Overview

🌴 Pondicherry & Auroville Trip – Overview

🚆 Departure: Every Friday Night
🏠 Arrival: Tuesday Morning

Pondicherry is a beautiful coastal destination known for its pristine beaches, French colonial architecture, Tamil-style houses, historic monuments, churches, and charming seaside atmosphere. Explore the famous Rock Beach Promenade, where the Bay of Bengal creates a stunning backdrop for a relaxing evening.

🌿 Auroville, known as the “Universal Town,” is an international township where people from different cultures and countries live together in harmony. Located approximately 15 km from Pondicherry, Auroville was founded in 1968 by Mirra Alfassa, affectionately known as “The Mother” among followers of Sri Aurobindo.

📅 Batch Dates

September 2026:
4, 11, 18, 25 September

October 2026:
2, 9, 16, 23, 30 October

November 2026:
13, 20, 27 November

December 2026:
4, 11, 18, 25 December

🚆 Every Friday Night Departure → Tuesday Morning Arrival

⚠️ Important Notes

1. Minimum Participant Policy
If the total number of participants in a batch is 6 or fewer, the event may automatically be converted into a Customized Trip. In such cases, a local Trekfit representative will greet you directly at the starting point and assist you during the trip.

2. Train Ticket Policy
Train ticket costs are considered based on availability at the time of booking. If regular tickets are on the waiting list, Tatkal tickets may be provided, and the ticket cost may be approximately 1.5 times the regular fare.

3. Christmas & New Year Supplement 🎄✨
For travel between 22nd December and 1st January, an additional ₹3,000 per person will be applicable.

6 Night 7 Days 25 Sep, 25 Sep, 27 Sep, and more
Inclusions/Exclusions

What is included in the tour

  • 🚆 Train Tickets – Pune/Mumbai to Pondicherry and return train journey as per the selected batch and availability

  • 🏨 Accommodation – Comfortable stay in hotels/hostels on a sharing basis

  • 🍳 Meals – Breakfast as mentioned in the itinerary

  • 🚌 Local Transportation – Transfers and sightseeing by shared vehicle as per the itinerary

  • 🌴 Pondicherry Sightseeing – Covers major attractions mentioned in the itinerary

  • 🌿 Auroville Visit – Visit to Auroville and its key attractions as per the itinerary

  • 👨‍💼 Trekfit Representative / Local Support – Assistance during the trip

  • 🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Trip Coordination – End-to-end coordination by the Trekfit team

  • 🛡️ Basic Travel Assistance – Support in case of any travel-related requirement during the trip

What is NOT included in the tour

 

  • 🍽️ Lunch and dinner, unless specifically mentioned in the itinerary

  • 🚆 Tatkal train fare difference, if regular train tickets are unavailable / waitlisted

  • 🎟️ Entry fees to monuments, museums, attractions, and activities not specifically mentioned in the inclusions

  • 🛺 Personal transportation such as autos, cabs, or local travel outside the planned itinerary

  • ☕ Personal expenses such as snacks, beverages, laundry, shopping, etc.

  • 🏥 Medical expenses and personal medicines

  • 🛡️ Travel insurance

  • 📸 Any additional activities, water sports, or experiences not mentioned in the itinerary

  • 🏨 Room upgrades or additional accommodation due to personal requirements

  • 💰 Any expenses arising due to unforeseen circumstances such as train delays, cancellations, natural calamities, strikes, or changes in transportation schedules

  • 🎄 ₹3,000 per person Christmas & New Year supplement for travel between 22nd December and 1st January

  • 💵 Any other expense not specifically mentioned under Inclusions

Highlights
What makes this tour special

  • 🌴 Explore the beautiful Pondicherry beaches & coastline

  • 🏖️ Relax and enjoy the iconic Rock Beach Promenade

  • 🇫🇷 Experience the charm of French Colonial Architecture

  • 🏘️ Explore the colourful French & Tamil quarters

  • 🌿 Visit the peaceful and unique Auroville

  • 🛕 Discover historic temples, churches & monuments

  • 📸 Enjoy beautiful Instagram-worthy streets and locations

  • 🌅 Witness stunning sunrise & sunset views by the sea

  • 🚆 Convenient overnight train journey

  • 🤝 Enjoy a hassle-free trip with Trekfit Adventures coordination

  • 🧳 Perfect short backpacking getaway for friends, couples & solo travellers

Itinerary

Day 1: Boarding the train 

  • Pick up points
    • Pickup from Mumbai: 9.00 pm board DR PDY EXP from Dadar or Kalyan
    • Pickup from Pune: 23.50 pm board DR PDY EXP Spl from Pune Railway Station

Day 2: Scenic Train Journey

  • Our captains are well equipped to keep you entertained for a long journey for an amazing experience. Also, don't forget to bring your UNO cards with you!

Day 3: Auro Bindo Ashram, Manakula Temple, and Rock Beach

  • Reach early morning and check into the hotel 
  • Rest for a while, and have a stomach-full breakfast, then leave for our sightseeing
  • Start with the very calming 'Aurobindo ashram' Give yourself a soothing start to the trip here. Meditate if you like.
  • After Aurobindo Ashram we visit the Manakula temple followed by lunch
  • Next, we will head towards the rock beach. Spend your evening at the rock beach, exploring the Gandhi statue, some famous churches, and the old lighthouse today.
  • Walk around the white town at night or go clubbing.
  • Sleepover

Day 4: Auroville sightseeing and Serenity beach | Departure back 

  • Today we will start our day with a soothing sunrise by the Serenity beach.
  • Return to your stay, freshen up, have breakfast, and leave for Auroville.
  • Visit the very famous Matrimandir today, architecture that forms the ‘soul’ of Auroville town. 
  • There are many cafes at Auroville that we can explore today.
  • After Auroville sightseeing, we will visit Serenity beach 
  • Later, in the evening you can hike the streets of Pondy

Day 5:Chidambaram,Pitchavaram and Paradise beach

  • Wake up early morning and leave for Chidambaram, breakfast on the way
  • Explore the massive Chidambaram temple which is the geometrical center of the earth.
  • After exploring Chidambaram we will enjoy boating in the mangrove forest of Pitchavaram.
  • Post which we depart back to Pondicherry and have a late lunch.
  • Evening we stop by Paradise Beach for sunset and return to the hotel for a rest
  • 9.00 pm we take Chalukya Express back to Pune and Mumbai 

Day 6:Train Day

  • ​Enjoy the scenic train journey 

Day 7:Arrival in Pune, Mumbai

  • 2.00 am: Reach Pune with loads of memories

Note: Train tickets will be in confirmed or RAC(half window seat) as per availability of seats for last-minute bookings!

 (Incase of couple room additional 1000 will be charged) 

 

The age group of the trip is 14-46 years due to the power-packed itineraries we provide to our travelers in case your age is above that we can provide a customized itinerary.

 

Please note that at any given point of time if the event has participant count which is 6 or less in number the event might get automatically converted into a customized one, i.e. there shall be a local representative from Trekfit that will greet you directly at the starting point. 

 

 

IRCTC Rules -
 
1. Kindly note that Trekfit makes its tickets from IRCTC-certified agents

2. We use intelligent AI-based tools like Confirm ticket to predict the confirmation probability of your ticket

3. Tickets are made based on the maximum confirmation probability and solely depend on the remaining days for your departure

4. However, it is essential to note that the tool does not guarantee a 100% confirmation guarantee for waitlisted and RAC tickets every time and Trekfit does not hold any control to confirm tickets every time.

5. There might always be a chance that you get a RAC(half-seat) ticket instead of a confirmed seat and Trekfit Adventures is not responsible for not providing confirmed tickets since IRCTC is a govt body and we do not hold any control over that.

6. It is always the best thing to book your trip in advance at least 20 days prior to improve your possibility of  getting a full seat on the train.

7. The seat availability of trains depends from season to season and since few routes have specific one or two trains running on the route it might get difficult to get a confirmed seat during peak festive and tourist seasons.

8. Also kindly note that our agents will get in touch with you to provide alternate options for trains where you can hold a chance of a confirmed ticket which may have some monetary difference in the ticket amount which if you confirm to upgrade shall be liable to pay.

9. Also, there might arise a chance that our predictability tool may fail and you may get a RAC seat once the chart is prepared. Kindly note that Trekfit won't be responsible for providing full seats in such a situation nor refunding any amount since it is a govt transport and not private.

10. Premium trains like Rajdhani and Duranto have a fare of 50% on the higher side than regular trains however they provide the highest confirmation probability and you can always opt for the same.

  •  
FAQ

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. When does the Pondicherry trip depart?
🚆 The trip departs every Friday night and you will arrive back by Tuesday morning.

2. Who can join this trip?
👥 The trip is suitable for solo travellers, friends, couples, and small groups.

3. What happens if there are 6 or fewer participants?
If a batch has 6 or fewer participants, the event may be converted into a Customized Trip. A local Trekfit representative will greet you at the starting point and assist you during the trip.

4. Is the train ticket included?
🚆 Train tickets are included as per the package terms and are subject to availability. If regular tickets are waitlisted, Tatkal tickets may be arranged at an additional cost.

5. How much extra does Tatkal cost?
If Tatkal tickets are required, the train fare may be approximately 1.5 times the regular ticket cost, depending on availability and actual fare.

6. What places will we visit in Pondicherry?
🌴 The trip covers major attractions mentioned in the itinerary, including Rock Beach, French Quarter, historic landmarks, churches and other popular sightseeing spots.

7. Is Auroville included in the trip?
🌿 Yes, Auroville is included as per the itinerary.

8. Are all meals included?
🍽️ Meals are provided only as specified under the Inclusions section. Lunch and dinner are generally not included unless specifically mentioned.

9. Is accommodation included?
🏨 Yes, accommodation is included as per the package itinerary, on a sharing basis.

10. Is this a private or group trip?
🚌 This is primarily a group trip. If the participant count is 6 or fewer, it may be converted into a customized trip.

11. What happens during Christmas and New Year?
🎄 For travel between 22nd December and 1st January, an additional ₹3,000 per person will be applicable.

12. Can I join the trip alone?
🙋 Yes! Solo travellers are welcome. You can join the group and enjoy the trip with fellow travellers.

13. What should I carry for the trip?
🎒 Carry comfortable clothes, footwear, personal medicines, toiletries, a valid ID proof, power bank, water bottle and other personal essentials.

14. Is travel insurance included?
🛡️ No. Travel insurance is not included unless specifically mentioned in the package.

15. What if my train is delayed or cancelled?
🚆 Any additional expenses arising due to train delays, cancellations, changes in railway schedules or other unforeseen circumstances will be borne by the traveller, subject to the applicable terms and conditions.

Things to Carry

 

  • 🪪 Valid Government ID Proof – Aadhaar Card / PAN Card / Passport

  • 🎫 Train Ticket / Booking Confirmation

  • 👕 Comfortable clothes suitable for sightseeing

  • 👟 Comfortable walking shoes / sandals

  • 🧴 Sunscreen, sunglasses & cap/hat

  • 🧥 Light jacket or shawl for the train journey

  • 🧴 Personal toiletries & hygiene essentials

  • 💊 Personal medicines & basic first-aid essentials

  • 💧 Reusable water bottle

  • 🔋 Power bank & mobile charger

  • 🎒 Small day backpack

  • 💰 Some cash for personal expenses

  • 📱 Mobile phone with necessary travel documents saved offline

  • 🧻 Tissues / wet wipes / hand sanitizer

  • 🕶️ Sunglasses

  • ☔ Umbrella / raincoat depending on the season

  • 🛍️ Small bag for personal belongings

  • 🧳 Keep your luggage light and easy to carry, especially for the train journey.

Cost
PACKAGE COST – PER PERSON 📍 Pondicherry to Pondicherry 💵 ₹10,399/- 📍 Pune/Mumbai 🛏️ Sleeper – ₹12,399/- ❄️ 3AC – ₹14,399/-
Cancellation & Refund Policy

 

At Trekfit Adventures, we understand that travel plans can sometimes change. We request all participants to carefully read and understand our cancellation and refund policy before confirming their booking.

1. Pending Payment Policy

  • Complete your pending payment 5 days before departure.

  • Failure to pay the second installment may result in booking cancellation and forfeiture of the advance payment.

  • Boarding may be denied for non-payment, and the seat may be reassigned.

2. Cancellation & Refund Policy

For Backpacking Trips and Long Tours — More Than 4 Nights

  • 30+ days before departure: Full refund in Trekfit Adventures coupon/credit OR monetary refund after deduction of 15% cancellation charges.

  • Less than 20 days before departure: No monetary refund. 75% of the eligible amount may be provided as Trekfit Adventures coupon/credit.

  • Less than 7 days before departure: No refund.

  • If unwell: No refund. Participants may arrange a replacement, subject to Trekfit Adventures' approval.

For Sahyadri Treks, Camping & Weekend Trips

  • 5 days before departure: Full refund in Trekfit Adventures coupon/credit OR monetary refund after deduction of 15% cancellation charges.

  • Less than 3 days before departure: No monetary refund. 50% of the eligible amount may be provided as Trekfit Adventures coupon/credit if the booking has been fully paid.

  • Ticket Transfer: Possible subject to Trekfit Adventures' approval.

  • No-show or illness: No refund. Participants may arrange a replacement, subject to approval.

  • Advance Booking Amount: Non-refundable.

  • Postponement: Postponement is allowed up to 3 days before the trek, subject to availability and Trekfit Adventures' approval.

3. Important Non-Refundable Charges

Trek insurance, train cancellation charges, agent charges, convenience charges, and other third-party charges are non-refundable if the trip is cancelled within 6 days before departure.

New Year & Christmas Events

No refund will be applicable within 15 days before New Year and Christmas events.

4. If Trekfit Adventures Cancels a Trip

Due to Natural Calamity or Unrest

  • If the trip has already started, no refund will be applicable for services affected by such circumstances.

  • Trekfit Adventures will make reasonable efforts to assist participants with alternate arrangements.

Before Departure

  • If Trekfit Adventures cancels the trip before departure, a full refund may be provided, except for non-refundable train, bus, hotel, airline, permit, or other third-party charges, wherever applicable.

Sahyadri Treks

If a Sahyadri trek is cancelled due to low participation, participants may choose:

  • Event/date shift.

Transport Issues

In case of transport-related issues, Trekfit Adventures may arrange an alternative wherever possible. Any additional cost arising from the alternative arrangement will be borne by the participant.

5. Trip Delays & Connecting Transport Failures

Trekfit Adventures will assist with alternate arrangements in case of:

  • Train delays

  • Bus delays

  • Flight delays

  • Missed connections

  • Roadblocks

  • Vehicle breakdowns

  • Natural calamities

  • Other circumstances beyond our control

Any additional expenses arising due to such delays, changes, or alternate arrangements will be borne by the participant.

6. Cancellation Process

All cancellation requests must be submitted in writing by email with the participant's booking details.

Cancellation policy will be applicable from the date and time the cancellation email is received.

Refunds will generally be processed within 2–5 working days after approval of the eligible refund.

Cancellation requests through phone calls or WhatsApp will not be considered valid.

7. Important Note

Any additional costs incurred due to an extension or change in itinerary because of natural calamities, train/bus delays or cancellation, roadblocks, vehicle breakdowns, government restrictions, weather conditions, or other factors beyond the control of Trekfit Adventures and its associates will be borne by the participant.

For trip-specific terms and conditions, the policy communicated with the respective trip/package will apply.