Start your trip by visiting the French Quarter, known for its charming European architecture. Visit the iconic Pondicherry Promenade Beach, stroll down Rue Saint Gilles to admire the colorful houses, and don't miss the beautiful Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Complete your day with a delicious dinner at Le Club, a colonial-style restaurant by the beach.
Drive to Auroville, a unique experimental township founded in 1968. Visit the breathtaking Matri Mandir and the Sri Aurobindo Ashram, dedicated to the spiritual teacher and philosopher. Then head to the Pondicherry Museum to discover the city's history and culture, including archaeological findings, art, and crafts. End your day with a vegetarian dinner at Tanto Pizzeria, offering an Italian-Indian fusion cuisine.
Take a day trip to the Pichavaram Mangrove Forest, a natural wonderland with a vast network of estuaries, creeks, and canals. Go on a boat tour to explore the flora and fauna of the mangroves. Then visit the Gingee Fort, a remarkable medieval fortress with stunning views from the top. Return to Pondicherry and wander around the Goubert Market, where you can find a variety of local produce, spices, and handicrafts. Treat yourself to a street food feast or dine at Satsanga, a cozy restaurant with an organic and vegetarian menu.
If you have more time, you can explore other cultural sites, such as the Manakula Vinayagar Temple or the Pondicherry Botanical Garden. For food lovers, try some local delicacies at Rue des Missionaires or Baker Street. If you have less time, you can shorten your visit to Auroville or skip the Gingee Fort. Keep in mind that some places may be closed on Mondays or public holidays, so plan accordingly.