7-Day Enchanting Itinerary in Pondicherry

Day 1: Cultural Exploration

Pondicherry, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Cafe des Arts

Start your day with a delightful breakfast at Cafe des Arts, known for its French touch and delicious crepes.
20-minute walk from your hotel in White Town.
INR 300, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Aayi Mandapam

Admire the stunning architecture of Aayi Mandapam, a heritage monument surrounded by lush greenery.
15-minute stroll from Cafe des Arts.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Explore the Pondicherry Museum

Dive into the rich history of Pondicherry at the Pondicherry Museum, showcasing artifacts from the French colonial era.
5-minute walk from Aayi Mandapam.
INR 100, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Villa Shanti

Savor lunch at Villa Shanti, where you can relish local dishes with a modern twist in a charming courtyard setting.
15-minute walk from the museum.
INR 800, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Relax at Promenade Beach

Unwind at Promenade Beach, a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll along the picturesque coast.
15-minute walk from Villa Shanti.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Visit the Gandhi Statue

Take a moment to reflect at the iconic Gandhi Statue located near the beach, representing the essence of Pondicherry.
10-minute walk from Promenade Beach.
Free, 30 minutes

7:00PM

Dinner at Surguru

Indulge in authentic South Indian cuisine at Surguru, famous for its dosas and filter coffee.
20-minute auto-rickshaw ride from Gandhi Statue.
INR 600, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Spiritual Retreat

Pondicherry, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Baker Street

Begin your day with fresh pastries and coffee at Baker Street, a delightful French bakery.
15-minute walk from your hotel.
INR 350, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Auroville

Travel to nearby Auroville, a unique experimental community aimed at human unity, and enjoy exploring its beautiful gardens.
30-minute taxi ride from Pondicherry.
INR 500, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Solar Kitchen

Experience a wholesome vegetarian meal at Solar Kitchen, where fresh organic ingredients are used to create delicious dishes.
5-minute walk from Auroville.
INR 600, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Meditate at Matrimandir

Join a meditation session at Matrimandir, an important symbol of Auroville, to enhance your inner peace.
15-minute walk from Solar Kitchen.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Explore Auroville’s Shops

Browse through handicraft shops offering unique sustainable products made by the local community.
15-minute walk from Matrimandir.
Varying, 1 hour

5:30PM

Return to Pondicherry

Head back to Pondicherry for some relaxation time after a day of tranquility.
30-minute taxi ride back to Pondicherry.
INR 500, 30 minutes

7:00PM

Dinner at The Indian Kaffe Express

End your day with a flavorful Indian dinner at The Indian Kaffe Express, known for its variety of dishes and cozy ambiance.
10-minute walk from your hotel.
INR 700, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Architecture and Gardens

Pondicherry, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Le Cafe

Enjoy breakfast by the sea at Le Cafe, famous for its stunning views and scrumptious omelets.
10-minute walk from your hotel.
INR 400, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus

Marvel at the stunning stained glass and Gothic architecture of the Basilica, a landmark beloved by locals.
10-minute auto-rickshaw ride from Le Cafe.
Free, 1 hour

10:30AM

Explore Arikamedu

Visit the ancient archaeological site of Arikamedu, where you can witness the remnants of the Roman trade settlement.
30-minute auto-rickshaw ride from the Basilica.
INR 100, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Visit Botanical Garden

Stroll through the lush greenery of the Botanical Garden, which showcases various species of plants and trees.
20-minute auto-rickshaw ride from Arikamedu.
INR 30, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Hotel Atithi

Refuel with lunch at Hotel Atithi, famous for its delicious thalis and coastal seafood.
10-minute auto-rickshaw ride from Botanical Garden.
INR 700, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Relax at Serenity Beach

Spend the afternoon at Serenity Beach, a less crowded spot perfect for sunbathing and quiet contemplation.
30-minute auto-rickshaw ride from Hotel Atithi.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Return to Pondicherry

Wind down the day with a leisurely return to Pondicherry, reflecting on the day’s adventures.
30-minute auto-rickshaw ride back to the city.
INR 400, 30 minutes

7:00PM

Dinner at The Promenade

Dine at The Promenade, enjoying a fusion of Indian and international cuisines while overlooking the bay.
15-minute walk from your hotel.
INR 900, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Day Trip to Mahabalipuram

Mahabalipuram, India

7:00AM

Breakfast at Cafe des Arts

Fuel up with a hearty breakfast at Cafe des Arts before embarking on your journey to Mahabalipuram.
15-minute walk from your hotel.
INR 300, 1 hour

8:30AM

Travel to Mahabalipuram

Depart for Mahabalipuram, famous for its UNESCO World Heritage Sites, such as rock-cut temples and sculptures.
1-hour taxi ride from Pondicherry.
INR 1000, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Shore Temple

Visit the iconic Shore Temple, revered for its stunning architecture and beautiful seaside vistas.
10-minute drive from your drop-off.
INR 50, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Arjuna's Penance

Marvel at the grand relief sculpture depicted in Arjuna's Penance, an exquisite representation of ancient Indian art.
10-minute drive from Shore Temple.
INR 50, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at The Village Restaurant

Savor the flavors of traditional South Indian cuisine at The Village Restaurant, surrounded by lush gardens.
15-minute drive from Arjuna's Penance.
INR 700, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Explore Pancha Rathas

Visit the remarkable rock-cut temples at Pancha Rathas, a stunning example of architectural brilliance.
20-minute drive from The Village Restaurant.
INR 50, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Relax at Mahabalipuram Beach

Enjoy some leisure time at Mahabalipuram Beach, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or simply enjoying the landscape.
10-minute drive from Pancha Rathas.
Free, 1 hour

4:30PM

Return to Pondicherry

Head back to Pondicherry, reminiscing about the day’s historical exploration.
1-hour taxi ride back to Pondicherry.
INR 1000, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at The Indian Kaffe Express

Cap off your day with dinner at The Indian Kaffe Express, expanding your taste with their diverse menu.
15-minute drive from your accommodation.
INR 700, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Local Markets and Beaches

Pondicherry, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Cafe Oliveda

Enjoy a relaxing breakfast at Cafe Oliveda, well-known for its Italian breakfast options.
20-minute walk from your hotel.
INR 400, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Goubert Market

Dive into the bustling atmosphere of Goubert Market, where you can shop for local produce and souvenirs.
15-minute walk from Cafe Oliveda.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore Chunnambar Boat House

Head to Chunnambar Boat House for a scenic boat ride through lush mangroves and pristine beaches.
20-minute auto-rickshaw ride from Goubert Market.
INR 500, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at La Terasse

Dine at La Terasse, featuring delectable seafood and vegetarian dishes overlooking the boat house.
5-minute walk from Chunnambar Boat House.
INR 800, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Relax at Paradise Beach

Spend the afternoon basking in the sun at Paradise Beach, an idyllic getaway ideal for picnics and swims.
15-minute boat ride from Chunnambar Boat House.
INR 300, 2 hours

4:30PM

Return to Pondicherry

Make your way back to the mainland, reflecting on the beautiful coast you just visited.
15-minute boat ride back.
INR 300, 30 minutes

5:30PM

Visit French Quarter

Wander through the charming French Quarter, admiring the colonial architecture and vibrant street art.
20-minute auto-rickshaw ride from the marina.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at The Promenade

Savor a fantastic seaside dinner at The Promenade, concluding your day with great food and views.
10-minute walk from your hotel.
INR 800, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 6: Art and Relaxation

Pondicherry, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Baker’s Street

Start your day off right with delicious pastries and fresh coffee at The Baker’s Street.
15-minute walk from your hotel.
INR 350, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Pondicherry Art Gallery

Explore the Pondicherry Art Gallery, featuring a stunning collection of contemporary and traditional artwork.
15-minute walk from the bakery.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Stroll at Bharathi Park

Enjoy a leisurely stroll at Bharathi Park, a lovely green space filled with pathways and shade trees.
5-minute walk from the art gallery.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Café de Flore

Indulge in French cuisine with an Indian twist at Café de Flore, perfect for the food enthusiast.
15-minute walk from Bharathi Park.
INR 600, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit the Sacred Heart of Jesus

Take time to appreciate the intricate beauty of the Sacred Heart of Jesus Church and its colorful stained glass.
10-minute auto-rickshaw ride from Cafe de Flore.
Free, 1 hour

3:00PM

Relax at a Spa

Treat yourself to a rejuvenating spa session at a local wellness center to unwind and refresh.
10-minute auto-rickshaw ride from the church.
INR 2000, 2 hours

5:00PM

Return to Hotel

Head back to your hotel for a brief rest before dinner.
10-minute auto-rickshaw ride from the spa.
INR 200, 15 minutes

7:00PM

Dinner at Azzuri Bay

Enjoy dinner at Azzuri Bay, offering exquisite seafood with stunning ocean views.
15-minute walk from your hotel.
INR 900, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 7: Leisurely Farewell

Pondicherry, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Mustard

Enjoy a warm and inviting breakfast at The Mustard, known for its creative menu and cozy setting.
15-minute walk from your hotel.
INR 500, 1 hour

9:30AM

Leisure at Pondicherry Beach

Spend your final morning at Pondicherry Beach, soaking in the sun and enjoying the gentle waves before departure.
20-minute walk from The Mustard.
Free, 2 hours

11:30AM

Visit the Paradise Beach

Take one last dip in the inviting waters of Paradise Beach for a refreshing farewell swim.
15-minute boat ride from Pondicherry.
INR 300, 2 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at La Villa

Indulge in a leisurely lunch at La Villa, relishing authentic French cuisine in a picturesque setting.
20-minute taxi ride from Paradise Beach.
INR 800, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Shopping for Souvenirs

Use your last moments to find unique souvenirs in local shops to take home a piece of Pondicherry with you.
15-minute walk from La Villa.
Varying, 1 hour

5:00PM

Return to Hotel

Head back to your hotel to prepare for your departure.
10-minute auto-rickshaw ride from the shops.
INR 200, 15 minutes

6:00PM

Depart from Pondicherry

Bid farewell to the beautiful city of Pondicherry, carrying memories that will last a lifetime.
Taxi or auto-rickshaw to your departure point.
INR 500, Variable
View Hotel Availability