Exploring the Charms of Pondicherry

Day 1: Auroville Exploration

Pondicherry, India

8:00AM

Auroville Matrimandir

Begin your day with a visit to the iconic golden Matrimandir, a place of peace and spiritual significance surrounded by lush greenery.
Auroville Matrimandir is located about 12 km from Pondicherry town centre. It takes approximately 30 minutes by taxi.
Free entry, but pre-booking required, 2 hours

11:00AM

Auro Beach

Relax and unwind at the serene Auro Beach, known for its golden sands and calm waters, ideal for a leisurely stroll or sunbathing.
Auro Beach is a short 10-minute drive from Auroville Matrimandir.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Tanto Pizzeria

Enjoy a delicious wood-fired pizza or pasta at Tanto Pizzeria, offering a cozy ambience and authentic Italian flavours.
Tanto Pizzeria is located in Auroville.
INR 500 per person, 1 hour

3:00PM

Auroville Visitor's Centre

Explore the Auroville Visitor's Centre to learn about the concept of Auroville, its various projects, and shop for unique handicrafts.
Auroville Visitor's Centre is a short walk from Tanto Pizzeria.
Free entry, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Matri Mandir Viewpoint

Head to the Matri Mandir Viewpoint to catch a breathtaking sunset overlooking the Matrimandir and the surrounding landscapes.
The viewpoint is a 15-minute drive from Auroville Visitor's Centre.
Free, 1 hour
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Day 2: Promenade Beach Day

Pondicherry, India

9:00AM

Promenade Beach

Start your day with a refreshing morning walk along the Promenade Beach, a popular stretch with stunning views of the Bay of Bengal.
Promenade Beach is located in the heart of Pondicherry town and can be reached within 15 minutes by taxi.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus

Visit the magnificent Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, a beautiful church known for its Gothic architecture and serene atmosphere.
The basilica is a 5-minute drive from Promenade Beach.
Free entry, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Le Cafe

Enjoy a leisurely meal at Le Cafe, a charming beachfront cafe serving a variety of cuisines with a view of the sea.
Le Cafe is located on the Promenade Beach itself.
INR 800 per person, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Arikamedu Archaeological Site

Explore the ancient ruins and historical artifacts at the Arikamedu Archaeological Site, offering insights into Pondicherry's rich past.
Arikamedu is a 20-minute drive from Promenade Beach.
Free entry, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Shopping at Nehru Street

Indulge in some retail therapy at Nehru Street, a bustling market hub with a variety of shops selling local crafts, clothes, and souvenirs.
Nehru Street is a short walk from Arikamedu.
As per shopping budget, 2 hours
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Day 3: Paradise Beach Escape

Pondicherry, India

8:30AM

Paradise Beach

Spend your day at the picturesque Paradise Beach, accessible only by boat and known for its crystal-clear waters and tranquil surroundings.
Take a 20-minute taxi ride to Chunnambar Boat House, where you can catch a boat to Paradise Beach.
Boat ride costs INR 300 per person, Full day

1:00PM

Picnic Lunch on Paradise Beach

Enjoy a picnic lunch on the shores of Paradise Beach, surrounded by the natural beauty of the coastline and gentle sea breeze.
Carry your own lunch or pre-arrange a meal with a local vendor.
Cost of lunch as per choice, 1 hour

3:00PM

Water Sports Activities

Engage in water sports activities like jet skiing, banana boat rides, or beach volleyball for an adventurous afternoon by the sea.
Various water sports operators are available on the beach.
Varies based on activity, 2 hours

6:00PM

Sunset Views

Witness a mesmerising sunset on Paradise Beach, casting hues of orange and pink across the horizon for a perfect end to the day.
Relax on the beach and enjoy the natural spectacle.
Free, 1 hour
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Day 4: Botanical Gardens Exploration

Pondicherry, India

8:30AM

Auroville Botanical Gardens

Discover the biodiversity of Auroville Botanical Gardens, home to a wide variety of indigenous and exotic plant species in a serene setting.
The gardens are located about 10 km from Pondicherry town centre and can be reached in a 20-minute taxi ride.
INR 50 per person, 2 hours

11:00AM

Botanical Illustration Workshop

Participate in a botanical illustration workshop at the gardens, where you can learn to sketch and paint various plant specimens.
Pre-booking required for the workshop.
INR 500 per person, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Tanto Organic Cafe

Enjoy a healthy and organic meal at Tanto Organic Cafe, located within the Botanical Gardens premises, offering farm-to-table dishes.
Relax and dine at the cafe after the workshop.
INR 700 per person, 1 hour

3:30PM

Nature Walk

Embark on a guided nature walk through the botanical gardens, exploring the diverse flora and fauna with insights from experts.
Join a scheduled nature walk from the garden's entrance.
INR 200 per person, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Garden Photography

Capture the beauty of the botanical gardens through your lens, photographing the vibrant flowers, towering trees, and serene landscapes.
Spend some time wandering through the gardens to find the perfect shots.
Free, 1 hour
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