Adventure and Nature in Pondicherry: A 4-Day Family Itinerary

Day 1: Discovering Pondicherry

Pondicherry, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Baker Street

Start your day with freshly baked croissants and rich coffee at Baker Street, a charming French bakery.
Head towards the French Quarter after breakfast, exploring the colorful streets.
INR 600, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Sri Aurobindo Ashram

Experience tranquility and spiritual reflection at the iconic Sri Aurobindo Ashram.
Just a short walk from Auroville, making it an ideal first stop.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Explore the Promenade Beach

Enjoy a leisurely stroll along Promenade Beach, taking in the soothing sea breeze.
It's a 10-minute walk from the ashram.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Cafe des Artes

Savor a delightful lunch with delectable French fare while surrounded by vintage decor.
Head back towards the White Town area right by the beach.
INR 800, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Aayi Mandapam

Witness stunning architecture and take advantage of photo opportunities at this historical monument.
A short 5-minute walk from the café.
Free, 1 hour

3:30PM

Exploring Botanical Gardens

Spend time in lush greenery and learn about various plant species.
A quick auto-rickshaw ride of about 10 minutes.
INR 20, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Evening Snacks at Kannappa Canteen

Grab some local snacks like crispy dosas and fresh juices before heading back.
15-minute ride back to town.
INR 400, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at Maison Perumal

Indulge in a traditional Tamil dinner in a heritage hotel setting.
Only a 10-minute drive from the canteen.
INR 1000, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Escape to Auroville

Auroville, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Auroville Bakery

Try healthy breakfast options at a quaint café in Auroville like whole wheat breads and fruit smoothies.
Auroville is about a 30-minute drive from Pondicherry.
INR 700, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Matrimandir

Spend a serene morning at the iconic Matrimandir meditation center.
A short bicycle ride or shuttle will get you there from the bakery.
Free (registration required), 2 hours

11:30AM

Tour the Auroville Botanical Gardens

Discover the diverse plant life and participate in eco-education programs.
A 10-minute cycle or walk after Matrimandir.
INR 100, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Solar Kitchen

Enjoy a wholesome buffet with organic produce sourced from Auroville farms.
A short walk from the gardens.
INR 900, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Participate in a Pottery Workshop

Engage the family in a fun pottery-making session to unleash creativity.
Book in advance, as this is in another part of Auroville.
INR 800, 2.5 hours

5:30PM

Snacks at Auroville Visitor Center

Grab some organic chai and snacks while learning more about Auroville’s vision.
Head back to the Visitor's Center which is nearby.
INR 320, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Tanto Pizzeria

Indulge in delicious wood-fired pizzas and a vibrant atmosphere at this Auroville eatery.
A 10-minute drive from the center.
INR 1200, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Chunnambar Boat House

Chunnambar, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at KBS Restaurant

Fuel up with hearty Indian breakfast options like idli and sambar at this local favorite.
Head back to Pondicherry from Auroville, around a 30-minute drive.
INR 500, 1 hour

9:30AM

Chunnambar Boat House Activities

Spend the day enjoying boat rides, kayaking, and exploring the lush surroundings.
Chunnambar is a 20-minute drive from Pondicherry.
INR 800, 3 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at the Boat House Café

Enjoy a light meal at the café with stunning views of the backwaters.
Located at the Boat House itself.
INR 600, 1 hour

2:30PM

Relax at Paradise Beach

Take a relaxing beach break at the beautiful Paradise Beach, where the family can swim and play.
A short boat ride from the Boat House.
INR 300 (boat fare), 2 hours

5:00PM

Evening Tea at Bay of Buddha

Reflect on your day with delightful tea as you watch the sunset by the beach.
Back to the Boat House bay, approximately 20 minutes.
INR 400, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at Vinayak Family Restaurant

Enjoy local seafood and North Indian cuisine in a family-friendly environment.
A short 15-minute drive from Chunnambar.
INR 800, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Ousteri Wetland Exploration

Ousteri, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Original Coffee House

Enjoy a delicious South Indian breakfast with the freshest coffee in Pondicherry.
The restaurant is located in the city center.
INR 500, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Ousteri Lake

Head over to Ousteri Lake for bird watching and enjoying a family-friendly nature walk.
Travel about 15-20 minutes from the city center.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Ousteri Eco Village

Dine in a serene environment surrounded by nature, serving organic meals.
Located near the lake, just a 10-minute drive away.
INR 700, 1 hour

1:30PM

Nature Photography Tour

Capture the unique flora and fauna of Ousteri Wetland with a guided tour perfect for families.
Arrange a tour while at the Eco Village.
INR 1500, 2 hours

3:30PM

Enjoy Local Ice Cream at Billiards Cafe

Relax with delicious local ice cream and refreshments as a treat after the tour.
Located back in the city center.
INR 300, 1 hour

5:00PM

Visit the Pondicherry Museum

Explore artifacts that narrate the history and culture of Pondicherry.
It's a 15-minute drive back to the museum.
INR 20, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Indian Kaffe Express

Conclude your adventure with delightful Indian dishes in a cozy atmosphere, perfect for families.
Located about 10 minutes from the museum.
INR 700, 1.5 hours
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