Exploring the Best of Puducherry in Three Days

  1. Day 1: Auroville and Matrimandir
    15 min (6km) by taxi from Puducherry town

    Start your day by visiting Auroville, an experimental town with a unique way of life, values and culture. It boasts a large golden sphere called Matrimandir, which houses a meditation chamber. After spending a few hours exploring this unique community, head to Serenity Beach, where you can relax or learn to surf. End your day by catching the sunset at Promenade Beach while enjoying a leisurely stroll along the seafront.

  2. Day 2: Heritage and Culinary Walk
    10 min (3km) on foot from Puducherry town

    Explore the quaint French and Tamil quarters by foot, visiting Bharati Government Park, Puducherry Museum, Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus and Puducherry Botanical Garden. Indulge in the local cuisine by trying out Filter Coffee at Bakers Street and a French meal at Rendezvous. End your day with a relaxing sunset boat ride around Paradise Beach.

  3. Day 3: Spirituality and Shopping
    15 min (5km) by taxi from Puducherry town

    Begin your day with a visit to the famous Arulmigu Manakula Vinayagar Temple, dedicated to the Hindu god Ganesha. Then, visit Gingee Fort that has a rich cultural and historical past. Next up, head to the boutique stores in the French Quarter for shopping for chic and souvenirs. Lastly, end the day with a spiritual experience by attending the popular evening Aarti ceremony at Sri Aurobindo Ashram.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Auroville and Matrimandir (4 hours, INR 500)
  • Serenity Beach (2 hours, Free)
  • Promenade Beach (2 hours, Free)
  • Puducherry Heritage Walk (3 hours, INR 1000 for a guide)
  • Puducherry Botanical Garden (1 hour, INR 20)
  • Bharati Government Park (1 hour, INR 10)
  • Puducherry Museum (2 hours, INR 20)
  • Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus (1 hour, Free)
  • Filter Coffee at Bakers Street (30 min, INR 50)
  • Rendezvous Restaurant (1 hour, INR 1000)
  • Paradise Beach Boat Ride (1 hour, INR 300)
  • Arulmigu Manakula Vinayagar Temple (1 hour, Free)
  • Gingee Fort (2 hours, INR 50)
  • Sri Aurobindo Ashram, Aarti Ceremony (1 hour, Free)
  • Total Estimated Costs: INR 3050

Useful Tips

If you have more time, consider visiting Mahabalipuram and Mango Hill. If time is constrained, consider booking a day tour that takes you through all the critical tourist attractions. Confirmation of opening and closing hours, as well as accessibility, should be checked before planning your visit for your preferred date.

0