4-Day Pondicherry Nature Itinerary

  1. Day 1: Ousteri Lake
    17 minutes (9.7 km) from Pondicherry city center

    Start your trip with a visit to Ousteri Lake, a beautiful freshwater lake surrounded by greenery. Enjoy a boat ride or take a stroll around the lake, and try to spot many species of birds. Remember to bring your camera for some great shots of nature.

  2. Day 2: Auroville
    25 minutes (11.5 km) from Ousteri Lake

    Take a trip to Auroville, an experimental township founded on the principles of human unity and sustainable living. Spend your day exploring the many eco-friendly projects, attend a workshop or meditation session or grab a healthy snack in one of the local cafes.

  3. Day 3: Chunnambar Boat House

    11 minutes (6.4 km) from Auroville

    Head to Chunnambar Boat House and tour the backwaters of the Bay of Bengal by boat. Visit the pristine Paradise Beach, glimpse a crocodile house and enjoy water sports activities like kayaking and jet skiing.

  4. Day 4: Auro Island and Mudaliar Kuppam
    20 minutes (10.8 km) from Chunnambar Boat House

    To get your last dose of nature, plan a day trip to Auro Island and Mudaliar Kuppam. Take a ferry to Auro Island, rent a bike and cycle around to explore the scenic villages, and visit the iconic Auroville Bakery. Catch the sunset on Mudaliar Kuppam Beach, a fishing village where you can sample fresh seafood.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Ousteri Lake (1-2 hours, INR 100 per person)
  • Auroville (4-6 hours, Free entry, INR 300-700 for workshops)
  • Chunnambar Boat House (2-4 hours, INR 25 per person for ferry, INR 500-1,500 for water sports activities)
  • Auro Island and Mudaliar Kuppam (5-7 hours, Ferry tickets: INR 7 per person, Bike rental: INR 100-150 per hour)
  • Total Estimated Cost: INR 3,400-5,400

Useful Tips

If you have more time, you can also visit the gorgeous Paradise Beach, Serenity Beach, and French War Memorial. If you have less time, skip Auroville, which requires considerable time and requires pre-booking for certain activities. Remember to check the weather forecast to avoid rainy days that can spoil your outdoor activities. Try local cuisine at Anandha Inn's Lighthouse restaurant, Villa Shanti or Surguru restaurant.

0