5-Day Family Friendly Itinerary for Exploring Pondicherry and Nearby Attractions

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

Pondicherry, India

9:00AM

Breakfast at Baker Street

Start the day with delicious pastries and freshly brewed coffee at Baker Street, a popular French bakery in Pondicherry.
Walk or take an auto-rickshaw to Baker Street.
INR 500, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Aurobindo Ashram

Explore the serene environment of Aurobindo Ashram, where you can meditate and learn about the teachings of Sri Aurobindo.
A short auto-rickshaw ride from Baker Street.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Explore the French Quarter

Stroll through the charming streets of the French Quarter, admiring the colonial architecture and vibrant bougainvillea.
Walk from the Ashram through the streets.
Free, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Café des Arts

Enjoy lunch at Café des Arts, a quaint café offering an array of delightful crepes and grilled sandwiches.
A short walk from the French Quarter.
INR 800, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit the Pondicherry Museum

Discover the historical artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of Pondicherry's rich culture at the Pondicherry Museum.
Take an auto-rickshaw to the museum.
INR 150 per person, 1 hour

4:00PM

Beach Time at Promenade Beach

Relax at Promenade Beach, where children can play in the sand, and families can enjoy the sunset.
Walk to the beach from the museum.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Indian Kaffe Express

Savor dinner at The Indian Kaffe Express, known for its Indian and Continental dishes in a cozy ambience.
A short auto-rickshaw ride to the restaurant.
INR 900, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Auroville Adventure

Auroville, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Auroville Bakery

Start your day with a healthy breakfast of organic breads and spreads at the Auroville Bakery.
Travel by taxi to Auroville, approximately 30 mins.
INR 600, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Matrimandir

After breakfast, visit the iconic Matrimandir, the spiritual center of Auroville, and explore its beautiful gardens.
Walk to Matrimandir from the bakery.
Free (entry fee for the viewing room INR 50), 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Nature Walk in the Auroville Forest

Enjoy a guided nature walk through the lush Auroville forests, learning about native flora and fauna.
Organized by Auroville guides.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Solar Kitchen

Relish a wholesome vegetarian lunch at Solar Kitchen, emphasizing local and organic ingredients.
A short walk from the nature trail.
INR 700, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Auroville's Visitor Center

Visit the Auroville Visitor Center to learn about the community's history and initiatives.
Take a short walk from the restaurant.
Free, 1 hour

4:30PM

Shopping at Boutique

Explore the local boutique for handmade crafts and products from Auroville.
Within Auroville area.
Varies, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Auroville's Veg Restaurant

Enjoy a delightful vegetarian dinner at one of Auroville’s popular restaurants, serving sustainable food.
Walk from the boutique.
INR 800, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Fun at Chunnambar

Chunnambar, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Promenade

Indulge in a lavish breakfast buffet at The Promenade, overlooking the beachfront.
Travel back to Pondicherry for breakfast.
INR 800, 1 hour

9:30AM

Travel to Chunnambar Boat House

After breakfast, head to Chunnambar Boat House for a day of fun and adventure.
Drive to Chunnambar Boat House, about 30 minutes from Pondicherry.
INR 300, 1 hour

10:30AM

Boat Ride Experience

Enjoy a calm boat ride on the backwaters, surrounded by lush greenery, perfect for family bonding.
Boat rentals available at the boat house.
INR 800 for a family boat ride., 1 hour

12:00PM

Relax at Chunnambar Beach

Unwind and soak up the sun at Chunnambar Beach, with plenty of space for children to play.
Walk to the beach from the boat house.
Free, 3 hours

3:00PM

Lunch at Chunnambar Boat House Café

Have a casual lunch at the café with views of the waters, offering a selection of snacks and light meals.
Located within the boat house.
INR 600, 1 hour

4:30PM

Return to Pondicherry

Head back to your accommodation to freshen up.
Drive back to Pondicherry.
INR 300, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at The Fisherman's Wharf

Savor a feast of seafood and coastal delicacies at The Fisherman's Wharf, a family-friendly restaurant.
Drive to The Fisherman's Wharf.
INR 1,200, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Paradise Beach Bliss

Paradise Beach, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Villa Shanti

Enjoy a delightful breakfast at Villa Shanti, offering a selection of South Indian specialties.
Travel there from your accommodation.
INR 600, 1 hour

9:30AM

Travel to Paradise Beach

Set out for a family day at Paradise Beach, known for its pristine sands and clear waters.
Hire a taxi to reach the beach, which is about 30 minutes away.
INR 300, 1 hour

10:30AM

Beach Activities

Engage in fun activities like swimming, sandcastle building, and beach games to enjoy a carefree day.
Beach activities are available at the location.
Free, 4 hours

2:30PM

Lunch at Paradise Beach Shack

Relish local seafood and vegetarian dishes at the charming beach shack, a perfect spot post activities.
Located on the beach.
INR 700, 1 hour

4:00PM

Relax and Sunbathe

Post lunch, relax and soak up the sun or enjoy the gentle waves as the children explore more.
Stay at the beach.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Return to Pondicherry

Head back to your accommodation to refresh from a long day at the beach.
Travel back by hired taxi.
INR 300, 1 hour

7:30PM

Dinner at La Goulue

Wrap up the day with a French cuisine experience at La Goulue, known for its charming atmosphere.
Drive to La Goulue from your accommodation.
INR 1,000, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Excursion to Karaikal

Karaikal, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Villa Shanti

Have a hearty South Indian breakfast at Villa Shanti to energize your trip to Karaikal.
Travel back to Villa Shanti from your accommodation.
INR 600, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Karaikal

Travel to Karaikal, a coastal town known for its beaches, temples, and rich culture.
Hire a taxi for the 1.5-hour drive.
INR 500, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Visit Karaikal Beach

Spend time at Karaikal Beach, known for its serene atmosphere and beautiful sunsets.
Walk to the beach from where you park.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Karaikal's Local Restaurant

Try out local dishes at a restaurant, offering authentic flavors and hearty meals.
Nearby the beach.
INR 600, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit the Karaikal Amma Temple

Explore the famous Karaikal Amma Temple, a historic temple that showcases exquisite architecture.
A short drive from the restaurant.
Free, 1 hour

4:00PM

Head Back to Pondicherry

Wrap up your excursion with a scenic drive back to Pondicherry.
Hiring a taxi for return.
INR 500, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Hot Breads

Conclude your journey with a delightful dinner at Hot Breads, where you can enjoy various baked goods and fast food.
Return to your accommodation in Pondicherry.
INR 800, 1.5 hours
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