Two-Day Itinerary for Pondicherry, May 2023

  1. Day 1: Pondicherry Beach
    10 minutes (1.3 miles) from Aurobindo Ashram

    Pondicherry Beach is a must-visit location for all those visiting Pondicherry. The serene and beautiful beach provides a break from city life, and visitors can walk, jog, or simply relax while enjoying the view of the Bay of Bengal. The beach also has a statue of Mahatma Gandhi, which is an added attraction.

  2. Day 1: Aurobindo Ashram
    5 minutes (0.2 miles) from Pondicherry Beach

    Aurobindo Ashram is a spiritual site founded by Sri Aurobindo and his disciple, The Mother. The ashram has a peaceful atmosphere and provides visitors with a sense of calmness and tranquility. The place also has a library, boutique, and a bookstore that sells books on spirituality and yoga.

  3. Day 1: Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus
    15 minutes (1.6 miles) from Aurobindo Ashram

    The Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus is a majestic church known for its beautiful architecture and stained glasses. The church has a peaceful atmosphere and is a perfect place for prayer and reflection. Visitors can attend the daily mass and admire the beauty of the church.

  4. Day 1: Pondicherry Museum
    10 minutes (1.4 miles) from Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus

    The Pondicherry Museum is a treasure trove of artifacts and exhibits that showcase the rich history and culture of Pondicherry. The museum also has a sculpture gallery, French furniture, pottery, and paintings. Visitors can hire a guide to make the most of their visit to this place.

  5. Day 2: Paradise Beach
    25 minutes (7.9 miles) from Pondicherry Museum

    Paradise Beach is another beautiful beach that visitors can visit on day two of their trip. The beach is accessible only by boat and has white sand, clear waters, and coconut trees, making it a perfect getaway for those who want to spend time in nature. Visitors can rent a kayak, go for a swim, or simply relax on the beach.

  6. Day 2: The Promenade
    30 minutes (9.5 miles) from Paradise Beach

    The Promenade is a beautiful 1.5 km long walkway alongside the Bay of Bengal. The promenade has a rocky beach, a lighthouse, and provides visitors with a beautiful view of the sea. Visitors can take a stroll, enjoy street food, and shop for souvenirs.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Pondicherry Museum (1-2 hours, INR 10)
  • Aurobindo Ashram (2-3 hours, free)
  • Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus (30 minutes - 1 hour, free)
  • Pondicherry Beach (2-3 hours, free)
  • Paradise Beach (2-3 hours, INR 300 for boat and entry fee)
  • The Promenade (1-2 hours, free)
  • Total Estimated Costs: INR 310

Useful Tips

If you have more than two days in Pondicherry, you can consider visiting other places of interest such as the French Quarter, Sri Manakula Vinayagar Temple, and Chunnambar Boat House. Visitors with less than two days can prioritize the historical and spiritual places and skip the beaches. It is advisable to hire a taxi or a scooter to get around the city as public transportation is limited.

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