Auroville – The future of world in India
Auroville – The future of world in India
Before visiting Auroville I did some deep dive research and realised
that there isn’t much information available. Hence it wasn’t that easy for me to
collect information on Auroville prior to my visit. Post visiting Auroville I realised
that it’s really difficult to express Auroville in couple of words. I
eventually had a tough time collecting information and craft my experience in the form of words.
Before proceeding
further I would like to share glimpse about the history of Auroville for your
better understanding.
A lady called Mirra Alfassa had a dream that there should be
a place on earth where people from all caste, any country could live freely
without any discrimination, where every human being should be treated equally.
Hence her dream gave birth to this experimental town called “Auroville” in
February 1968 and Mirra Alfassa later on known to her followers as “The Mother”.
As of today people from over 55 nations live here together
and enjoy being an Aurovillian. Being an Aurovillian is their only identity, since
they have given up their nationality, religion status.
All Aurovillian's are
treated, paid equally along with other benefits (further details are available
on auroville.org)
Majority of Auroville’s land is located in Indian state of
Tamil Nadu while certain parts of Auroville is located in Puduchery state.
Things to do
Though Auroville is an experience in itself, activities to do are limited but you still need bare minimum of a week to understand the
pulse of the Auroville.
Matri Mandir
This is the most iconic landmark in Auroville. Matri Mandir
is one of rare temple which is not devoted to any religion. You may visit the
premises of temple freely though you need to book an appointment to visit
inside the temple in advance. You may book an appointment without any cost
using their official website https://visit.auroville.org/#book-now
Note- Matri Mandir viewing point is open only until 4pm on weekdays
including Saturday and only until 1pm on Sundays.
Dharma Swasti
Majority of events take place in auditorium of Dharma Swasti.
Tip- Do not forget to try organic vegan food at Dharma
Swasti.
Volunteer
There are many volunteer opportunities for guests staying
for long duration. You can simply visit visitor centre to checkout available
opportunities.
Volunteering will help you to understand Auroville more
closely.
Where to eat
There are a plenty of good café’s available in Auroville but
majority of them close as early as 5pm.
Must visit cafe’s include Auroville bakery, Bread and
chocolate and Café 72 for authentic food experience.
While Pizza lovers couldn’t afford to miss a visit to Tanto’s
or Brothers pizzeria. Their taste is almost equivalent though Tanto’s charge
much more than Brothers pizzeria.
Commute within Auroville
Always ensure to carry a torch with you after 7 pm as there
is no street light.
Other than walk you may also rent a bicycle, moped or scotty.
Ideal cost to rent a bicycle is Rs.60 a day, moped Rs.70 a
day and scotty Rs.150 a day.
Though keep in mind that fuel station few miles away but
shopkeepers will help you with limited fuel.
Tip- I found best deal at Kumar bike shop, you may call him at 9443497450, 8838325665.
How to reach
Air/Train- Though nearest city serving both Air and Train
transport is Puduchery, which is located just 8 Km. from Auroville though Puduchery
is not well connected with major cities hence ideal option is to take Air or
Train till Chennai, which is located 140 odd Km. from Auroville.
Bus- All buses heading from Chennai towards Puducherry take
halt at Auroville. Buses are frequently available round the clock.
Where to stay
There are plenty of Travel hostels, Homestays and couple of
hotels are located in Auroville.
Budget travel hostels include Dreamcather for authentic
nature experience as this hostel is located around 600 meters away from main
road inside dense forest area (Dorms start from Rs. 350 a day).
Party animals may opt for Woodpacker hostel, located very
close to main road. This hostel conduct events and parties very frequently. (Dorms
start from Rs. 350 a day).
Both hostels serve good WIFI connectivity.
Nature lovers who can afford to stay away from internet connectivity
may opt for Joy community guest house or Purity guest house. (Accommodation
starts from Rs. 400 a day).
If you are looking for more comfortable option or if you are
travelling with your family then you may opt for Center guest house or New
creation. (Accommodation starts from Rs. 1000 a day). Both options offer best internet
connectivity in Auroville.
For homestay options or for similar hotels you may refer to
What else you should expect here
Shopping in Auroville- Traditional products to take home
include handmade Handicraft, handmade organic food essentials, Fridge
magnets.
The Winter months from November till February is the most pleasant time to
visit Auroville as considering the tropical weather, Auroville is usually
hot throughout the year.
If you are genuinely looking
for some new place with some different unique experience then Auroville is
the place for you.
Useful links for Auroville visit
Guesthouses: http://guesthouses.auroville.org/
Phone numbers and timings: http://wiki.auroville.org.in/wiki/Timings
Shared Transport: http://sharedtransport.auroville.org/
Book a visit to Matri Mandir: https://visit.auroville.org/#book-now
Further
details/assistance for bookings: https://prateektraveller.blogspot.com/2020/11/travel-apps-i-frequently-use.html
Travellers may feel free to approach me at 9910326647 or prateeksapra.p@gmail.com for further assistance.
Comments
Post a Comment