Auroville

Often called the city of Dawn, Auroville in South India is an amalgamation of cultures from over 45 different countries. This international township has people from different nationalities researching spiritual needs of mankind and sustainable living. People here are required to follow the principles of humanity, trust, togetherness, spiritual unity and progress. Auroville is not like the regular tourist places. You need to follow a set of rules and regulations during your stay here.

Founded by Mirra Alfassa (the Mother), on Wednesday 28 February 1968, Auroville was part of a project of the Sri Aurobindo Society. It is a township in the Viluppuram district in the state of Tamil Nadu, and is run by a pseudo governing authority that treats all human beings equal and preaches human unity. One of the primary reasons why the Mother went ahead with the formation of Auroville was because of her belief in a universal township.

Winter

The must visit places in Auroville are places of scenic beauty and temples.

At Auroville, you can enjoy a variety of cafes and restaurants serving different delicacies varying in prices and style of serving. The Solar Kitchen is the amongst the famous lunchtime eatery. There are other cafes like La Terrace, Repos, Aurelec and Kofibar that serve a variety of Indian and western cuisine. Since the major population comprises of tourists, one can relish French food, baked fish, salads, croissants, fresh fruit juices and several types of desserts here.

The inhabitants of this place believe in doing things themselves. So, you can buy handmade hammocks, stone sculptures, and casual clothes from here. Also remember to bargain well so that you do not end up paying more than you should. If you are an avid reader, you can buy books that will help you to understand the fundamentals of Auroville.

Pondicherry airport, which is about 10 km. from Auroville is the nearest airport. You can also fly to Chennai and then take a taxi from the airport to Auroville. Normally a taxi from the airport to Auroville should charge you around Rs. 2000. You can also take a bus from either Chennai or Pondicherry and alight at the turn off Auroville. Take a rickshaw to your destination from there. You can also reach Auroville from Pondicherry railway station (15 km. approx.) in a rented scooter or in a hired taxi. The best way for sightseeing in Auroville is by a bicycle or a scooter. They are available on rent for not more than Rs. 100 per day. But if you are planning to make long trips, it is best to hire a taxi.

Just around 13 km. away from Auroville is Pondicherry. This well planned and beautiful city had been a French colony for some time and that is why the French influence reflects in this city's architecture. Ville Blanche and Ville Noire are the two sides of this place. Chennai is about 155 km. away from Auroville and is one of the most important cities not only in Southern India, but also in the entire country. Located along the Coromandel Coast, this city is famous for its beaches, cultural heritage of music and dance, and also because it is an industrial hub. This city houses many automobile industries. Travel for about 150 km. and reach Vellore from Auroville. Often referred to as the fort city of Tamil Nadu, it is a combination of culture, heritage and ancient Dravidian civilization history.

There are guest houses and hotels in Auroville in different price ranges. The visitor information centre has tourist information that elaborates on the charges and amenities available in the guest houses.

Best Time to Visit : Anytime except the summer months from March to May. December to starting of March and August to September are the peak time for Auroville tourists.