A day in Pondicherry for Nature Lovers

  1. 7:00AM: Botanical Garden
    10 minutes (2.2 km) from the city centre

    The beautiful Botanical Garden, established in the 19th century, is a sprawling 22-acre garden featuring rare and exotic plants from different parts of India and abroad. It is the perfect place for a morning walk and to witness nature's tranquility.

  2. 9:00AM: Serenity Beach
    20 minutes (6 km) from the Botanical Garden

    Serenity Beach, on the outskirts of Pondicherry, is known for its tranquil and unexplored coastline. Get up close and personal with nature, admire the shimmering blue waters and explore the beach on foot. Get some sea-food from the food shacks to rejuvenate yourself.

  3. 11:00AM: Auroville
    30 minutes (12 km) from Serenity Beach

    Auroville, an experimental township, houses people from different nationalities who have pledged to live in peace and harmony. Visit the serene matrimandir; the spiritual growth area, a must-visit since it beautifully complements the vision of unity in diversity.

  4. 2:00PM: Promenade Beach
    20 minutes (8 km) from Auroville

    The scenic beauty of the promenade beach provides a perfect backdrop for leisurely walks, and enjoy the vast stretches of the Bay of Bengal. Enjoy the architecture influenced by French heritage and savor the local delicacies from the food carts.

  5. 4:00PM: Ousteri Lake
    15 minutes (4.5 km) from Promenade Beach

    Ousteri Lake, also known as Osudu Lake, is a natural lake and an important catchment area for Pondicherry. The serene and peaceful surroundings provide an excellent opportunity for bird watching and taking a boat ride through the calm waters.

Time and Cost Estimates:

  • Botanical Garden (2hours, INR 20)
  • Serenity Beach (2hours, Free Entry)
  • Auroville (2hours, Free Entry)
  • Promenade Beach (2hours, Free Entry)
  • Ousteri Lake (2hours, INR 100)
  • Total Estimated Costs: INR 120

Useful tips:

If you have more time, visit Chunnambar Boat House and Paradise Beach, which are located near Promenade Beach, and Gingee Fort, which is located 70 km from Pondicherry. If you have less time, you can skip either Promenade Beach or Ousteri Lake to compensate for travel times, but they are both recommended.

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