Auroville

Created in 1968 to champion "human unity," Auroville is a community of Indians and foreigners striving to live in spiritual and ecological harmony—regardless of nationality, religion, and political persuasion. The matrimandir—a huge golf-ball-shaped structure—is the 'soul of Auroville,' housing a marble-lined meditation center which contains a unique, two-foot-diameter (70-centimeter) solid crystal.

How to Get There
Most visitors to Auroville come from Pondicherry seven miles (11 kilometers) away. There you can catch a bus, taxi, or autorickshaw. Renting a motorcycle or bicycle in Pondy instead will provide you transportation around Auroville once you get there.

How to Get Around
You can get around Auroville—which has restricted areas for visitors—by foot. Those who have a motorcycle or bicycle will find it much easier to move around.

Attractions
Casual visitors to Auroville are only permitted into the visitors center between 9 a.m. and 5:30 p.m., which is where you can view a series of photos that show community activities and watch a video about the site (shown several times daily; call ahead for screening times at tel. +91 [0]413 262 2239).

The Matri Mandir's inner chamber is only open to casual visitors between 2:30 and 5:30 p.m. on Sunday; however, you need to obtain a pass (no charge) in advance (for more details, contact the visitors center at tel. +91 [0]413 262 2239).

Places to Eat
Auroville does not really have a restaurant scene, but rather a gamut of fairly basic eateries offering standard Indian fare.

Most travelers eat at the Solar Kitchen, run by the Auroville community. The Solar Kitchen has a satiating buffet with either Indian or continental dishes, depending on the day of the week.

Places to Stay
Most casual visitors to Auroville stay in Pondicherry; however, if you have a genuine interest in learning about the community's goals, you can stay (for a fee) at one of their guesthouses (a stay of at least a week is preferred and guests are encouraged to lend a hand in the running of the community). For further details, contact the visitors center (tel. +91 [0]413 262 2239) or e-mail the Auroville Guest Service in advance at avguests@auroville.org.in.

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Auroville