Arrive at your hotel or guesthouse in White Town; unload luggage and park — most hotels provide on-site or nearby paid parking. Gives you time to freshen up before exploring the town.
Le Café on the seafront is famous for light breakfasts, good coffee and people-watching; it's open late and ideal if you arrive mid-morning. A relaxed way to get your bearings facing the sea.
Wander the colourful colonial villas, bougainvillea-lined lanes and heritage streets of White Town to photograph architecture and boutiques; easy walking with many cafes and galleries. Streets are open all day — do wear comfortable shoes.
Visit the peaceful ashram and samadhi to learn about Sri Aurobindo and The Mother; it’s a calm, contemplative stop inside the town centre — check dress code (modest) and keep silence inside the samadhi area.
Stroll along Goubert Avenue and the emblematic Promenade — best for late-afternoon sea breeze and sunset views; the promenade is open 24 hours and great for photos and vendors.
Enjoy a refined blend of Indian and French-influenced cuisine in a pretty heritage setting; great place for a relaxed evening meal in White Town (reservations recommended).
Head to Chunnambar Boat House for the boat ride to Paradise Beach (also called Plage Paradiso); boats usually run from around 8:00am to late afternoon, but services can vary so arrive early. Paradise Beach has clear water and a quieter shore for morning relaxation.
Short drive to Auroville (approx 25–40 minutes from central Pondicherry depending on traffic) — park at the Visitors' Centre to begin Auroville exploration.
Solar Kitchen serves simple, wholesome vegetarian meals served cafeteria-style with an international Auroville crowd; it’s a great, budget-friendly way to taste local/international vegetarian cuisine. Solar Kitchen typically serves lunch from around 12:00–2:30pm.
Visit the Visitors' Centre exhibition to understand Auroville's ideals and crafts; if you pre-booked a Matrimandir inner chamber visit, this is when you will go (Matrimandir viewing requires advance booking — check the official Auroville booking site and arrive early).
Drive back to Pondicherry for evening shopping: boutique shops, Auroville products on Mission Street and handmade goods around White Town are open until early evening — perfect to pick up soaps, fabrics and handicrafts.
Enjoy a relaxed dinner in a bohemian French-style café that serves Mediterranean and French dishes; lively atmosphere and a good spot for people-watching in White Town (opens through the evening).
Visit the well-kept Botanical Garden to see orchids, palms and seasonal flower beds; it’s an early-morning favourite for local joggers and photographers. Usually open from early morning until late afternoon—confirm exact hours locally.
Walk through Bharathi Park and pop into the small Government Museum nearby for local archaeology and colonial artifacts; museum hours are often 9:00am–1:00pm and 2:00pm–5:00pm so visit in the morning slot to avoid closures.
Have a hearty South Indian thali or dosa at Surguru — a reliable spot for authentic local vegetarian meals and quick service before your departure. Open throughout the day, ideal for a last local meal.
Pick up any last souvenirs on Mission Street or stroll Rock Beach to relax before packing; useful window to return to hotel, check out and load the car.