Discover the Best of Pondicherry in 4 Days

1. Day 1: Walk through French Heritage Sites
   Start your day at 10 am and head to Pondicherry Museum (10 mins walk from Puducherry Railway Station). The museum exhibits French architecture, sculptures and handicrafts, and is a great starting point to learn about Pondicherry. Next, walk to Consulate General of France (7 mins walk from the museum). The building includes a grand marble staircase and carved wooden ceilings, showcasing the French architectural style of Pondicherry. Continue the French vibe by strolling through the White Town and visit the iconic Aurobindo Ashram (20 mins walk from Consulate General) - an oasis of peace, tranquility and spirituality. End your day at the Promenade Beach (20 mins walk from the Ashram), taking in the enchanting view of the Bay of Bengal at sunset.
2. Day 2: Explore Auroville
   Start your day at 8 am and head to Auroville (20 mins from White Town by auto-taxi). Auroville is a experimental universal township with a focus on sustainable living and human unity. Visit the Matri Mandir (15 mins walk from Visitor Centre) - a golden dome structure that serves as a meditative centre for Aurovillians. Next, head to Puducherry Botanical Garden (15 mins drive from Matri Mandir) and enjoy the greenery and beauty of the garden which serves as a habitat for various species of plants and trees. After that, visit the stunningly beautiful Paradise Beach (30 mins drive from the Botanical Garden). Enjoy some time to swim, relax, and soak in the sun. Finish your day at the Seaside Road (15 mins drive from Paradise Beach) and indulge in some mouth-watering street food as you admire the sea.
3. Day 3: Visit Ancient Temples
   Start your day at 9 am and head to Sri Manakula Vinayagar Temple (10 mins drive from White Town). It is dedicated to Lord Ganesha, and is famous for a large elephant statue at its entrance. Next, head to Sri Varadaraja Perumal Temple (15 mins drive from Sri Manakula Vinayagar). It is one of the oldest and most historic temples in Pondicherry, dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The architecture and the intricate carvings at the temple is sure to mesmerize you. After that, visit Arulmigu Manakula Vinayagar Thirukoil (10 mins from Sri Varadaraja Perumal). It is a beautiful temple and houses various colourful statues of Lord Ganesha. End your day at the Botanical House Garden (20 mins drive from Arulmigu Manakula Vinayagar), and have a relaxing time at its surrounding serene atmosphere.
4. Day 4: Experience the Culture and Art Scene
   Start your day at 11 am and head to the Pondicherry Art Gallery (10 mins drive from White Town). This gallery showcases the works of famous Indian artists. Next, visit the Pondicherry Museum's Bharati and History sections (10 mins drive from the gallery). The sections exhibit the history of Pondicherry and India. After that, visit the Igloo Art Gallery (15 mins drive from the museum). The gallery showcases the works of local and national contemporary artists. Finally, spend the evening at the Kalki Beach (20 mins drive from Igloo Art Gallery) enjoying the beauty of the sea and the cool breeze.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Pondicherry Museum (1 hour, ₹10)
• Consulate General of France (30 mins, Free Entry)
• Aurobindo Ashram (1 hour, Free Entry)
• Promenade Beach (1 hour, Free Entry)
• Auroville (5 hours, ₹500)
• Matri Mandir (1.5 hours, Free Entry)
• Puducherry Botanical Garden (1 hour, ₹10)
• Paradise Beach (2 hours, ₹150)
• Seaside Road (1 hour, ₹200)
• Sri Manakula Vinayagar Temple (1 hour, Free Entry)
• Sri Varadaraja Perumal Temple (1 hour, Free Entry)
• Arulmigu Manakula Vinayagar Thirukoil (1 hour, Free Entry)
• Botanical House Garden (1 hour, ₹10)
• Pondicherry Art Gallery (1 hour, Free Entry)
• Pondicherry Museum's Bharati and History sections (1 hour, ₹10)
• Igloo Art Gallery (1 hour, Free Entry)
• Kalki Beach (2 hours, Free Entry)
Total Estimated Costs (excluding food, travel and accommodation): ₹900

Useful Tips

For those who have more time, consider visiting the Ousteri Wetland and National Park (20 minutes drive from the Botanical Garden) which houses various species of birds and animals. Those having less time may consider skipping some of the museum sections, galleries or certain temples as per their interest.