Puducherry

Puducherry

Explore the beauty, culture, and attractions of Puducherry.

3 Days in Auroville for a Cultural Trip

Auroville isn't just a place; it's a feeling. This unique township, founded on the idea of human unity, offers a blend of cultures, spiritual vibes, and artistic expressions. Over three days, you'll discover its soul through community life, stunning architecture, and peaceful surroundings. I've spent time here soaking in the slow pace, chatting with locals, and finding little spots that most tourists miss.

Puducherry, puducherry
3 Days
Cultural
Custom Trip

Trip Highlights

Walking through the Matrimandir's serene gardens
Exploring the Auroville Bakery for some of the best bread in South India
Watching the sunset at Repos Beach with locals
Visiting the Auroville pottery studio to see artisans at work

Best Time to Visit

NovemberFebruary

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Day 1

Day 1 in Auroville

Start your Auroville adventure with its most iconic spots, from the spiritual Matrimandir to the vibrant local markets and a taste of the community's unique culture.

Activities

Visit the Matrimandir

The golden globe at Auroville's heart is a must-see. This meditation center is the soul of the community, with its serene ambiance and stunning architecture. You'll need to book a viewing pass in advance to enter the inner chamber, but even the outer gardens are worth the trip.

Matrimandir, AurovilleMorning, around 9-11 AM (best light for photos and cooler temperatures)Free (viewing pass required for inner chamber)
Tips:
  • Wear white or light-colored clothes (it's respectful and keeps you cool)
  • Carry water—there's limited shade around the area
Explore Auroville's Visitor Center & Boutiques
Explore Auroville's Visitor Center & Boutiques

After the Matrimandir, head to the Visitor Center to learn more about Auroville's history and philosophy. The nearby boutiques sell handmade crafts, organic cotton clothes, and unique souvenirs made by local artisans. It's a great place to pick up gifts or just browse.

Auroville Visitor Center, near MatrimandirLate morning, around 11 AM-12:30 PMFree to enter (shopping varies)
Tips:
  • Try the fresh coconut water from stalls outside
  • Bargain politely—some shops expect a little haggling
Lunch at Solar Kitchen

For a true Auroville experience, have lunch at Solar Kitchen, the community's iconic vegetarian cafeteria. The meals are simple, wholesome, and served in a no-frills setting. The menu changes daily, featuring organic produce from Auroville's farms.

Solar Kitchen, Auroville12:30-1:30 PM (lunch is served at fixed times)₹150-300 per person
Tips:
  • Arrive early—it gets crowded
  • Try their fresh yogurt—it's a highlight

Must Try Foods

Auroville's organic wood-fired pizza
Fresh coconut water
Local banana chips

Transportation

Nearest Railway Station
Puducherry Railway Station (12 km, 30-40 mins by cab)
Nearest Bus Stop
Auroville Bus Stop (frequent buses from Puducherry, takes about 45 mins)
Metro Station
Not available
Cab Availability
Easy to find cabs or autos from Puducherry; within Auroville, bikes or walking are best

No destinations found for this itinerary

Day 2

Day 2 in Auroville

Dive deeper into Auroville's unique culture with visits to its creative communities, serene nature spots, and a taste of its organic food scene.

Activities

Walk through Sadhana Forest

Start your day with a peaceful stroll in Sadhana Forest, a reforestation project that’s turned barren land into a thriving ecosystem. The volunteers here are happy to share insights about their work, and the shaded trails are perfect for a quiet morning.

Sadhana Forest, AurovilleMorning, around 8-9:30 AM to avoid the heatFree (donations welcome)
Tips:
  • Wear comfortable walking shoes
  • Carry water and a hat
Visit Auroville’s Pottery & Weaving Communities
Visit Auroville’s Pottery & Weaving Communities

Head to the pottery and weaving communities, where local artisans craft beautiful handmade items. You can watch them work, try your hand at the wheel, or pick up unique souvenirs like ceramic bowls or handwoven scarves.

Auroville Pottery & Weaving CentersLate morning, around 10:30 AM-12:30 PMFree to visit (items for purchase vary)
Tips:
  • Ask before taking photos of artisans
  • Cash is preferred for purchases
Lunch at Naturellement

A cozy café known for its organic, home-style French and Indian fusion dishes. Try their quiche or thali, and don’t miss the homemade desserts like chocolate mousse or coconut pie.

Naturellement Café, Auroville1-2 PM, before the lunch crowd peaks₹300-600 per person
Tips:
  • They close by 3 PM, so don’t arrive too late
  • Try their fresh lime soda

Must Try Foods

Organic thali at Naturellement
Fresh coconut water from local vendors
Homemade chocolate from Auroville’s bakeries

Transportation

Nearest Railway Station
Puducherry Railway Station (12 km, 30 mins by cab)
Nearest Bus Stop
Auroville Bus Stop (frequent buses to/from Puducherry)
Metro Station
Not available
Cab Availability
Easy to find cabs or autos; Uber/Ola works in Puducherry but not always in Auroville

Day 3

Day 3 in Auroville

A relaxed day diving into Auroville's lesser-known gems, from serene beaches to unique workshops and a taste of local flavors.

Activities

Morning at Repos Beach

Start your day with the quiet beauty of Repos Beach, a hidden stretch of sand near Auroville. Unlike the crowded beaches of Puducherry, this spot is peaceful, with golden sand and gentle waves. Perfect for a quiet walk or just soaking in the morning sun. You might even spot local fishermen bringing in their catch.

Repos Beach, about 15 minutes from Auroville's center6:30 AM - 8:30 AM (to avoid the midday heat)Free
Tips:
  • Carry water and sunscreen—shade is minimal.
  • Visit early to enjoy the solitude before others arrive.
Workshop at Auroville’s Paper Factory
Workshop at Auroville’s Paper Factory

Head to Auroville’s handmade paper factory, where artisans create beautiful paper from recycled materials. You can take a short tour to see the process and even try your hand at making a sheet. They also have a small shop selling notebooks, cards, and other paper products—great for unique souvenirs.

Auroville Handmade Paper Factory, near Certitude10:00 AM - 11:00 AMFree (small fee for workshops)
Tips:
  • Call ahead to check workshop availability.
  • Cash is preferred for purchases.
Lunch at Tanto Pizzeria

A local favorite, Tanto Pizzeria serves wood-fired pizzas with a mix of Italian and Indian flavors. The cozy, open-air setting under a thatched roof makes it a great spot to unwind. Try their signature 'Auroville Pizza' with fresh local veggies and homemade cheese.

Tanto Pizzeria, near Auroville’s Town Hall12:30 PM - 2:00 PM₹300-₹600 per person
Tips:
  • They don’t serve alcohol, but their fresh lime soda is refreshing.
  • Arrive early—it gets busy during lunch.

Must Try Foods

Auroville Pizza at Tanto
Fresh coconut water from beach vendors
Homemade peanut chikki (brittle) from local shops

Transportation

Nearest Railway Station
Puducherry Railway Station (12 km, 25-30 minutes by cab)
Nearest Bus Stop
Auroville Bus Stop (frequent buses to Puducherry and nearby towns)
Metro Station
Not available
Cab Availability
Cabs and autos are easily available; negotiate fares before riding.

Travel Tips

Carry a water bottle - it gets hot and not all places sell water
Dress modestly when visiting spiritual sites
Try to chat with Auroville residents - they have fascinating stories
Rent a bike to get around easily - it's the best way to explore

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