Immersive 2-Day Itinerary in Pondicherry: Heritage, Beaches, and Culinary Delights

Day 1: Heritage and Coastal charm

Pondicherry, India on May 3, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Café des Arts

Begin your day with a leisurely breakfast at Café des Arts, known for its French-style croissants and filter coffee in a charming colonial setting. The café opens at 8:00 AM, perfect to start your exploration.
INR400, 1h

9:30am

Visit Sri Aurobindo Ashram

Explore this peaceful spiritual retreat founded by Sri Aurobindo and The Mother, offering insights into yoga and meditation in a serene environment. Opening hours are 7:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 1:30 PM to 8:00 PM.
Free, 1h30m

11:15am

Promenade Beach Walk

Take a refreshing stroll along the Promenade Beach, enjoying views of the Bay of Bengal and seeing the historic colonial statues and landmarks along the seafront. Open all day, no entry fee.
Free, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Le Café

Dine seaside at Le Café on the Promenade, offering delicious seafood and continental dishes with a stunning view of the ocean. Open from 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM.
INR700, 1h

2:00pm

Explore French Quarter

Wander through the picturesque French Quarter with its colourful colonial villas, quaint streets, and vibrant shops, soaking in the unique architectural heritage. Accessible any time.
Free, 1h30m

4:00pm

Visit Pondicherry Museum

Discover archeological artifacts and colonial history at the Pondicherry Museum, open 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily, with a small entrance fee.
INR20, 1h

6:00pm

Evening Tea at Villa Shanti

Relax in the ambience of Villa Shanti’s courtyard with an evening tea or hot beverage before dinner. They open their café from 7:30 AM to 11:00 AM and 7:00 PM to 11:30 PM, so come back later for dinner.
INR250, 0h30m

8:00pm

Dinner at Villa Shanti

Enjoy contemporary Indian cuisine in a stylish colonial villa setting; recommended for its authentic and flavourful dishes. Dinner hours are 7:00 PM to 11:30 PM.
INR900, 1h30m

Day 2: Culture and Relaxation

Pondicherry, India on May 4, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Baker Street

Kick start the day with freshly baked pastries and strong coffee at Baker Street, a French bakery that opens at 7:00 AM, known for its croissants and pain au chocolat.
INR350, 1h

9:30am

Visit Auroville

Travel 12 km north to the spiritual township of Auroville to see the iconic Matrimandir and experience its unique community and philosophies. Open 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM; guided visits recommended.
Free, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at Solar Kitchen, Auroville

Savour wholesome organic vegetarian dishes served buffet-style at Solar Kitchen, promoting sustainability. Open till 3:00 PM.
INR600, 1h

2:30pm

Relax at Serenity Beach

Return towards Pondicherry and unwind at Serenity Beach, a quieter, less crowded beach ideal for a relaxing afternoon swim or beach walk. Open all day.
Free, 2h

5:00pm

Shopping at Goubert Market

Explore the vibrant Goubert Market to pick up local handicrafts, spices, and souvenirs. The market operates till late evening.
Free (shopping varies), 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Coromandel Café

Dine in an elegant heritage hotel setting at Coromandel Café, offering Indo-French fusion cuisine with a warm atmosphere. Open from 7:00 PM to 11:00 PM.
INR1000, 1h30m