Situated just across the border in the state of Tamil Nadu, Auroville, about 10 km away from Pondicherry, is a unique experience in itself. The place, also known as 'City of Dawn', was founded in 1968 as a tribute to Sri Aurobindo. It is a lush green cover created over 25 years by sheer hard work and dedication. The place is spread over 50 sq. km and has a population of over 900. The Mata Mandir situated in the centre of the town is the spiritual centre with a 30-metre-high globe with lotus-shaped foundation urn.