Enchanting Pondicherry: A 3-Day Rail Adventure

Day 1: Pondicherry Arrival

Pondicherry, India

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Baker Street

Start your day with freshly baked pastries and coffee at the famous Baker Street, known for its French-style breakfast.
Located in the heart of Pondicherry, easily reachable from any city center location.
INR500, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit Aurobindo Ashram

Experience tranquility at Aurobindo Ashram, a space of meditation and reflection that embodies the spirit of Pondicherry.
A short walk from Baker Street, approximately 15 minutes.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00 AM

Stroll through Promenade Beach

Enjoy a leisurely walk along Promenade Beach, soaking in the picturesque views of the Bay of Bengal.
5-minute walk from Aurobindo Ashram.
Free, 1 hour

12:30 PM

Lunch at Le Café

Indulge in a delightful lunch at Le Café, located on the beachfront, offering a variety of French and local dishes.
Just off the Promenade Beach; easy access.
INR800, 1 hour

2:00 PM

Explore the French Quarter

Wander through the charming streets of the French Quarter, admiring the colonial architecture and vibrant walls.
30-minute walk from Le Café.
Free, 2 hours

4:30 PM

Visit the Pondicherry Museum

Discover the rich history of Pondicherry at the Pondicherry Museum, which houses various artifacts and exhibits.
About 15 minutes from the French Quarter by foot.
INR150, 1 hour

6:00 PM

Dinner at Villa Shanti

Enjoy a sumptuous dinner at Villa Shanti, which offers a fusion of Indian and French cuisine in a lovely setting.
A short 10-minute walk from the museum.
INR1200, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Auroville Day Trip

Auroville, India

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Café Auroville

Fuel up at Café Auroville, known for its healthy organic options and vibrant atmosphere.
20-minute bike ride from Pondicherry, rental bikes available throughout the city.
INR600, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit Matrimandir

Explore the iconic Matrimandir, a symbol of Auroville offering a unique meditation experience.
Close to Café Auroville, about 10 minutes by bicycle.
Free, 2 hours

11:30 AM

Explore Auroville's Gardens

Take a serene walk through the lush gardens of Auroville, reflecting the community's sustainable environment.
Adjacent to Matrimandir, walking distance.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at the Visitor's Center

Enjoy a simple yet delightful lunch at the Visitor's Center café, where they serve local vegetarian cuisine.
Just a short cycle back to the Visitor's Center.
INR500, 1 hour

2:30 PM

Participate in Community Workshops

Engage in one of the various workshops offered in Auroville, ranging from yoga to eco-friendly crafts.
Locations vary within Auroville; refer to the schedule at the Visitor's Center.
Varies, 2 hours

5:00 PM

Return to Pondicherry

Cycle back to Pondicherry, taking in the countryside views along the way.
20-minute cycle back.
Free, 30 minutes

6:00 PM

Dinner at Surguru

Sample authentic South Indian cuisine at Surguru, famous for its delicious dosas and thalis.
Located centrally in Pondicherry, accessible by auto-rickshaw.
INR700, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Pondicherry Departure

Pondicherry, India

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Hot Breads

Start your day with a delightful breakfast at Hot Breads, known for its delicious baked goods and light fare.
Located in the city center, easy to access from hotels.
INR500, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit Sri Manika Vinayakar Alayam

Discover the beautiful Sri Manika Vinayakar Alayam, a temple famous for its intricate architecture and serene ambiance.
A 10-minute auto-rickshaw ride from Hot Breads.
Free, 1 hour

11:00 AM

Shop at the Local Market

Explore the local markets filled with handicrafts, textiles, and spices — perfect for souvenir shopping.
Short rickshaw ride from the temple.
Free (varied spending), 1.5 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at The Asian House

Savor a mix of Thai, Chinese, and Surf cuisine at The Asian House, a lovely spot to relax.
Located downtown, about a 10-minute walk.
INR900, 1 hour

3:00 PM

Pack and Check-Out

Return to your accommodation to pack and check out in preparation for your departure.
Allow 1 hour for packing and settling bills.
Free, 1 hour

4:00 PM

Train back to Chennai

Head to the railway station to catch your train back to Chennai, concluding your memorable journey in Pondicherry.
A 15-minute auto-rickshaw from your accommodation to the railway station.
INR500, Journey varies (approx. 3 hours)
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