Puducherry

Puducherry

Explore the beauty, culture, and attractions of Puducherry.

3 Days in Auroville for a Slow-Paced Getaway

Auroville is the perfect place to unwind and reconnect with yourself. This itinerary lets you soak in the peaceful vibes of this unique community without rushing. I've included plenty of time for quiet moments, good food, and just being present in this special place.

Puducherry, puducherry
3 Days
Relaxed
Custom Trip

Trip Highlights

Watching sunrise at Matrimandir with the golden light filtering through the glass dome
Strolling through the quiet forest trails where you might spot peacocks or monkeys
Trying the amazing wood-fired pizzas at Tanto Pizzeria (trust me, they're worth it)
Browsing handmade paper and natural dyes at the Auroville Paper Factory

Best Time to Visit

NovemberFebruary

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Day 1

Day 1 in Auroville

Start your Auroville experience with its most iconic spots, soaking in the peaceful vibes and unique culture of this experimental township.

Activities

Visit the Matrimandir

The golden globe at the heart of Auroville is its spiritual center. Walk through the lush gardens to reach this meditation space, where silence and inner peace take priority. You can't enter without prior booking, but the outer viewing area offers stunning views.

Matrimandir, AurovilleMorning (9:00 AM - 11:00 AM) to avoid afternoon heatFree (viewing area)
Tips:
  • Wear comfortable shoes for the walk
  • Carry water as it can get hot
Explore Auroville's Visitor Center
Explore Auroville's Visitor Center

Get a deeper understanding of Auroville's history and philosophy here. The center has informative displays, a short film about the community, and a boutique selling handmade products by local artisans.

Auroville Visitor CenterLate morning (11:30 AM - 12:30 PM) after Matrimandir visitFree (small charge for film)
Tips:
  • Don't miss the organic cafe inside
  • Great place to buy unique souvenirs
Lunch at Solar Kitchen

Experience Auroville's famous community dining at this solar-powered kitchen. The buffet-style vegetarian meals are prepared with organic ingredients from local farms. It's simple, wholesome food in a communal setting.

Solar Kitchen, Auroville1:00 PM - 2:00 PM (lunch service starts at 12:30 PM)₹200-300 per person
Tips:
  • Arrive early as they stop serving when food runs out
  • Try their fresh baked bread

Must Try Foods

Auroville organic bread
Fresh coconut water
Local banana chips

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 get cabs from Puducherry; auto-rickshaws available locally in Auroville

No destinations found for this itinerary

Day 2

Day 2 in Auroville

A slower-paced day diving deeper into Auroville's unique culture, with visits to its creative hubs and serene spots, plus some delicious local eats.

Activities

Browse Auroville's Boutiques & Workshops
Browse Auroville's Boutiques & Workshops

Start your morning at Auroville’s handmade boutiques and workshops. Places like Auroville’s Paper Factory and Pour Tous showcase beautiful handmade paper, textiles, and crafts made by local artisans. It’s a great way to support the community and take home something unique.

Auroville’s Commercial Center, near Pour Tous9:30 AM - 11:30 AM (shops open early to avoid the midday heat)Varies (₹200-₹2000 depending on purchases)
Tips:
  • Bargaining isn’t common here—prices are usually fixed.
  • Look for the ‘Upasana’ store for sustainable clothing.
Walk Through Sadhana Forest

A quiet, lesser-known gem, Sadhana Forest is a reforestation project with walking trails through regenerated native trees. It’s peaceful, shady, and a great place to spot birds or just enjoy the stillness. Volunteers often give short tours if you’re interested in their eco-efforts.

Sadhana Forest, Auroville outskirts4:00 PM - 5:00 PM (cooler afternoon hours)Free (donations welcome)
Tips:
  • Wear closed-toe shoes—it’s a natural forest terrain.
  • Carry water; there’s no café here.
Dinner at Tanto Pizzeria

End the day at this cozy, Italian-run pizzeria tucked in Auroville’s residential area. Their wood-fired pizzas and homemade gelato are legendary among locals. The outdoor seating under fairy lights makes it a perfect relaxed evening spot.

Tanto Pizzeria, Auroville7:00 PM - 8:30 PM (gets busy by 8 PM, so come early)₹400-₹800 per person
Tips:
  • Try the ‘Auroville Special’ pizza—it’s a local favorite.
  • Cash-only, so bring rupees.

Must Try Foods

Wood-fired pizza at Tanto
Fresh coconut water from roadside vendors
Homemade peanut chikki (brittle) from Auroville 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, ₹10-₹20 per ride)
Metro Station
Not available
Cab Availability
Autos and cabs available near Visitor Centre; book via apps like Ola or local drivers

Day 3

Day 3 in Auroville

A slower-paced day to soak in Auroville's quieter, more spiritual side, with visits to lesser-known spots and a taste of local flavors.

Activities

Morning at Auroville Beach
Morning at Auroville Beach

Start your day with a peaceful walk along Auroville Beach, a serene stretch of sand just a short ride from the township. It's less crowded than Puducherry's beaches, perfect for some quiet time by the sea. You might spot fishermen hauling in their nets or locals practicing yoga at sunrise.

Auroville Beach, near Repos Beach6:30 AM - 8:30 AM (best at sunrise)Free
Tips:
  • Carry water and sunscreen—shade is limited.
  • Wear comfortable sandals; the sand can get hot.
Breakfast at Bread & Chocolate

Head to this cozy café known for its fresh, organic breads and decadent chocolate treats. Their almond croissants and masala chai are local favorites. The laid-back vibe and garden seating make it a great spot to plan the rest of your day.

Bread & Chocolate, Auroville8:30 AM - 9:30 AM₹200-₹500 per person
Tips:
  • Try their homemade jams with toast.
  • They get busy by 9 AM—arrive early for a table.
Visit to Auroville's Paper Factory
Visit to Auroville's Paper Factory

A hidden gem, this small workshop produces handmade paper from recycled materials. You can watch artisans at work and even try your hand at crafting a sheet. Their notebooks and cards make unique souvenirs.

Auroville Handmade Paper Factory, near Pour Tous Distribution Center10:30 AM - 11:30 AMFree (products for purchase start at ₹50)
Tips:
  • Ask about their eco-friendly dyeing process.
  • Cash is preferred for small purchases.

Must Try Foods

Masala dosa at Bread & Chocolate
Fresh coconut water from beach vendors
Auroville's organic peanut butter

Transportation

Nearest Railway Station
Puducherry Railway Station (12 km, 30 mins by cab)
Nearest Bus Stop
Auroville Bus Stop (frequent buses to Puducherry, every 20-30 mins)
Metro Station
Not available
Cab Availability
Autos and cabs are easily available; negotiate fares before riding.

Travel Tips

Bring comfortable walking shoes - the red dirt paths can be dusty but flip flops won't cut it
Matrimandir visits require advance registration - do this online at least 2 days before
Many places only take cash, especially smaller cafes and shops
Don't miss the simple pleasure of sitting under a banyan tree with a fresh coconut

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