Four-Day Shoestring Budget Itinerary for Pondicherry in June 2023

  1. Day 1: Promenade Beach
    15 minutes (3.3 km) from Pondicherry Bus Stand

    Promenade Beach is one of the most iconic beaches in Pondicherry, and it is an ideal place to start a tour of the city. Early in the morning, you can take a walk along the beach and explore the French War Memorial, the statue of Mahatma Gandhi, and the old lighthouse. There are several places to eat and drink along the beach, so you can grab some breakfast before heading out to your next destination.

  2. Day 2: Auroville
    30 minutes (10.4 km) from Promenade Beach

    Auroville is an experimental township located just outside Pondicherry. It was founded in 1968 with the aim of creating a universal town where people of all nationalities, religions, and beliefs could live together in peace. You can explore the Matrimandir, which is the main attraction in Auroville, and attend a meditation session. There are also several shops and cafes in Auroville where you can buy souvenirs or have lunch.

  3. Day 3: Paradise Beach
    25 minutes (9.3 km) from Auroville

    Paradise Beach is a secluded beach located on the backwaters of the Bay of Bengal. To get to the beach, you have to take a ferry from Chunnambar Boat House, which is a fun experience in itself. Once you get to the beach, you can relax on the sand, swim in the sea, or go kayaking. There are a few shacks on the beach where you can buy snacks and drinks.

  4. Day 4: Sri Aurobindo Ashram
    20 minutes (3.1 km) from Paradise Beach

    The Sri Aurobindo Ashram is a spiritual community that was founded by Sri Aurobindo and his spiritual collaborator, the Mother, in 1926. The ashram is located in the heart of Pondicherry and it is a quiet oasis in the middle of the bustling city. You can visit the samadhi of Sri Aurobindo and the Mother, and attend a meditation session. There is also a bookstore where you can buy books and other items related to the philosophy of Sri Aurobindo.

Time and Costs Estimates:

  • Promenade Beach (1-2 hours, free)
  • Auroville (3-4 hours, free)
  • Paradise Beach (2-3 hours, ferry Rs. 300 for two-way and kayak Rs. 100 per hour)
  • Sri Aurobindo Ashram (1-2 hours, free)
  • Total Estimated Costs: Rs. 400 per person
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