Pondicherry & Auroville: A Budget-Friendly 2-Day Road Trip Itinerary

Day 1: Explore Pondicherry

Pondicherry, India

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Café des Arts

Start your day with a delightful breakfast at Café des Arts, known for its vibrant atmosphere and delicious French pastries.
Walk to the café within the French Quarter.
INR250, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit the Pondicherry Museum

Dive into the rich history of the region at the Pondicherry Museum, where you can explore artifacts from its colonial past.
Take a 15-minute walk from the café.
INR30, 2 hours

11:30 AM

Promenade Beach Relaxation

After the museum, take a leisurely stroll at Promenade Beach, enjoying the sea breeze and scenic views.
Walk to the beach in about 10 minutes.
Free, 1 hour

12:30 PM

Lunch at Surguru

Indulge in a sumptuous South Indian meal at Surguru, famous for its dosas and thalis.
A 10-minute walk from the beach.
INR300, 1 hour

2:00 PM

Auroville Visit

Embark on a bike ride to Auroville, exploring the community known for its sustainable practices and global citizenship.
20-minute bike ride (5 km) from Pondicherry.
INR100 rental, 3 hours

5:00 PM

Visit Matrimandir

Experience tranquility by visiting the iconic Matrimandir, a meditation center and a symbol of Auroville.
A short 10-minute walk within Auroville.
Free, 1 hour

6:00 PM

Dinner at Arka Restaurant

Enjoy a serene dinner at Arka, where you can relish delicious vegetarian cuisine with organic ingredients.
Cycle back to Auroville dining area.
INR400, 1 hour

8:00 PM

Evening Walk in Auroville

Wind down your day with a peaceful evening walk through Auroville's lush gardens.
Walking around Auroville.
Free, 1 hour
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Day 2: Cultural Immersion & Nature

Pondicherry, India

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Baker Street

Treat yourself to freshly baked pastries and artisanal bread at Baker Street, an essential hunger stop.
Return to Pondicherry via a 20-minute bike ride.
INR350, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Volunteer at Auroville

Engage in a morning of volunteering at an organic farm or community project in Auroville.
15-minute bike ride to the volunteering site.
Free (with donation options), 3 hours

12:30 PM

Lunch at Naturellement Épicé

Refuel with a delicious vegetarian meal at Naturellement Épicé, known for its locally sourced ingredients.
Return to Pondicherry for lunch.
INR350, 1 hour

1:30 PM

Explore Botanical Garden

Stroll through the beautiful Botanical Garden in Pondicherry, featuring a diverse range of flora and serene paths.
Take a 10-minute bike ride to the garden.
INR30, 2 hours

3:30 PM

Visit Sri Aurobindo Ashram

Gain insight into spiritual practices by visiting Sri Aurobindo Ashram, a serene place of meditation.
A 10-minute ride from the Botanical Garden.
Free, 1 hour

4:30 PM

Shopping at local markets

Discover handcrafted items at local markets, perfect for souvenirs and supporting local artisans.
Bike around Pondicherry to nearby bazaars.
Variable, 1.5 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at Hotel de l'Orient

For your last meal, enjoy a lovely dinner at Hotel de l'Orient, where you can savor the flavors of French and Indian cuisine.
Short bike ride to the restaurant.
INR500, 1.5 hours

8:00 PM

Wind down at Café Couleur Café

Cap off your trip with a relaxed evening at Café Couleur Café, sipping on some coffee and reflecting on your journey.
Bike over to the café.
INR200, 1 hour
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