4-Day Itinerary in Pondicherry: Explore the Serenity of Auroville and Beyond

Day 1: Explore the French Quarter

Pondicherry, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café des Arts

Start your day with a warm croissant and freshly brewed coffee at the charming Café des Arts, known for its retro styling and art ambiance.
Located in the French Quarter, easy to walk around.
INR400, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Aurobindo Ashram

Explore the serene grounds of Aurobindo Ashram, which offers a tranquil atmosphere perfect for meditation and reflection.
Just a 10-minute walk from the café.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Stroll through the French Promenade

Take a leisurely walk along the beautiful seafront promenade, past the iconic Gandhi statue and stunning colonial architecture.
Continue walking along the coast from the ashram.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Villa Shanti

Enjoy a delightful lunch at this popular restaurant, featuring Indo-French cuisine, set in a beautifully restored colonial building.
A short 5-minute walk from the promenade.
INR800, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore the Botanical Gardens

Visit the tranquil Botanical Gardens, which offers various flora, a small zoo, and picturesque walking paths.
Take an auto-rickshaw, it’s about 10 minutes away.
INR50, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Relax at Serenity Beach

Spend the late afternoon relaxing at Serenity Beach, soaking in the sun and enjoying the sound of the waves.
Take a taxi or rent a scooter, about 30 minutes from the gardens.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at La Cadre

Savor delicious seafood with a view at this seaside eatery, known for its romantic ambiance.
A short drive from Serenity Beach.
INR900, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Day Trip to Auroville

Auroville, India

7:30AM

Breakfast at Keeth House

Enjoy a healthy breakfast at Keeth House, where fresh, organic ingredients are the essence of the meal.
On-site at your accommodation.
INR300, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Matrimandir

Head to Matrimandir, the spiritual center of Auroville, which is surrounded by peaceful gardens offering insight into its philosophy.
Take a short walk or bike ride, about 10-15 minutes.
Free, 2 hours

11:30AM

Explore the Auroville Arts and Crafts

Visit the local crafts and handmade products, where you can pick up unique souvenirs made by community artisans.
A brief walk from Matrimandir.
Free entry, souvenirs vary., 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at the Auroville Visitor Center Café

A chance to enjoy a wholesome vegetarian meal made from locally sourced ingredients.
Located near the Visitor Center, about a 5-minute walk.
INR700, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Participate in an Auroville workshop

Engage in a local workshop, such as pottery or organic farming, to immerse yourself in Auroville's community spirit.
Check the schedule at the Visitor Centre for availability.
INR1000, 2 hours

5:30PM

Enjoy the sunset at Auroville Beach

End your day by watching the sunset over the ocean from Auroville Beach – perfect for reflection.
About 10 minutes by taxi from the workshop location.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Tanto Pizzeria

Indulge in delicious wood-fired pizza in a rustic setting that has quickly become a favorite among locals and tourists.
About 15 minutes' drive from the beach.
INR800, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Cultural Immersion in Pondicherry

Pondicherry, India

8:30AM

Breakfast at Le Café

Have breakfast at Le Café, located on the beach, enjoying coffee and an assortment of baked goods while watching the waves.
Approximately a 15-minute ride from Auroville.
INR500, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit the Pondicherry Museum

Explore the rich history of Pondicherry through artifacts and exhibits, giving you insight into its colonial past.
Just a 10-minute ride from the café.
INR100, 1.5 hours

11:45AM

Check out the Goubert Market

Immerse yourself in local culture by strolling through Goubert Market, filled with colorful stalls selling spices, fruits, and flowers.
A quick walk from the museum.
Free, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Auroville Bakery

Enjoy an organic meal with fresh baked goods at this quaint bakery that promotes sustainable practices.
Head back to Auroville (15-minute ride).
INR600, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Take a yoga class

Rejuvenate your body and mind by participating in a yoga class, which is deeply rooted in the culture of this region.
Available at Auroville, check schedules.
INR800, 1.5 hours

4:15PM

Visit Auroville's Community Projects

Engage with local community projects and learn about the innovative sustainable practices implemented in Auroville.
Typically a walking tour, check at the Visitor Center for specifics.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Indian Kaffe Express

Finish the day with authentic Indian cuisine and delightful desserts, popular for its local flavors.
Head back to Pondicherry (20-minute ride).
INR700, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Relax and Unwind

Pondicherry, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at your accommodation

Start your day leisurely with breakfast at Keeth House, cherishing the fresh and organic offerings once more.
On-site.
Included in stay, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Paradise Beach

Spend your morning at Paradise Beach, known for its pristine sands and crystal-clear waters, perfect for relaxation.
Take a short boat ride, approximately 20 minutes from the jetty.
INR300, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Café Olé

Refuel at Café Olé, a cozy place known for its delicious omelets and freshly squeezed juices.
Boat back to the center, then a short drive.
INR400, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit the Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus

Discover the beautiful stained glass windows and stunning architecture of this iconic church in Pondicherry.
About 10-minute ride from the café.
Free, 1 hour

3:00PM

Enjoy a spa treatment

Treat yourself to a traditional Ayurvedic spa treatment, which will rejuvenate both your body and soul.
Book ahead at a local spa; several options are available.
INR2000, 2 hours

5:30PM

Visit the Pondicherry Beach Sunset

Spend the last evening watching the sunset from Pondicherry Beach, a beautiful way to conclude your trip.
Back to the main beach area, about 20 minutes away.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Farewell Dinner at The Lighthouse

Celebrate your wonderful stay with a delicious farewell dinner at The Lighthouse, featuring fresh catch of the day and local delicacies.
A short 10-minute drive from the beach.
INR1000, 2 hours
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