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Explore the Best of Pondicherry in a Day

  1. 9:00 AM: Sri Aurobindo Ashram
    5 minutes (0.5 miles) from Pondicherry Bus Stand

    Visit the ashram to experience the peaceful environment and learn about the life and teachings of Sri Aurobindo and The Mother. The ashram has a bookstore and a handmade paper factory.

  2. 10:30 AM: Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus
    10 minutes (1.5 miles) from Sri Aurobindo Ashram

    The basilica is a stunning example of neo-gothic architecture. The main altar has a beautiful statue of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Do not miss the stained-glass windows and the museum inside the church.

  3. 12:00 PM: Lunch at Surguru
    10 minutes (1.0 miles) from Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus

    Surguru is a vegetarian restaurant popular among locals. Try their thali, a meal consisting of rice, bread, vegetables, and curries. Do not forget to try their filter coffee.

  4. 2:00 PM: Promenade Beach
    15 minutes (1.5 miles) from Surguru

    A popular tourist spot, Promenade Beach is a long stretch of sandy beach. Take a stroll, watch the waves, and enjoy the sea breeze. Do not forget to take a picture with the statue of Mahatma Gandhi.

  5. 4:00 PM: Auroville
    20 minutes (5.4 miles) from Promenade Beach

    Auroville is an experimental community founded in 1968. Visit the Visitors Center to learn about the concept of Auroville and explore the boutiques selling handmade products. Do not miss the Matrimandir, a golden dome that represents the spiritual center of Auroville.

  6. 6:00 PM: Botanical Garden
    15 minutes (3.0 miles) from Auroville

    A beautiful garden with rare and exotic plants, the Botanical Garden is a perfect place to unwind. Do not miss the musical fountain show that starts at 7:00 PM.

Recommendations

If you have more time, you can visit the Pondicherry Museum, Gandhi Statue, and Chunnambar Boat House. To maximize your fun, rent a bicycle or a scooter to explore the city. You can also take a side trip to Mahabalipuram, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its ancient temples and rock carvings. Before you leave, try some French cuisine at one of the many restaurants in the French Quarter.

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