Pondicherry Itinerary for May 2023

  1. Day 1: Aurobindo Ashram
    10 minutes (2.5 km) from Pondicherry Promenade Beach

    Visit the Aurobindo Ashram, founded by Sri Aurobindo in the early 20th century. The ashram is a spiritual community where people from all over the world come to meditate and seek spiritual harmony. The ashram houses a library, a boutique, a handmade paper factory, and a garden. Visitors can attend the collective meditation sessions and the evening talks. Make sure to dress modestly.

  2. Day 1: Pondicherry Promenade Beach
    20 minutes (3.0 km) from Aurobindo Ashram

    Take a leisurely walk along the Pondicherry Promenade Beach, a popular tourist destination. The beach is known for its clean and serene environment. You can indulge in beach activities like swimming, sunbathing, and surfing. The beach also offers a beautiful view of the Bay of Bengal. You can rent bicycles and explore the nearby areas.

  3. Day 1: French War Memorial
    5 minutes (1.0 km) from Pondicherry Promenade Beach

    Visit the French War Memorial, situated on Goubert Avenue. The memorial was built in memory of the soldiers who sacrificed their lives during World War I. The memorial has a tall structure with a statue of a soldier on top of it. The memorial is beautifully lit up at night.

  4. Day 2: Auroville
    20 minutes (10.0 km) from Pondicherry city center

    Visit Auroville, an experimental township founded in 1968. The township was envisioned as a universal town where people from all over the world can live in harmony. The township has many interesting places like the Matrimandir, an iconic golden globe structure, and the Auroville Bakery, famous for its freshly baked bread. The township also has many handicraft stores, boutiques, and restaurants.

  5. Day 2: Chunnambar Boat House
    20 minutes (8.0 km) from Auroville

    Visit the Chunnambar Boat House, situated on the banks of the Chunnambar River. The boat house offers various boat rides like motorboats, speed boats, and rowing boats. The boat rides take you to the Paradise Beach, a secluded beach with crystal clear water and white sand. The beach is ideal for swimming and sunbathing. The boat house also has a restaurant serving delicious seafood.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Aurobindo Ashram (1-2 hours, free)
  • Pondicherry Promenade Beach (2-3 hours, free)
  • French War Memorial (30 minutes, free)
  • Auroville (2-4 hours, free entry, Matrimandir viewing requires prior reservation)
  • Chunnambar Boat House (2-3 hours, boat rides start from INR 150)
  • Total Estimated Costs: INR 150-200
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