3-Day Pondicherry Itinerary: Serene Beaches & Enchanting Mangroves

Day 1: Exploring Pondicherry

Pondicherry, India

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Bread & Chocolate

Start your day with a delightful breakfast at Bread & Chocolate known for its artisanal breads and freshly brewed coffee.
Take an auto-rickshaw from the bus station to the café, around 15 minutes.
INR 600, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit Aurobindo Ashram

Immerse yourself in peace and spirituality at the historic Aurobindo Ashram, a short ride from the café.
You can walk to the ashram as it's nearby, about 10 minutes.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00 AM

Stroll at Promenade Beach

Enjoy a peaceful walk along Promenade Beach and soak up the sun and sea breeze.
A 15-minute walk from the Ashram to the beach.
Free, 1 hour

12:30 PM

Lunch at Villa Shanti

Relish an exquisite lunch at Villa Shanti, which offers a mix of South Indian and fusion cuisine.
A short walk to Villa Shanti, around 10 minutes.
INR 1200, 1.5 hours

2:00 PM

Explore French Quarter

Wander through the charming streets of the French Quarter, with its vibrant colored buildings and cute boutiques.
Easily walkable from the restaurant, about 5 minutes.
Free, 2 hours

4:00 PM

Check-in at hotel

Relax and refresh at your chosen hotel, La Villa, known for its tranquil environment.
Head to La Villa via rented bike or auto-rickshaw, around 15 minutes.
INR 6000, 1 hour

6:00 PM

Dinner at Azzuro

End your day savoring delectable Italian cuisine at Azzuro with ocean views.
A short bike ride from your hotel, about 15 minutes.
INR 1500, 1.5 hours

8:00 PM

Night stroll at the beach

Enjoy a moonlit walk at the beach, reflecting on your wonderful day.
A quick ride back to Promenade Beach from dinner.
Free, 1 hour
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Day 2: Pichavaram Mangrove Adventure

Pichavaram, India

7:00 AM

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at your hotel La Villa before starting your adventure.
Breakfast will be served at your hotel.
Included in stay, 1 hour

8:00 AM

Travel to Pichavaram

Start the journey to Pichavaram Mangrove Forest by bike for a morning of exploration.
Bike rental in Pondicherry makes this commute easy; it's about an hour’s ride.
Included in bike rental, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Boat ride in Pichavaram

Discover the mesmerizing mangrove ecosystem in a guided boat ride.
Hire a boat from the local operators at Pichavaram.
INR 1500, 2 hours

11:30 AM

Nature Walk in Mangroves

Take a moment to appreciate the untouched beauty with a nature walk through the mangroves.
Walking trails are well-defined within the forest area.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Pichavaram Restaurant

Enjoy a traditional South Indian meal at a local restaurant before heading back to Pondicherry.
A nearby restaurant within Pichavaram, about 10 minutes by bike.
INR 800, 1 hour

2:30 PM

Return to Pondicherry

Bike back to Pondicherry (take a different scenic route if possible).
Return via your own bike, allowing for exploration of the coastal scenery.
Included in bike rental, 1 hour

3:30 PM

Relax at hotel

Take an afternoon break, recharging before the evening activities.
Return to La Villa to unwind.
Free, 2 hours

5:30 PM

Visit Sri Manakula Vinayagar Temple

Experience the vibrant culture at Sri Manakula Vinayagar Temple, known for its elephant blessings.
About a 15-minute ride from your hotel.
Free, 1 hour

7:00 PM

Dinner at Cafe des Arts

Dine at Cafe des Arts, where you can relish a mix of French and Indian cuisine in a cozy atmosphere.
Short ride back to the French Quarter for dinner, approximately 10 minutes.
INR 1200, 1.5 hours

9:00 PM

Evening Walk

Enjoy an evening stroll through the lively streets of Pondicherry, soaking in the local vibes.
Head back to main streets via bike.
Free, 1 hour
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Day 3: Final Day Relaxation

Pondicherry, India

8:00 AM

Breakfast at hotel

Savor your last breakfast at La Villa while planning the day's activities.
Breakfast served at the hotel.
Included in stay, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Relax at Serenity Beach

Spend a leisurely morning at Serenity Beach, away from the crowd, perfect for relaxation.
Access by bike, around 30 minutes from the hotel.
Free, 2 hours

11:30 AM

Visit Auroville

Head to Auroville, an experimental township, for its unique architecture and vibe.
A bike ride of about 30 minutes to Auroville.
Free, 2 hours

1:30 PM

Lunch at Auroville Bakery

Enjoy a fresh and organic meal at Auroville Bakery which is famous for its delicious baked goods.
Conveniently located within Auroville.
INR 800, 1 hour

3:00 PM

Shopping and Leisure

Spend your final hours shopping for souvenirs and exploring local markets back in Pondicherry.
Return to Pondicherry by bike, about 30 minutes.
Free (Shopping costs vary), 2 hours

5:30 PM

Coffee at Cafe Cinnamon

Relax with a coffee at Cafe Cinnamon before leaving, wrapping up your Pondicherry experience.
Short bike ride from the market area.
INR 400, 1 hour

6:30 PM

Return Bike and Depart

Return the rented bike and prepare for your journey back home.
Return the bike to the rental place near your hotel.
Free, 30 minutes
View Hotel Availability