3-Day Cultural and Coastal Exploration Itinerary in Pondicherry, India

Day 1: Colonial Charm & Beach Relaxation

Pondicherry, India on June 12, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Café des Arts

Enjoy a French-inspired breakfast in this charming café located in the French Quarter, famous for its croissants and coffee. Open from 7:30am to 3:30pm.
INR300, 1h

9:30am

Walking Tour of the French Quarter

Explore the colourful colonial buildings and quaint streets of the French Quarter to admire architecture and local life; a perfect introduction to Pondicherry.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Visit Promenade Beach

Relax and enjoy the sea breeze at Promenade Beach, known for its beautiful sunrise and serene views along the Bay of Bengal Coast.
Free, 1h

1:00pm

Lunch at Le Dupleix

Dine in a heritage villa offering a fusion of French and Indian cuisine, renowned for its seafood and coastal dishes. Open 12:00pm to 3:00pm.
INR700, 1h

2:30pm

Sri Aurobindo Ashram Visit

Visit this renowned spiritual community founded by Sri Aurobindo and The Mother, open from 8:00am to 12:00pm and 2:00pm to 5:30pm.
Free, 1h30m

4:15pm

Explore local boutiques and art galleries

Browse unique handmade items and art pieces reflecting Pondicherry’s vibrant culture and creativity.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Villa Shanti

Savour traditional Tamil and French-influenced dishes in a beautifully restored bungalow, open for dinner from 7:00pm to 11:00pm.
INR850, 1h30m

Day 2: Auroville & Green Spaces

Pondicherry, India on June 13, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Surguru

Start your day with a hearty South Indian breakfast featuring dosas and idlis in this popular local eatery, open 7:00am to 11:00am.
INR200, 1h

8:30am

Visit Auroville

Travel 12km north to Auroville, an experimental township known for its Matrimandir and unique community lifestyle; visit the Visitor’s Centre from 9:00am to 5:30pm.
Free, 4h

12:30pm

Lunch at Auroville Bakery

Enjoy organic and health-conscious meals made from local ingredients at the eco-friendly bakery, open 8:00am to 4:00pm.
INR350, 1h

2:00pm

Walk through the Botanical Gardens

Visit this peaceful garden featuring exotic and native plants, open from 8:00am to 6:00pm, offering a relaxing afternoon walk.
INR40, 1h

4:00pm

Relax at Serenity Beach

Unwind on the quiet Serenity Beach with options for beach volleyball or simply enjoying the sunset, open access all day.
Free, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at The Indian Kaffe Express

Dine in a casual café setting offering delicious Indian and continental dishes, open 7:00am to 10:30pm.
INR400, 1h

Day 3: Museums and Markets

Pondicherry, India on June 14, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Bread & Chocolate

Start your day with freshly baked breads, pastries and strong coffee in this cosy bakery, open 7:00am to 6:00pm.
INR250, 1h

9:30am

Pondicherry Museum

Explore this museum’s collection of sculptures, archaeological finds, and colonial relics, open 9:00am to 12:30pm and 2:00pm to 5:30pm.
INR40, 1h30m

11:15am

Visit Bharathi Park

Walk in this historic central park, beautifully maintained and ideal for relaxation or photography.
Free, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Coromandel Café

Eat in a charming outdoor garden setting, enjoying both Indian and continental cuisine; open 12:00pm to 3:00pm.
INR600, 1h

2:00pm

Shopping at Goubert Market

Browse a bustling local market for spices, textiles and handicrafts, perfect for picking up souvenirs.
Free, 1h30m

4:00pm

Visit Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus

See the beautifully decorated Neo-Gothic church opened in 1907, renowned for its stained glass panels depicting scenes from the life of Christ.
Free, 45m

7:00pm

Farewell Dinner at Le Café

Enjoy dinner by the sea at this popular 24-hour café, known for its relaxed vibe and great seafood.
INR750, 1h30m