5-Day Family Friendly Itinerary for Pondicherry

  1. Day 1: Promenade Beach and Chunnambar Boat House
    30 minutes (6.2 miles) from Pondicherry Airport

    Stroll along the picturesque Promenade Beach, visit the French War Memorial, and enjoy a boat ride at the Chunnambar Boat House. Cap off the day with delicious South Indian street food at the nearby Goubert Market.

  2. Day 2: Auroville and Matrimandir
    30 minutes (7.3 miles) from Promenade Beach

    Take a guided tour of Auroville, an experimental city dedicated to human unity and spiritual growth, and marvel at the stunning architectural marvel that is Matrimandir. End the day with a visit to the nearby Auroville Bakery for some scrumptious baked treats.

  3. Day 3: Paradise Beach and Sri Aurobindo Ashram
    40 minutes (9.9 miles) from Matrimandir

    Spend the day at the picturesque Paradise Beach, known for its serene surroundings and beautiful lighthouse. Later, visit the nearby Sri Aurobindo Ashram, a spiritual community founded by Sri Aurobindo and The Mother in 1926.

  4. Day 4: Arulmigu Manakula Vinayagar Temple and Botanical Garden
    25 minutes (5.4 miles) from Sri Aurobindo Ashram

    Start the day with a visit to the Arulmigu Manakula Vinayagar Temple, a 500-year-old temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha. Later, explore the scenic Botanical Garden, featuring over 1500 species of plants and a tranquil Japanese rock garden.

  5. Day 5: Ousteri Lake and Serenity Beach
    35 minutes (8.3 miles) from Botanical Garden

    Visit the serene Ousteri Lake, nestled amidst lush greenery and frequented by migratory birds. End the trip by spending some time at the beautiful Serenity Beach, known for its pristine sands and clear waters.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Promenade Beach and Chunnambar Boat House (2 hours 30 minutes, free)
  • Auroville and Matrimandir (4 hours, free)
  • Paradise Beach and Sri Aurobindo Ashram (3 hours, free)
  • Arulmigu Manakula Vinayagar Temple and Botanical Garden (3 hours, free)
  • Ousteri Lake and Serenity Beach (3 hours, free)
  • Total Estimated Costs: Free

Useful Tips

If you have more time, consider taking a day trip to Mahabalipuram or Chidambaram. For a more relaxing vacation, spend an extra day at the beach or at any of the many spa resorts in the area. If you have less time, consider combining some of the destinations.

0