2-Day Family-Friendly Itinerary in Pondicherry, July 2023

1. Day 1: Morning - Sri Aurobindo Ashram
   5 minutes (0.3 miles) from Promenade Beach

   Start your day by visiting Sri Aurobindo Ashram, a spiritual and cultural center founded by Sri Aurobindo Ghose. Here, you can learn about Aurobindo's philosophy and his ideals of integral yoga. You can also observe the way of life of the Ashramites and explore the ashram's beautiful gardens.

   Day 1: Afternoon - Promenade Beach
   10 minutes (1.2 miles) from Sri Aurobindo Ashram

   Head to Promenade Beach for a relaxing afternoon. This long, sandy beach is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and playing beach games. You can also take a stroll along the promenade and enjoy the sea breeze. There are several food stalls and cafes nearby where you can grab a quick bite.

   Day 1: Evening - Seaside Promenade
   5 minutes (0.4 miles) from Promenade Beach

   As the sun sets, take a leisurely walk along Seaside Promenade. This 1.2 km long promenade is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. You can enjoy the sea view, people-watch, and take some Instagram-worthy photos. There are also several street performers and vendors selling souvenirs.

2. Day 2: Morning - Botanical Garden
   10 minutes (2.5 miles) from Seaside Promenade

   Start your day by visiting the Botanical Garden, a lush green oasis in the heart of the city. The garden boasts of a wide variety of flora and fauna, including rare species of plants and trees. You can take a guided tour or explore the garden on your own. Don't miss the musical fountain show which takes place every evening.

   Day 2: Afternoon - Chunnambar Boat House
   20 minutes (7.5 miles) from Botanical Garden

   After lunch, head to Chunnambar Boat House for an exciting boating experience. The boat house is located on the banks of the Chunnambar River and offers various boating options, including speed boats, banana boats, and kayaks. You can also relax on the pristine Paradise Beach and enjoy the scenic beauty.

   Day 2: Evening - Auroville
   30 minutes (10 miles) from Chunnambar Boat House

   End your day by visiting Auroville, an experimental township founded by The Mother and designed by Roger Anger. Auroville is a unique community that aims to promote human unity and sustainable living. You can visit the Matrimandir, a golden globe-shaped structure that serves as the center of Auroville. You can also explore the various art galleries, workshops, and boutiques in the township.

Recommendations

If you have some spare time, you can also visit the following attractions:

• French War Memorial (closed on Mondays)
• Pondicherry Museum (closed on Mondays and public holidays)
• Arikamedu Archaeological Site (closed on Mondays and public holidays)

For a day trip, you can visit Mahabalipuram, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its ancient temples and rock-cut sculptures. You can also hire a bike and explore the scenic countryside around Pondicherry.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Sri Aurobindo Ashram (1 hour, free)
• Promenade Beach (2 hours, free)
• Seaside Promenade (1 hour, free)
• Botanical Garden (2 hours, INR 20 per person)
• Chunnambar Boat House (2 hours, INR 300 per person)
• Auroville (3 hours, free)
• Total Estimated Costs: INR 320 per person

For hotel and flight bookings, check https://booking.tp.st/VhZsadPo