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Auroville was founded by Mirra Alfassa who is popularly known as "The Mother" of Sri Aurobindo Ashram in Pondicherry. It was started with the aim to spread unity amongst all irrespective of class, creed, sex and nationality. Spiritual vocation was another objective of Auroville, the universal town. It is situated at Viluppuram district in Tamil Nadu which is at 15 km north of Pondicherry.
Auroville is now home to more than 2220 people who belong to 43 different countries. Being a part of Tamil Nadu, Tamil is the official language. But residents also converse in French, German, English and Sanskrit. Mirra Alfassa contributed towards the goodwill of humanity and aspired for a better world. It is presently managed by the Government of India and is also endorsed by UNESCO.
What to See: Auroville is a blessed township where you will surely achieve mental peace and tranquility. Spiritual solace is seeked by many who pay a visit to Matrimandir. It is considered to be the core of Auroville. The gold plated building has white interiors with a huge crystal at the centre. Visitors planning to go inside the Matrimandir need to be aware of the rules and regulations which are quite strict. As weekends remain very busy, it is advisable to visit on weekdays. Owing a guest card can help you to get inside easily.
Auro Beach is another place where travellers can plan a visit while they are in Auroville. This beach is at a walking distance from Auroville bus stop. Though it is quite polluted because of the lack of proper maintenance, Auro Beach is yet considered one of the best beaches of Eastern Coastline. Tamils or Europeans are maximum found at this beach.
What to Do: Auroville not only imparts the essence of being spiritual. It is also hub of various other activities like Watsu, yoga and Tai-Chi. Various kinds of healing courses are also provided. During the winter months when tourists flock in Auroville various other activities are organised. Classical dance and music classes and variety of social, agricultural and environmental projects keep people busy.
Travellers can also engage in shopping like buying handwoven hammocks, stone sculptures, hippy attires and many other innovative gift items. If you are in Auroville you must get a book on Sri Aurobindo and Mirra Alfassa.
Guests can enjoy various delicacies of Pondicherry at The Solar Kitchen, Ganesh Bakery, Le Morgan, Repos and also at many other dining venues in and around Auroville. Bikers can hire bikes which are available in rent in some of the hotels of Pondicherry. Bicycle is also a common vehicle seen in the streets around Auroville.
How to Reach: Buses from Chennai and Pondicherry often ply to Auroville. Hired rickshaws and taxis are also other options for heading towards Auroville. Pondicherry Airport is 10 km while Chennai Airport is 142 km from Auroville from where one can take a bus.
Where to Stay: Auroville houses proper accommodating options where one can enjoy a comfortable stay. 450 beds in guest houses are available for tourists. Hotels around Auroville and in other parts of Pondicherry can also be booked. Booking is to be done in advance if you are planning to visit during December to February as this the busiest time at Auroville.
