Pondicherry: Experience the Culture, Architecture and Cuisine

  1. Day 1: Explore the Promenade Beach and Pondicherry Museum
    15 minutes (2.6 km) from Pondicherry railway station

    Start your day by strolling along the Promenade Beach, one of the most popular attractions in Pondicherry. After that, visit the Pondicherry Museum, which showcases the history and culture of the French in India. You can admire a collection of sculptures, ancient weapons, paintings, and old coins from the Roman Empire and colonial era.

  2. Day 2: Discover the Auroville City and Matrimandir
    15 minutes (7.4 km) from Pondicherry city centre

    On the second day, drive to Auroville City, an experimental township created in the 1960s, to experience the unique architecture and sustainable living practices. The Matrimandir, a golden spherical temple and spiritual hub, is the crowning jewel of Auroville. Mill around the Green Belt area and enjoy the serene environment and lush greenery around you.

  3. Day 3: Taste the Fusion Cuisine and Visit the Shri Aurobindo Ashram
    10 minutes (2.0 km) from Auroville City

    Your last day in Pondicherry should be spent exploring the Shri Aurobindo Ashram where the divine philosopher Sri Aurobindo and his spiritual collaborator, "The Mother," used to live. The beautiful campus has serene gardens and numerous meditation centres and offers a peaceful respite from the city's hustle and bustle. Once you have shaken off the relaxation, you can enjoy lunch at a local eatery and taste the fusion cuisine, a blend of French and Tamilian cuisine which is a unique and lip-smacking experience.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Pondicherry Museum (2 hours, INR 20)
  • Matrimandir (1 hour, INR 500 for non-Indians)
  • Aurobindo Ashram (1.5 hours, Free)
  • Lunch at Surguru, a retro cafe (1 hour, INR 300)
  • Total Estimated Costs (per person): INR 820

Useful Tips

If you have more time, you can visit Ousteri Lake, the paradise beach, French War Memorial. Don't forget to stroll around the white town to witness the unique French architecture in Pondicherry. For Indian citizens, take a prior appointment for Matrimandir to save time. Carry essential items like sunglasses, sunscreen lotion, hats to enjoy the beach and don't forget to try the famous macarons from Baker Street.

**Note**: Above data is based on opening and closing times for places from the year 2023.
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