Best time to travel to India

Auroville in India

Did you ever think there is a town that awaits your arrival passionately? A place where you already belong and where you already have citizenship?

Best time: all year round

Auroville
Auroville
Auroville
Auroville

The city of Auroville in Pondicherry was founded in 1968 and represents a self-proclaimed bridge between the past and the future—a city of youth that never ages. This is an international community, which you can choose and where you can stay. For now, there are about 2,000 people from over 40 countries. The primary purpose of Auroville is to show human unity and coexist peacefully.

This city is no one's in particular, it belongs to humanity and promises never-ending education and constant progress. Auroville tends to be a universal city where women and men of all countries can live in harmony and peace, where there is no religion, politics, and only a little bit of private property. No smoking or drinking, no private money and business, but the main thing is, you have to leave your ideas behind!

In the heart of a town, there is a peace area—a golden geodesic dome covered with round steel plates with thin gold leaves. This golden globe appears like a sun emerging from the land. Everyone can stay at Auroville by paying a daily fee or “guest contribution.” So much for a place with no economics.

Practical info

When was Auroville founded, and what is its primary purpose?

In 1968, Auroville was established with the purpose of promoting human unity, peaceful co-existence and serving as a universal city for all humanity. It operates with a focus on providing education, fostering progress, and encouraging human unity. Regardless of their beliefs, people from all over the world are welcome to become a part of Auroville today, which bridges the gap between the past and future. Show more

Where is Auroville located in India?

Auroville is located south of Chennai, the Tamil Nadu state capital, in the Puducherry Union Territory of the Southern part of India. Located between Evergreen and Kuilapalayam, Auroville is approximately 150 km south of Chennai and 10 km north of Puducherry town. It is a former French colony and remains there today. Show more

What are the rules for living in Auroville, and how do visitors contribute financially?

Auroville residents follow set regulations that prohibit smoking, drinking, acquiring property, and focusing on religion or politics. They rely on their skills to contribute to the society. Visitors are obliged to contribute to the community financially by paying a daily fee or making a guest contribution upon staying there. Rates vary depending on one's accommodation and the length of their visit. Show more

What is the peace area in Auroville, and what is unique about its architecture?

The Matrimandir is the peace area highlighted in Auroville. It is a large golden dome that represents the spiritual essence of the society and serves as a place for people to meditate. Its design entails a large inner chamber, white marble flooring and the use of natural light. Its outer shell comprises golden plates that reflect sunlight beautifully. Western and Indian architectures influenced the Matrimandir's unique design. Show more

What are the demographics of Auroville, and how many countries are represented in the community?

Auroville has a multicultural community of over 2,000 residents, from 40+ countries, of different ages. Its majority of residents are aged between 20 to 40 years. The majority of residents are non-Indian, and Westerners are the most significant group present. Women represent slightly above half of the population. The community also has youth and children, constituting about 30% of residents. Show more

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Last updated: by Eleonora Provozin