Auroville which lies in the southern state of Tamil Nadu, is an amazing tourist destination promising inner peace to one and all. The unique concept of Auroville originated in the late 1960s when Mirra Alfassa, inspired by the teachings of renowned Indian philosopher, Sri Aurobindo, envisioned a place where people from all corners of the world could come together to live in unity. With support from both the Indian government and UNESCO, Auroville was officially inaugurated, built on aspirations of transcending the limitations of religion, nationality, and culture.

Over time, Auroville has become famous worldwide, evolving into a diverse community and attracting individuals who share its values of a more sustainable and harmonious way of life. Visitors and residents from various countries have together contributed to the collective vision of Auroville, making it one of the world’s focal points for meditation, spiritual evolution, and reflection.

Auroville town lies only around 12 km away from Puducherry. One could reach Auroville by flying to Chennai International Airport first and taking a 3-hour taxi ride.

Things to Do in Auroville

The Matrimandir

The most attractive place in Auroville is the Matrimandir, which is the spiritual and architectural centerpiece symbolizing the city’s aspiration for a higher form of consciousness. The foundation for Matrimandir was laid down by Mirra Alfassa herself, commonly known as “The Mother.” More than a tourist site, the Matrimandir means the “Temple of The Mother” or “Mother’s Shrine” and welcomes people to practice integral yoga to silently concentrate on their inner self and discover mental peace from within the body.

The structure of the Matrimandir is designed by the famous French architect Roger Anger. It is uniquely shaped in a lotus bud-shaped dome-styled spherical structure, in a blend of traditional Indian and modern Western architecture, surrounded by twelve petals. The interior meditation chamber is made of white marble floors and walls. There is also a huge crystal globe in the centre of the chamber, which arguably helps in concentration while meditating. The outer walls are beautiful with golden discs, and four pillars can be found in four different directions. This unique architecture of Auroville makes it special and endearing to all visitors.

There are also as many as 12 gardens in the complex, with an amphitheater, a Visitors’ Centre, an art gallery, and a video theater. There is a cafeteria and several boutique shops selling souvenirs and booklets at Auroville. There are many things to do in Auroville, including taking guided tours to get the holistic experience of the Matrimandir.

Bharat Niwas

Cultural enthusiasts should not miss Bharat Niwas, which lies close to the Matrimandir. This cultural hub, also known as the Pavilion of India, encompasses several notable centers and institutions such as the Sri Aurobindo Auditorium, the Auroville Library, the Kala Kendra Gallery, the Sri Aurobindo World Centre, and a Tamil Heritage Centre.

Apart from the Indian pavilion, Auroville is home to several pavilions, each representing a different culture or region of the world. All of them function as unique spaces for cultural exchange, artistic expression, and fostering cross-cultural understanding and collaboration. They certainly add to the vibrant tapestry of Auroville’s international community. Visitors can engage in talks and discussions, attend educational workshops, explore art exhibitions, or take part in cultural events, enhancing their travel experience.

The Botanical Garden

Another attraction in Auroville is the Botanical Garden. These gardens boast a diverse collection of several plant species showcased in various thematic gardens covering almost 50 acres of land. They complement the philosophy of the township and encourage visitors to connect with nature.

Similarly, the Sadhana Forest is a place for nature enthusiasts. It began as a project dedicated to reforestation, water conservation, and sustainable living practices and has ample opportunities if visitors are interested in volunteering for environmental regeneration. Visitors can also take long walks and enjoy their day amidst the lush greenery.

Meditation and Wellness Classes

For travelers seeking a diverse array of meditation and wellness classes, the Verite Learning Centre stands out as a prominent destination in Auroville, offering a variety of sessions on Vinyasa Yoga, Somatic Movements, Hatha Yoga, Nia, Pilates, as well as offering insights on healing and alternative treatments.

As Auroville is in close proximity to Puducherry, travelers can also enjoy many other attractions including the amazing beaches, the Sri Aurobindo Ashram in the heart of Puducherry, and the French cafes and restaurants that offer amazing culinary experiences.

The Best Resorts to Stay at in Auroville