Saturday, November 18: Explore the French Quarters
In the morning, immerse yourselves in the charming French Quarters of Pondicherry. Take a romantic stroll along the Promenade Beach and admire the colonial architecture. In the afternoon, visit the spiritual Aurobindo Ashram and experience its serene ambiance. As the evening sets in, enjoy a candlelit dinner at a French café, savoring delectable cuisine.
Promenade Beach: Free, 2 hours
Aurobindo Ashram: Free, 1-2 hours
Dinner at a French café: Approx. $30-50 per person, 2 hours
Restaurants
Auroville Bakery: Start your day with freshly baked croissants and pastries at this charming bakery located near the French Quarters. The average cost for a breakfast here is about ₹200 per person.
Villa Shanti: Indulge in a delectable lunch at this stylish restaurant known for its fusion of Indian and French flavors. With a menu that changes daily based on fresh ingredients, the average cost for a meal here is about ₹800 per person.
Satsanga: For a romantic dinner, head to Satsanga, a rooftop restaurant serving delicious French and International cuisine. Enjoy the panoramic views of Pondicherry while savoring a meal that costs around ₹1200 per person.
Sunday, November 19: Explore Auroville
Embark on a spiritual journey to Auroville, a unique international township. Attend the morning meditation session at the Matrimandir, a stunning golden dome. After lunch in one of Auroville's organic cafes, explore the sustainable communities and enjoy a relaxing couple's massage at one of the wellness centers.
Matrimandir: Free, 2 hours (booking required)
Lunch in Auroville: $10-20 per person, 1 hour
Couple's massage: Approx. $100-150 per couple, 2 hours
Restaurants
Auroville Bakery: Enjoy a delicious breakfast at Auroville Bakery, known for its fresh pastries and organic bread. Average cost for a meal is about $5 per person.
Tanto Pizzeria: Indulge in a scrumptious lunch at Tanto Pizzeria, offering a wide selection of wood-fired pizzas and Italian dishes. Average cost for a meal is about $8 per person.
Villa Shanti: Treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at Villa Shanti, a charming restaurant serving fusion cuisine with a French influence. Average cost for a meal is about $20 per person.
Monday, November 20: Pondicherry Heritage Walk
Discover the rich cultural heritage of Pondicherry by taking a heritage walk. Visit the Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, explore the Bharati Government Park, and wander through the colorful streets of the Tamil Quarter. In the evening, enjoy a serene boat ride in Chunnambar backwaters.
Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus: Free, 1 hour
Bharati Government Park: Free, 1 hour
Tamil Quarter: Free, 2 hours
Boat ride in Chunnambar backwaters: Approx. $20-30 per person, 2 hours
Restaurants
Le Cafe: Enjoy a delicious breakfast at Le Cafe, a beachside restaurant offering a variety of options such as freshly baked croissants, pancakes, and eggs. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
Villa Shanti: For lunch, head to Villa Shanti, a charming French-Indian fusion restaurant known for its delectable dishes like tandoori prawns and butter chicken. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Rendezvous: Indulge in a romantic candlelit dinner at Rendezvous, a rooftop restaurant offering a breathtaking view of the city. Enjoy their specialties like grilled seafood and vegetarian thalis. Average cost for a meal is about 1200 INR per person.
Tuesday, November 21: Indulge in Beach Activities
Spend a relaxing day on the Paradise Beach. Engage in water sports like snorkeling and jet skiing, or simply relax under a beach umbrella. Enjoy a beachfront picnic lunch and unwind together. In the evening, explore the serene Auroville Beach and witness a breathtaking sunset.
Water sports at Paradise Beach: $20-50 per activity, 3 hours
Beachfront picnic lunch: Approx. $30-40, 1 hour
Witness sunset at Auroville Beach: Free, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Cafe des Amis, a charming French cafe known for its delicious croissants and coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 250 INR per person.
For lunch, try Tanto Pizzeria, a popular Italian restaurant offering a variety of wood-fired pizzas and pasta dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
For dinner, indulge in a romantic meal at Le Dupleix, a beautiful heritage restaurant serving a fusion of French and Indian cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Wednesday, November 22: Visit Gingee Fort
Embark on a day trip to Gingee Fort, one of the most notable forts in South India. Explore the magnificent historical structures, climb to the top for panoramic views, and enjoy a packed lunch amidst the ruins. On the way back, stop by the Gingee Archaeological Museum.
Gingee Fort: Entrance fee - $2-3 per person, 3 hours
Packed lunch at Gingee Fort: Approx. $15-20 per person, 1 hour
Gingee Archaeological Museum: Free, 1 hour
Restaurants
The Lonely Tree Cafe: Enjoy a hearty breakfast at this cozy cafe located nearby Gingee Fort. Indulge in delicious pancakes and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for breakfast is about INR 200 per person.
Chennai Express: For lunch, head to Chennai Express which offers a variety of South Indian dishes. Try their flavorful dosas and biryanis. Average cost for lunch is about INR 300 per person.
The White Town Bistro: End your day with a romantic dinner at The White Town Bistro, known for its charming ambiance and delectable international cuisine. Savor their gourmet dishes and pair it with a fine wine. Average cost for dinner is about INR 800 per person.
Thursday, November 23: Explore Serenity Beach and Pondicherry Museum
Spend a tranquil morning at Serenity Beach, enjoying the calm surroundings and golden sand. Afterward, visit the Pondicherry Museum to delve into the region's history and culture. In the evening, stroll along the vibrant streets of the White Town and dine at a rooftop restaurant.
Serenity Beach: Free, 2 hours
Pondicherry Museum: Entrance fee - $1-2 per person, 1-2 hours
Dinner at a rooftop restaurant: Approx. $40-60 per person, 2 hours
Restaurants
Le Cafe: Enjoy a delightful breakfast at Le Cafe, a charming beachfront restaurant known for its delicious croissants and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
Villa Shanti: Indulge in a scrumptious lunch at Villa Shanti, a trendy restaurant in White Town offering a fusion of Indian and French cuisines. Average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
Rendezvous: Treat yourself to a romantic dinner at Rendezvous, a rooftop restaurant with stunning views of Pondicherry. Delight in their extensive menu of seafood and international dishes. Average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.
Friday, November 24: Explore Chunnambar and Manakula Vinayagar Temple
Start the day with a boat ride to Paradise Island in Chunnambar. Enjoy the beautiful scenery, take a dip in the clear waters, and have a picnic lunch. In the afternoon, visit the Manakula Vinayagar Temple and seek blessings for a prosperous future together. Spend the evening souvenir shopping in the lively local markets.
Boat ride to Paradise Island: Approx. $20-30 per person, 4 hours
Picnic lunch at Paradise Island: Approx. $30-40, 1 hour
Manakula Vinayagar Temple: Free, 1 hour
Souvenir shopping: Budget as per your preference, 2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious South Indian breakfast at Surguru Restaurant, known for its fluffy idlis and crispy dosas. Average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to Spice Route Restaurant where you can indulge in a delectable spread of traditional Indian dishes. Average cost for a meal is about ₹400 per person.
In the evening, treat yourselves to a romantic dinner at Villa Shanti, a charming French-Indian fusion restaurant offering a diverse menu and cozy ambiance. Average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For a unique off-the-beaten-path experience, make your way to Veerampattinam Beach, a serene and less crowded alternative to the popular beaches. Take a leisurely walk along the coast, watch local fishermen at work, and relish the tranquility. Another local favorite is Maison Perumal, a heritage hotel in the heart of Pondicherry's French Quarter. Experience the old-world charm, enjoy traditional Tamil cuisine, and pamper yourselves with a couples' spa session.