Explore Pondicherry in Two Days

  1. Day 1: Auroville
    15 mins (7 km) from central Pondicherry

    Start your journey by visiting Auroville, the city of dawn. This unique place is known for its cultural diversity and spiritual atmosphere. You can visit the famous Matrimandir, a golden dome that represents the human soul's aspiration towards the Divine, and explore the peaceful surroundings of the Auroville forest.

  2. Day 1: Promenade Beach
    20 mins (7 km) from Auroville

    After visiting Auroville, head to Promenade Beach to relax and enjoy the beautiful view of the Bay of Bengal. This beach is known for its beautiful sunrises and sunsets, so make sure to time your visit right. You can also take a stroll along the Rock Beach promenade, which has many cafes and restaurants to enjoy.

  3. Day 1: Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus
    5 mins (1.5 km) from Promenade Beach

    End your day by visiting the Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, an iconic church in Pondicherry. This beautiful church has Gothic architecture and stained-glass windows, making it a must-see for history and art lovers alike.

  4. Day 2: Sri Aurobindo Ashram
    10 mins (3.5 km) from central Pondicherry

    Start your day at the Sri Aurobindo Ashram, a spiritual community founded by Sri Aurobindo and his spiritual collaborator known as The Mother. This ashram is a must-see for those interested in spirituality and meditation. You can also visit the ashram's library, which has a vast collection of spiritual and philosophical books.

  5. Day 2: Pondicherry Museum
    5 mins (1.5 km) from Sri Aurobindo Ashram

    After visiting the ashram, head over to the Pondicherry Museum, which showcases the town's French colonial past. You can explore various exhibits, including antique furniture, sculptures, and paintings. Don't miss the museum's unique collection of Roman and Greek artefacts found in the region.

  6. Day 2: Chunnambar Boat House
    20 mins (8.5 km) from Pondicherry Museum

    End your day by visiting the Chunnambar Boat House, where you can enjoy a relaxing boat cruise on the Chunnambar backwaters. You can also spend some time at the Paradise Beach, which has clear blue waters and white sand. If you're adventurous, try out some water sports activities like kayaking and paddle boating.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Auroville (2-3 hours, free)
  • Promenade Beach (1-2 hours, free)
  • Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus (30 minutes, free)
  • Sri Aurobindo Ashram (1-2 hours, free)
  • Pondicherry Museum (1-2 hours, INR 10)
  • Chunnambar Boat House (1-2 hours, INR 200-500)
  • Total Estimated Costs: INR 210-510

Useful Tips

If you have more time, you can add other places to your itinerary, such as the French War Memorial, Ousteri Lake, and Serenity Beach. If you have less time, you can skip some places or shorten your visits. Make sure to check the opening and closing times of each location mentioned in this itinerary before visiting. Finally, don’t forget to try local cuisine like seafood at the various eateries around Pondicherry.

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