5-Day Family Friendly Itinerary for Pondicherry

Day 1: Explore Pondicherry City

Pondicherry, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Cafe Des Arts

Start your day with delicious French-style breakfast options including crepes and croissants at this quaint cafe with a bohemian vibe.
Located in the heart of the city, it's a short walk or bike ride from most accommodations.
INR 500, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Sri Aurobindo Ashram

Explore the serene surroundings of this spiritual institution founded by Sri Aurobindo, perfect for quiet reflection.
It's conveniently located near the breakfast spot; just a 10-minute walk.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Walk along Promenade Beach

Stroll along the beautiful coastline, enjoy the sea breeze and quintessential views of the Bay of Bengal.
Head directly towards the beachfront from the Ashram.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Mittai Cafe

Savour local favourites such as dosa and thali in this family-friendly café with a colourful décor.
A short 15-minute walk from the beach.
INR 600, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore French Quarter

Wander through the charming streets of the French Quarter, admiring colourful colonial buildings and unique boutiques.
It's a 10-minute walk from the cafe.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Ice Cream at Gelateria Montecatini Terme

Cool down with homemade gelato at this local gem, offering a wide variety of flavours.
A delightful 10-minute walk from the French Quarter.
INR 300, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at The Indian Kaffe Express

Enjoy a family dinner with North Indian and Chinese cuisine options in a relaxed atmosphere.
Located just a 5-minute drive from the ice cream shop.
INR 800, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Day Trip to Auroville

Auroville, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Your Accommodation

Fuel up with a hearty breakfast at your lodging before setting off on your adventure.
Check with your hotel for in-house dining options.
INR 400, 1 hour

9:00AM

Travel to Auroville

Make your way to Auroville, an experimental township focusing on community and sustainability.
Travel about 12 km from Pondicherry city via rented scooter or taxi.
INR 300 for taxi, 30 minutes

10:00AM

Visit the Matrimandir

Admire the spherical golden structure at the heart of Auroville and the peaceful gardens surrounding it.
The Matrimandir is at the centre of Auroville and accessible from the Visitors' Centre.
Free (donation optional), 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Explore the Auroville Visitor Centre

Learn more about Auroville's philosophy and ongoing projects in this informative hub.
A short 10-minute walk from Matrimandir.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Auroville Bakery

Enjoy fresh vegetarian dishes made from organic ingredients along with some delicious baked goods.
Located about a 10-minute drive from the Visitor Centre.
INR 700, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Solar Kitchen

Experience Auroville's sustainable community dining at this solar-powered canteen serving meals to residents.
Just a 15-minute walk from the bakery.
INR 600, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Explore the shops in Auroville

Browse unique artisan products and handicrafts made by local communities.
Stroll around the area surrounding the Solar Kitchen.
Free to browse, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Return to Pondicherry

Head back to Pondicherry to relax after a day of exploration.
Travel back the same way you came.
INR 300, 30 minutes

6:00PM

Dinner at SeaGull Restaurant

Enjoy a beautiful view along with delicious seafood and South Indian dishes on the shoreline.
Located a quick drive from your accommodation.
INR 900, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Beach Day at Serenity Beach

Pondicherry, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at La Pasta

Indulge in an Italian breakfast style with fresh pastries and homemade breads.
Located in Pondicherry, close to your accommodation.
INR 500, 1 hour

9:30AM

Head to Serenity Beach

Spend the day at Serenity Beach, known for its family-friendly environment and clean sands.
A short 15-minute bike ride from your lodging.
Free, All day

1:00PM

Lunch at The Fisherman's Wharf

Lunch includes a variety of seafood and traditional South Indian dishes overlooking the beach.
Located right at the beach area.
INR 800, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Water Activities

Engage in various fun water activities such as kayaking or surfing, which are available at the beach.
Water sports can be arranged with local providers at Serenity Beach.
INR 2000 (varies by activity), 2 hours

4:30PM

Relax and Build Sandcastles

Let the kids enjoy the sandy shores while you relax and take in the beautiful view.
Stay at Serenity Beach, no need to move.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at La Terasse

Dine under the stars with an international menu and captivating views of the beach.
A short walk from the beach.
INR 1000, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Adventure at Chunnambar Boat House

Pondicherry, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Baker Street

Savour delightful pastries and strong coffee at this charming French bakery.
Located in the city centre, perfect for starting your day.
INR 400, 1 hour

9:00AM

Travel to Chunnambar Boat House

Head to the Chunnambar Boat House for a day of adventure in nature.
A quick 20-minute scooter ride from the city.
INR 300 for transport, 30 minutes

9:30AM

Enjoy a Boat Ride

Experience a scenic boat ride through the backwaters and mangroves, a unique perspective of the area.
Boats are rented directly at the Boat House.
INR 800, 2 hours

11:30AM

Explore the Beaches

Enjoy some time at the beach; safe swimming and local shacks are available for snacks.
Just a short walk from the Boat House.
Free, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Chunnambar Boat House Restaurant

Taste local flavours featuring fresh seafood and Indian cuisine while enjoying the views.
Located at the Boat House, no extra travel needed.
INR 700, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Nature Walk

Embark on a guided nature walk to learn about local flora and fauna in the picturesque setting.
Walks can be organised at the Boat House itself.
INR 500, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Return to Pondicherry

Relax on your way back and discuss the day's highlights.
Head back via your rented scooter or taxi.
INR 300, 30 minutes

6:00PM

Dinner at Villa Shanti

Enjoy a delightful evening meal featuring locally inspired dishes in a comfortable setting.
Just a short drive from your lodging.
INR 900, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Relax at Botanical Garden

Pondicherry, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hot Bread

Grab a quick bite of fresh-baked bread and pastries before concluding your trip.
Located conveniently in the city close to your accommodation.
INR 400, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit the Botanical Garden

Explore this massive garden known for its vibrant plant life and serene walking paths, perfect for families.
A short 10-minute walk from the bakery.
Free, 2 hours

11:00AM

Play at Garden's Playground

Allow the children some time to play at the kids' playground situated within the garden.
Easily accessible once you are in the garden area.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at St. Jacques

End your trip with a delightful lunch featuring a blend of French cuisine mixed with Indian flavours.
Located just outside the garden entrance.
INR 800, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Souvenir Shopping

Explore nearby shops for unique gifts to take home as memories of your trip.
St. Jacques is conveniently located near shopping areas.
Free to browse, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Return to Accommodation

Head back to pack up and prepare for your departure from Pondicherry.
It's a short walk or drive back to your lodging.
Free, 30 minutes

5:00PM

Departure

Reflect on the beautiful memories made during this wonderful family getaway.
Check with your transport for departure details.
N/A, Variable
View Hotel Availability