Begin your family's Pondicherry adventure by visiting the famous Sri Aurobindo Ashram, a spiritual realm founded by Sri Aurobindo and his disciple "The Mother". Explore the peaceful atmosphere, meditation practices, gardens, and bookstores in the campus. The ashram also has accommodations available for a reasonable cost. It opens its gate from 8 am to 12 pm and 2 pm to 6 pm, and there is no fee for visitors.
Take a walk or bicycle ride with your family along the scenic Promenade Beach, the iconic seafront promenade in Pondicherry. The beach provides an amazing view of the Bay of Bengal and extends up to 1.2 km. Enjoy the street performances, outdoor games, food stalls, and shopping options available at the beach 24/7 all year round. Do not miss taking a family photo at the Gandhi Statue, which is an essence of the promenade.
Experience the unique concept of Auroville, an experimental township and a microcosm of the world, which aims at being a universal town for men and women from different countries and cultures. Visit the Matri Mandir, an extraordinary golden dome-shaped meditation center surrounded by banyan trees. Grab a bite at the famous Bread and Chocolate café, which serves some of the best French-style bread and pastries. The township is open for visitors from 9 am to 4 pm, and the Matri Mandir requires prior registration.
End your family vacation on a fun and adventurous note with a visit to the Chunnambar Boat House and Backwaters. Take a boat ride through the backwaters and enjoy the serene beauty of the mangrove forests, sandy beaches and clear blue waters. Participate in exciting activities like kayaking, canoeing, fishing, and water sports at affordable rates. The boat house operates from 8 am to 5 pm, and the backwaters close by 6 pm.
Feel free to add other activities to the itinerary, such as the Botanical Garden, French Colony, temples, churches, museums or markets, depending on your family's interests. If you have more time, you can explore nearby attractions like the Paradise Beach and the Matrimandir Viewing Point. If you have less time, you can skip Auroville and visit the Old Lighthouse or the Rock Beach. Make sure to respect the culture and traditions of the locals. Wear comfortable shoes and clothes, stay hydrated, and carry sunscreen. Have a safe and enjoyable trip!