4-Day Itinerary for Pondicherry - October 2023

  1. Day 1: Auroville
    20 minutes (6.3 km) from Pondicherry city center

    Visit the Matri Mandir, the center of Auroville, which represents the universal mother and is a symbol of the Divine's answer to man's aspiration for perfection. Take a walk through the Matrimandir Gardens, which are beautiful and well-manicured. You can also attend workshops and rejuvenate at the wellness centers of Auroville.

  2. Day 2: Seaside Promenade & Bharti Park
    10 minutes (3.7 km) from Auroville

    Enjoy a leisurely walk on Promenade Beach and take in the beautiful view. Next, visit the Bharti Park to relax amidst the serene surroundings. You can also find some local art memorabilia in the shops nearby.

  3. Day 3: Sri Aurobindo Ashram & Immaculate Conception Cathedral
    5 minutes (1.2 km) from Bharti Park

    Visit the Sri Aurobindo Ashram, which is famous for the spiritual teachings of Sri Aurobindo and The Mother. You can take a guided tour to learn more about the ashram and its philosophy. Next, visit the Immaculate Conception Cathedral, which is a beautiful church with magnificent architecture.

  4. Day 4: Paradise Beach & Chunnambar Boat House
    30 minutes (8.5 km) from Sri Aurobindo Ashram

    Head to the Chunnambar Boat House and hire a boat or take a ferry ride to Paradise Beach. The beach is unspoiled, and you can indulge in beach activities such as swimming, sunbathing, and beach volleyball. You can also grab a quick bite at the beachside shacks that offer tasty local cuisine.

Time and Cost Estimates

  • Auroville (3-4 hours, Entry Free)
  • Seaside Promenade & Bharti Park (2-3 hours, Entry Free)
  • Sri Aurobindo Ashram (2-3 hours, Entry Free)
  • Immaculate Conception Cathedral (1-2 hours, Entry Free)
  • Paradise Beach & Chunnambar Boat House (4-5 hours, Boat Ride - INR 200 per head)
  • Total Estimated Costs (excluding accommodation and transport): INR 200

Useful Tips

If you have more time, you can explore the Pondy Bazaar for some local shopping. For history buffs, the French War Memorial and the Pondicherry Museum are places worth visiting. For foodies, try some delicious seafood at Bay of Buddha or Surguru Restaurant, which offers a wide range of vegetarian options. If you have less time, you can skip the Bharti Park, Immaculate Conception Cathedral or the Chunnambar Boat House.

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