local dishes at beach shacks; simple, relaxed lunch after swimming and sunbathing. Menu options are basic; confirm availability and cash/card options.
Short drive to Ousteri Lake for late-afternoon birdwatching (best light) and quiet water views; local boats and observation areas are available — the lake is open during the day, but facilities vary, so check access locally.
Final souvenir run through Pondicherry’s busiest shopping streets: textiles, homeware, spices and handicrafts. Shops commonly open until evening; verify hours for specific shops.
Enjoy a relaxed seaside dinner to finish your trip; Le Café is a popular seafront option (many seafront cafés operate late), but confirm open hours and consider booking for a weekend evening.