6-Day Cultural and Culinary Exploration of Pondicherry, India

Day 1: Arrival and French Quarter

Pondicherry, India on June 6, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Baker Street

Enjoy a French-inspired breakfast at this popular bakery known for its croissants and fresh bakery items, setting the tone for your Pondicherry experience.
INR500, 1h

9:30am

Walking tour of the French Quarter

Explore the colonial architecture, colourful streets, and charming cafés in this heritage area, getting acquainted with Pondicherry's unique blend of French and Indian culture.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Le Dupleix

Dine at a beautiful heritage hotel restaurant offering traditional French and fusion cuisine, perfect for sampling Pondicherry’s culinary fusion.
INR1200, 1h 30m

2:00pm

Visit Sri Aurobindo Ashram

Spend a peaceful afternoon at this spiritual retreat founded by Sri Aurobindo; it offers a serene atmosphere and insight into Indian spirituality.
Free, 2h

5:00pm

Beachside stroll along Promenade Beach

Relax with a leisurely walk along the scenic beachfront promenade, enjoying ocean views and sunset atmosphere.
Free, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at Villa Shanti

Sample modern Indian and Pondicherry cuisine in a stylish setting, known for its delicious dishes and ambient atmosphere.
INR1500, 1h 30m
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Day 2: Spiritual Sites and Markets

Pondicherry, India on June 7, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Café des Arts

Enjoy a European-style breakfast in this artsy café known for its cosy vibe and excellent coffee.
INR400, 1h

9:30am

Visit Manakula Vinayagar Temple

Explore this vibrant Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha, a colourful cultural and religious experience.
Free, 1h

11:00am

Explore local markets

Visit Goubert Market and surrounding shops for fresh produce, spices, textiles, and local handicrafts that showcase Pondicherry's local life.
Free, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch at Surguru Spot

Try authentic South Indian Tamil cuisine with an emphasis on vegetarian dishes popular among locals.
INR300, 1h

2:30pm

Visit Bharati Park and Pondicherry Museum

Relax at the park and visit the museum nearby to view colonial artefacts, sculptures, and local history exhibitions.
INR50, 2h

5:00pm

Evening coffee at Café Xtasi

Enjoy a coffee and a slice of their famed pizza in this buzzing café popular amongst locals and tourists alike.
INR350, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at Le Café

Dine at this sea-facing café renowned for its casual ambiance and delicious seafood dishes.
INR1200, 1h 30m
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Day 3: Auroville Day Trip

Auroville, India on June 8, 2025

7:30am

Early Breakfast at your accommodation

Enjoy a light breakfast before heading out to Auroville, about 12 km north of Pondicherry.
Varies, 30m

8:30am

Travel to Auroville

Arrive at this experimental township known for its community and sustainable living practices.
Transport approx. INR300, 30m

9:00am

Visit the Matrimandir

Considered the spiritual centre of Auroville, the striking golden dome is surrounded by tranquil gardens; access inside requires prior booking.
Free (booking required), 1h 30m

11:00am

Explore Auroville Visitor’s Centre and shops

Discover handcrafted goods, organic products and learn about the philosophy behind the community.
Free, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Solar Kitchen

Enjoy a communal meal prepared using solar energy, with healthy vegetarian dishes sourced locally.
INR400, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Auroville Botanical Gardens

Take a peaceful walk among diverse flora, a special spot for nature lovers.
INR50, 1h 30m

4:00pm

Return to Pondicherry

Head back to your hotel to rest before dinner.
Transport approx. INR300, 30m

7:30pm

Dinner at Coromandel Café

Savour French and Continental dishes amidst an art gallery setting, a unique dining experience.
INR1500, 1h 30m
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Day 4: Historical and Beach Day

Pondicherry, India on June 9, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Café Ole

Start your day with a hearty continental breakfast in this charming café.
INR450, 1h

9:30am

Visit the Pondicherry Harbour and Lighthouse

Take a scenic walk around the harbour and climb the lighthouse for panoramic sea views.
Free, 1h 30m

11:30am

Tour the French War Memorial and nearby churches

Explore significant monuments and churches marking Pondicherry’s colonial past.
Free, 1h

1:00pm

Lunch at La Villa

Enjoy Mediterranean and French cuisine in a colonial villa setting.
INR1300, 1h 30m

3:00pm

Afternoon at Paradise Beach

Relax on the sandy shores of this beautiful and tranquil beach accessed via boat from Chunnambar Boat House, open 9.00am to 5.00pm.
Boat ride approx. INR300, 3h

7:00pm

Return to Pondicherry town

Head back to your accommodation to freshen up.
Included above, 30m

8:00pm

Dinner at Rendezvous

Savour classic French and Indian dishes in a bright, historic dining room.
INR1400, 1h 30m
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Day 5: Art, Culture and Relaxation

Pondicherry, India on June 10, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Café des Arts

Return to this favourite café for a relaxed breakfast surrounded by artwork.
INR400, 1h

9:30am

Visit the Pondicherry Botanical Gardens

Enjoy a morning walk amongst diverse exotic plants and the bamboo garden, open from 9 AM to 5 PM.
INR30, 2h

12:00pm

Visit the Lighthouse Heritage Museum

Learn about the history of coastal navigation and the importance of lighthouses in the Bay of Bengal region.
INR50, 1h

1:30pm

Lunch at The Indian Kaffe Express

Enjoy light Indian snacks and fresh coffee in a cosy café popular with locals.
INR350, 1h

3:00pm

Relaxation and shopping in Mission Street

Browse boutique shops selling textiles, handicrafts, and souvenirs along Mission Street, one of Pondicherry's main shopping roads.
Free, 2h

6:30pm

Evening tea at Bon Bon

Indulge in pastries and a selection of teas in this quaint patisserie.
INR400, 1h

8:00pm

Dinner at Le Sidhartha

Dine on Pan-Indian cuisine with a refined twist in a serene garden setting.
INR1600, 1h 30m
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Day 6: Departure Day

Pondicherry, India on June 11, 2025

7:30am

Light breakfast at your hotel

Enjoy a simple but satisfying breakfast before your journey onward.
Included with accommodation, 30m

8:30am

Final stroll at the Promenade Beach

Take a peaceful early morning walk along the beach to soak in the last views of Pondicherry’s calm sea.
Free, 1h

10:00am

Checkout and transfer to next destination

Gather your belongings and proceed to your next journey from Pondicherry.
Varies, Varies
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