Puducherry

Puducherry

Explore the beauty, culture, and attractions of Puducherry.

3 Days in Auroville for Family Fun

Auroville is a special place where families can slow down, connect with nature, and experience a different way of living. I've spent many weekends here with my own family, and it's always a hit with the kids. From cycling through quiet forest paths to baking pizza in solar ovens, Auroville offers simple pleasures that create lasting memories.

Puducherry, puducherry
3 Days
Family
Custom Trip

Trip Highlights

Watching the sunrise at Matrimandir - the golden sphere that's the heart of Auroville
Getting hands-on at the Auroville Bakery where kids can shape their own bread
Cooling off at Repos Beach, one of the cleanest and most peaceful beaches near Puducherry
Trying out bamboo crafts at the Auroville Bamboo Center

Best Time to Visit

NovemberFebruary

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Day 1

Day 1 in Auroville

Start your family trip with Auroville’s most iconic spots, from the serene Matrimandir to the vibrant local cafes. Get a feel for the town’s unique spirit and enjoy some delicious, wholesome food along the way.

Activities

Visit the Matrimandir

No trip to Auroville is complete without seeing the Matrimandir, the golden globe that’s the spiritual heart of the community. The peaceful gardens around it are perfect for a quiet stroll. Kids will love the futuristic design, and the short introductory video helps explain its significance.

Matrimandir, AurovilleMorning, around 9 AM to avoid crowdsFree (registration required for inner chamber access)
Tips:
  • Wear white or light-colored clothes if you plan to enter the inner chamber.
  • Bring water—it can get hot walking around the gardens.
Explore Auroville’s Visitor Center & Boutiques
Explore Auroville’s Visitor Center & Boutiques

Head to the Visitor Center to pick up handmade souvenirs, organic cotton clothes, and local crafts. The center also has a great café serving fresh juices and healthy snacks. It’s a nice spot to relax and let the kids pick out a small keepsake.

Auroville Visitor Center, near MatrimandirLate morning, around 11 AMVaries (shopping is budget-friendly to mid-range)
Tips:
  • Try the chocolate from Auroville’s own factory—it’s a hit with kids.
  • Check out the eco-friendly products; great for sustainable gifts.
Lunch at Solar Kitchen

Solar Kitchen is Auroville’s iconic community dining spot, serving delicious vegetarian meals cooked with solar energy. The buffet-style setup offers a mix of Indian and international dishes, all made with locally sourced ingredients. It’s a great way to experience Auroville’s sustainable lifestyle.

Solar Kitchen, Auroville12:30 PM to 2 PM (lunch hours)₹200-300 per person
Tips:
  • Arrive early—it gets busy during peak lunchtime.
  • Portions are generous, so go easy on the first serving!

Must Try Foods

Auroville chocolate
Fresh coconut water
Organic vegetarian thali at Solar Kitchen

Transportation

Nearest Railway Station
Puducherry Railway Station (12 km, 30 mins by cab)
Nearest Bus Stop
Auroville Bus Stop (frequent buses from Puducherry)
Metro Station
Not available
Cab Availability
Easy to find cabs or autos from Puducherry; less frequent within Auroville itself (renting a bike is a fun option)

No destinations found for this itinerary

Day 2

Auroville’s Nature & Culture Day

Dive deeper into Auroville’s natural beauty and cultural side, with visits to serene forests, creative communities, and a taste of local flavors.

Activities

Morning Walk in Auroville’s Forests
Morning Walk in Auroville’s Forests

Start your day with a peaceful walk through Auroville’s lush forests, like the Sadhana Forest or the Auroville Botanical Gardens. These green spaces are perfect for spotting native birds and enjoying the quiet morning air. The Sadhana Forest is especially great for kids, with its eco-friendly vibe and occasional volunteer activities.

Sadhana Forest or Auroville Botanical Gardens7:00 AM - 9:00 AM (best before it gets too hot)Free (donations welcome at Sadhana Forest)
Tips:
  • Wear comfortable walking shoes and carry water.
  • Early mornings are cooler and less crowded.
Visit to Auroville’s Pottery & Craft Workshops
Visit to Auroville’s Pottery & Craft Workshops

Head to Auroville’s creative hubs like the Auroville Pottery or the Auroville Village for hands-on workshops. Watch local artisans shape clay or weave textiles, and if you’re feeling crafty, try your hand at a short pottery session. The Village is also a great spot to pick up unique handmade souvenirs.

Auroville Pottery or Auroville Village10:00 AM - 11:30 AM₹200-500 (for workshops or souvenirs)
Tips:
  • Check workshop timings in advance—some require bookings.
  • Kids will love the interactive sessions.
Lunch at Naturellement

Wrap up your morning with a hearty lunch at Naturellement, a cozy café known for its organic, farm-to-table dishes. Their wood-fired pizzas and fresh salads are a hit with families, and the shaded outdoor seating is perfect for a relaxed meal.

Naturellement Café, Auroville12:30 PM - 1:30 PM₹300-600 per person
Tips:
  • Try their homemade desserts—the chocolate cake is a must.
  • They use seasonal ingredients, so the menu changes often.

Must Try Foods

Wood-fired pizza at Naturellement
Fresh coconut water from local vendors
Homemade banana bread from Auroville bakeries

Transportation

Nearest Railway Station
Puducherry Railway Station (12 km, 30 mins by cab)
Nearest Bus Stop
Auroville Bus Stop (frequent local buses to Puducherry)
Metro Station
Not available
Cab Availability
Easy to find cabs or autos; ride-sharing apps work well in the area.

Day 3

Auroville’s Hidden Gems & Local Flavors

Spend your final day discovering Auroville’s lesser-known spots, engaging in hands-on activities, and savoring local flavors. A relaxed yet enriching way to wrap up your trip.

Activities

Morning at Auroville’s Bamboo Center
Morning at Auroville’s Bamboo Center

Start your day at the Auroville Bamboo Center, where sustainable craftsmanship takes center stage. Watch artisans transform bamboo into beautiful furniture, musical instruments, and everyday items. Kids will love the interactive demo where they can try weaving small bamboo items. The center’s peaceful setting under the trees makes it a great spot to unwind.

Auroville Bamboo Center, near Aspiration community9:00 AM - 10:30 AMFree (donations welcome)
Tips:
  • Ask about their bamboo bicycle workshop—it’s fascinating!
  • Wear comfortable shoes as the ground is uneven.
Cycle Tour of Auroville’s Lesser-Known Communities
Cycle Tour of Auroville’s Lesser-Known Communities

Rent bicycles and explore Auroville’s quieter communities like Discipline and Gratitude. These areas offer a glimpse into daily life here, with charming mud houses, organic gardens, and hidden cafes. Stop by Wellpaper, a tiny workshop making handmade paper from recycled materials—kids can try their hand at paper-making too.

Start at Auroville Bike Rentals near Visitor Center11:00 AM - 1:00 PM₹100-200 per bike
Tips:
  • Carry water—shade is sparse in some areas.
  • Visit ‘Pour Tous’ distribution center for quirky Auroville-made snacks.
Sunset at Auroville Beach
Sunset at Auroville Beach

Head to Auroville’s secluded stretch of beach near Repos. Unlike Puducherry’s crowded shores, this is where locals go to unwind. Collect shells, dip your feet in the water, or just watch fishermen haul in their nets. The nearby That’s Y Food truck serves killer shrimp mojo (garlic butter prawns) if you need a snack.

Repos Beach, near Auroville’s southern boundary5:00 PM - 6:30 PMFree (food extra)
Tips:
  • No changing facilities—wear beach-ready clothes.
  • Stay till dusk for the best golden light.

Must Try Foods

Bamboo rice pudding (at Bamboo Center cafe)
Seeraga samba biryani (at local eateries)
Palm jaggery pancakes (street stalls)

Transportation

Nearest Railway Station
Villupuram Junction (35 km, 1 hour by cab)
Nearest Bus Stop
Auroville Main Bus Stop (frequent buses to Puducherry)
Metro Station
Not available
Cab Availability
Autos and cabs easily available near Visitor Center; pre-book for beach return

Travel Tips

Rent bicycles for the whole family - it's the best way to get around Auroville's wide, car-free roads
Carry cash as many places don't accept cards
Pack hats and reusable water bottles - shade can be scarce during midday
Visit the Visitor Center early to avoid crowds and get the best orientation

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