Start your day by exploring the French Quarter with its picturesque lanes, mustard-yellow colonial buildings, and vibrant bougainvillaea-lined streets that transport you to France. Begin with a visit to the Sri Aurobindo Ashram, a spiritual center that houses the samadhi of Sri Aurobindo and The Mother. Stroll down Goubert Avenue, which runs along the Bay of Bengal and offers stunning views of the sea. Visit the iconic Notre Dame des Anges church, a beautiful white structure that has stood since the 18th century. Have lunch at any of the French cafes that dot the area. In the afternoon, head to the Bharathi Park, which is a perfect spot for a family picnic, surrounded by lush greenery and a beautiful pond. End the day with a visit to the Pondicherry Museum, which houses a collection of sculptures, archaeological finds, and French furniture.
Begin your day with a visit to Auroville, an experimental township that aims to be a universal town, where people of all nationalities can live together in peace and harmony. Visit the Matrimandir, a beautiful golden dome structure that signifies the birth of a new consciousness. Afterward, head to Serenity Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches in Pondicherry, for a relaxing afternoon. The beach is relatively untouched, with crystal blue waters and golden sands. Have lunch at one of the beachside shacks and spend the afternoon swimming, sunbathing, and building sandcastles. End the day with a visit to the Botanical Gardens, spread over 22 acres, with over 1500 species of plants and trees.
If you have more time, you can consider visiting the Ousteri Lake, which is a popular spot for boating and bird watching. You can also take a heritage walk of the French Quarter with a local guide. Another experience that you might enjoy is a pottery workshop at Kriya Studio, where you can learn to make your own pottery.
If you're looking for a side trip, you can consider visiting Mahabalipuram, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is renowned for its ancient temples and rock-cut sculptures. The town is located about 100 km from Pondicherry and can be reached in around 2 hours by car.
To maximize your fun, you can rent a bicycle or a scooter to explore the town at your own pace.
For more suggestions, you can check with the local tourist office, which is located near the French Quarter.