Two-Day Itinerary in Pondicherry for July 2023

  1. Day 1: Explore French Quarter
    10 minutes (3.5 km) from Pondicherry Railway Station

    Start your day in the charming French Quarter, also known as the White Town, which is the historic center of Pondicherry. Walk along the tree-lined streets and admire the colonial architecture with pastel-colored buildings, wrought-iron balconies, and bougainvillea-laden walls. Visit the iconic Notre Dame des Anges, a beautiful white church with stained glass windows, and stroll around the elegant Governer's Palace. Take a break at Le Café, a charming seaside café with a relaxing atmosphere, and enjoy the view of the Bay of Bengal. End your day at the Promenade Beach, a bustling seafront with a long stretch of sand and palm trees, perfect for a picturesque sunset.

  2. Day 2: Temples and Villages
    20 minutes (7.2 km) from Promenade Beach

    Start your day with a visit to the famous Manakula Vinayagar Temple, a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha, where you can admire the intricate carvings and colorful paintings. Then, head to the quaint village of Auroville, an experimental community founded in the 1960s, which is known for its sustainable living and spiritual practices. Visit the Matrimandir, a magnificent golden dome that serves as a meditation center, and learn about its philosophy and principles. Afterward, visit the nearby Auroville Beach, a serene and secluded beach with golden sand and clear water, perfect for a relaxing swim. End your day with a delicious traditional South Indian dinner at Surguru, a popular local restaurant.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Notre Dame des Anges (1 hour, free)
  • Governer's Palace (30 minutes, free)
  • Le Café (1 hour, INR 300)
  • Promenade Beach (2 hours, free)
  • Manakula Vinayagar Temple (1 hour, free)
  • Matrimandir (2 hours, INR 200)
  • Auroville Beach (2 hours, free)
  • Surguru (1 hour, INR 500)
  • Total Estimated Costs: INR 1,000
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