One Day Itinerary for Auroville

  1. 9:00 AM: Matrimandir
    10 minutes (1.3 km) from Auroville Visitor Centre

    Matrimandir is a golden spherical structure that represents the universal consciousness. Visitors are welcome to view it from the outside and take a chance to meditate inside by requesting in advance.

  2. 10:30 AM: Auroville Botanical Gardens
    15 minutes (6.7 km) from Matrimandir

    The Auroville Botanical Gardens is home to over 2500 varieties of plants, medicinal herbs, and spices. It offers nature lovers a peaceful retreat where they can explore the garden's serene surroundings and bask in the beauty of the flora.

  3. 12:00 PM: Lunch at Tanto Pizzeria
    15 minutes (7.2 km) from Auroville Botanical Gardens

    Tanto Pizzeria, located in the heart of Auroville, offers authentic Italian cuisine made with fresh, organic ingredients. The restaurant is vegetarian-friendly and provides guests with a unique dining experience in a relaxed atmosphere.

  4. 2:00 PM: Auroville Beach
    20 minutes (7.7 km) from Tanto Pizzeria

    Auroville Beach is a serene destination away from the usual tourist crowd. People come here to enjoy the tranquility and breathtaking backdrops. Activities include swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing in peace.

  5. 4:00 PM: Sadhana Forest
    20 minutes (7.9 km) from Auroville Beach

    Sadhana Forest is a reforestation project and social enterprise that aims to re-establish the tropical dry evergreen forest indigenous to Southern India and encourage sustainable living practices. Volunteers are welcome to sign up to help with planting and other activities.

Time and Cost Estimates

  • Matrimandir (1.5 hours, free)
  • Auroville Botanical Gardens (1.5 hours, INR 50 per person)
  • Lunch at Tanto Pizzeria (1 hour, INR 500 for two people)
  • Auroville Beach (2 hours, free)
  • Sadhana Forest (2 hours, donation-based)
  • Total Estimated Costs: INR 800

Useful Tips

Auroville has an abundance of amazing restaurants, cafes, and boutiques that one can spend hours discovering. To extend the itinerary, one can add a visit to other points of interest such as the Auroville Bakery or the art galleries. If visiting for half a day, we suggest combining the Matrimandir and Botanical Garden trip with lunch at the Solar Kitchen. Alternatively, if visitors have more time to spare, a visit to nearby Pondicherry can be the perfect next destination to see the architecture carrying the French influence.

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