Visit the Sri Aurobindo Ashram in the morning to experience its serene environment. The Ashram is open every day all year round for visitors who want to meditate, read and reflect. In the afternoon, visit the nearby Pondicherry Museum to learn about the history of the city. The museum has a collection of sculptures, handicrafts, and archaeological findings from the Arikamedu Roman settlement. In the evening, take a stroll at the Promenade Beach, where you can enjoy the cool sea breeze, watch the sunset, and have some street food.
Start the day with a visit to Auroville, an experimental township with an aim to promote human unity and sustainable living. Visit the Matrimandir, a unique structure that represents the town's aspirations, and attend the introductory session at the Visitors' Centre. In the afternoon, explore the Auroville Forest, which is home to various species of flora and fauna. You can also try your hand at pottery at the Golden Bridge Pottery. In the evening, head to the Serenity Beach, which is less crowded than the other beaches in Pondicherry, and enjoy some water activities such as surfing and paddleboarding.
If you have more time, you can also visit the Botanical Garden, Bharati Government Park, and the French War Memorial. For a side trip, visit Mahabalipuram, which is 100 km from Pondicherry and is famous for its ancient rock-cut temples. To maximize your fun, rent a bicycle and explore the city at your own pace. Some other suggestions include trying the local cuisine, shopping for handicrafts, and attending cultural events such as music and dance performances.