Auroville
Discover peace and purpose in the City of Dawn.
Auroville is an experimental township founded in 1968 by Mirra Alfassa (known as “The Mother”) with spiritual leader Sri Aurobindo’s vision in mind. Its name literally means “City of Dawn,” reflecting hopes for a new era of human unity. Located about 10 km north of Pondicherry in Tamil Nadu, Auroville is a unique place of international community life and sustainable living. UNESCO has long supported Auroville as a cultural township that brings together diverse cultures in harmony. For families, Auroville is a fun day trip where the pace is gentle and the atmosphere is welcoming.
A great way to start is at the Auroville Visitors Centre. This hub has interactive exhibits explaining Auroville’s history and ideals, plus boutiques selling locally made handicrafts and cafes for snacks. Kids can explore a mini model of the famous Matrimandir gardens and browse for organic products. Be sure to catch the Matrimandir video here – after watching an introductory film, you can obtain free passes to the Matrimandir Viewing Point. The Visitors Centre also has a food court with vegetarian options (try the solar-powered cafeteria) and restrooms. It’s open daily 9:00 AM–5:00 PM, and staff happily answer questions.
Visit the Auroville Visitors Centre
Discover how Auroville works through exhibitions and models of its core project, the Matrimandir. The Centre houses boutiques and a bookshop of spiritual literature.
Get a Matrimandir pass
Families can walk about 10 minutes (or take a free shuttle) through lush paths to the Matrimandir Viewing Point. Passes are free after a short film. (Note: The actual inner chamber is reserved for meditation – children under 10 are not allowed inside, but everyone can enjoy the view point.)
Bike or walk around Auroville
Rent a bicycle near the Visitors Centre and tour the community villages, tree farms, and art studios. The streets are flat and peaceful, perfect for kids to ride along safely.
Relax at Auroville Beach
Just past the township lies a Black Sand Beach (Miramare). It’s a quiet spot for sunset watching – children can collect shells or dip toes, though the surf can be strong, so exercise caution.
Join a workshop or yoga class
Auroville offers family-oriented workshops (arts, crafts, eco-activities) that children love. You might find pottery classes, organic farming tours, or even live music events.
The centerpiece is the Matrimandir, a large golden globe at the heart of Auroville, surrounded by 12 gardens. While the Matrimandir itself is primarily a meditation hall, families can admire its stunning dome from the Viewing Point surrounded by gardens. This serene spot is “not a tourist site” but a place for quiet reflection. Kids should understand it’s a calm place: no loud talking or running. As one official source cautions, all visitors are asked to behave with physical and mental silence around the Matrimandir.
Tips for visiting Auroville with family: Arrive early morning to avoid midday heat (the Visitors Centre opens at 9 AM). Wear modest clothes (shoulders covered) for temple respect at the Matrimandir. Carry water and snacks (though eateries are available). Keep track of children on the nature trails. And remember, while the township welcomes children, entry to the meditation hall is only for ages 10 and up – younger kids can stay at the Visitors Centre until adults return. In all, Auroville is a peaceful, eco-friendly spot that many children find intriguing. It’s a memorable part of the Pondicherry family vacation experience.