Family-Friendly 1-Day Itinerary for Pondicherry and Auroville

1. 9:00AM: Sri Aurobindo Ashram
   Located in the heart of Pondicherry, the ashram is a spiritual community founded by Sri Aurobindo and his collaborator Mirra Alfassa in 1926. Visitors can explore the ashram's flower-filled courtyard, meditation hall, and bookshop. (1 hour)
2. 10:30AM: Promenade Beach
   Located in the French Quarter of Pondicherry, Promenade Beach is a scenic waterfront promenade perfect for a morning stroll or bike ride. Visitors can enjoy the sea breeze and views of the Bay of Bengal. (1 hour)
   Estimated travel time from Sri Aurobindo Ashram: 10 minutes (2.5 km)
3. 11:30AM: Matrimandir
   The Matrimandir, located in the heart of Auroville, is a meditation center and architectural marvel designed to represent the inward journey of the soul. Visitors can view the structure from the gardens surrounding it and learn about its spiritual significance. (1 hour)
   Estimated travel time from Promenade Beach: 30 minutes (9.5 km)
4. 1:00PM: Auroville Bakery
   The Auroville Bakery, located in the Visitors Centre of Auroville, is known for its delicious fresh-baked bread, pastries, and cakes. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely lunch in the garden or courtyard of the Visitors Centre. (1 hour)
   Estimated travel time from Matrimandir: 10 minutes (3.5 km)
5. 2:30PM: Auroville Beach
   Auroville Beach is a secluded and serene beach where visitors can relax and enjoy the waves and sand. There are several beachside cafés and restaurants to grab a snack or drink. (2 hours)
   Estimated travel time from Auroville Bakery: 20 minutes (7 km)
6. 4:30PM: Serenity Beach
   Serenity Beach is a peaceful and scenic beach located a short distance from Auroville. It is known for its surfing and paddleboarding opportunities as well as its stunning sunsets. (1 hour)
   Estimated travel time from Auroville Beach: 15 minutes (4.5 km)

Time and Costs Estimates

• Sri Aurobindo Ashram (1 hour, Free)
• Promenade Beach (1 hour, Free)
• Matrimandir (1 hour, Free)
• Auroville Bakery (1 hour, ₹200 for two)
• Auroville Beach (2 hours, Free)
• Serenity Beach (1 hour, Free)
Total Estimated Costs: ₹200 for two people

Useful Tips

For those with more time, some additional activities to consider include exploring the French Quarter of Pondicherry, visiting the Botanical Gardens, and taking a cultural walking tour of Auroville. For those with less time, consider skipping one of the beaches or Matrimandir. Note that Auroville and many of its cafés are closed on Tuesdays and Sri Aurobindo Ashram is closed on Mondays.