Puducherry’s White Town is yellow walls, bougainvillea and breakfast on the Promenade. It is a café town as much as a beach town—the sea is for walking more than swimming on many days.

Croissants, colonies and the Coromandel

Auroville’s Matrimandir viewpoint (booking rules apply), Aurobeach and Tamil quarters add contrast. Paradise Beach is a boat ride; check sea conditions.

Chennai is about three hours by road. Two to three nights is ideal; do not over-schedule.

PP Tour books heritage stays in White Town and private cabs for Auroville without the parking headache.

Quick tips

• Weekdays are calmer than weekends
• Respect ashram quiet zones
• Try filter coffee and Creole-Tamil food

Plan this trip with Parshv Padmawati Holidays (PP Tour) — flights, hotels and holiday packages for Indian and international destinations. Talk to our experts for a custom itinerary that fits your dates and budget.