Rent a motorcycle near your hotel early in the morning and head down to Pondicherry's Promenade Beach. A great place to watch the sunrise, feel the sea breeze, and catch a stunning view of the French colonial homes. Stroll along the beach from War Memorial to Dupleix Park. You can also stop by the charming French Quarter on the way towards the Auroville community area.
After a ride on the scenic East Coast Road, you'll arrive at the entrance of Auroville. The Matrimandir, a golden geodesic dome, is situated at the heart of Auroville. This place is ideal for meditation, giving you a rare connection with your soul and nature, despite the absence of any religion. Do take the time to walk around the serene Matri Mandir gardens and check out the art installations at the Visitors Centre.
A short ride from the Matrimandir is the Tanto Pizzeria. Known for its authentic Italian pizza and warm ambiance, Tanto Pizzeria is a must-visit restaurant. Do try their popular Margherita pizza and coffee here.
After lunch, head down to Auroville Beach. A secluded and petite beach with beautiful palm trees lining the coast. A perfect spot for relaxation and treasured moments.
The Nataraja Temple in Chidambaram is dedicated to Lord Shiva as the cosmic dancer. The temple is unique as it doesn't have any physical representation of the main deity, Lord Nataraja. Instead, the dancing form of the lord is represented by empty space and a gold plated stage, a symbolic representation of the concept of the universe in Indian mysticism.
The second stop of the day is Pichavaram Mangrove Forests. With a dense network of waterways and interlacing branches of mangrove trees, the serene forests serve as a natural habitat for various flora and fauna. You can opt for a boat ride on the scenic routes, which will net you an unforgettable experience.
The last stop of the tour is Raagam Bakery. It's the perfect place to grab a quick lunch. They provide a range of local varieties and sandwich options, all with fresh ingredients and reasonable prices. Do try the chicken sandwich, it's their specialty.
If you have more time, you can visit other beautiful destinations like Auroville Art Gallery, Paradise Beach, Serenity Beach, and more. If you have less time, you can visit either the Matrimandir or the Auroville beach and relax there for an extended time. Remember, always bring sunscreen, water, a hat, and sunglasses on your bike ride.