6-Day Shoestring Budget Itinerary for Pondicherry in December 2023

1. Day 1: Promenade Beach
   Located in the heart of the city
   Estimated Time from last location: 0 minutes

   Morning: Take a peaceful walk along the beach, watch the sunrise and enjoy the fresh breeze.
   Afternoon: Visit the War Memorial located at the beach and learn about the freedom fighters who sacrificed their lives for the country.
   Evening: Walk around the beach road and enjoy street food delicacies.

2. Day 2: Auroville
   12.5 km (30 minutes) from Promenade Beach

   Morning: Visit the famous Matri Mandir and take a peaceful walk around its surroundings.
   Afternoon: Go cycling around the eco-friendly community and explore its rustic beauty.
   Evening: Attend the Auroville amphitheatre events and interact with the locals.

3. Day 3: Chunnambar Boat House
   8.5 km (20 minutes) from Auroville

   Morning: Take a boat ride to Paradise Beach and enjoy the serene and calm environment.
   Afternoon: Experience the backwaters of Pondicherry and indulge in water sports like kayaking and canoeing.
   Evening: Visit the nearby cafes and chill with the soothing ambiance and delicious food.

4. Day 4: Sri Manakula Vinayagar Temple
   7.5 km (20 minutes) from Chunnambar Boat House

   Morning: Visit the famous temple and learn about its history and culture.
   Afternoon: Explore the nearby markets and shop for local handicrafts.
   Evening: Attend the temple's aarti and seek blessings from the deity.

5. Day 5: Botanical Garden
   4.5 km (15 minutes) from Sri Manakula Vinayagar Temple

   Morning: Take a walk and explore the different varieties of plants and trees in the garden.
   Afternoon: Visit the Aquarium located inside the garden and get a glimpse of the aquatic life.
   Evening: Enjoy a picnic with your friends and family in the garden.

6. Day 6: Ousteri Lake
   10 km (25 minutes) from Botanical Garden

   Morning: Take a boat ride around the lake and enjoy the scenic beauty of nature.
   Afternoon: Go bird watching and spot some exotic birds.
   Evening: Try some local delicacies at nearby restaurants and cafes.

Recommendations

You can visit the Paradise Island, Serenity Beach and Arikamedu. You can also take a side trip to Mahabalipuram and explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Time and Costs Estimates

• War Memorial (1 hour, free)
• Matri Mandir (1 hour, free)
• Bicycle Rental in Auroville (4 hours, INR 50 per hour)
• Chunnambar Boat House (3 hours, INR 300 per person)
• Sri Manakula Vinayagar Temple (1 hour, free)
• Botanical Garden (2 hours, INR 20 per person)
• Ousteri Lake (2 hours, INR 200 per boat)
• Total Estimated Costs: INR 740 per person

Check out https://booking.tp.st/VhZsadPo to check for hotel and flight prices.