Discovering the Charm of Pondicherry: A 3-Day Tour

  1. Day 1: Promenade Beach and French War Memorial
    10 minutes (4 km) from Pondicherry Railway Station

    Begin your day by visiting the Promenade Beach, one of the most exceptional attractions in Pondicherry that offers a scenic view of the Arabian Sea. Take a stroll along the beach and enjoy the fresh air and the beautiful morning sun. Next, make your way to the French War Memorial, which honors the soldiers who lost their lives during World War I. The architecture and design of the monument are awe-inspiring. Don't forget to take a photo or two!

  2. Day 2: Sri Aurobindo Ashram and Auroville
    15 minutes (7 km) from Promenade Beach

    On your second day, begin by visiting the Sri Aurobindo Ashram, which was founded by Sri Aurobindo, a spiritual guru, and his disciple, Mirra Alfassa, fondly referred to as "The Mother." Spend some time in the peaceful inner courtyard and marvel at the ashram's stunning architecture. Next, make your way to Auroville, a unique, experimental township that is home to individuals from all over the world. Take a stroll around, visit the famous Matri Mandir and its adjacent gardens, and attend a yoga or meditation session.

  3. Day 3: Ousteri Lake and Chunnambar Boat House
    20 minutes (10 km) from Sri Aurobindo Ashram

    On your final day, drive to the Ousteri Lake, which is a paradise for bird watchers and nature enthusiasts. The calm and serene lake provides a peaceful respite from the bustling city. Next, move to the Chunnambar Boat House for a fun-filled and adventurous day. Enjoy a scenic boat ride, go kayaking or canoeing, and indulge in a range of water sports. End your day by sitting back and relaxing on the beach shacks as you sip a refreshing coconut water.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Promenade Beach (30 mins, free)
  • French War Memorial (40 mins, free)
  • Sri Aurobindo Ashram (1 hr, free)
  • Auroville (3 hrs, Matri Mandir viewing - INR 150, Yoga and meditation sessions - donation-based)
  • Ousteri Lake (2 hrs, free)
  • Chunnambar Boat House (3 hrs, boat rides starting from INR 900)
  • Total Estimated Costs (per person): INR 1050 (excluding transportation and meals)

Useful Tips

For those with additional time, we recommend visiting the Bharati Government Park that is ideal for taking a stroll and enjoying the greenery. The Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus is another popular attraction that boasts of stunning neo-gothic architecture and offers serenity to the visitors. For foodies, Pondicherry has an array of restaurants that serve delicious food ranging from authentic local cuisine to scrumptious international options. Lastly, we suggest planning your trip to Pondicherry in the winter season (November to February) as the weather is pleasant and perfect for exploring the city.

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