Exploring Pondicherry in One Day in June 2023

1. 8:00AM: Sri Aurobindo Ashram
   10 minutes (2.1 km) from Pondicherry Bus Station

   Visit the Sri Aurobindo Ashram, founded by Sri Aurobindo and home to his spiritual collaborator the Mother. The ashram promotes Aurobindo's teachings and principles of Integral Yoga.

2. 9:30AM: Promenade Beach
   15 minutes (1.8 km) from Sri Aurobindo Ashram

   Take a stroll along the Promenade Beach, a 1.2-kilometer-long beachfront walkway. Enjoy morning sea breeze and see the French colonial buildings along the way.

3. 11:00AM: Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus
   20 minutes (2.2 km) from Promenade Beach

   Visit the Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, a must-visit for architecture enthusiasts. Built in the Gothic style, it's one of the most beautiful churches in Pondicherry.

4. 12:30PM: Lunch at Surguru Restaurant
   10 minutes (1.3 km) from the Basilica

   Enjoy a delicious South Indian meal at Surguru Restaurant, known for its vegetarian dishes.

5. 2:00PM: Pondicherry Museum
   15 minutes (1.9 km) from Surguru Restaurant

   Explore the Pondicherry Museum, which displays a rich collection of sculptures, bronzes, handicrafts, and artifacts from the Chola and Pallava dynasties.

6. 3:30PM: Auroville
   20 minutes (10.3 km) from Pondicherry Museum

   Visit Auroville, an experimental township that seeks to combine modern science and technology with spiritual living. Discover the unique architecture, gardens, and sustainable living practices of the community.

7. 5:30PM: Paradise Beach
   25 minutes (10.4 km) from Auroville

   End the day at Paradise Beach, a secluded and pristine beach that can only be reached by boat. Relax, sunbathe, and enjoy the serene surroundings.

Time and Costs Estimates:

• Sri Aurobindo Ashram (1 hour, free)
• Promenade Beach (1.5 hours, free)
• Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus (1.5 hours, free)
• Lunch at Surguru Restaurant (1 hour, INR 300)
• Pondicherry Museum (1.5 hours, INR 10)
• Auroville (2 hours, free)
• Boat to Paradise Beach (INR 200 per person, roundtrip)
• Total Estimated Costs (excluding transportation to/from Pondicherry): INR 510 per person