What is Auroville?

Auroville, often referred to as the “City of Dawn,” is an international township in Tamil Nadu, India, founded by Mirra Alfassa, known as The Mother, in 1968. Auroville’s purpose is to be a universal town where people of all nations, backgrounds, and cultures can live together in harmony. The core belief of Auroville is to transcend national, religious, and cultural boundaries to create a space where humanity can explore unity and collective progress. Located near Pondicherry, Auroville is known for its unique community spirit, sustainable living practices, and commitment to human development.

Auroville Guide: How to Stay and Experience the Township

Staying in Auroville is unlike staying in a traditional city or town. The experience revolves around a shared community that values peace, spirituality, and collaboration. Visitors to Auroville can choose from a variety of accommodation options, including guesthouses, eco-friendly accommodations, and volunteer residences. The most important thing is understanding that Auroville operates on a non-monetary economy where people contribute through service or exchange of skills.

Auroville Essentials: How to Stay in Auroville for a While

To stay in Auroville for a longer period, you can apply for an Auroville guest registration. The registration process usually includes filling out a form, indicating the purpose of your stay, and agreeing to adhere to the community guidelines. After approval, visitors are typically given an orientation and guidance on the community’s values and lifestyle. The minimum stay is usually one month, but long-term stays are also common if the individual integrates well into the community.

The Auro Card (Auroville Currency)

Auroville has its own system of currency called the “Auro Card.” It is used as an internal currency for transactions within the township. Residents, volunteers, and even visitors can use this card to purchase items from Auroville’s shops, restaurants, and other services. This currency system helps to maintain Auroville’s unique economic model, where money is not the primary driver of the community, but rather a means of facilitating exchanges and ensuring collective well-being.

Connectivity in Auroville

Though Auroville is situated in a serene and natural environment, connectivity to the outside world is well-established. Auroville has good internet connectivity in most parts, including at guesthouses and common areas. The nearby city of Pondicherry (around 10-15 kilometers away) offers access to banking services, hospitals, and more. Auroville itself, however, remains relatively calm, which fosters a retreat-like atmosphere where people can disconnect from the fast-paced world.

Best Time to Visit Auroville

The best time to visit Auroville is during the winter months, from November to February, when the weather is cool and pleasant. The summer months from March to June can get quite hot and humid, with temperatures rising above 40°C (104°F). The monsoon season (June to September) brings moderate rainfall, which makes the surroundings lush and green but may hinder outdoor activities.

Where to Stay in Auroville

There are a variety of accommodation options in Auroville, catering to different preferences and budgets. Some popular choices include:

Guesthouses: Auroville has a number of guesthouses where visitors can stay for short or long periods. They typically offer basic amenities and are located close to the main areas of the township. Popular ones include Shakti Sthala and Auroville Guest House.

Eco-friendly Resorts and Lodges: Many accommodations in Auroville follow eco-friendly principles, such as solar power, rainwater harvesting, and waste recycling. Some examples are The Solar Village and The Green Connection.

Volunteering Residences: For those who choose to contribute to the community through service, there are spaces designed for volunteers, where people stay in simple yet comfortable settings.

Where to Eat in Auroville

Auroville offers an array of restaurants and cafes that cater to different tastes. The food is typically vegetarian and organic, emphasizing health, sustainability, and local produce. Some of the most popular places to eat in Auroville include:

The Solar Kitchen: Known for its buffet-style meals, the Solar Kitchen serves a wide variety of fresh and organic vegetarian dishes, with an emphasis on locally grown produce.

Café Auroville: This laid-back café offers a peaceful atmosphere and serves delicious organic coffee, snacks, and light meals.

La Terrace: Located near the Matrimandir, La Terrace is known for its fresh juices, light snacks, and outdoor seating with great views of the surrounding area.

Where to Volunteer in Auroville

Volunteering is one of the key aspects of life in Auroville. Visitors can offer their time and skills in various fields, such as education, farming, administration, arts, and sustainability. Some of the key places where people can volunteer include:

Auroville Farms: Volunteers can assist with organic farming, gardening, and food production, contributing to the sustainable living practices of the community.

Auroville Language Laboratory: This is an educational initiative where volunteers can teach languages, particularly English, to people in and around Auroville.

Auroville Arts & Crafts: Artists can volunteer in different creative projects, such as painting, sculpture, pottery, and textile work.

Things to Do in Auroville

While in Auroville, there is plenty to do for those seeking both relaxation and exploration:

Visit the Matrimandir: The Matrimandir is the soul of Auroville and a spiritual center for meditation. It is an iconic golden sphere, located at the heart of Auroville, offering a peaceful and serene place for reflection.

Explore Auroville’s Gardens: Auroville is known for its lush greenery and beautiful gardens. You can visit the Auroville Botanical Gardens, where a variety of plants and trees are preserved.

Attend Workshops and Classes: Auroville offers a range of classes, workshops, and activities on topics such as yoga, sustainable living, and meditation.

Enjoy Eco-Tours: Participate in eco-tours around the community, learning about Auroville’s sustainable building practices, organic farming, and renewable energy projects.

How to Go to Auroville and Get Around

The nearest major airport to Auroville is in Chennai (about 150 km away), from where you can take a taxi or a bus to Pondicherry and then reach Auroville by a local taxi or auto-rickshaw. Alternatively, you can arrive at Pondicherry by train or bus.

Getting around Auroville itself is easy with the help of bicycles or electric scooters, which are available for rent. Auroville’s traffic is minimal, and walking or cycling is the most common way to explore.

Auroville India Resources

Auroville provides plenty of resources to help visitors and residents. The Auroville website is a great place to start, offering information on staying, volunteering, visiting, and contributing. There are also dedicated spaces like the Auroville Visitor Centre, where you can learn more about the history of the township and gather essential information on current activities.

Auroville

Auroville offers a unique, peaceful, and inspiring way of life, focused on human unity, sustainability, and spiritual development. Whether you’re interested in volunteering, exploring the natural beauty of the area, or simply seeking a place to reflect and grow, Auroville provides an enriching experience for all.

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