Start your morning by taking a stroll along the Promenade Beach, also called the Pondicherry Beach, a 1.2-kilometer stretch of sand alongside the Bay of Bengal. Spend some time relaxing and soaking up the sea breeze. Beach activities include morning yoga sessions, fishing, swimming, and surfing. Afterwards, head to Aurobindo Ashram, a spiritual community founded by Sri Aurobindo and his collaborator, Mirra Alfassa. The Ashram is open to the public and offers meditation sessions twice daily, at 6:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. Explore the bookshop, art gallery, and library for more insight into the philosophy of The Mother and Sri Aurobindo.
In the morning, spend some time strolling through the stunning Puducherry Botanical Garden. The garden houses over 1500 species of plants including rare and exotic species. One of the highlights of the garden is the Japanese rock structure and musical fountain, which is a treat for the senses. In the afternoon, head to the Chunnambar Boat House in the Ariyankuppam area, a popular spot for backwater tourism with activities such as paddle boating, house boating, and pedaling. The boat ride takes you through the backwaters leading to the Paradise Beach, a secluded, pristine beach that can only be accessed by boat.
Today, head to the famous Matrimandir, a giant golden sphere located in the world-renowned Auroville township. Designed as a place for individual silent concentration, the Matrimandir welcomes visitors aged ten years and above. It is surrounded by twelve gardens representing the twelve qualities of the Mother and is a must-visit for anyone looking to find inner peace in a unique setting. In the evening, enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Promenade Goubert Avenue. The area is dotted with heritage buildings, cafes, and restaurants overlooking the Bay of Bengal. Make sure to catch the mesmerizing sunset views and take a selfie with the famous Mahatma Gandhi statue at the Promenade Beach.
If you have more than three days, consider visiting the following places: The Puducherry Museum, Sri Varadaraja Perumal Temple, Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, Mahabalipuram, and Chidambaram Nataraja Temple. For those with less time, consider visiting only one or two places each day, depending on your interests. Don't forget to carry a hat and sunscreen as the afternoons can get quite hot.