3-Day Itinerary for Pondicherry in June 2023

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

   In the morning, visit Sri Aurobindo Ashram, a spiritual community founded in 1926. You can witness the peaceful environment and learn about the theories and teachings of Sri Aurobindo and the Mother. For lunch, head over to Surguru Spot, known for its delicious South Indian cuisine. In the afternoon, visit the Pondicherry Museum, which showcases the rich heritage and culture of this quaint town. In the evening, stroll along the Pondicherry Promenade and enjoy the cool sea breeze.

2. Day 2: Auroville
   20 minutes (7 km) from Sri Aurobindo Ashram

   Start your day with a visit to the famous Matrimandir in Auroville, a spiritual community that welcomes people from all over the world. It is a perfect place to meditate and reflect. For lunch, head over to Tanto Pizzeria, a popular place to grab a bite. In the afternoon, explore the lush greenery of the Auroville Botanical Gardens and witness the biodiversity of the region. In the evening, visit Serenity Beach and enjoy the beautiful sunset.

3. Day 3: Manakula Vinayagar Temple
   15 minutes (4.5 km) from Auroville

   Start your day with a visit to the Manakula Vinayagar Temple, which is dedicated to the Hindu god Ganesha. It is known for its beautiful architecture and intricate carvings. For lunch, head over to Le Club, a French-inspired restaurant located in a colonial building. In the afternoon, visit the Chunnambar Boat House and take a boat ride to Paradise Beach, a secluded beach known for its scenic beauty. In the evening, enjoy a relaxing walk along the Rock Beach and visit some local shops for souvenirs.

Recommendations

If you are interested in history, make sure to visit the French War Memorial, which commemorates the soldiers who lost their lives in World War I. For a unique experience, consider taking a pottery class at the Golden Bridge Pottery or learn about the Tamil culture at the Bharathi Park.

You can also take a day trip to Mahabalipuram, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its ancient temples and rock carvings. Another great option is to visit the Ousteri Lake, which offers a peaceful and serene environment.

Make the most of your trip by hiring a local guide who can provide you with valuable insights and help you explore the hidden gems of Pondicherry.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Sri Aurobindo Ashram (2 hours, free)
• Surguru Spot (1 hour, INR 400)
• Pondicherry Museum (2 hours, INR 300)
• Auroville (3 hours, free)
• Tanto Pizzeria (1 hour, INR 500)
• Auroville Botanical Gardens (2 hours, INR 200)
• Serenity Beach (2 hours, free)
• Manakula Vinayagar Temple (1 hour, free)
• Le Club (1 hour, INR 1000)
• Chunnambar Boat House (2 hours, INR 600)
• Rock Beach (1 hour, free)
• Total Estimated Costs: INR 3000