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Places To Visit In Pondicherry

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1. Paradise Beach, Pondicherry

4 km from city center 1 out of 49 Places To Visit in Pondicherry

Paradise Beach, also known as Plage Paradiso, is situated in Chunnambar, close to Pondicherry town. Adorned with the golden sand, this is a little-isolated beach. To reach here, you have to take a ferry across the backwaters, which takes around 20-30 minutes. There are a few shacks along the main entrance to the beach, and you can get fresh coconut water and some simple snacks - don't expect any fancy street food though.

2. Aurobindo Ashram

3 km from city center 2 out of 49 Places To Visit in Pondicherry

The Sri Aurobindo Ashram, a spiritual community or ashram located in Pondicherry, is the outcome of a small community of disciples who had gathered around Sri Aurobindo after he retired from politics and settled in Pondicherry in 1910. On 24 November 1926, after a major spiritual realization, Sri Aurobindo withdrew from public view in order to continue his spiritual work. At this time he handed over the full responsibility for the inner and outer lives of the spiritual aspirants and the ashram to his spiritual collaborator, the Mother earlier known as Mirra Alfassa. This date is therefore generally known as the founding-day of the ashram.

3. Auroville

3 out of 49 Places To Visit in Pondicherry

Auroville is one of those towns which appear to come to life right out of fiction. In the union territory of Pondicherry, this township runs on the principles of peace, harmony, sustainable living and 'divine consciousness' which was the philosophy of the Mother of Sri Aurobindo Society, Mirra Alfassa. This universal township was inaugurated on 28 February 1968 with the agenda that it will be a place with people willing enough to make this a hub of uninterrupted education and progress, regardless of their caste, creed, nationality or race. Called the city of dawn, this place is the epitome of tranquility and proves as the perfect escape for the ones in search of peace.

4. Scuba Diving in Pondicherry

2 km from city center 4 out of 49 Places To Visit in Pondicherry

Packed with enchanting marine life, Pondicherry offers an amazing adventure of scuba diving off the country's East Coast. A dive into the sea will let you explore the rich life comprising of beautiful natural coral reefs and other exotic creatures such as manta rays, kingfish, sea snakes, lionfish, butterflies, crustaceans, moray eels and many more. Apart from that, if it is your lucky day you might even spot whale sharks, even sharks, dolphins and turtles. You also have an option of enjoying the dive at an artificial reef and experience the thrill of the activity making Pondicherry an irresistible diving destination.

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2 Nights 3 Days Pondicherry Holiday Tour Package

Pondicherry-mahabalipuram tour with kanchipuram, soulful pondicherry tour with heritage walk & cycling, delights of chennai, pondicherry & tirupati, heavenly tamil nadu tour package, dazzling pondicherry, chennai & mahabalipuram, 5. arikamedu.

2 km from city center 5 out of 49 Places To Visit in Pondicherry

Arikamedu are the ruins which carried the remnants of the Roman trade in India. Recent excavations have brought out wine jars and ancient roman coins hinting on the Roman links in the ancient history of Pondicherry.

6. Cafes in Pondicherry

6 out of 49 Places To Visit in Pondicherry

Pondicherry is widely known for its cheap alcohol and if you are a connoisseur, then it is an excellent place for you to visit as it serves a wide variety of gourmet food. It definitely has the best cafes around and offers a great cuisine. If you always dreamt of sitting in a French café and sipping a cup of coffee or taking a bite but are unable to visit France, then Pondy should be on your checklist. It has the best French cafes in India.

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7. Seaside Promenade

3 km from city center 7 out of 49 Places To Visit in Pondicherry

One of the things that does justice to Pondicherry's French Roots is its beautiful Seaside Promenade. The area is well maintained, clean and beautiful and you can actually feel foam spray on your face while sipping a cooler in one of the many cafes at the promenade. Whether you're visiting during the sunny day or the starry night, the Seaside Promenade is equally feel good.

8. Promenade Beach

12 km from city center 8 out of 49 Places To Visit in Pondicherry

Pondicherry beach is a different kind of beach with less sand and more rocks. It offers a very peaceful place to its tourists and visitors to sit and enjoy the waves.

9. Serenity Beach

7 km from city center 9 out of 49 Places To Visit in Pondicherry

Located at a distance of 10 kms, on the outskirts on Puducherry in Kottakuppam, Serenity Beach gets its name from the Spa-Resort-Inn located at the spot with the same name. Originally, the beach was called Thanthirayan Kuppam Beach or plain Kottakuppam Beach.

10. Cycling in Pondicherry

10 out of 49 Places To Visit in Pondicherry

One of the most exciting and picturesque things to do in Pondicherry is to tour the beautiful territory on traditional vintage bicycles. You can also go for guided tours around the stunning French Quarters, charming mustard streets, colonial villas and vibrant Tamil settlements. Besides a very picturesque view of the lovely alleys and narrow lanes, you can also marvel at the gorgeous architecture of the French colonial settlements.

11. Auroville Beach

9 km from city center 11 out of 49 Places To Visit in Pondicherry

Auroville Beach, also known as the Auro Beach is located in Pondicherry. It is a part of the Auroville Ashram and is situated about 10 kilometres away. The beach is about 12 kilometres away from Pondicherry and lies on the right-hand side of East Coast Road. Auro Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Pondicherry. It attracts a lot of tourists and locals. The beach stays true to its form and doesn't have a lot of establishments that provide food or snacks. The Ashram has maintained its serenity and ensured that it is not tampered or changed a lot due to human encroachment.

12. Chunnambar Boat House

3 km from city center 12 out of 49 Places To Visit in Pondicherry

Chunambar is a quaint little hamlet located along Cuddalore Main Road, around 8 km from Pondicherry. This serene town is visited by tourists for its beach, which is know as Paradise Beach, situated near the mouth of the backwater. With pristine sand and crystallized water, it is a perfect place for one to spend a day out playing water sports and bathing in the sun. A short cruise is also organized for the visitors which gives them a fantastic overall view of the serene beauty of the waters. One can also spot dolphins playing around in the water making it a must-visit for the nature lovers.

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13. Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus

2 km from city center 13 out of 49 Places To Visit in Pondicherry

This Gothic style building is a highly revered place of worship in Pondicherry. Visitors comprising of both tourists as well as devotees, who are staunch believers, visit to offer their prayers to the All Mighty here.

14. Water Sports in Pondicherry

4 km from city center 14 out of 49 Places To Visit in Pondicherry

With a unique, peaceful coastal beauty to it, Pondicherry is quickly becoming every beach lovers' favourite hideout. A number of water sports options along its white sandy beaches are another reason for travellers to love Pondy, as it is lovingly known.

15. Botanical Garden, Pondicherry

2 km from city center 15 out of 49 Places To Visit in Pondicherry

A popular tourist attraction of Pondicherry, Botanical Garden was established by C.S. Perrotet in the year 1862. The garden is home to several exotic varieties of rare plants as well as an aquarium.

16. Pondicherry Lighthouse

16 out of 49 Places To Visit in Pondicherry

The Lighthouse is one of the remarkable landmarks in Pondicherry. The French Riviera of the East, Pondy has two lighthouses, an old one and the new one. Where the former has been closed for public appearance the latter serves as the spot for giving its visitors the most amazing bird's eye view of the city. 

17. Jawahar Toy Museum

3 km from city center 17 out of 49 Places To Visit in Pondicherry

An ideal place for kids, Jawahar Toy Museum is a well maintained place situated at the old light house building near Gandhi Maidan. The museum houses a wide range of dolls and toys collected from all over the country.

18. Raj Niwas

3 km from city center 18 out of 49 Places To Visit in Pondicherry

Previously known as Palais du Government, Raj Niwas is an eighteenth century building presently serving as the residence of Lieutenant Governor of Pondicherry.

19. French War Memorial

3 km from city center 19 out of 49 Places To Visit in Pondicherry

French War Memorial is a stylish structure located in the Goubert Avenue and is dedicated to the soldiers who lost their lives in the First World War.

20. Sri Manakula Vinayagar Temple

3 km from city center 20 out of 49 Places To Visit in Pondicherry

Sri Manakula Vinayagar Temple is an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha and is said to have been established almost 5 centuries ago. Situated behind the Raj Niwas, the sanctum is enshrined with a grand idol of Vinayaka called Vellakkaran Pillai.

21. Pondicherry Museum

3 km from city center 21 out of 49 Places To Visit in Pondicherry

Located in the Bharathi Park, Pondicherry Museum houses a fantastic collection of sculptures. It has the remains of the archeological findings from the Arikamedu Roman settlement.

22. Veerampattinam Beach

3 km from city center 22 out of 49 Places To Visit in Pondicherry

Located on the outskirts of Pondicherry in the largest coastal village called Veerampattinam, Veerampattinam Beach has an extensive coastline and is counted among the most beautiful beaches of the tinsel town. Since the beach is little known, tourist inflow is minimum and the beach boasts of golden sands and pollution free environs.

23. Gokilambal Thirukameswar Temple

6 km from city center 23 out of 49 Places To Visit in Pondicherry

Situated 11 km from the Pondicherry in small town of Villianur, Gokilambal Thirukameswarar Temple is a beautiful temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. However, one can clearly witness the French influence over the temple through their varied traditions.

24. Chidambaram

59 km from city center 24 out of 49 Places To Visit in Pondicherry

Chidambaram is a highly revered temple town located about 58 km from Pondicherry. The town is known for its several ancient shrines and historic buildings.

25. Bharathi Park

3 km from city center 25 out of 49 Places To Visit in Pondicherry

Bharathi Park is a well planned and well maintained park flanked by some of the most important government buildings on all the sides. Serving as a popular tourist attraction since the times of British, this place is ideal to relax and unwind.

26. Immaculate Conception Cathedral

3 km from city center 26 out of 49 Places To Visit in Pondicherry

Immaculate Conception Cathedral or Eglise de Notre Dame de la Conception Immaculee Church is a beautiful place of worship established in year 1686. Dedicated to St.

27. Varadaraja Perumal Temple

3 km from city center 27 out of 49 Places To Visit in Pondicherry

Varadaraja Perumal Temple is an ancient temple dating back to 12th century and is of great religious significance. Situated in Villiannur, the structure of the temple is very attractive and is highly revered by its devotees.

28. Church of Our Lady of Angels

3 km from city center 28 out of 49 Places To Visit in Pondicherry

Also known as Eglise de Notre Dame des Anges, the Church of Our Lady of Angels is mainly renowned for its immaculate stone work. The beautiful texture of white marble is highlighted by using the fusion of limestone and egg white.

29. The Statue of Dupleix

3 km from city center 29 out of 49 Places To Visit in Pondicherry

Commissioned in the year 1870, this 3 meter high statue was established to honour Francois Dupleix, who governed Pondicherry till 1754. This statue situated at the Place du Republique is built over amazing granite columns.

30. Aayi Mandapam

3 km from city center 30 out of 49 Places To Visit in Pondicherry

Standing sturdy at the centre of the Bharathi Park in Pondicherry, Aayi Mandapam or Park Monument is a pearly white edifice built during the reign of Napolean III, Emperor of France. The monument was built in the honour of the female courtesan Ayi who tore down her own house to build a water reservoir for the city.

31. Meeran Mosque

2 km from city center 31 out of 49 Places To Visit in Pondicherry

One of the most revered religious spot by Muslims; Meeran Mosque was built about three hundred and fifty years ago. In fact, it serves as the oldest mosque in Pondicherry with a distinct type of architecture.

32. Cluny Embroidery Centre

3 km from city center 32 out of 49 Places To Visit in Pondicherry

Housed in an 18th century heritage bungalow on the Rue Romain Rolland Street, Cluny Embroidery Centre is a wonderful venture started by a local convent to provide employment to underprivileged women. The building was supposedly donated by a French woman to help the poor women in need and is currently run by Catholic nuns.

33. Ananda Ranga Pillai Mansion

3 km from city center 33 out of 49 Places To Visit in Pondicherry

Located on the Ranga Pillai Street, opposite the Grand Bazaar, Ananda Ranga Pillai is one of the most ancient heritage buildings of Pondicherry. Built in 1735, the house was named after the courtier Ananda Ranga Pillai, of the French Governor- Joseph Francois Dupleix.

34. Ganesh Garden

2 km from city center 34 out of 49 Places To Visit in Pondicherry

Located on the Ramarajda Street in Pondicherry, Ganesh Garden is a quaint little botanical garden maintained by a French couple. Housed in a residential building, the garden cum nursery has a plethora bushes and shrubberies from medicinal plants to flowering plants. The place has been kept and groomed impressively and is a must visit for gardening enthusiasts.

35. ISKCON Pondicherry

4 km from city center 35 out of 49 Places To Visit in Pondicherry

Situated in the Krishna Nagar locality of Pondicherry, ISKCON Pondicherry is a Hindu revered temple dedicated to Lord Krishna and his consort, colloquially known as ‘Ashta Devi’. More precisely, the centre is a spiritual society, the name ‘ISKCON’ literally translating to International Society for Krishna Consciousness.

36. Ousteri Wetland and National Park

9 km from city center 36 out of 49 Places To Visit in Pondicherry

A national park rich in flora and fauna, Ousteri Wetland and National Park lay 10 km from Pondicherry town on the Pondicherry-Villuppuram road. Spread across an area of 3.

37. Sri Karneshwar Nataraja Temple

3 km from city center 37 out of 49 Places To Visit in Pondicherry

Located on the Pudhukuppam Beach in Pondicherry, 12 kms north of Auroville, Sri Karneshwar Nataraja Temple is the most unusual and yet one of the most beautiful temples present in India. Constructed in a pyramid shape, the temple is built to resemble the great pyramids of Egypt.

38. International Center for Yoga Education and Research (ICYER)

8 km from city center 38 out of 49 Places To Visit in Pondicherry

ICYER is a complete traditional ashram which unlike other yoga centres requires a strict decipline, routine and devotion towards a yogic living. ICYER follows the gurukul method of teaching till date and the students are required to reside in the ashram living with the guru and his family. The centre believes that total immersion into the yogic living is achieved through the process. The ashram does not offer vacation yoga courses, instead has residential teacher training course of 6 month duration. Advanced teachers training course of additional 6 months is offered to the ones who have completed the first 6 months.

39. Mahatma Gandhi Statue

3 km from city center 39 out of 49 Places To Visit in Pondicherry

The four-meter high statue of Mahatma Gandhi is surrounded by eight granite pillars, which were supposedly brought from Gingee, a fort some 70 km from Pondicherry. The statue is placed in the middle of a garden situated at Dumas Street and attracts tourists in large number.

40. Auroville Ashram, Pondicherry

10 km from city center 40 out of 49 Places To Visit in Pondicherry

Conceived as the 'Universal Town', the Auroville Ashram is a great epitome of community living. This is where people of different nationalities, culture, religion, traditions all come together to truly live in peace and harmony.

41. Relish a Mesmerizing Sunrise

41 out of 49 Places To Visit in Pondicherry

One thing that you must definitely witness while on a trip to Pondicherry is the very mesmerising sunrise. The lovely beaches, or the gorgeous colonies, or even the promenades, are all amazing locations to experience a wonderful orange sun rise above the horizon. This is one of the top things to do in Pondicherry and is sure to stay with you for a long long time.

42. Yanam Beach

42 out of 49 Places To Visit in Pondicherry

Situated in the town of Yanam, the Yanam Beach is an excellent getaway for those looking to spend quiet time away from the crowds. The vast expanse of the waters beckons tranquil boat rides, as well as a walk along the Ferry Road, can be both exciting and calming. Yanam Beach also called the Rajiv Gandhi Beach, is one of the most famous attractions of the town. One can sit back on cement chairs enjoying the quiet views of the beach side or enjoy a perfect picnic with family on a pleasant day.

43. White Town

3 km from city center 43 out of 49 Places To Visit in Pondicherry

Known as the French Colony of Pondicherry, White Town is a residential area in town which boasts of an interwoven culture of the Tamils and the primal French families. Flaunting cobblestone streets and mustard yellow houses, the colony retains the old world charm, daintiness and also the architecture of ancient French Quarters. Most of these have been converted into heritage hotels, restaurants, quirky cafes and art galleries. The buildings are mostly painted in pale yellow colour or shades of it and the well paved clean pathways are lined with shady trees.

44. Vedapureeswarar Temple

133 km from city center 44 out of 49 Places To Visit in Pondicherry

The Sri Vedapureeswarar temple is an ancient temple located in the southern union territory of Pondicherry also known as Puducherry. The temple is constructed in Dravidian style architecture and houses the all-mighty Lord Shiva. The Vedapureeswarar temple was demolished by the French in the year 1748, and it is also believed to have been demolished by the Muslims earlier. With the help of the funds of the people, the temple was re-established by the people. The temple has a seven-tiered entrance to the temple.

45. Karaikal Beach

111 km from city center 45 out of 49 Places To Visit in Pondicherry

Located in Pondicherry’s Karaikal city, Karaikal Beach is a popular one owing to its breathtaking views. It is a natural beach that lies on the Bay of Bengal and attracts large crowds throughout the year since it is an excellent spot for a dip and for evening walks. An ideal place to witness the sunset, there is a rocky path here to walk on, fishing boats to watch and plenty of opportunities for nature photography. Besides food joints and shops around the beach, there is also a park to visit.

46. Quiet Beach

5 km from city center 46 out of 49 Places To Visit in Pondicherry

As the name suggests, Quiet Beach in Pondicherry is a calm and serene location that is a hidden gem for most. With clear water, golden sand and big waves, it is perfect for a relaxing day of picnicking, sunbathing, collecting pretty shells, building sandcastles and more.

47. Mahe Beach

3 km from city center 47 out of 49 Places To Visit in Pondicherry

Located close to Kannur, Mahe Beach in Pondicherry is a quiet and clean beach that also forms Kerala's northern coast. Lined with tall palm trees, the beach is a must-visit during the early hours of the morning to witness the gorgeous sunrise while walking on the white sand along the blue waters. Not only is it ideal for swimming but also for beach sports like volleyball; for those looking to relax, the view of the sunset here is absolutely spectacular. There are restaurants around that serve delicious food and shops that sell souvenirs.

48. Reppo Beach

3 km from city center 48 out of 49 Places To Visit in Pondicherry

A relatively unknown beach located in Pondicherry’s Vaithikuppam area, Reppo Beach is a peaceful location that is generally free of massive crowds. Known for its spectacular views of the sunset, it is ideal for swimming and surfing. There are quite a few fisherman’s boats around and once in a while a cargo ship passes by as well. It is the place to visit if you are looking for some peaceful time away from the crowds and want to enjoy nature.

49. Eden Beach

3 km from city center 49 out of 49 Places To Visit in Pondicherry

Flaunting super clean surroundings with sparkling white sand, Eden Beach in Chinna Veerampattinam is a proud blue flag-certified beach in Pondicherry. It is located almost 7 km from the White Town area and the Promenade beach of this city. Also, the well-known Paradise Beach is just 1 km south of this beach. Lying on the east coast of India, Eden Beach offers some mesmerizing sunrise views.

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Home » Asia » India » 14 BEST Places to Visit in Pondicherry (2024)

14 BEST Places to Visit in Pondicherry (2024)

I first heard of Pondicherry before I was a seasoned traveler, and my mind conjured up images of a quaint European village. Maybe with a pond in the middle and a cherry orchard (I wonder why?), lending color to the gray backdrop of a group of historical stone cottages.

So you’ll understand my surprise when I learned Pondicherry is on the east coast of India!

There’s a reason for the distinctly European-sounding name, though—and in a way, my imagination actually wasn’t too far off! Pondicherry was a French colony between the years 1674 and 1954 (though it changed hands multiple times). Upon visiting, you’ll find the French influence clear as day. In fact, you might need to consciously make yourself remember that you’re in Asia and not Europe. The historical architecture, pristine beaches, and stately streets all combine to make Pondicherry one of the most unique places in India.

If you’re planning a trip there, but you’re a little nervous you’re going to miss out on the best of what this city has to offer, you came to the right place. This article will give you an overview of the most amazing places to visit in Pondicherry. Whether you’re in search of the chaotic and touristy or the quiet and tranquil, we’ve got you covered.

Need a place quick? Here’s the best neighborhood in Pondicherry:

These are the best places to visit in pondicherry.

French and Indian cultures meet in White Town to create the most charming small-town atmosphere imaginable. It's like the highlights of Europe and Asia, combined into one place. The cobblestone streets are lined with quaint cafés, fine dining restaurants, and boutique shops. And it's all a stone's throw from the beach!

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#1 – Matrimandir – A great place to see in Pondicherry if you love architecture

Why it’s awesome: A place of immense spiritual significance, Matrimandir is a golden, dome-shaped feat of architecture that might literally take your breath away. If you Google “Pondicherry,” you will inevitably see this building among the highlights that pop up.

A project engineered by philosopher Mirra Alfassa, known by the mysterious name “The Mother,” Matrimandir took 37 years to complete. It’s surrounded by twelve “petals,” or stone ramps. Its construction is largely symbolic—since Sri Aurobindo once described the Mother as having four Powers and Personalities, the dome was built with four main columns. These columns support the Inner Chamber, an aesthetically marvelous meditation and yoga hall. The Inner Circle also contains the world’s largest perfect glass globe.

What to do there: Matrimandir is a place of spirituality. It was designed for meditation and yoga—specifically Integral Yoga, a practice developed by Sri Aurobindo and The Mother. You can visit the Inner Chamber in the mornings for free and settle into your own yogic or meditative practice!

Matrimandir is also surrounded by an area of majestic, manicured gardens and paths. If the sessions are full, or if meditation and yoga just aren’t your cup of tea, it’s worth a visit just to stroll through the gardens and marvel at the golden architecture.

You should realize that Matrimandir is a serious place, especially if you intend to meditate or practice yoga. Have respect, and don’t visit if you just want to check it off your bucket list and move on.

Are you looking for a yoga retreat in India ? We’ve got you covered!

#2 – Paradise Beach – A beautiful and scenic place to check out in Pondicherry

Why it’s awesome: Paradise Beach is unparalleled in Pondicherry, and this is a city that doesn’t exactly have a shortage of beaches. It’s charmingly undeveloped, serene, and beautifully quiet. It’s home to a forest of mangrove trees and some of the softest, finest sand you’ll ever feel.

If you’re anything like me, you’ll want to take advantage of this spotless sandy beach, and staying in one of the best beach houses in Pondicherry is undoubtedly the best way to do so.

What to do there: A better question would be, “What can’t you do there?” Play sports on the beach, go jet skiing, or kayaking in the blue Pacific. Try your hand at photography and send home some postcards to make your friends drool.

Crack open a fresh coconut, or order some tasty food from one of the multitudes of food shacks lining the shore. Definitely don’t leave without trying a bhaji, which is essentially a spicy, Indian vegetable fritter.

Even just getting there is an experience: head to Chunnambar Boat House, buy a ticket for a measly sum, and enjoy the scenic 15-minute boat ride to the beach!

As a fellow traveler, my advise for you is to do some of your own digging and think about the best time to visit Pondichery . If you’re looking to take a dip in the ocean or lounge on the beach, October is the best time to visit. Temperature-wise, it’s still warm enough for swimming and there are fewer tourists this season making it extra enjoyable.

#3 – Sri Aurobindo Ashram – Possibly one of the most important places to visit in Pondicherry

Why it’s awesome: Pondicherry is characterized by a pleasant hustle and bustle, and the Sri Aurobindo Ashram offers a nice contrast to this. Since an Ashram is by definition a spiritual community, you’ll inevitably connect with tons of like-minded travelers from all around the world.

The Ashram was built in 1926 by Indian philosopher Sri Aurobindo. He collaborated heavily with The Mother, the same lady who designed Matrimandir. Their combined wisdom and serenity can be almost tangibly felt in this holy place. Today, over 2,000 people consistently offer devotion at Sri Aurobindo Ashram.

It’s seriously one of the most renowned places in all of Pondicherry. I can honestly say that if you visit Pondicherry and don’t go to the Ashram at least once, you will have missed out on one of the most important cultural sites in the region.

What to do there: Hands down, the best thing to do at Sri Aurobindo Ashram is to be still and reflect. Group meditation sessions are offered a few times per week, so don’t be embarrassed to join the devout followers and embrace your inner spirituality. There’s also a bookstore across the street, where you can purchase some inspiring works of spiritual literature.

#4 – Goubert Market – A nice non-touristy place to visit in Pondicherry

Why it’s awesome: It just wouldn’t be an  epic Pondicherry itinerary  without visiting a local market, right?

Goubert Market is one of those places that’s undeniably authentic. It’s a dizzying collection of alleys, with street stands crowding the sides and selling every food imaginable. If you can get a food item anywhere in Pondicherry, chances are you can get it at Goubert Market. Fresh fish, fruits, vegetables, nuts—you name it.

One of the best things about it is when you go, you’ll find Indians selling goods and fiercely haggling with other Indians. You’ll get the sense that, if there were no tourists, life in this place would go on just the same.

If you’re a first-time visitor to India , you might be a bit overwhelmed by the market. It’s one of those places that, for Western visitors, will likely cause a good amount of culture shock. But what’s even more of a reason to go: experiences like this are what make travel worth it. Consider yourself privileged to have such an easily accessible window into the everyday life of an exotic culture.

What to do there: Goubert Market is an endearingly chaotic scene, and so my advice is that you don’t try to control what happens there—just get lost in it. You’ll be bumped into, pushed, and you’re likely to inhale some… questionable smells.

Whether you buy something or not (and trust me, you’d be remiss to skip out on the mangoes), there will be no shortage of entertainment. Just walk around, make new friends, and get swept up in the magic of it all.

#5 – Auroville – Certainly one of the most exotic places to see in Pondicherry!

Now it’s time to talk about the larger area that houses the wondrous Matrimandir: the township of Auroville.

Why it’s awesome: Auroville was created in 1968, again by The Mother, who clearly had a profound influence on Pondicherry and its surrounding areas. In many ways it’s a regular small town: there are cafés, restaurants, and even one of Pondicherry’s nicest beaches . But its purpose—its heart—is much deeper than that of a standard town.

The Mother intended Auroville to be the “Universal Town”—and it’s safe to say she succeeded. The township has around 3,000 residents, and they come from 195 ( 195! ) different countries. Under normal circumstances, you can imagine the amount of discord and disagreement this would cause. But Auroville is and was always meant to be, a place of peace.

So the reason Auroville is such a serene place is that its residents all share that same frame of mind: they’re looking for peace, and they intend to find it. The Mother wanted the town to feel the effects of “divine consciousness,” and if you spend any significant amount of time here, my guess is that you’ll feel it too.

What to do there: Of course, visit Matrimandir, as it’s easily the most striking feature of Auroville. It’s also definitely worth it to swing by Auroville Beach. But in general, just explore the town at your own pace. Be friendly and open, and feel free to ask the locals about what it’s like to live in Auroville—they will be happy to enlighten you.

While you’re there, remind yourself you’re truly in one of the most unique places not only in Asia but possibly in the world at large. And one of many mysterious places to visit in India .

#6 – Gingee Fort – One of Pondicherry’s coolest historical sites!

Why it’s awesome: Built in 1190, Gingee Fort is right up there with Angkor Wat and the world’s other famous temples and castles. The only difference is that it’s lesser known, which makes it less touristy and less crowded—which is a bonus for you!

Commanding the top of a desolate mountain, Gingee Fort was deemed the “most impregnable fortress in India” by the Maratha King Shivaji. It was captured at one point by the fearsome Mughal army, but it took them eight whole years to do so—so I think King Shivaji had a point.

Now, I’m assuming you won’t be besieging the castle, but its location makes for some unbelievable views. The walls of the fort meander for 13 kilometers throughout the region, and you’ll have most of the fort all to yourself.

What to do there: You could spend hours simply roaming throughout the fort’s grounds. My recommendation? Make a day out of it. The fort is about an hour’s drive outside of the city center, so pack yourself a nice picnic lunch, head up to the mountain, and spend the day taking pictures and reliving the rich history of the fort.

You could also consider taking a full-day guided tour with a group if that’s your thing. If not, the fort is easily accessible on your own.

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#7 – The French Quarter – One of the more unique places to visit in Pondicherry

Why it’s awesome: The French Quarter is a huge part of what makes Pondicherry such a special city. For over 150 years, Pondicherry was controlled by France, and so the “French Quarter” is, well, distinctly French .

The French were initially drawn to Pondicherry by its booming trade scene. In 1674, an official French colony was established. 19 years later, the Dutch took over, then the British, and then it was taken again by France. Most of the French Quarter was constructed during this final French reign, from 1814 to 1954. After this, control of the city was finally rightly returned to India.

Today, the European influence conjures up feelings of antiquity and simpler times. The streets are lined with stately mansions, floral balconies, wrought iron fencing, and brightly colored boutique shops.

What to do there: One of the best ways to experience the French Quarter is to plop yourself on a random street, pick a direction, and walk. You’d be missing out if you didn’t take some time out of your day to just explore and bask in the ambiance of this place. It’s truly one of the most unique spots in all of India.

Another fabulous idea is to rent a bicycle. You’ll be able to discover more of the Quarter, and you’ll also feel like you’re contributing to the vibe: nothing feels quite so quintessentially European as a quiet bike ride over cobbled paths.

#8 – Pondicherry Botanical Garden – A beautiful outdoor place to visit in Pondicherry

Why it’s awesome: Pondicherry’s Botanical Garden has fascinating origins. It was created in 1826 by the French for the purpose of studying certain plants in Pondicherry’s climate: Which ones thrived? Which ones died? And why? Three years after its creation, the garden had around 850 different types of plants. Today, that number has grown to 1,500. Let’s be clear: not 1,500 plants—1,500 different species of plants.

The Botanical Garden is composed of 30 separate sections. Besides the numerous arrangements of vivid flowers, you’ll also find smooth, towering trees and plant fossils. Because of the trees and vegetation, it’s generally pretty cool and shady—so it’s a good spot to visit mid-day if the sun is just a bit too strong for your liking.

What to do there: I would hope that “walk around and look at the plants,” is the obvious starting point here. But besides that, it’s a great spot for picnic lunches or romantic dates. The Garden has a “musical fountain,” which gushes streams of water that “dance” to the music.

The Botanical Garden is also an ideal place to visit with kids. The grounds feature a playground as well as a cute little train that will carry you all around the Garden. And if you have kids, you know trains are always a hit.

#9 – Immaculate Conception Cathedral – One of the most religious places to see in Pondicherry

Why it’s awesome: Immaculate Conception Cathedral has quite a controversial history. That is if you consider being burned to the ground multiple times controversial.

Initially constructed in 1692 by some Jesuit Fathers, the Cathedral was destroyed by the Dutch one year later. Not to be deterred, the Fathers rebuilt it in 1699, but this newer model was also razed in short order. Now the early 1700s, an even bigger version of the Cathedral was painstakingly constructed over the course of eight years, only for the English to unceremoniously topple it during the Seven Years’ War.

Still, the Jesuits did not give up, and by 1770, the final version of the Immaculate Conception Cathedral was underway. It’s undergone additions and remodels in the centuries since, and the Cathedral stands today as a beacon of devout persistence. It’s likely not the biggest cathedral you’ve ever seen, but the white facade is stunningly detailed, and the interior is no less breathtaking.

What to do there: One of the best ways to experience the Immaculate Conception Cathedral is during a sunrise tour. If you’re religious, you know that the quiet hours of the morning sometimes just feel the holiest. Your faith may receive a much-needed spark through an early morning visit to this pious building, which has so gloriously triumphed over its resistance.

The Cathedral is also located right near the French Quarter and Paradise Beach. Since you’re not likely to spend 12 hours straight in a cathedral, it might be a good idea to squeeze these places into the same day as you see fit.

#10 – Pondicherry Museum – A fascinating educational place to visit in Pondicherry

There are two types of people in this world: those who love museums, and those who just don’t see the point. And if you’re the second type, you’re just plain wrong—sorry.

Why it’s awesome: The Pondicherry Museum houses an immense collection of authentic works of art, both Indian and Mediterranean in origin. The highlights are the sculptures, which are made of rare stone and bronze. The museum also showcases some ancient Indian transportation vehicles, most notably a coach, palanquin, and pousse-pousse (basically a tuk-tuk). There are antique lamps from centuries-old temples, European furniture pieces, Greek pottery, old weapons, and collections of historical currencies.

Some of the pieces in the Pondicherry Museum are astoundingly ancient. Many of the artifacts date back to the Pallava and Chola dynasties, which means that some might be as old as 275 AD. The museum simply contains a huge quantity of relics, with great variety in terms of age and in terms of origin. It’s clean, nicely maintained, and a must-visit for lovers of history.

What to do there: Just do all the museum-y things! Browse around, read about the exhibits, use your imagination, and bask in the aura of these wonderful pieces from times long past. And don’t forget to take pictures!

The hours are 10 am to 5 pm Tuesday through Sunday. And by the way, it literally costs less than $1 USD to visit—so no excuses!

#11 – Sri Manakula Vinayagar Temple – An awesome place to visit in Pondicherry for half a day!

Why it’s awesome: Pondicherry is largely famous for its distinctly European feel—but the Sri Manakula Vinayagar Temple was around long before Western countries left their marks in Pondicherry.

Sri Manakula Vinayagar is a Hindu temple constructed around 1500 AD. It was built specifically to honor the Lord Ganesha, the Hindu god of beginnings (the one with the head of an elephant). Much like the Immaculate Conception Cathedral, the temple endured numerous periods of threatened violence. Unlike the Cathedral, however, it was never actually destroyed—local Hindus made sure of that through a series of stubborn protests.

The temple is so renowned that Hindus from nearly every part of India make pilgrimages to visit. Though the entire temple is ornate and gorgeous, perhaps the most stunning architectural feat is the famous golden chariot. Made with over 16 pounds of pure gold, the chariot was funded strictly by donations from followers of Hinduism—and it’s gigantic.

Even if you’re not a Hindu, you should realize how lucky you are to be in a place considered by so many to be so holy.

What to do there: It’s up to you, but many tourists like to watch the locals engaged in their practices of worship, and do likewise. Be genuine and sincere, and the locals are likely to be happy you’re there!

There are tons of celebrations that take place throughout the year in Sri Manakula Vinayagar, which you are welcome to attend. The highlight, though, is Brahmothsavam. This festival lasts 24 days , so there’s actually a good chance it might coincide with your visit.

Bonus tip: the temple is only a 10-minute walk from the Promenade, which is your next must-visit place in Pondicherry (see below!)

#12 – The Promenade – A cool place to see in Pondicherry with friends!

Why it’s awesome: The Promenade in Pondicherry is an amazing hangout spot. It’s basically a well-kept, wide walking path. On the left, it’s bordered by bushes, the street, and an eclectic collection of shops and restaurants. On the right, it’s nothing but some rocks and then the pure, majestic eternity of the sea.

What to do there: Ironically, the Promenade is the perfect place to go when you don’t want to have to actually “do” anything. There will be no tour, no specific history to learn about, and no exhibits to marvel at.

Maybe you’re traveling with friends from home, or you just made some new ones at your Pondicherry hostel . Whatever the case may be, head out to the Promenade for a few hours (or a whole day!) of talking, relaxing, and sipping some fresh Indian tea.

And you’ll be doing it all to the pleasant lulling of the deep blue waves crashing up against the shoreline.

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#13 – Arikamedu – An unknown (but awesome!) place to see in Pondicherry

Why it’s awesome: In many ways, Arikamedu is the lesser-known equivalent of Gingee Fort (though even Gingee is hardly ever crowded). It’s a really special place that not many people know about.

Arikamedu was founded by the Greeks around the year 200 BC. It was established as a trading post, with the main trading partner of interest being ancient Rome. Now (obviously) it’s simply an archaeological site. Sir Mortimer Wheeler and Jean-Marie Casal first dug up Arikamedu in 1945. Ever since it has proven itself to be an incredibly rich window into Pondicherry’s distant past.

The most prized treasure found at the site is a collection of rare beads from the Indo-Pacific—but there’s so, so much more. And archaeologists have discovered that, even before Arikamedu was founded by the Greeks, numerous megalithic stones (or Pandukal) were used here to mark the graves of the deceased.

What to do there: Put yourself in the shoes of a Greek villager living in the BCs. Examine the age-old walls and columns, slowly withered away by the caresses of time. Because Arikamedu is located right next to the banks of the beautiful Ariyankuppam River, you might want to pack a lunch for yourself and then enjoy a lazy riverside nap.

Arikamedu is open to visitors every day from 10 am to 4 pm—and it’s free!

#14 – Cluny Embroidery Center – A great place in Pondicherry if you love to shop!

Why it’s awesome: The Cluny Embroidery Center is one of those places that’s bound to warm your heart. Commandeered by Catholic missionary sisters, it’s a two-in-one: it’s a place for disadvantaged women to find work and meaning, and a place for you to pick up some of the most unique and special souvenirs you could hope to find anywhere.

The center is based out of a 200-year-old building given by a selfless French woman, who refused to let the building be used strictly for business, but rather for helping local women in need. When you arrive, you’ll find a huge group of lovely Indian women expertly embroidering every manner of fabric.

Even the building itself is architecturally marvelous, and you’ll feel like you stepped back in time.

What to do there: The coolest thing about Cluny Embroidery Center is that you can actually see the amazing souls that create these fabrics thread-by-thread. Watch the uniquely patterned towels, tablecloths, bed sheets, and other household items come to life right before your eyes.

One section of the building has been converted into a guesthouse in order to accommodate the heaps of tourists who come visit. So consider staying in the area for a night or two!

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There are so many incredible places to visit in Pondicherry!

I’ve compiled this list in a sincere attempt to give you only the highlights: the best-of-the-best places to visit in Pondicherry. But like every city in the world, there’s a nearly endless number of places to visit, things to see, and activities to do.

The best recommendation I can give you as a fellow traveler is to do some of your own digging. Pick your favorites from this article and put those on your list—and then once you arrive, explore on your own .

Seriously—one of the best things you can do anywhere is open your heart and your mind, befriend some locals, and listen to their recommendations. Chances are, they’ll be better than anything I can give you.

Have fun! 😉

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Suzanne Borders

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20 Places to Visit in Pondicherry with Photos and Location

A trip to Pondicherry is an experience that no seasoned tourist would want to miss. While there are plenty of places to visit in Pondicherry in a day, a retreat to the idyllic city for 2 days is a better option, especially if you want to explore the variety of attractions that it has to offer.

Due to the city’s French sovereignty until 1954, Puducherry exudes an old world elegance that blends seamlessly with its bohemian vibe. While the ancient section of the former French colony is dotted with Colonial-era townhouses and a maze of cobblestoned lanes, the newer half of the city is traditionally South Indian. Puducherry, home of the famous Sri Aurobindo Ashram, attracts spiritually interested people from all over the world every year. Puducherry is known mostly for its French cuisine, beer, and calm beaches, and anybody who goes once wants to return again and again.

1. Promenade Beach

Every day is a new adventure at Puducherry’s famous Promenade beach . The sight of orange-yellow rays splattering across the sky as a gentle sea wind brushes your cheek is far more than ‘awesome.’ Have you ever been intrigued by a lighthouse? If so, a visit to the Old Lighthouse from the nineteenth century is a necessity. This structure, designed by a French engineer named L. Guerre, served as the lone beacon of light to guide sailors at night. Today, visitors are captivated by this coastal marvel’s quiet dignity and beauty. Another sight near the shore is a life-size statue of Joan of Arc, France’s national heroine. The French government picked Pondicherry, the French enclave, to hold this statue. It is made of white marble and is elegantly erected in the middle of a garden, carefully arranged so that the statue faces the viewer.

2. Sri Aurobindo Ashram

Sri Aurobindo Ashram is a must-see attraction in Pondicherry. Sri Aurobindo Ashram, widely recognised for its significance, heritage, and principles, encourages individuals to spend some ME time in tranquility and provides all you need to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Sri Aurobindo Ashram, one of the most popular tourist attractions in Pondicherry, is a location where you can seek spirituality in a relaxed atmosphere and achieve inner peace by meditating in its calm ambience. The mystical ambiance of this shrine helps you to forget everything as soon as you enter inside the ashram, and the stunning backdrop will leave you speechless, enhancing the overall setting.

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3. Arulmigu Manakula Vinayagar Temple

The Arulmigu Manakula Vinayagar Temple is located in White Town, India’s Union Territory of Puducherry. This divine shrine is dedicated to the Hindu deity Ganesha. The Arulmigu Manakula Vinayagar Temple is a renowned pilgrimage site and tourism destination in Puducherry. Not only is the temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha, but there is also a shrine dedicated to Lord Murugan. The inside of the temple is completely colossal, with forty representations of Lord Ganesha sculpted on the temple’s stone walls. According to Hindu legend, Lord Ganesha was not Lord Shiva and Parvathi’s only child. They had three offspring, the eldest of them was Lord Ganesha. The Lord presiding at the Temple grounds is Lord Murugan, who is said to be Lord Ganesha’s younger brother and the second child of Lord Shiva and Parvathi.

4. Rock Beach

Most visitors to Pondicherry in India come to enjoy one of the country’s most popular tourist attractions, the world-famous Rock Beach . The lovely beach is bordered by lush green mountains and is ideal for a picnic with family and friends. The rock beach is popular with visitors from all over India and overseas, who come to appreciate the natural beauty and refreshing ambiance of the beach. If you’ve never tried fishing at the beach, you should go and experience the magic for yourself. You can either rent fishing boats from a local merchant or go there on your own. At the magnificent Rock Beach, there is plenty of adventure to be had, and you will enjoy every minute of it.

5. The Sacred Heart Basilica

The Sacred Heart Basilica of Jesus was consecrated on Pondicherry’s Boulevard. The Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, located on the town’s south avenue, is one of the most venerated religious sites in Pondicherry. It is one of India’s 21 basilicas and the only one in Pondicherry. The French missionaries founded this church in 1908, and it was elevated to the title of basilica in 2011. This Catholic Church is one of Pondicherry’s most beautiful. The Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus is a beautiful example of Gothic architecture. The structure is 50 meters long, 48 meters broad, and 18 meters high, with 24 columns supporting it. The biblical verses on the entrance are written in Latin, and there are representations of the Sacred Heart of Jesus and Mother Mary carved in the entrance door. It houses rare stained glass panels showing events from Christ’s life as well as Catholic saints.

6. Puducherry Museum

Pondicherry Museum lies in the middle of the city. The museum also has collections of stone sculptures from the Pallava Dynasty and fossilized tree trunks, which contribute to its allure. The museum is a well-known feature of Pondicherry tourism. The central area is the main attraction on the ground floor. There are three intriguing modes of transportation: a palanquin (sedan chair), a coach, and an earlier variant of the rickshaw known as a pousse-pousse, which takes two persons to push and one to drive. Images of various gods and goddesses can be seen in the bronze collections. The collection also includes a large number of lamps used in temples of various dynasties. Pre-Christian relics such as the remains of antique Greek and Roman jars, as well as handicrafts from China’s Tsung era, are wonderfully displayed.

7. Immaculate Conception Cathedral

This beautiful construction may be found just adjacent to the Archbishop’s House. It was built in 1791 and serves as the principal mother church for the Pondicherry and Cuddalore Roman Catholic Archdiocese. Surprisingly, this famed Pondicherry church is the fourth church built on this site, which has previously undergone extensive restorations. The towering façade features paired Doric columns beneath and ionic columns above. In front of the Church is a statue of Our Lady holding a newborn Jesus. It is one of Pondicherry’s oldest churches. Buses depart from the nearest railway station, Villupuram, and cabs and rickshaws depart from Chennai International Airport.

8. Bharathi Park

Bharathi Park , which is surrounded by beautiful trees and a manicured lawn, is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Pondicherry. This park, which is a wonderful spot to rest and unwind, is regarded as one of the best sites around Pondicherry to visit by millions of tourists and travelers. This green picnic site, along with other Pondicherry attractions, attracts millions of people each year from India and the rest of the world. This perfect area for spending quality time with friends and family is one of the most popular visiting places in Pondicherry, thanks to an improved tourism environment and proper transportation facilities. People looking for Pondicherry sightseeing spots and top Pondicherry tourist attractions should not overlook this park as one of the best Pondicherry sightseeing spots. Your search for the top locations to visit in Pondicherry enhances your travel experience.

9. Sri Varadaraja Perumal Temple

The Sri Devaraja Swamy Temple, also known as the Sri Varadaraja Perumal Temple , is located in Kancheepuram, Tamil Nadu. This temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Goddess Perundevi Thayar. It is one of the Divya Desams, the 108 Vishnu temples thought to have been visited by the Alwars, or poet saints. It is located in Kanchipuram’s Vishnu Kanchi neighborhood, which is home to many prominent Vishnu temples. Ramanuja, one of the foremost Hindu thinkers of Vaishnava VisishtAdvaita philosophy, is said to have lived in this temple. It is one of the Divya Desams, the 108 Vishnu temples thought to have been visited by the Alwars, or poet saints. It is located in Kanchipuram’s Vishnu Kanchi neighborhood, which is home to many prominent Vishnu temples. One of the most illustrious Hindu philosophers of Vaishnava VisishtAdvaita philosophy.

10. Mahatma Gandhi Statue

One of the key monuments in Pondicherry is the Statue of Mahatma Gandhi – Father of the Nation, which is located on Promenade Beach. Roy Choudhary, a well-known sculptor, created the statue. The eight exquisite carved pillars that surround Mahatma Gandhi’s monument are the main focus of this renowned tourist site in Pondicherry, aside from the statue itself. Gingee Fort, some 68 kilometers from Pondicherry, was where these monolithic granite pillars were transported and built in 1866. The Gandhi Statue, on the other hand, was later installed in 1965, directly opposite the Old Pier. With a height of 4 meters, the Gandhi Statue is the third largest effigy of Mahatma Gandhi. A tunnel leads all the way to Gingee just beneath the statue. Previously, the government took various steps to make this tunnel operational by 2010.

11. Botanical Garden

Pondicherry Botanical Garden features a brilliant mix of flora like roses, marigolds, and orchids. Take a ride on the toy railway and observe the glistening fish at the aquarium. Walk through the gardens in the shadow of over 1,500 plant and tree types. The park, which was established by the French in 1826, is stretched across 22 acres (9 hectares) of flat ground connected by short walkways and open fields. Look for typical Indian flowers such as jasmine, vivid orchids, and a variety of rose types as you explore. These are arranged in beautiful arrangements and labeled with their English and scientific titles. Look up and you’ll see a dense canopy of tree life. Take a seat on the grass beneath the broad leaves of palm trees and inhale the pleasant aroma of fresh pine that pervades the humid air. 

12. New Light House

This nineteenth-century New Light House is one of the area’s most popular tourist attractions. It was created by the French overlords and is one of Pondicherry’s primary city attractions. The French overlords intended to construct this Light House so that people could travel knowing that they were now in Pondicherry. The design of this lighthouse differs slightly from that of other lighthouses. The tower was built on a rectangular foundation.

13. Arikamedu

Arikamedu , a half-hour drive from Pondicherry’s French colonial city, is a historic Roman business area that is concealed from the eyes and ears of ordinary Tamil tourists. It gets its name from the Tamil term ‘Arinmamadu,’ which means ‘Mounting Mount.’ Little is known about any Indo-Roman link before the birth of Christ, but with the discovery and excavation of Arikamedu, considerable evidence is now available. From the first century BC to the second century AD, this port city was inhabited by Rome, the Cholas, and the French as a well-known maritime center. The glass bead manufacturing facility in Arikamedu is known as the “Mother of All Bearded Centers Around the World.” The initial excavation in Arikamedu took place in the 1940s, and it has been ongoing ever since. Sir Mortimer Wheeler’s organization was the most promising of these.

14. Notre Dame des Anges Church

Notre Dame des Anges Church of Our Lady of Angels features some stunning brickwork and architectural styles. Fine limestone was blended with a lot of egg whites to make the walls exceptionally white when the church was erected to give it the color of absolute white marble. The upper section of the church was built in the Ionic style, while the bottom part was built in the Doric style, both of which are classical architectural styles. The church’s design was inspired by another chapel in France. Napoleon Bonaparte donated the picture that is on the wall of this chapel. The statue of Mother Mary with Baby Jesus in her arms stands in front of this church. The church is located in an area with views of both the seashore and the Bay of Bengal. There are other Joan of Arc statues.

15. Sunday Market

If you’re asked about the best marketplaces in Pondicherry, chances are you’ll think of Sunday Market (Serenity Beach Bazaar). It sells antiquities and traditional products in a one-of-a-kind weekend handicrafts market that is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The typical village market, which displays mesmerizing crafts by local artisans, is a popular destination for visitors from other countries. This market, surrounded by relaxing natural beauties, is the centerpiece of the lovely Beach City Pondicherry (or Puducherry). Serenity Beach Bazaar is one of the nicest markets in Pondicherry for a variety of reasons. It is a commercial region that serves as an excellent model for small business owners in terms of the kind of things that can be sold. Handicrafts, jewelry, rustic beachwear, wall hangings, and so on. Think out of the box, and you’ll locate your favorite artifact on the shelves of one of the stores.

16. Pondy Marina

Pondy Marina was Pondicherry’s new beach, located in Dubrayapet village near the new lighthouse. It was once a dirty and unnoticed beach, but it is today one of Pondicherry’s most famous beaches. Pondicherry tourism developed it, and it is administered by a private company. This beach contains a food court, similar to a small shopping center. It has a sand beach as well as a food court as a draw for beachgoers. Every weekend, a large crowd gathers at this beach. This beach is also safe for ladies and children. Swimming is completely prohibited on this beach. And you can see the top view of Pondicherry at the top of the lighthouse.

17. Auroville Beach

A Auroville Beach to enjoy the ocean. You can some food stalls here. Medium size boats making some good size waves to enjoy. This is a city that is home to individuals from about 50 different countries, and it is commonly regarded as a global metropolis. Auroville City, easily accessible from the highway, is a symbol of cultural harmony and community life. The city of Auroville was founded in 1968 as a project of the Sri Aurobindo Society by the famous Mirra Alfassa known as ‘Mother.’ The goal behind developing this city was to create a universal environment where good men and women from all countries and cultures could live in harmony and fulfill the dream of benevolence and progress. Auroville City is divided into several sections, including the Peace Sector, Industrial Area, Residential Area, International Zone, Cultural Areas, and Green Belts. The Matru Mandir, which attracts visitors due to its splendor, is the city’s primary attraction. Auro Beach is also nearby.

18. Sunrise View Point Rock Beach

Sunrise View Point Rock Beach is an out-of-the-way area where you may live your life to the fullest, soaking in the pleasant vibrations that the environment provides around you. The location is equally charming whether you come to see the rising or sunset sun.

19. Veerampattinam Beach

Veerampattinam Beach is well-known for its yearly car festival, which is held in the Sengazhuneer Amman Temple. This temple is dedicated to Amman, one of the incarnations of Goddess Shakthi. The legendary vehicle festival is celebrated in magnificent style during the Tamil month Aadi, which runs from July to August. On Fridays during this event, specific rituals and poojas are also held. The fifth Friday of this month is considered particularly fortunate by the people, and a spectacular Chariot parade is performed. Thousands of pilgrims from neighboring villages converge in Veerampattinam on this day. They have gathered in this village to take part in this celebration. The chariot is paraded through the streets, with devotees pulling it for a short distance.

20. Serenity Beach

Serenity Beach is located halfway between Pondicherry and Auroville . On weekdays, the beach is calm and peaceful, but on weekends, it is crowded with residents. It’s best to go during the day, and you can easily spend 2 – 3 hours there. There are also a few shacks on the beach that serve short bites and sea cuisine. If you are traveling alone, a walk on the beach and playing in the waves is ideal, or you can plan a picnic with friends and family. One can also come here to see the sunrise and sip coconut water, or to enjoy a hot coffee while watching the sunset and walking down the beach to catch the waves. There are numerous restaurants around Serenity Beach that provide a range of cuisines such as Italian, French, and South Indian.

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The Best Pondicherry Itinerary for 3 days (Updated – 2023)

Pondicherry is a historic beach town in India that has everything – colonial architecture, a modern seaside promenade, historic sites, and golden beaches.

Here I’ll share with you the perfect Pondicherry itinerary for people who can spare only two to three days in this beautiful city. And it’s not just one, because one plan doesn’t fit all.

This article covers what to do in Pondicherry in 3 days along with recommendations for a longer trip. I have the perfect Pondicherry tour plan for every type of vacation.

But before all that, as always, I will start with a brief background of this heritage town.

Click here to jump to the Pondicherry Trip Plan if you are short on time.

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The post contains affiliate links for tours, hotels etc. This means if you make any purchase through the links in the post, I may get a commission without any additional cost to you.

A Quick Outline

Pondicherry – A Brief Background

Located on the Eastern coast of India, Pondicherry is often called the French Rivera of India.

In the 17th century, the French came to a small fishing village called Putucerri, which roughly translates to “new village” in Tamil.

They transformed it into a grand port town called Pondicherry. It was renamed Puducherry in 2006, but it’s still popularly called by the anglicized name.

The prime attraction of Pondicherry is its French vibes. The pastel-colored residential buildings, cute art cafes, and whitewashed monuments reflect an unmistakable essence of French aesthetics. It’s like discovering a piece of France in India.

However, the French colony is just about 10% of the entire area of the Union Territory.

When I first drove down to Pondicherry, my imagination ran wild, and I thought I will be greeted by those Instagram-friendly French alleys. Instead, we drove into the overcrowded streets, large Dravidian-style temples, mosques, bustling bazaars (markets), locals clad in traditional attires and a riot of colors. That’s just another coastal town in South India for you. Sinjana’s travel notes

In a 3-day trip we will cover both sides of Pondicherry. Let’s check out the plan.

Pondicherry Itinerary for 3 days : A Quick Walkthrough

Since the check-in time for hotels is usually 1 p.m. or 2 p.m., it’s a good idea to explore the city a bit before you check into the hotel.

If you are travelling with kids then inform the hotel of an early check-in. The ideal itinerary I’ve described may be too hectic when you are traveling with kids, so I have also given an alternate itinerary later.

My Ideal Pondicherry Itinerary for 3 days

Day 1 in Pondicherry:

• Reach Chunnambar Boat House by 10 am. Then take a boat to Paradise Beach.   
• Trip to the Botanical Garden before you reach your hotel
• Have fresh local seafood for lunch and take some rest. 
• Start your evening walking tour in White Town. The hot Pondicherry roads would have started to cool down by now
• Have dinner at a cafe on the promenade or the Heritage Street

Day 2 in Pondicherry:

• Head to Auroville in the morning and enjoy brunch at Auroville’s cafes
• If you are an archeology enthusiast, then head to Arikamedu, or If you love nature and forests, then head to Pinchavaram Mangrove forest
• Come back and watch the sunset at Serenity Beach

Day 3 in Pondicherry:

• Enjoy shopping and walking in the heritage street, before your return journey.
• If you’re driving to Bangalore, it’s great to stop at the enormous Ginjee Fort located 67 km from Pondicherry on the way to Bangalore. You won’t have the time or energy to trek in the fort and then drive all the way to Bangalore. But just stop there, explore the well-maintained gardens, and be stunned at the magnanimous fortress.

Don’t have three days to travel? Here’s a modified Pondicherry itinerary for 2 days .

Day 1 : Reach Pondicherry early by overnight train or drive. Start with Chunnnambar Boathouse , Paradise Island, and then reach your hotel to freshen up. Reserve the evening for a walking tour of the white town of Pondicherry, the Promenade, and the Rock Beach

Day 2: Start with a morning trip to Auroville, explore the local markets Then visit the Serenity beach before you head back from Pondicherry.

Traveling with small kids or elderly parents? Here’s a modified 3-day Pondicherry itinerary for a family trip.

Early check-in at the hotel to freshen up.

Then start with the Botanical garden which is cool even during the hot afternoons because of the greenery.

Then explore the promenade, the rock beach, and the white town.

Visit Auroville, have lunch there, and then take a break in the hotel to escape the hot sun.

After a short rest, reach the Chunnambar boathouse park, and take a ferry to the paradise beach to enjoy the sunset.

Visit the temple and shop and explore the heritage street, before you leave for your hometown.

A Pondicherry itinerary for 4 days will include everything in the 3-day plan, plus an amazing trip to Mahabalipuram – a treasure trove of ancient Indian architecture.

Or if you are more interested in the historic fort, you can skip the Arikamedu trip and hike the Ginjee fort on day 2.

Short on time? Here’s a quick glance at my top recommendations for this trip, so that you can book them at one go.

My Top Recommendations For Pondicherry

🚲Book an unique bike tour of Pondicherry in a vintage-style bicycle

🚘Prefer AC car in the hot weather? Book the best tour to discover Pondicherry in one day including Auroville . This is highly recommended for trips with kids and elderly people.

🛏️My top recommendation for stay in The Promenade , overlooking the Promenade Beach

🧑🏼‍🍳Want to try something exciting? Book a highly rated Indian Cooking class in Pondicherry

How to reach Pondicherry?

I have traveled to Pondicherry via road trips from Bangalore. However, there are several ways to reach Pondicherry via public transport. 

Pondicherry has its airport, so you can land directly in Pondicherry. However, it’s a small one and the chance of getting a direct ticket is scarce.

Chennai is the nearest city with a bustling international airport which is only 150 km from Pondicherry. It’s connected by the ECR highway so you can reach it in 2.5 hours.

✈️Flying soon? Get Airhelp to earn up to $700 compensation for delayed or canceled flights! Use coupon code ETPOUTS8 to avail 8% discount on both plans 🧑‍✈️

You can also book overnight buses from Bangalore to reach Pondicherry in the morning.

There are overnight trains to Pondicherry as well, but you need to book it in advance. The advantage of an overnight train journey is that you can sleep comfortably and reach Pondicherry early in the morning.

People in Chennai can easily visit Pondicherry for a day trip or over a normal weekend.

For us living in Bangalore, Pondicherry is about 300 km away. But you should leave early, by 5 am so that you can avoid traffic and reach Pondicherry at 11 am.

After that, the road is mostly good if you follow the map on the link. Some parts of the highway (about one-fourth of the road) are quite rough. But it’s a smooth enjoyable drive overall once you enter the Eastern Ghats of India .

Day 1 in Pondicherry: Paradise Beach and White Town Tour

I have tried and tested two other itineraries and have come up with the best one here. In fact, on my recent trip, I planned it all and wanted to visit the Thirukameswarar Temple in Pondicherry on the way to our hotel.

The plan was a total flop because the route to the temple had very bad roads and the temple was closed when we reached. What’s worse, we had to miss the amazing NH32 tollway leading to Pondicherry which is a driver’s delight.

Anyway, I try out these experiments, learn from them, and curate the best itineraries for you. So let me take you on a virtual trip to Pondicherry following my ideal itinerary.

Chunnambar Boat House – the first stop

Chunnambar Boat House is the most popular gateway to the beautiful Paradise Beach. This is where you can buy tickets to different types of boats that will take you to Paradise Beach.

The rate starts from Rs. 150 per person and increases depending on your choice of ride. The entry fee to the park itself is Rs. 7 only and it’s a nice place for families with kids to enjoy.

Paradise Beach – My favorite beach in Pondicherry

Paradise Beach is slightly isolated from the rest of Pondicherry. The seclusion doesn’t prevent tourists from thronging into the place because it’s that beautiful.

It’s undoubtedly my favorite beach in Pondicherry and one of the most beautiful beaches in India . The best way to reach this island-like place is by boat from Chunnambar.

You can also drive to Paradise Beach, but you have to park your vehicle about 1 km away. The walkway from the backwaters to the beach is also very charming.

You can spend some time walking on the soft golden sand and bathing in the Bay of Bengal before you return to the boathouse.

Drive to Botanical Garden

Depending on how much time you spent in Paradise Beach, you can either go to the hotel, have lunch and take some rest, or first visit the Botanical Garden.

The botanical garden of Pondicherry is a colonial gem that was laid out by the French in 1826. This 22-acre large green oasis stands out for its French style in the middle of an old Tamil locality. The French architecture, the pruned trees, flower beds, and over 1500 varieties of exotic plants make it one of the best botanical gardens on the peninsula. Besides these, the garden boasts a toy train ride, an aquarium, a musical fountain, and a Japanese rock structure.

Open times: 10 am to 5 pm

French Colony walk

After a trip to the botanical garden, it’s time to have lunch and freshen up at your hotel. By this time, it must already be 2-3 pm.

Pondicherry is quite hot and humid throughout the year, so it is a nice idea to relax and go out for a walk by 5 p.m.

This is why staying close to the French colony is recommended. This is one part of Pondicherry where you have a lot to do and see in the evening till night.

Walk in the heritage street marveling at the old colonial buildings.

The Vylial street stands out large canopies of trees on both sides providing a natural shade to the narrow lanes.

You will find cute cafes, heritage buildings transformed into boutique hotels, colorful rickshaws, and rental bikes. You can rent a bicycle if you want.

Aurobindo Ashram

Our first stop in the evening walking tour was the Aurobindo Ashram. This is a large community of 2000 members including 400 students and 1600 devotees.

Aurobindo Ashram is a peaceful abode that is open to visitors between 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

You need to keep your shoes outside and maintain complete silence on campus.

Phones should be switched off or on silent mode, and photography is prohibited. There is no entry fee, and even the community members who are in charge of the safekeeping of the shoes left outside refuse payment.

Bharathi Park

Located in the White Town right across the magnanimous Governors’ Residence is the Bharthi Park. Described as the historic heart of French Pondicherry it was here that “la Compaigne Des Indes” was established for trade between India and Europe.

The Park monument in the picture also known as Ayi Mandapam was raised in memory of a French courtesan lady named Ayi. She is said to have destroyed her own house to create a water reservoir for the city. The land here was used as a military training center by the French for 150 years.

As you leave the park through the exit gate you will come across a Nehru statue on one side and the iconic Mahatma Gandhi statue on the other side facing each other. Behind the Mahatma Gandhi statue is the Seaside Walk starting with the rock beach.

The Rock Beach and Seaside Promenade

Rock Beach is explained by its name itself. The stretch from Rock Beach to the Promenade Seafront is a pedestrian’s dream. With vehicle restrictions in place, you can freely hop along the gorgeous area stopping, posing, and clicking wherever you want. This part looks as polished as a first-world European city but is lined with monuments and street art showcasing great Indian icons. Bathing is prohibited in Rock Beach, but I saw many people doing so anyway.

The Mahatma Gandhi statue , Bhimrao Ambedkar memorial , the French War Memorial dominate the starry Promenade.

Cafes and hotels have a synchronized color scheme and architecture that’s a great blend of French and Indian styles.

Don’t forget to include the beautiful Sacred Heart Basilica, Lady of Des Angels Church, and Our Lady of Immaculate Conception Church on this walking tour.

Check out the complete account of the walking tour of the French colony of Pondicherry and Auroville in our next post.

Note: Vehicle restriction in the area is taken seriously. We saw multiple illegally parked cars that were booked by the police in front of our eyes.

I try my best to give you all the information that you need to explore the place on your own. However, guided tours and experiences are a great way to socialize and take the best of a place, especially on your first trip.

Discover Pondicherry in a day using these tours

🌟A Heritage Walking Tour of Pondicherry

🌟A guided city tour in air-conditioned car with complimentary refreshments

Dinner at the Heritage Street

End the day with dinner at one of the many amazing restaurants or cafes on Heritage Street. Or you can also head to the promenade for food, music, and the sea breeze at night.

Day 2 in Pondicherry

You can begin the second day at Pondicherry with a wholesome breakfast at Le Cafe. All the hotels I have recommended later in the post have a sumptuous buffet spread for complimentary breakfast as well.

After breakfast we will start with a tour of Auroville. Then we can either visit Arikamedu and Murungapakkam art village, or we can go for a day trip to Pinchavaram Mangrove Forest.

Auroville – A City of its kind

Auroville is an experimental self-sustained city that was created by Mirra Alfassa, a disciple and spiritual collaborator of Rishi Aurobindo, who is fondly remembered as the Mother.

A Parisian by birth, she met Rishi Aurobindo in Pondicherry and worked with him in popularizing yoga.

Auroville was a vision shared by the Mother and Aurobindo. The Matrimandir in the picture is a place for guided meditation.

Entry to the large garden surrounding the Matrimandir is restricted to maintain a calm ambiance inside.

There are a large number of cafes serving the most delicious sandwiches, salads, shakes, etc. You can easily spend 2 hours here, have a fulfilling brunch, and head out for the rest of the exploration.

Auroville Beach or Auro Beach is located close by. It’s relatively less crowded and peaceful than the others.

You can book a guided tour to Auroville at just 10 Euros

Arikamedu is an archeological site where the ancient ruins of the Roman Empire were found. This is evidence of the existence of trade relations with Europe in the ancient ages.

On our first trip, we went with our family and tried to reach Arikamedu. But we got stuck in a narrow lane and couldn’t find our way.

So don’t waste your time and book a tour of Arikamedu . This historic archeological site must not be missed. You will meet your guide at the church gate of The Sacred Heart Basilica.

Murungappakkam Art Trails

If you choose to visit Arikamedu instead of a day trip to Pinchavaram Mangroves, then a walking tour of Murungapakkam is unmissable. It is a government-run art and craft village which gives you a unique insight to the art history of Pondicherry through audio-visual guides and live demonstration.

Book a tour of Murungapakkam here. It is a wonderful place to visit with kids.

Pinchavaram Mangrove Forest

If you are not much into archeology, you can head to the Pinchavaram Mangrove Forest located about 60 km away from the White Town.

If you don’t have your car you need to hire one for the same. This is the second largest Mangrove Forest in the world next to Sundarbans of Bengal.

Separated from the Bay of Bengal by a narrow strip of sand the vast expanse of water-body covered with Mangroves attract a large variety of migratory birds during the winter season.

Book a private group tour to Pinchavaram Forest and Nataraja Temple in Pondicherry.

Including the journey, you will need at least 3 hours for this trip from Pondicherry.

Serenity Beach

Another beautiful beach in Pondicherry which is not as popular as the others Serenity beach.

Make no mistake, even the not-so-popular beaches have a lot of people, especially during the peak season of November to January.

It is a sand beach with rock strips protruding into the sea in between. Rewind after the long day at Serenity Beach while watching the beautiful sunset.

While the beaches are open till 11 pm it’s advisable not to stay there after 7 pm.

So, if you have the energy to hit the streets at night you can head to the Promenade once again. Le Cafe, the famous French cafe in the Promenade is now open for 24 hours!

Day 3 of Pondicherry Trip Plan

This is the day to end your 3-day trip to Pondicherry and head home. If you are on a road trip from Bangalore , you can spare some time for shopping and then stop at Ginjee Fort for about an hour or so.

Shopping at Pondicherry

Pondicherry is a great place for exploring street markets. Apparels, paintings, and local handicrafts also called “Pondicherry Bommai”- all available at cheap rates are a pleasure for any thrifty shopper. It’s so nice to just look at it even if you don’t buy it.

On our day of return, the heritage street was filled with Ganesha idols on sale for Ganapathi puja. On any day you’d find local handicrafts on sale in this area.

Other great places for shopping are Promenade, Gandhi Market, and Bharathi Park Market.

Gingee Fort

Gingee is a small fort town close to Pondicherry which is right on your way to Bangalore. It’s impossible to not notice the imposing hill forts on both sides of the road while driving.

We didn’t have the energy to go for a full trek to all the four forts here but we stopped and roamed around the foothills. The place is beautifully maintained with free toilet facilities, gardens, and dustbins. There is no entry fee for the forts.

Where to Stay in Pondicherry?

My favorite area to stay in Pondicherry is in and around the White Town which is on the Eastern coastline. Many Colonial French-style houses have been transformed into boutique hotels on Heritage Street.

We stayed at the Shenbaga Hotel , a 4-star luxury hotel located 1.5 km from the White Town. All major attractions of Pondicherry’s French colony were within a walking radius of the hotel.

Trivia: As of today, Shenbaga Hotel is the tallest hotel in Pondicherry offering the best panoramic view!

The second-best option is to stay in Auroville , which is a self-sustained city within Pondicherry. It is close to the White Town, but you have to book your stay there from their official website.

Other hotels I recommend based on location and reviews:

• The Promenade – This was my top choice on the last trip but missed it by whiskers.
• Le Pondy (luxury beach and lake resort)
• Hotel Atithi (mid-budget hotel opposite Shenbaga Hotel )

I hope this detailed and exhaustive travel guide to Pondicherry will help you plan your next vacation. Let’s conclude with some frequently asked questions about Pondicherry.

What is the best time to visit Pondicherry?

Given the hot and humid climate throughout the year, the best time to visit Pondicherry is in the winter, that is, between December and early February. It is in fact one of the best places to visit in December in India .

How many days are enough for Pondicherry?

You need at least two days to explore Pondicherry and Auroville. A three-day trip will be ideal if you are commuting from Bangalore or any nearby city. If you’re planning a family vacation four days will be enough to explore Pondicherry, go for excursions nearby, visit Mahabalipuram, and enjoy the culinary delights.

How much does a Pondicherry Trip cost?

Pondicherry is much cheaper than Goa as a beach holiday destination. You can book premium rooms in Auroville at as little as Rs. 1500 per night and can also book beachside luxury resorts at higher prices.

There are many boutique hotels and homestays starting from less than Rs. 1000 and going up to Rs. 30000/-. Going around in Pondicherry is cheap, by hiring a cycle or an auto-rickshaw, or even a manual rickshaw.

Is Pondicherry safe for solo women travelers?

Pondicherry is very safe for women. Not just the promenade beach but even the interior town which is not so glamorous. The people are very well-behaved and especially respectful towards women. However, they have a conservative outlook. Outside the French colony, short clothes will invite stares. It is advised not to stay on the beaches after 7 pm, except for the rock beach and the promenade of course. White Town has great nightlife too.

That’s the end of my short travel guide to Pondicherry. If you liked the post, share it to plan your next vacation with your family. Here are some other beach-town itineraries that you can check out:

• Rameshwaram in 2 days
• Mahabalipuram in 1 day
• Goa in 3 days

Liked the post? Please share with your friends and family, and plan the trip now. Or you can save this guide to plan later.

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Sinjana Ghosh is a full-time business professional with a penchant for writing and travel planning. Backpack & Explore is a journal of her travel stories and tips she collected from her experience. She is the author of the travel book “Postcards from India” which is available on Amazon, Flipkart and Notionpress.com

Love reading your post. Reminds me of my visit to this place almost a decade ago. Thanks for the lovely share.

thank you so much. Glad to rekindle your travel memories.

I had never even heard of Pondicherry before reading your post, thank you 🙂 And great job on the blogpost, I know how much work it takes to do one like yours, great read!

Cheers from Stockholm Sweden 🙂

Thanks Ann.

I’d definitely love to have a look around Auroville, I love it when people try to create something a bit different and experimental inside a city 🙂

I really appreciate your efforts and I will be waiting for your next post thank you once again.

Pinned this so that we have this when planning a trip to Pondicherry. The archeological sites look quite interesting.

thanks for reading. I’m sure you will love exploring Pondicherry

Pondicherry looks like a nice place to visit, I have heard of Auroville, would love to visit one day

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Things To Do In Pondicherry: Ultimate 5-Day Pondicherry Itinerary

“When you leave a beautiful place, you carry it with you wherever you go” . Little did Alexandra Stoddard know that her line would describe my travel experience in Pondicherry so aptly. If I had to define Pondicherry in a sentence, then it would probably be “the mesmerizing land of French colonial villas, picturesque avenues, graffiti-decorated walls, quaint cafes, economical fine dining, and gorgeous sun-kissed beaches” . Pondicherry, also called Puducherry , is a Union Territory located in the south of India, bounded by the state of Tamil Nadu. It is one of the most underrated, budget-friendly, and beautiful places to visit in India . Pondicherry has something to offer to people of all age groups. I recently explored the lengths and breadths of Pondicherry & Auroville with my family and it turned out to be one of my best family vacations in India , to be honest. There are plenty of interesting things to do in Pondicherry. So, then the question arises “How many days are enough for Pondicherry?”

I’d say 5 days are pretty much enough to experience and explore the best of Pondicherry. In this Pondicherry travel blog, I’ll share with you my ultimate 5-day Pondicherry itinerary describing the best things to do in Pondicherry .

Best Time To Visit Pondicherry

The weather in Pondicherry is generally pleasant throughout the year and doesn’t border around extremities.

However, you’d want to skip the summer season from April to June and the monsoon period ie. July-September. That is if you wish to properly explore the place.

The best time to visit Pondicherry is from October to March . During this period, the heat isn’t sweltering and the chances of rain are slim. Maximum temperature ranges from 28 ° C-32 ° C and minimum temperature ranges from 18 ° C-24 ° C.

Because it is located on the southeast coast of India, there will always be a little bit of humidity that you’ll have to contend with. So book your flights and pack accordingly.

How To Get To Pondicherry

By flight – Puducherry airport (PNY) and Chennai International Airport (MAA) are the two nearest airports to Pondicherry. If you’re residing in Bangalore (Bengaluru) or Hyderabad, then you can catch a direct domestic flight from your city to Pondicherry. Flights from all other Indian cities to Pondicherry have a pit stop that’s either Hyderabad or Bangalore.

By taxi – You can book a direct flight to Chennai and from there, hire a taxi to Pondicherry. The distance from Chennai International Airport to Pondicherry is about 143 km . You’ll take 2 hours and 50 minutes (approx.) to complete your journey. This is not only relevant for Indian travellers but also for all international travellers as Chennai International Airport (MAA) is the only major international airport near Pondicherry that welcomes visitors from both India & abroad.

By train – The closest major railway station to Pondicherry is Villupuram Junction, about 38 km away from Puducherry town. It is well-connected to cities like Mumbai, Kolkata, New Delhi, Chennai, and Trivandrum . From Villupuram Junction, you can take a direct train to Puducherry railway station. The journey time is about 45-55 minutes. You can also hire a taxi from Villupuram junction to Puducherry town. It’ll take you about 1 hour and 15 minutes (approx.) to complete your journey.

By bus – You can reach Pondicherry by bus too. Private tourist buses run frequently from Chennai, Bangalore, Madurai, Coimbatore, Trichy, Thanjavur, and Chidambaram to Pondicherry. Travel time will vary depending on the boarding destination.

Best Places To Stay In Pondicherry – Pondicherry Hotels

Best Pondicherry Hotels Near Beach

If you’re craving a hotel stay by the beachside, then you have the following Pondicherry beachside hotel options to choose from.

1. The Promenade : Check out this beachfront hotel and book your stay by clicking here .

2. Kadal The Beach House : Check out this beach house hotel and book your stay by clicking here .

3. Villa Cavi : Check out this beachside villa and book your stay by clicking here .

4. White Pearl Residency : Check out this hotel and book your stay by clicking here .

Best White Town Pondicherry Hotels

If you wish to stay in the gorgeous White Town, then you have the following Pondicherry White Town hotel options.

1. Palais De Mahe : Check out this White Town hotel and book your stay by clicking here .

2. La Villa : Check out this property and book your stay by clicking here .

3. Le Dupleix : Check out this White Town hotel and book your stay by clicking here .

4. Villa Shanti : Check out this property and book your stay by clicking here .

5. Petit Palais : Check out this White Town hotel and book your stay by clicking here .

6. Grand Hotel D’ Europe : Check out this property and book your stay by clicking here .

Best Pondicherry Resorts

If a laidback resort is your choice of accommodation, then you have the following resorts in Pondicherry to choose from.

1. Radisson Resort Pondicherry Bay : Check out this beachside resort and book your stay by clicking here .

2. Ostel.in : Check out this self-service hostel cum beachside resort and book your stay by clicking here .

3. Ocean Spray : Check out this resort and book your stay by clicking here .

4. Lamel Cove Beach Resort : Check out this beachfront resort and book your stay by clicking here .

5. Kavas Yoga Retreat : Check out this resort and book your stay by clicking here .

6. K Resort : Check out this property and book your stay by clicking here .

Best Homestays in Pondicherry

If you’re a homestay kind of person, then take your pick from the following Pondicherry homestay options.

1. Spanish Villa : Check out this homestay and book your stay by clicking here .

2. La Cedille – French Heritage House : Check out this heritage house and book your stay by clicking here .

3. Kariappa House : Check out this guest house and book your stay by clicking here .

4. La Closerie – Bay of Bengal : Check out this homestay and book your stay by clicking here .

5. Queens Paradise : Check out this travel sustainable property and book your stay by clicking here .

The Ultimate 5-Day Pondicherry Itinerary

Things to do in pondicherry on day 1.

Tip -> Start around 7:30 am-8 am.

On the first day of your Pondicherry trip, you’ll be covering the following :

• Enjoy a morning stroll along Rock Beach
• Take a tour of Bharathi Park
• Relish an authentic south Indian breakfast at Surguru Restaurant
• Spend time at Aurobindo Ashram
• Visit Immaculate Conception Cathedral
• Attend aarti at Sri Manakula Vinayagar Temple
• Have a delightful lunch at The Smoothie Bar
• Visit the Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus
• Enjoy evening coffee and snacks at Baker Street
• Admire the sunset at Serenity Beach
• Relish the fine dining dinner experience at Villa Shanti

1. Enjoy a morning stroll along Rock Beach

Imagine ocean waves rhythmically kissing your feet as you leisurely walk on the soft brown sand, enjoying the wind in your hair and the sight of the early morning sun. Can there be a better start to the day than losing yourself in the beauty of nature?

Rock Beach, also called the “Promenade Beach” , is a gorgeous public beach with an iconic palm tree-lined promenade that runs along it’s 1.5 km long coastal stretch.

Because the beach is clean, well-maintained, and visitor-friendly, visiting it is one of the best things to do in Pondicherry.

It’s called the “Rock Beach” due to the presence of boulders and rocks throughout it’s coastline.

During your stroll on the beach, you’ll come across several important sites and monuments like the Gandhi statue, the lighthouse, the War Memorial, the statue of Joan of Arc, and the tourist information centre.

You can easily spend a couple of hours exploring the beach – watching the waves crashing into the rocky sea wall on one side and admiring the graffiti-decorated walls along the promenade on the other.

There are several snack stalls on the beach in case you crave a quick bite. You’ll also find some amazing restaurants along the promenade where you can unwind and enjoy some food and drinks later in the day.

Note: Visitor timing is 6 am-8 pm. Entry is free of charge.

2. Take a tour of Bharathi Park

Bharathi Park is a cute picnic spot located bang opposite the Gandhi Statue on the Promenade beach. At the entrance of the park, you’ll see a standalone white structure with stunning architecture called the “Aayi Mandapam”.

The Bharathi Park is a well-kept lush green landscape where you’ll find statues, stone carvings, fountains, old sculptures, ponds, lawns, and colourful flower beds. The peaceful surroundings have a soothing effect on your senses.

There is a walking/jogging track that covers the entire length and breadth of the park. It has a separate play area as well, making Bharathi Park one of the best things to do in Pondicherry with children.

Note: Open from 6 am to 8 pm. Entry is free of charge.

3. Relish an authentic south Indian breakfast at Surguru Restaurant

After all the walking and exploring, it’s time to have a scrumptious breakfast at one of the best places to eat in Pondicherry. Surguru is a pure vegetarian restaurant that serves delicious, authentic south Indian food.

A chilled-out ambiance, friendly staff, prompt service, and hot, fresh, lip-smackingly good soul-filling food make this restaurant an obvious breakfast choice for locals and tourists alike.

My food recommendations would be Pongal, Idli, Ghee Roast Dosa, Mysore Masala Dosa, and fresh fruit juices (pineapple, watermelon ).

4. Spend time at Aurobindo Ashram

Located in the heart of White Town on Marine street is one of the most popular landmarks of Pondicherry called the Aurobindo Ashram .

Founded in the year 1926 by yoga guru, poet, and philosopher Aurobindo Ghosh himself, the ashram is a centre of spirituality where you can experience a divine sense of serenity like no other!

When you enter the ashram, you’ll first come across the visitor’s centre where you can watch a short film that explains the life and principles of Sri Aurobindo, besides the history of the place.

Then, you walk towards the Samadhi (shrine) of Sri Aurobindo & The Mother. It’s a white marble structure wonderfully decorated with fresh flowers. You can sit and meditate around the shrine for a while, soaking in the tranquil vibes.

There’s a library on the ashram premises which you can visit to get a better idea about the place and it’s founders, thanks to a well-compiled photo gallery. You can also buy books, photos, CD’s, DVD’s and other souvenirs from the Ashram bookstore.

Note: Visitor timings are 8 am-12 pm and 2 pm-6 pm throughout the week. Entry is free of charge. Photography is prohibited.

5. Visit Immaculate Conception Cathedral

A trip to Pondicherry is incomplete without exploring it’s architecture. So after spending time at the Aurobindo Ashram, visit one of the oldest and most beautiful churches of Pondicherry called the Immaculate Conception Cathedral.

Admire the cathedral’s royal white and gold exteriors and classical yet vibrant interiors with stained windows, chandeliers, and colourful frescoes being the standout characteristics.

The calm energy inside the cathedral makes visiting this place one of the most relaxing things to do in Pondicherry.

Note: Visitor timings throughout the week are 7 am-12 pm & 3 pm-8:30 pm. Entry is free of charge.

6. Attend aarti at Sri Manakula Vinayagar Temple

Sri Manakula Vinayagar Temple is an ancient Hindu temple dedicated to the Hindu God, Lord Ganesha. The temple is within walking distance from the Aurobindo Ashram.

It is said that the temple existed even before the French colonization period. Therefore, it forms an important part of Pondicherry’s rich cultural and religious heritage.

Sri Manakula Vinayagar Temple is a classic example of gorgeous Dravidian architecture with teakwood and gold used generously.

The intricate carvings, grand idols, and gorgeous fresco paintings are truly mesmerising. There is a divine feel to performing the aarti at this beautiful and holy place of worship.

Everyone, irrespective of their religious choice and beliefs, must visit this temple. Participating in the temple’s Ganesh aarti is one of the most spiritual things to do in Pondicherry.

Note: The temple timings are 5:45 am-12:30 pm & 4 pm-9:30 pm. Entry is free of charge. You can enquire about the aarti timings at the temple itself.

7. Have a delightful lunch at The Smoothie Bar

Head to The Smoothie Bar to relish the best fresh smoothies, shakes, and juices in town. The cafe also offers mouth-watering continental and European bites to go along with the refreshing drinks. It’s one of the cheapest and best places to eat in Pondicherry.

The Smoothie Bar offers a cozy indoor seating area. Staff members are warm and polite and the service is quick.

I’d recommend you to try their Tender Coconut Jelly, Very Berry Smoothie, Lean Machine Shake, Choconut Smoothie, Veg Burger, Veg Au Gratin, Veg Stuffed Croissant, Non-Veg Croque Monsieur, Chicken Burger, and Fruit Medley Fruit Salad.

8. Visit the Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus

The Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus is one of the popular tourist attractions in Pondicherry. The church is situated near the railway station, on the south Boulevard of Pondicherry town. It has an interesting amalgamation of French and Indian architecture.

The Roman Catholic Basilica is an important pilgrimage spot for local Christians, as can be seen in the well-attended mass sessions.

The Basilica displays striking Gothic Revival architecture features like long pointed arches, large stained glass windows, spires, and ribbed vaults.

Note: Visitor timings are 6 am-6 pm (Mon-Fri), 6 am-5:30 pm (Sat), & 5:30 am-7:30 pm (Sun). Entry is free of charge.

9. Enjoy evening coffee and snacks at Baker Street

Baker Street is a concept store that serves the most appetizing traditional French cuisine and baked items in Pondicherry.

The food joint offers it all – hot coffees, teas, juices, French bread, quiche, pastries, tarts, sandwiches, burgers, soups, salads, pizzas, lasagnas, chocolates, cookies, ice creams, and viennoiseries (croissants, pies, donuts, etc.) !

If that wasn’t enough, the Baker Street menu also offers authentic French main course (both veg & non-veg) food options, including fresh seafood . It has a vibrant ambiance and the staff is extremely cooperative and welcoming.

I’d recommend you to try their Chocolat Eclair, Vanilla Eclair, Capuccino, Palmier, Butter Croissant, Veg Pitta Sandwich, Chicken Olive & Cheese Quiche, Spinach & Cheese Quiche, and Chocolate Mille Feuille.

10. Admire the sunset at Serenity Beach

One of the most fun things to do in Pondicherry during the evening is to admire the sunset at Serenity Beach.

Located near Kottakuppam, the beach lies on the outskirts of Pondicherry. It isn’t as long a coastal stretch as Rock Beach but still paints a lovely picture at dusk.

Friendly waves hitting the shore, colourful fishing boats, a wide variety of seashells, and a sturdy black rock wall are some common sights at Serenity Beach.

The idyllic sunset hues in the sky make visiting the beach a lovely experience. It ain’t your typical tourist attraction as it still needs a bit of development to be more visitor-friendly.

Note: Visitor timing is 6 am-6 pm. The approach road to the beach is narrow and in a bad state.

11. Relish the fine dining dinner experience at Villa Shanti

After an eventful first day of exploring Pondicherry, it’s time to top it off with a memorable fine dining experience at Villa Shanti.

Villa Shanti is one of the best places to eat in Pondicherry as it serves exquisite Indian and European food made from the choicest of local, fresh and seasonal ingredients.

Be it the pleasant open ambiance with the patio and vertical garden or the minimalistic contemporary and intimate seating, Villa Shanti impresses you with it’s attention to detail. The bar area with the dramatic wall painting essentially sums up the vibe of this restaurant.

I’d recommend you to try their Tandoori Veg Platter, Watermelon & Tomato Gazpacho, Garlic Naan, Dal Makhni, Vegetarian Risotto, Pesto and Cashewnuts Pasta, Prawn and Pomelo Salad, Tiger Prawns with Carrot Cashewnuts & Spinach, Mutton Rogan Josh, French Creme Brulee, Chef’s Crumble, and Colonel .

Note: Call the restaurant and book your table in advance to avoid any last-minute hassle.

Things To Do In Pondicherry On DAY 2

Tip -> Start at 8:30 am.

On the second day of your Pondicherry trip, you’ll be covering the following :

• Enjoy an appetizing breakfast at Cafe Des Arts
• Visit Chunnambar Boat House and set off to Paradise Beach
• Taste the best brewed coffee and smoothies at Bread and Chocolate
• Visit the Notre Dame Des Anges Church
• Shop at Meraki
• Indulge in the fine dining experience at La Villa

1. Enjoy an appetizing breakfast at Cafe Des Arts

Begin your day by having a sumptuous breakfast at an attractive 19th-century French bungalow turned cafe called Cafe des Arts.

At the entrance is a cute Instagram-worthy yellow graffiti wall where a rude female attendant/manager with a weird, snobbish attitude will greet you and do you a favour by inviting you in (just being honest here).

Once you step inside, you’ll see an attention-catching rickshaw in the middle of an open garden outdoor seating. To your left is an indoor seating arrangement with skillfully arranged furniture in each room of the bungalow.

The vintage artsy decor and old-world charm make you forget the arrogant attendant’s negative vibe. South Indian actor Rajinikanth’s cutout inside one of the rooms takes the cake for me as far as eccentricity goes. There is a mini store inside the premises as well, just in case you wish to buy some organic food items.

My breakfast recommendations to you would be their Veg Omelette, Crepe with Berry Coulis, Waffle with Ice Cream scoop and House Pancake Syrup, Baguette Sandwich, Croque Monsieur, Banana Nutella Crepe, Diabolo (soda) with Hibiscus syrup and Macchiato Coffee.

Note: Open from 9 am-6 pm. The cafe doesn’t take reservations and remains closed on Tuesdays.

2. Visit Chunnambar Boat House and set off to Paradise Beach

Post your breakfast, head to the Chunnambar Boat House. The boat house is basically a ferry service centre cum departure point from where you’ll hop on a boat to set off to Paradise Beach.

Entry to the Chunnambar Boat House costs Rs. 10 per person and the parking fee is Rs. 30 . The ferry ticket charge for Paradise Beach is Rs. 354 per person and the journey time is about 15-20 minutes.

Once you step off the boat, a signboard will guide you to Paradise Beach. On reaching the beach, you’ll see why the place is rated as one of the best things to do in Pondicherry.

An endless stretch of pristine white sand coupled with stunning shades of turquoise blue water makes for some jaw-dropping scenery. The beach is dotted with bamboo tents, a beach volleyball court, beach shack restaurants, washrooms, and an occasional treehouse.

If it’s too sunny, you can take shelter under any of the bamboo tents that double up as resting points. And if you’re lucky like me, then you might even get to hijack a treehouse with your family/friends.

The elevated view of the beach from the treehouse is simply surreal , to say the least.

With a generous breeze flowing throughout the day, you can sit here and tirelessly stare at the ocean waves kissing the shore for hours. The phrase “nature porn” aptly fits the paradisiacal sight on display.

With the help and guidance of the beach staff, you can indulge in several interesting activities like jet skiing, kayaking, canoeing, and horseriding.

Enjoy strolling along the soft white sand, admiring the ocean waves playfully flirting with your feet. Since the water is clean and warm and the current isn’t too strong, the beach is safe and suitable for swimming.

Kids will have a field day building sand castles and playing in the water. There are lifeguards present in every small pocket of the beach to ensure the safety of the visitors and manage any untoward incident.

You can enjoy your lunch at any of the beach shack restaurants. The restaurants typically serve milkshakes, cold coffees, juices, soft drinks, sandwiches, burgers, and cutlets.

The last return ferry to Chunnambar Boat House is at 5:30 pm. The relaxed, idyllic, and laidback vibes of Paradise beach not only make it one of the best places to visit in Pondicherry with your family but also an automatic inclusion in your Pondicherry itinerary.

Note: Visitor timings are 9:00 am – 6:00 pm .

3. Taste the best brewed coffee and smoothies at Bread and Chocolate

After a satisfying beach day, it’s time to taste some of the best brewed coffee and smoothies in Pondicherry at the wonderful Bread and Chocolate.

Located on Marine street near Sri Aurobindo Ashram, Bread and Chocolate is one of the best rooftop restaurants in Pondicherry. It is the perfect combo of charming ambiance and delicious food & drinks.

Beautiful flower canopies on the outside give it a pleasant vibe. The restaurant serves smoothies, savoury bowls, sandwiches, tarts, croissants, artisan teas, juices, and the best authentic Subko brewed coffee.

They also have a niche B&C store downstairs from where you can buy chocolates, organic coffees, and coco powders (made in Auroville).

I’d suggest you to try their Super Green Smoothie, PB & B smoothie, Chocolate Smoothie Bowl, Chocolate Croissant, Baklava Croissant, Palmier, Subko Flat White Coffee, Subko B&C Cold Brew, Miss Saigon Bowl, B&C Marg Pizza, and Mad About Mustard Sandwich.

4. Visit the Notre Dame Des Anges Church

Out of all the churches that I visited in Pondicherry, I found Notre Dame Des Anges Church to be the most visually pleasing.

Located in the French White Town, this place holds the distinction of being the only church that offers mass in 3 different languages ie. English, Tamil, and French.

The lovely pink facade of the church grabs your attention even from a distance. The church has a Greco-Roman style architecture with vaulted ceilings, arches, and stained glass windows .

The pastel colour shades used in the interiors of the church make the carvings and sculptures look like delectable desserts, not even kidding!

However, the church does need some repair and maintenance work when compared to other churches in Pondicherry. But the serene atmosphere more than makes up for the little imperfections.

Note: Church timings are 5:30 am-12 pm and 4 pm-8 pm.

5. Shop at Meraki

A trip to Pondicherry White Town is incomplete without some quality shopping. And the Meraki Lifestyle Store (on Rue Surcouf Street) is an ideal place to do just that.

A one-stop shop for fashion, home, and lifestyle products , Meraki offers you a diverse range of items and accessories handcrafted by designers from all across India.

At Meraki, you can shop for clothes, jewellery, bags, perfumes, essential oils and diffusers, footwear, sunglasses, luxury home decor items, etc. Right next to the store is the Meraki Eatery Teahouse where you can stop by for a quick bite or a drink.

6. Indulge in the fine dining experience at La Villa

End your day with an unforgettable gastronomical experience at one of Pondicherry White Town’s best fine-dining restaurants – La Villa. Located a stone’s throw from Meraki, La Villa is a haven for all food lovers.

Be it the romantic ambiance of the outdoor garden seating or the classical French bungalow relaxed vibe of the indoor seating, La Villa wins you over with it’s charm even before serving the first dish on your plate.

The restaurant offers a delectable spread of Continental & Italian cuisines. La Villa’s 7-course tasting menu is a must-try . Each course is crafted to perfection, with the serving staff giving you a detailed explanation about every dish.

The food quality is fabulous and the food presentation is top-notch, thanks to the chef paying attention to every little detail. The staff is courteous and the service is swift.

My food recommendation to you would be their well-curated 7-Course Tasting Menu (both veg & non-veg) .

However, if you’re ordering A la carte, then I’d suggest you try their Ricotta Apricot & Walnut Salad, Spaghetti with Tomato Sauce, Vegetable Coconut Curry, Thai Inspiration Noodle Salad, Prawns Coconut Curry, Vanilla Panna Cotta, Lemon Tart, and La Villa’s Special Dessert.

Note: Call the restaurant and book your table in advance to avoid any last-minute disappointment.

Things To Do In Pondicherry On DAY 3

Tip -> Start at 7 am .

On the third day of your Pondicherry trip, you’ll be covering the following :

• Visit the Thillai Nataraja Temple in Chidambaram
• Have a hearty breakfast at Adyar Ananda Bhavan
• Take a boat ride in the Pichavaram Mangrove Forest
• Relish the fine dining lunch experience at Coromandel Cafe
• Enjoy a sunset stroll on Eden Beach
• Have a scrumptious dinner at Bay of Buddha

1. Visit the Thillai Nataraja Temple in Chidambaram

Located in the Cuddalore district of Chidambaram town, the Thillai Nataraja Temple is one of the most fascinating places to visit near Pondicherry. A 1 hour 50 minute drive (65 km) from Pondicherry gets you to this magnificent Hindu temple.

The Thillai Nataraja Temple is dedicated to Nataraja ie. the dancing avatar of Lord Shiva . The temple depicts Lord Shiva as the Lord of Dance performing the “Ananda Tandava” , meaning the “dance of delight”.

Built in the 10th century by the Chola dynasty and renovated later by the Pandya dynasty in the 12th-13th century period, the temple is of immense religious significance for followers of Hinduism , Shaivism , and Vaishnavism . The Thillai Nataraja Temple is one among the five holiest temples of Lord Shiva.

The temple is a mammoth structure with as many as 9 gopuram gateways ie. towers with extremely intricate carvings . The temple complex consists of courtyards, halls (sabha), mandapas, shrines, and ponds.

It exhibits an impressive Dravidian style of architecture , with the golden roof and the 1000-pillared hall (sabha) being the striking features of the temple.

In case you reach the temple between 8:50 am-9 am , you may also get to attend the aarti , which is a one-of-a-kind spiritual experience.

You’ll find deities of Lord Vishnu, Lord Shiva, and Lord Ganesha inside the temple. Spread over a massive area of 40 acres, the Thillai Nataraja Temple is truly an architectural marvel and one of the best things to do near Pondicherry.

Note: The temple is open to visitors from 6:00 am-12:30 pm and from 4:30 pm-10:00 pm.

2. Have a hearty breakfast at Adyar Ananda Bhavan

After a delightful spiritual experience at the Thillai Nataraja Temple, it’s time to enjoy a hearty south Indian breakfast at Adyar Ananda Bhavan.

The restaurant comes on your way to the temple so you can make a pit stop at it while returning back from the temple.

Idli, Masala Dosa, Ghee Roast Dosa, Podi Masala Dosa, Mini Tiffin meal, and fresh fruit juices – orange and pineapple are some of their must-try breakfast items.

The food is delicious, fresh, and light on the wallet. Hospitable staff and quick service ensure that you don’t have to wait for your food for long.

You’ll find Adyar Ananda Bhavan in Pondicherry too. It’s one of the best and cheapest restaurants in Pondicherry.

3. Take a boat ride in the Pichavaram Mangrove Forest

Post your breakfast, head to the Pichavaram Boat House near Chidambaram. Pichavaram is home to the world’s 2nd largest mangrove forest.

Located between the northern Vellar estuary and southern Coleroon estuary, the Pichavaram Mangrove Forest is spread over an area of 1100 hectares. Boating is one of the popular activities in these mangroves.

At the Pichavaram Boat House, you have the option to enjoy a boat ride through the enchanting mangrove forests with your friends and family.

You can purchase tickets for either a row boat ride or a motor boat ride . Do not worry about the safety standards, as size-appropriate life vests are provided to every passenger taking the boat ride.

The tariff for a 4-seater row boat is Rs. 400, and for a 6-seater row boat is Rs. 600. A row boat ride covers a distance of 1 km in the mangroves, taking a duration of 40 minutes (though they say 1 hour) .

The tariff for an 8-seater motor boat is Rs. 1,800 ( Rs. 230 per person ). A motor boat ride covers a distance of 2 km in the mangroves, taking a duration of 40 minutes . In addition to the tariff, you’ll also have to pay a maintenance toll of Rs. 30.

Having tried both rides, I’d recommend you take the 40-minute motor boat ride.

Sailing through the mangroves is an exhilarating experience. The thick lush stretch of mangrove trees forming innumerable small mangrove tunnels leaves you awestruck.

With the boatman maneuvering the boat skillfully through the mangrove tunnels, you get to see the flora and fauna in all their glory.

In fact, inside certain tunnels, you may have to bend your head down to avoid getting hurt by the mangrove trees. So you get to have the Matrix stunt experience for free, in addition to the boat ride.

My boatman was crazy enough to make the motor boat dance and perform wheelies.

To summarize, all I can say is boating through the Pichavaram mangrove Forests is a must-try activity and one of the most adventurous things to do near Pondicherry with family.

Note: If you pay your motor boatman an extra Rs. 250- Rs. 300, then he will give you an additional 10-minute ride on the motorboat.

4. Relish the fine dining lunch experience at Coromandel Cafe

Return from Pichavaram to Pondicherry for lunch. It is time for you to relish a fantastic meal at Coromandel Cafe – an upscale cafe set inside a beautifully restored French colonial villa.

Also known as La Maison Rose , the Coromandel Cafe, located on White Town’s Romain Rolland Street, is one of the best and most romantic places to eat in Pondicherry.

The cafe prides itself on using only fresh local ingredients and sourcing the best produce from it’s suppliers.

As far as the cafe’s ambiance is concerned, the outdoor garden patio seating is charmingly pleasant.

Whereas the indoor seating has a classy, intimate, and contemporary vibe to it. The gorgeous chandeliers and warm lighting give you a cozy, welcoming feel.

The food presentation is elegant and appeals to your senses. The innovative and attractive plating reflects the chef’s artistry. Every dish tastes lip-smackingly good, with the fresh and distinct flavours leaving a lasting impression on you.

My food recommendations to you would be their Goat’s Cheese Pizza, Truffle Fettuccine, Pink Hummus, Mango Pad Thai Salad, Fish & Chips, Crispy Prawn, Chef Vicky’s Spicy Capsicum Chicken Pizza, Flower Cooler, and Passionfruit Twist.

5. Enjoy a sunset stroll on Eden Beach

Post your lunch, head to one of Pondicherry’s most alluring beaches – the Eden Beach.

Eden Beach is the first beach in Pondicherry to get the coveted “ Blue Flag ” tag. The beach was awarded the prestigious tag by the Denmark-based Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE).

The Blue Flag tag is given to beaches that are clean, safe, environment friendly, and well-equipped with all the facilities of international standards for tourists.

From the parking lot, a scenic pathway that runs across a picturesque backwater on either side gets you to the beach.

Clean soft sand, a chilled breeze, beautiful turquoise blue waters, and a gorgeous shoreline greet you at Eden Beach. The tides are safe for you to take a dip and indulge in a nice swim session.

Enjoy a relaxed stroll along the beach while admiring a ravishing sunset.

The picture postcard-like natural beauty on display is truly breathtaking. The beach has a kid’s play area and is equipped with washroom and changing room facilities.

You’ll specifically enjoy your walk back from the beach to the parking lot, thanks to the magical sunset hues that make the backwaters look immaculate and other-worldly.

Note: Beach timings are 6 am-6 pm. Entry and parking are free of charge.

6. Have a scrumptious dinner at Bay of Buddha

Your dose of Vitamin Sea doesn’t quite end with the stroll at Eden Beach as it’s now time for you to enjoy a lavish meal at the finest beach view restaurant in Pondicherry – the Bay of Buddha.

Located next to the iconic Light House alongside the Promenade beach, Bay of Buddha offers you unrestricted gorgeous views of the sea. It is situated on the 3rd floor of the popular Promenade Hotel.

Thanks to a lovely open terrace setting, Bay of Buddha is an ideal place for a romantic date with your partner.

The dim lighting and foot-tapping music further add to the overall charm of the restaurant. The restaurant predominantly serves Pan Asian cuisines like Thai, Chinese, Indonesian, and Korean.

It also has an attractive terrace bar where the bartender weaves his magic and serves you refreshingly delicious mocktails & cocktails.

The food is fabulous and the service is exceptional. Their terrific hospitality ensures that you leave the restaurant with smiles on your faces and memories to cherish.

My food recommendations to you would be their Veg Sushi Platter, Vegetable Dim Sum, Veg Thai Green Curry with Jasmine Rice, Korean Barbequed Jumbo Prawns, Nasi Goreng, Seafood Sushi Platter, Basil Cheesecake, Shirley Temple, Tropical Storm, and Bay of Buddha Iced Tea.

Things To Do In Pondicherry On DAY 4 & DAY 5

On the last 2 days of your Pondicherry trip, you can explore an underrated hidden gem of a place called Auroville. There are plenty of interesting things to see and do in Auroville , the comprehensive details of which can be seen in my previous blog article that I’ve linked here.

Still, for your convenience, I’ll arrange it in an itinerary form so that trip planning becomes easier for you.

Things to do in Auroville, Pondicherry on Day 4 :

• Have breakfast at Auroville Bakery (Boulangerie)
• Explore Auroville Matrimandir through an inner chamber meditation session
• Shop at La Boutique De Auroville
• Have lunch at Right Path Cafe (Cafeteria)
• Visit Unity Pavilion
• Explore Savitri Bhavan
• Enjoy an evening coffee at Marc’s Cafe
• Spend time at Quiet Beach
• Relish dinner at Tanto’s Pizzeria

Things to do in Auroville, Pondicherry on Day 5 :

• Have breakfast at Bread and Chocolate
• Do a Sadhana Forest walking tour
• Visit Auroville Botanical Gardens and enjoy an organic farm lunch
• Experience aquatic therapy at Quiet Healing Centre
• Enjoy dinner at Naturellement Garden Cafe

I hope my comprehensive 5-day Pondicherry itinerary with a detailed list of things to do in Pondicherry helps you plan your trip better. Pondicherry is the perfect place to enjoy a winter vacation with your family and friends.

It is a wonderful amalgamation of rich history, vibrant culture, fabulous food, impressive architecture, sublime nature, and thrilling adventure. So what are you waiting for? Book your tickets to Pondicherry this winter and create unforgettable travel memories!

SHARE the blog “Things To Do In Pondicherry: Ultimate 5-Day Pondicherry Itinerary” on your social media to help your friends, followers, relatives, and travel partners plan their trip to Pondicherry.

PIN the image below to save the post for your future trip planning and SUBSCRIBE to The Wandering Vegetable for more such travel motivation . You can also follow me on Instagram .

Vaibhav Mehta

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[…] Founded in 1968 by Mirra Alfassa and designed by architect Roger Anger, Auroville is situated about 10 km north of the beautiful city of Pondicherry. […]

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Thanks for the blog.Nice to know about 5 days Pondicherry itinerary information.

Dear Vaibhav the way you explain a place, its very clear that you are a traveller at heart and you really wish people to experience all things good that you have experinced. I read your blog on Pondicherry. it’s very helpful, detailed info with lovely pictyres. keep up the good work dear

Thank you Meghna mam. Glad you liked the blog and found it detailed and helpful. Makes the effort worth it. And yes, the love for travel and spreading the joys of travel is eternal!

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• Destinations

15 Must-See Places to Visit in Pondicherry for Tourists

Pondicherry is unlike any other place in India! Located on the south-eastern coast of India, there are so many places to visit in Pondicherry!

What makes Pondicherry, also referred to as Puducherry, so unique is its history and blend of cultures. The French gained control in the 17th century and their influence can still be seen today, especially with the architecture. Hence, walking around Pondicherry is unlike walking around any other town or city in India.

While the rest of India gained independence from the British in 1947, Pondicherry’s independence was not included in this because it was controlled by the French. The French actually left in 1954 and it officially became a union territory of India in 1963.

If you’re planning a trip, then I highly recommend checking out these top places to visit in Pondicherry! There’s beautiful and lively beaches, relaxing parks, museums to learn more about the history and culture, and loads of neat cafes, restaurants, and bars.

This post is all about the best places to visit in Pondicherry.

Top Places to Visit in Pondicherry

#1 french quarter.

Right along Pondicherry Beach, also known as the Promenade, is the French Quarter neighborhood. This area is extremely charming with its colonial-style buildings. It’s honestly so cute and like a slice of France in India! 

The French Quarter is full of places to stop by. You’ll find lots of cute little cafes and boutiques. There are also art galleries.

I recommend walking around this area to soak in the beautiful architecture, then stopping by one of the cafes or famous restaurants for some food.

#2 Bharathi Park (My favorite of the places to visit in Pondicherry!)

Just inland of Promenade Beach you can find Bharathi Park, one of the best places to visit in Pondicherry. It’s a small park with a Greco-Roman structure in the middle and cute small walkways that are shaded.

If you’re looking for a leisurely walk or a place to sit and relax, Bharathi Park is an easy stop to include in your trip. There are beautiful fountains and flowers as well as a play area for kids.

#3 Pondicherry Museum

One of the best places to visit in Pondicherry to learn about the history is the Pondicherry museum. It’s open from 10am – 5pm except and closed on Mondays.

The museum has a great collection of sculptures and archaeological finds. It also houses ancient bronze and stone artifacts. This is a great stop for history lovers or travelers who enjoy learning about the diverse history of India.

#4 Sacred Heart Basilica

This is a stunning Catholic church with Gothic-style architecture and reflects Pondicherry’s colonial history. It’s famous for its beautiful stained glass windows that show Biblical scenes.

If you are interested in seeing the architecture and bit of history of Pondicherry, then it’s a gorgeous place to visit. It was built in the early 1900s and has daily masses, but is also open just for tourists to see as well.

#5 Sri Aurobindo Ashram

The Aurobindo Ashram was founded by Sri Aurobindo and is famous for its spiritual teachings, serene ambiance and beautiful gardens. It’s a place for meditation and self-discovery.

The ashram is open to day visitors. There is also the option to stay at the ashram but that is meant for spiritual seekers and not the average tourist.

I’d recommend visiting for a day if you’re interested in seeing an ashram and it’s a great place to meditate or practice yoga.

#6 Promenade Beach

Promenade Beach is a must-see if you’re traveling to Pondicherry. It’s just over 1 km long and is the perfect spot for sunrises and sunsets, or just to hang out and relax.

It’s a great place for a stroll with a beautiful view and lots of little snacks or drinks you can buy too. It’s not overly crowded but still lively enough to create a fun atmosphere.

It’s also known as Rock Beach because here are rocks that line the coast between the walkway and water. You can sit along on the rocks to enjoy a closer view of the sea too.

This is my favorite spot in Pondicherry to hang out because it’s a great place to chill but still enough going on to make it an entertaining time!

#7 Mahatma Gandhi Statue

If you walk along Promenade Beach, you will certainly pass the Mahatma Gandhi statue! It’s a well-maintained, quick stop to add in your trip. 

You’ll see the bronze statue surrounded by granite pillars. The statue pays homage to Gandhi, the famous leader of India’s independence.

While I wouldn’t say it’s worth a special trip in itself, chances are you will probably pass it if you are along the promenade or near the other famous places. So, it’s worth having a look and getting a picture!

#8 The Storytellers’ Bar, Catamaran Brewing Company and Cosy Resto Pub for nightlife or drink-seekers

Like the cafes, there’s a lot of great places to grab a drink or experience the nightlife in Pondicherry.

• The Storytellers’ Bar is located just near the promenade and is a small bar with a great vibe! They have neat decor inside with a book/story theme and they have nice cocktails. Depending on which day you go, you can enjoy live music and DJs and they also sometimes offer ladies nights and Bollywood nights.
• Catamaran Brewing Company is a great stop for beer lovers! I love checking out breweries when I travel around India because it’s still a relatively new thing, not like in the US where I can find them all over. The Catamaran Brewing Company has a nice selection of beers and is a great place to get dinner. The decor inside is quite fun and ocean-themed.
• Cosy Resto Pub is a fun place for a lively night out with music and a good vibe. Although the name is a bit simple, this is a popular and spacious place for going out. They’ve got some nice snacks and pizza along with good drinks. I recommend checking out the roof-top deck for a nice view of the city and a fun atmosphere.

#9 Manakula Vinayagar Temple

This is one of the most famous temples in Pondicherry. I love the style of temples in South India because I think they are so colorful and beautiful! But this temple really is a site to see.

Manakula Vinayagar Temple is an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha. It’s famous for its golden chariot and intricate carvings along the stone walls.

While Pondicherry is quite laid back and used to foreigners, you should try to dress a little more conservatively as usual for visiting a temple and remember to remove your shoes.

#10 Pondy Marina

Pondy Marina is another one of the best places to visit in Pondicherry. It’s also lively similar to the promenade, but one major difference is the beach actually has sand lining the shore with some rocks.

This is a great place to go with kids because they have a lot of games and activities to enjoy. There’s horseback riding and an adventure zone with rides. You can also find ATV’s and big lawns to relax on. 

There are a ton of cheap food options at Pondy Marina, so it’s a great place to go for adventure or just to hang out and have a snack!

#11 Botanical Garden

This is a beautiful spot to enjoy a wide variety of exotic plants and trees. It’s a place where you can appreciate the beauty of nature and walk around in peace.

There is also a small train that can take you around the garden which is especially fun if you are traveling with friends. Inside you can also visit a little aquarium to see some different fish, snakes and turtles.

The Botanical Garden is open from 9am – 6pm daily. It’s a great place to visit as a family or enjoy as a couple as well!

#12 Cafes! – Le Cafe, Cafe des Arts, and Coromandel Cafe (But there are so many more great options too, it’s tough to pick the best places in Pondicherry for food!)

There are literally so many unique and delicious places to visit in Pondicherry when it comes to cafes! I can’t even choose my favorite, but these three are well-known and I’d highly recommend them.

• Le Cafe is on the coast at Promenade Beach. What makes this cafe so unique is that it’s right along the beach with stunning views of the sea. While there are many cute cafes around, this one has the best view. They also have rooftop seating if you want to view from higher up.
• Cafe des Arts is extremely cute to visit with great coffee and desserts. They also have breakfast, salad and sandwiches which you can enjoy indoors or outside. It’s got a vintage look and the style inside reflects the French influence. What I love most about this cafe is the ambience because the decor is very artsy, as the name would suggest!
• Coromandel Cafe is more upscale and offers amazing dishes for lunch or dinner! They also serve drinks. You can eat inside but they also have a really cute garden area that’s full of greenery. I definitely recommend eating here if you don’t mind spending a little extra money compared to nearby places!

There are still so many other cute cafes to visit in Pondicherry, but these three are my top recommendations. They are all a bit different in their own ways and are pretty close together near the promenade and French Quarter.

#13 Serenity Beach

Located towards the north of Pondicherry, Serenity Beach is the perfect stop if you are looking for a less crowded beach. It has a sandy coastline making for a beautiful walk along the coast.

It’s also a nice place to watch the sunrise and sunset. People also surf and go swimming here. There are a lot of restaurants nearby too. 

While there are several nice beaches around Pondicherry, this is the best one to visit if you are looking for a relaxing, quiet spot away from the crowd!

#14 Paradise Beach

On the opposite side of Pondicherry towards the south, you will find Paradise beach. Aside from the beautiful views to relax around, what makes this beach special is the boat rides. You can reach the beach by driving around over the bridge, or take the jetty across. 

The Chunnambar Boat House is a popular way to reach Paradise Beach because it’s a fun experience along the backwaters. They can also arrange for water sport activities if you’re looking for that, but the boat rides are the most fun!

Aside from soaking in the sun, there are also great restaurants around Paradise Beach to enjoy a meal or snack.

#15 Auroville

Auroville is not technically in Pondicherry, but it’s an easy 20 minute drive north and totally worth the visit! 

Auroville is a really unique, experimental township focussed on unity and spiritual growth. People have to apply to be a part of the official community which is very collaborative and supportive of each other.

For visitors, there are so many things to do in Auroville itself. There are a lot of cafes and restaurants with locally sourced food, especially because Auroville has a lot of sustainable farming practices.

It has a famous Matrimandir or temple with a beautiful area to walk around. You can also find countless workshops around yoga, meditation, healing, environmental practices and more.

There is really so much to do in Auroville, it’s worth staying there for a few days if you have the time! Otherwise, it’s not a far drive from Pondicherry and is worth checking out for a day.

Pondicherry is a unique place to see in India given its history and French influence. There are so many places to visit in Pondicherry and I would definitely recommend checking them out if you can! Wishing everyone a wonderful trip and be sure to check out my Ultimate Travel Guide to India for more tips!

While Pondicherry and Auroville are unqiue destinations, there is still so much of the country you should visit if you have the time and are able! Extend your trip and see one of these 7 incredible places to travel in south India !

This post was all about the best places to visit in Pondicherry.

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• 42 Best Places To Visit In Pondicherry In 2024: India’s French Colony

10 May 2023

Right beside the sea, the beautiful Pondicherry – the French capital of India, offers some spectacular tourist attractions. Known for its urban architecture style, Pondicherry is one of the most popular tourist destinations in South India. From post-card perfect yellow buildings to sunny beaches, we bring you some of the best places to visit in Pondicherry with your friends and family right here. Make sure you put all of these in your Pondicherry itinerary when you plan your trip!

42 Best Places To Visit In Pondicherry

Have you been thinking about planning a trip to Pondicherry? But what all should you see while you’re there? Here’s a list of the best renowned places to visit in Pondicherry for your holiday:

• Shri Aurobindo Ghosh Ashram – Beautiful Ashram
• Auroville – Peaceful Living
• Paradise Beach – To Relax And Unwind
• Gingee Fort – Relive History
• Sri Gokilambal Thirukameswar Temple – Find Inner Peace
• Basilica Of The Sacred Heart Of Jesus – Be One With God
• Jawahar Toy Museum – Pamper Your Inner Child
• Le Club – Delicious Eatery
• Promenade Beach – Relax Amidst Nature
• White Town – Mix Of Past And Present
• Chunnambar Boat House – Amazing Cruise
• Sita Cultural Centre – Cultural Centre
• Goubert Avenue – An Offbeat Location
• Ousteri Lake – Bird Watching
• Old Lighthouse – Marvelous Architecture
• Pondy Bazaar – Shopping Spree
• Raj Niwas – Stunningly Beautiful
• French War Memorial – Remembering The Martyrs
• Pondicherry Botanical Garden – Amazing Beauty
• Rock Beach – Time To Relax
• Mahatma Gandhi Statue – Paying Tribute
• The Pondicherry Museum – Explore The History
• Bharati Government Park – Walk Into The Wild
• Statue Of Dupleix – Revisit The Past
• Eglise de Notre Dame des Anges – Picturesque Church
• Immaculate Conception Cathedral – Sanctum Of God
• Varadaraja Perumal Temple – Experience Tranquility
• Cluny Embroidery Centre – Vintage Handicrafts
• Manakula Vinayagar Temple – Place Of Enlightenment
• Kanniga Parameswari Temple – Mesmerizing Premises
• ISKCON Pondicherry – A Day With God
• Serenity Beach – Pristine Beach
• Yanam Beach – Take A Stroll
• Sri Karneshwar Nataraja Temple – Unique Design
• Ganesh Garden – Secluded Place
• Ananda Ranga Pillai Mansion – Must Visit
• Aayi Mandapam – Time In History
• Seafront Promenade – Amazing Experiences
• Veerampattinam Beach – Exquisite Views
• Arikamedu – Beautiful Ruins
• Chunambar Boathouse – Paradise
• Meeran Mosque – Oldest Mosque In Pondicherry

1. Shri Aurobindo Ghosh Ashram – Beautiful Ashram

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Pondicherry was the residence of Sri Aurobindo (Indian freedom fighter), was founded in 1926. It is one of the well known and wealthy ashrams of India. The ashram has one of the prime destinations for tourists and spiritual seekers. If you’re looking for peace and serenity in Pondicherry, this place should definitely be on your list.

Location: Near Junction of Manakula Vinayagar No. 9 Marine Street, Manakula Vinayagar Koil St, Near Junction of, Puducherry, 605002 Timings: From 8 am to 12 noon and from 2 pm to 6 pm Good For: sightseeing Entry Fee: None Recommended Duration: 1 – 2 hours Distance From City Centre: 3 km

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Must Read: 11 Top Homestays In Pondicherry

2. Auroville – Peaceful Living

The name means ‘the city of Dawn’, founded in 1968. It is a Universal town where men and women of any country can live together to progress harmony and realize human unity. It’s one of the best tourist places near Pondicherry within 100 kms that exudes utmost tranquility and peace. Auroville is an amazing destination for all solace seekers and to make the most of your trip, you must stop by this peaceful spot.

Location: Viluppura, Tamil Nadu Timings: Mon to Fri (9:30 AM – 12:30 PM & 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM) Good For: Nirvana Seekers Experience Seekers Entry Fee: NA Recommended Duration: 1 – 2 days Distance From City Centre: 13 kms

3. Paradise Beach – To Relax And Unwind

Sand of the Paradise beach is soft in nature, unlike coarse sand of the Auroville beach. Thus making them a perfect ground for sports and having fun. The beach is truly paradise in sense that the water color is really blue; sand is golden and silvery. And the boat ride through backwaters that gets you to this golden paradise is simply remarkable! This is one of the cannot miss places to visit in Pondicherry.

Location: Chinnayanpeth Main Road , Pondicherry 605013 Timings: All days of week(12:00AM – 12:00PM) Good For: Experience Seekers, Fun Lovers, Adventure Seekers, Photo Fanatics Entry Fee: INR 150 Recommended Duration: 1 – 2 hours Distance From City Centre: 4 kms

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4. Gingee Fort – Relive History

Gingee fort is one of the best places to visit in Pondicherry. The Fort is declared as a National Monument in 1921. Apart from being a unique architectural feat it is one of the few forts in the State. History geeks and architecture lovers must not miss out this place during their holiday in Pondicherry.

Location: NH 66, Gingee, Tamil Nadu 604202 Timings: All days of the week (9:00 AM – 7:00 PM) Good For: History Buffs,Wanderers,Loners, Photo Fanatics,Experience Seeker Entry Fee: INR 5, free for children below 15 years Recommended Duration: 1 – 2 hours Distance From City Centre: 65 kms

5. Sri Gokilambal Thirukameswar Temple – Find Inner Peace

One of the unique places to see in Pondicherry, Villianur Temple has a huge 15 meters tall temple chariot that is normally taken out on a procession during the Brahmotsavam, which is basically the annual festival of Pondicherry. It makes up for one of the best places to visit in Pondicherry in 2 days .

Location: E Car St, Villianur, Puducherry 605110 Timings: All days of the week (5:00 AM – 12:00 PM & 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM) Good For: God Lovers Experience Seekers Photo Fanatics Entry Fee: None Recommended Duration: 1 – 2 hours Distance From City Centre: 6 kms

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6. Basilica Of The Sacred Heart Of Jesus – Be One With God

It is also known as the Parent church for Catholic diocese for Pondicherry and Cuddalore. Located at the south boulevard, the Basilica Of The Sacred Heart Of Jesus was consecrated on December 17th, 1907. The structure of this church is 50 meters long, 48 meters wide and 18 meters high and is held by 24 columns. This is one of the best places you will visit in Pondicherry.

Location: Door No, 132, South Boulevard, Near Railway Station, MG Road Area, Puducherry, 605001 Timings: All days of the week except Sunday (7:00 AM – 6:30 PM) Good For: God Lovers Experience Seekers Nirvana Seekers Photo Fanatics Entry Fee: None Recommended Duration: Less than 1 hour Distance From City Centre: 2 kms

7. Jawahar Toy Museum – Pamper Your Inner Child

One of the unique places to see in Pondicherry, Jawahar Toy Museum is a doll house which has more than 140 dolls brought from different Indian states. The Jawahar Toy Museum is situated in the main town, at the old lighthouse, which is near Gandhi Maidan. This museum has some of the rare decorated dolls and toys. It is not just a delight for children and school students, but people from all walks of life can enjoy it! It is counted among the unique places to visit in Pondicherry.

Location: Easwaran Kovil Street, Canteen St, Puducherry, 605001 Timings: All days of the week except Monday (10:00 AM – 5:00 PM) Good For: Connoisseurs, Experience Seekers, Wanderers Entry Fee: NA Recommended Duration: 1 – 2 hours Distance From City Centre: 3 kms

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8. Le Club – Delicious Eatery

The steaks (with sauces like blue cheese or Béarnaise), pizzas and crepes are all top-class at this super-popular romantically lit garden restaurant. Le club serves a wide selection of quality liquors, and our knowledgeable bartenders even make their own signature cocktails. Le Club is famous in doing Mohito cocktail. Get here and you’ll know why it’s the favourite place of all foodies and night crawlers visiting Pondicherry.

Location: 38, Dumas Street, Beach Rd, South End, Puducherry, 605001 Timings: 7 pm – 11 pm Good For: Partying, eating, drinking Entry Fee: None Recommended Duration: 2 – 3 hours Distance From City Centre: 1 km

9. Promenade Beach – Relax Amidst Nature

If you need a calm and quaint place perfect for an evening stroll, this is among the calmest places to see in Pondicherry. The sea breeze and the sights and sounds work as a relaxing potion on your mind and make you forget about all the worries of the world. A stroll at this beach during sunrise or sunset with your better half by your side will surely be one of the most romantic things you do in Pondicherry. Make sure you add Promenade Beach to your list of places to visit in Pondicherry in one day.

Location: Pondicherry Timings: All days of week(12:00AM – 12:00PM) Good For: Experience Seekers,Fun Lovers,Adventure Seekers,Photo Fanatics Entry Fee: None, extra charge for water sports Recommended Duration: 2 – 3 hours Distance From City Centre: 12 kms

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10. White Town – Mix Of Past And Present

Pondicherry is, without a doubt, one of the best places to explore owing to the varied experiences it offers in a tiny space. It’s bright and vibrant culture and heritage is showcased in its multi-coloured lanes, smiling locales, jazzy nightlife, and bustling marketplaces. You can head to the White Town if you truly wish to explore this erstwhile French town to the fullest. There are a plethora of places to visit in White Town, Pondicherry . Take a walk around this culturally rich part of Pondy and see chic cafes, high-end boutiques, eye-warming yellow architecture, and much more. You can also interact with locals and get acquainted with their everyday life. While you’re here, don’t forget to dine at the Promenade Hotel popular for its finger-licking Tamilian cuisine and seafood delicacies.

Location: White Town, Pondicherry Timings: NA Good For: Couples, architecture fans, history lovers, foodies Entry Fee: None Recommended Duration: 2 – 3 hours Distance From City Centre: 1 km

11. Chunnambar Boat House – Amazing Cruise

Take a boat ride over the pristine backwaters of Pondicherry and they will surely bring you closer to nature. The Chunnambar Boat House is a delight for all nature lovers, not only because of the boat rides it offers, but also because of its stunning natural location where people can relax and rejuvenate. Either experience a thrilling boat ride over one of their traditional wooden cruises or head out into these lush environs for picnicking, hiking, and camping. It’s a great experience for couples and honeymooners as the ride and these activities allow them total seclusion in the lap of nature in an idyllic destination.

Location: National Highway 45A, Near Water Sports Complex, Nonankuppam, Pondicherry Timings: 9:30 AM – 5 PM Good For: Hiking, boating, picnics, camping, couples, nature lovers Entry Fee: INR 5 Recommended Duration: 2 – 3 hours Distance From City Centre: 3 kms

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12. Sita Cultural Centre – Cultural Centre

The Sita Cultural Centre is a very famous Franco-Indian cultural centre in Pondicherry and is one of the many places to visit in Pondicherry. Located on the Candappa Mudaliar Street, it happens to be one of the finest tourist attractions in Pondicherry that offers plenty of fun classes to visitors and locals. From Indian cooking, Kolam learning, Ayruvedic medicine, yoga, Pilates, and Tamil language, there are various interesting multiple and single session classes you can take here depending on your schedule. It’s a beautiful way to learn about the charming Pondy culture and be a part of it for a day or two!

Location: 22 Candappa Mudaliyar Street, Pondicherry 605001 Timings: 9 AM – 1 PM, 3 PM – 7:30 PM (Monday to Saturday) Good For: Families with kids, art lovers, spiritual nomads Entry Fee: None Recommended Duration: 2 – 3 hours Distance From City Centre: 300 m

13. Goubert Avenue – An Offbeat Location

Owing to Pondicherry’s perfect coastal location, Goubert Avenue beach road is an ideal place to hang out at for some thrilling and offbeat things to do in this city, especially if you’re visiting with kids. You can take a leisurely stroll on the beach road, go cycling, watch the surreal sunset and sunrise from here, or indulge in any other recreational activity. It’s a great place to spend the day with your loved ones without worrying about anything. The weather is usually always pleasant here because of its location and the cool sea breeze. And the best part – this seafront doesn’t allow traffic movement from 6:30 PM in the evening till 7:30 AM the next morning in order to provide visitors a peaceful and hassle-free outing here. This surely makes it one of the best places to visit in Pondicherry at night.

Location: White Town, Puducherry Timings: 6:30 PM – 7:30 AM (ideal) Good For: Romantic walks, sunset views, jogging, cycling Entry Fee: NA Recommended Duration: 2 – 3 hours Distance From City Centre: 1.3 kms

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14. Ousteri Lake – Bird Watching

Also known as the Osudu Lake, the Ousteri Lake happens to be the most Instagrammable and crucial freshwater man-made lake in Pondicherry. The lake is made up of marshes and mudflats and has been designated as one of the most important wetlands of Asia by the International Union for Conservation of Nature And Natural Resources Serene and spectacular, Ousteri provides some jaw-dropping views of the sunset as well as the rising sun. Out of the many good places to visit in Pondicherry offering a close affair with nature, Ousteri definitely wins the race! The region is rich in biodiversity and is home to various birds, even migratory during the onset of Spring.

Location: NA Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM Good For: Birdwatchers, nature lovers, photographers, couples, families with kids Entry Fee: NA Recommended Duration: 1 – 2 hours Distance From City Centre: 11 kms

15. Old Lighthouse – Marvelous Architecture

Pondicherry’s beloved Old Lighthouse was built by the French in the 19th century and serves as one of the most significant historical landmarks of the colonial rule in Pondicherry and also a popular sight to boost Pondicherry tourism. It once served as the only guiding light for passing or docking ships in the ocean spread across the Red Hills. But today, it merely stands as a humble reminder of the engineering and architecture of those days, while also serving as a picturesque attraction for tourists. It’s a delightful place for history geeks, architecture fanatics, as well as photographers.

Location: Rock Beach, White Town, Pondicherry Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM Good For: Sunset views, architecture, history lovers, couples Entry Fee: None Recommended Duration: 1 hour Distance From City Centre: 1 km

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16. Pondy Bazaar – Shopping Spree

If you wish to buy handmade art pieces and traditional souvenirs during your Pondicherry trip, you must head to the Pondy Bazaar. A haven for shopaholics, this market showcases traditional merchandise from the best craftsmen and artisans in the region so that you can buy delightful Pondy handicrafts at rock-bottom rates in the best quality. When here, you can also witness goldsmiths and silversmiths going about their daily tasks in their respective shops and interact with them to know how they convert raw materials into such beautiful artworks with such skill and dexterity. After a shopping spree in Pondy Bazaar, one of the best places to visit in Pondicherry with friends, you can try local delicacies at any of the famous cafes.

Location: T. Nagar, Pondicherry Timings: NA Good For: Handicrafts, silver and gold art pieces, metalware, home decor items Entry Fee: None Recommended Duration: 3 hours Distance From City Centre: 145 kms

17. Raj Niwas – Stunningly Beautiful

The official residence of the Lieutenant Governor (currently Dr. Iqbal Singh), the stunning Raj Niwas is among the most important buildings in Pondicherry. It has once served as a palace to the French royals during the colonial rule, wherein it was the residence of Dupleix, the official French Governor of that time who had gained notoriety for his attempt at destroying the prestigious Manakula Vinayagar Temple. It is presently located in the Government Park and only a few parts of this building are open for public viewing. It’s a delight for tourists owing to its well-kept parks and gardens, along with the sculptures belonging to the medieval and contemporary era that drives history lovers here. A visit to this place is sure to give you meaningful insight into the culture and life of Pondicherry.

Location: Ranga Pillai St, White Town, Puducherry, 605001 Timings: 12 noon – 6:30 PM Good For: History geeks, architecture, families with kids Entry Fee: None Recommended Duration: 1 hours Distance From City Centre: 3 kms

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18. French War Memorial – Remembering The Martyrs

The French War Memorial was built in 1971 on the Goubert Avenue (The Promenade) to serve as a reminder of the brave soldiers who laid down their lives during World War-I (1916-1919) is one of the sites that contribute to Pondicherry tourism in a tremendous way. Other than remembering their sacrifice, the memorial tries to convey that war leaves nothing but fatalities behind and doesn’t ever provide solutions. If you wish to see this place in its full glory, try and visit on the Bastille Day that takes place on 14th July every year when the memorial is lit up in a fascinating manner. When here, you should also visit the Gandhi Statue located nearby.

Location: Mahe de Labourdonnais St, White Town, Puducherry, 605001 Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM Good For: Patriots, history lovers, photographers, students Entry Fee: None Recommended Duration: 1 hour Distance From City Centre: 3 kms

19. Pondicherry Botanical Garden – Amazing Beauty

The Pondicherry Botanical Garden is one of the popular Pondicherry sightseeing sites. Other than providing a refreshing respite to travelers from the blazing sun and heat, the park also gives them a chance to roam amid old-world French architecture and walk amidst rare and beautiful species of flora. You and your loved ones will definitely love to go out on a picnic at this park while also enjoying children’s train rides, charming sights of fountains, sweet flowerbeds, aquariums, as well as the sounds of birds chirping from inside pruned trees. Other than endless natural beauty, it houses over 1500 exotic varieties of plants brought in from around the world. Don’t forget to attend the musical fountain shows held here every weekend.

Location: Marimalai, Maraimalai Adigal Salai, Near Anna Statue, Orleanpet, Puducherry, 605001 Timings: 9 AM – 6 PM Good For: Nature lovers, couples and honeymooners, botany enthusiasts, picnics, families with kids Entry Fee: INR 20, free for children below 12 years Recommended Duration: 2 – 3 hours Distance From City Centre: 1 km

Suggested Read: 11 Best Beaches In Pondicherry

20. Rock Beach – Time To Relax

Showcasing the beauty of rocks residing against the peaceful waters this mesmerizing island is a gateway to popular places to explore in Pondicherry. Whether you are interested in a pleasant stroll with your partner or grabbing the local delicacies, this Rock Beach is a perfect place to have leisurely hours at your own pace. This is one of the most amazing places to visit in Pondicherry.

Location: White Town, Puducherry, 605001 Timings: 24-hours Good For: Perfect beach time Entry Fee: INR 20, free for children below 12 years Recommended Duration: 2 – 3 hours Distance From City Centre: 100m

21. Mahatma Gandhi Statue – Paying Tribute

The Mahatma Gandhi Statue in Pondicherry is one of the most popular tourist spots in Pondicherry which is located across the street from another popular monument, Jawaharlal Nehru statue. The Mahatma Gandhi statue is surrounded by eight magnificent granite pillars which according to the locals was transported from Gingee, the fort located nearly 70 kilometers away from the city. The amazing park surrounding the garden enhances the beauty of this spot.

Location: Beach Rd, White Town, Puducherry, 605001 Timings: Open 24-hours Good For: sightseeing and beautiful park Entry Fee: NA Recommended Duration: 30 minutes to 1 hour Distance From City Centre: 3 kms

Suggested Read: 9 Best Villas In Pondicherry

22. The Pondicherry Museum – Explore The History

Pondicherry is globally known for its architecture, sculpture, and cultural heritages. If you are interested in knowing the past story of this beautiful island then do plan a visit to this illuminating Pondicherry museum. It tops the list of best places to visit in Pondicherry and is visited by a large number of tourists from across the nation. The museum also comprises the remains of Arikamedu Roman settlements along with exhibiting the rare collections from the Chola and Pallava dynasties.

Location: Easwaran Kovil Street, Canteen St, Puducherry Timings: 9:00 AM-6:30 PM Good For: Collections of the Cholas and Pallavas dynasties, artifacts from Dravidian culture & Roman empires Entry Fee: NA Recommended Duration: 30 minutes to 1 hour Distance From City Centre: 3 kms

23. Bharati Government Park – Walk Into The Wild

Bharati Park is amongst the most organized and serene parks in India and features a beautiful pond along with an exclusive local museum which makes it one of the popular Pondicherry sightseeing spots. The park serves as the green center of Pondicherry is believed to be a French town of earlier times. Located amidst the mountains and traffic park, this park gives you an opportunity to have a perfect time with your family, especially kids.

Location: 20, Rue Saint Gilles Street, White Town, Puducherry Timings: 6:30 AM-8:30 PM Good For: Natural beauty & local museum, adventurous activities for kids Entry Fee: None Recommended Duration: 2 – 3 hours Distance From City Centre: 3 kms

Suggested Read: Nightlife In Pondicherry

24. Statue Of Dupleix – Revisit The Past

The statue of Dupleix was constructed in the year 1870 to pay respect to the French governor Dupleix who rules the place until 1754. Made up of granite, this nearly 3 meters high statue symbolizes the legacy of the French colonial rule. If you are holidaying in Pondicherry and planning a visit to Rock Beach and National Park, then do hop into this spot to indulge in the past of Pondicherry.

Location: Marquis Dupleix Goubert Ave Street, Duppuypet, Puducherry Timings: Open 24-hours Good For: Sightseeing and the surrounding park Entry Fee: None Recommended Duration: 1 hour Distance From City Centre: 3 kms

25. Eglise de Notre Dame des Anges – Picturesque Church

Eglise de Notre Dame des Anges is a beautiful church that showcases the influence of French architecture. Visited by the tourists of all religions, this church is worth exploring as the stunning white chapel and the statue of Mother Mary is mesmerizing. The church also houses numerous relics and statues of Joan’s Arc. If you are interested in celebrating mass then do visit the church on Sunday. Undoubtedly, it is one of the best places to see in Pondicherry.

Location: Rue Dumas, Pondicherry Timings: 7:00 AM-6:30 PM Good For: Prayer and Sightseeing Entry Fee: None Recommended Duration: 1 – 2 hours Distance From City Centre: 3 kms

Suggested Read: 12 Honeymoon Places In Tamil Nadu

26. Immaculate Conception Cathedral – Sanctum Of God

Another beautiful church in Pondicherry is Immaculate Conception Cathedral which is locally known as ‘samba kovil’. It is one of the oldest churches in Pondicherry and reminds the period of Portuguese in India and is one of the most beautiful places to see in Pondicherry. This mother church of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese is a must-visit attraction of Pondicherry.

Location: Mission St, MG Road Area, Pondicherry Timings: 7:00 AM-12:00 PM & 3:00 PM-8:30 PM Good For: Prayer and Portuguese architecture Entry Fee: None Recommended Duration: 1 – 2 hours Distance From City Centre: 3 kms

27. Varadaraja Perumal Temple – Experience Tranquility

Varadaraja Perumal temple is also known as Vaishnavite temple and is a remarkable temple exhibiting the Dravidian-style of architecture and is one of the best tourist places in Pondicherry. The temple was built by the Cholas and later expanded by the Pandavas. The temple is home to the enchanting idol of Lord Vishnu along with his wives Shridevi and Bhudevi. The temple is visited by pilgrims and travelers throughout the year but attracts maximum visitors during Chaumasa.

Location: Mahatma Gandhi Rd, Heritage Town, Pondicherry Timings: 6:00 AM-12:00 PM & 4:00 PM-9:00 PM Good For: Prayer and ancient architecture Entry Fee: None Recommended Duration: 1 – 2 hours Distance From City Centre: 3 kms

Suggested Read: Monsoon In Tamil Nadu

28. Cluny Embroidery Centre – Vintage Handicrafts

One of the exclusive things to see in Pondicherry, the Cluny embroidery Center, is a place where you will see underprivileged women working day and night and producing beautiful hand-stitched designs. The local convent of Pondicherry also conducts regular workshops here and offers exclusive vintage handicrafts.

Location: White Town, Pondicherry Timings: 8:30 AM-12:00 PM & 2:00 PM-5:00 PM Good For: Shop for the vintage handicraft collections Entry Fee: None Recommended Duration: 1 – 2 hours Distance From City Centre: 3 kms

29. Manakula Vinayagar Temple – Place Of Enlightenment

The beautiful Hindu temple, Manakula Vinayagar Temple is dedicated to the Lord Ganesha and is one of the best tourist attractions in Pondicherry. It is quite a popular pilgrimage site reminding the era of colonization in India. During the period of Dupleix, numerous attempts were made to destroy the temple, however, the locals along with Marathas revolted aggressively to save the temple. The temple is also famous for a well-known saint, named, Thollaikkathu Siddhar, who attained enlightenment from the same temple.

Location: Manakula Vinayagar Koil St, White Town, Puducherry Timings: 5:45 AM-12:30 PM & 4:00 PM-9:30 PM Good For: Pilgrimage, and sightseeing Entry Fee: None Recommended Duration: 1 – 2 hours Distance From City Centre: 3 kms

30. Kanniga Parameswari Temple – Mesmerizing Premises

Counted among the top tourist places to visit in Pondicherry, this stunning temple is dedicated to Goddess Shakti and the temple exhibit the amalgamation of French and Deccan architecture. This mesmerizing temple lures pilgrims from across the world during festivals and marriages. It is amongst the best places to visit in Pondicherry . If you love taking selfies and photographs then don’t miss out on this place while holidaying in Pondicherry.

Location: M.G. Road, Pondicherry Timings: 6:00 AM-11:00 PM & 5:00 PM-8:00 PM Good For: Pilgrimage, and sightseeing Entry Fee: None Recommended Duration: 1 – 2 hours Distance From City Centre: 1.1 kms

31. ISKCON Pondicherry – A Day With God

ISKCON Pondicherry is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Pondicherry where one can feel the divine connection. The maha-mantra chanting, Vaishnav cafe, and gift shop here are a true delight, giving you a perfect chance to enjoy the melodious chanting, followed by having the relishing maha prasad and later checking out gift items from the shop.

Location: No. 2-B, 7th Cross Corner, Krishna Nagar Main Road, Krishna Nagar, Pondicherry Timings: 5:00 AM-8:30 PM Good For: Prayer, chanting, and shopping Entry Fee: None Recommended Duration: 1 – 2 hours Distance From City Centre: 4 kms

Suggested Read: 5 Nightlife Experiences In Pondicherry

32. Serenity Beach – Pristine Beach

Looking for the perfect places to see in Pondicherry? Imagine a pristine shoreline sprinkled with sparkling sand, glittering waves, and colorful fishing boats – yes, we are talking about the picture-perfect Serenity Beach in Pondicherry. Studded with swaying palm plantations, this stunning fishermen’s village and beach provide travelers with utmost relaxation and a chilled-out ambiance. When here, visitors can also indulge in activities like surfing, sunbathing, and even fishing. Various trained guides on the beach also offer surfing lessons to travelers at dirt cheap rates. This offbeat yet spectacular beach is your perfect refuge if you’re looking for a pretty beach without the noisy tourist crowd. You can also get some Catch Of The Day from the fishermen (use your pro bargaining skills).

Location: Kottakuppam, Puducherry, Tamil Nadu 605101 Timings: 24 hours Good For: Surfing, fishing, sunbathing, relaxation, photographers, couples Entry Fee: None Recommended Duration: 1 – 2 hours Distance From City Centre: 7 kms

33. Yanam Beach – Take A Stroll

Yanam is an enclave town and district in Pondicherry. It is situated at the confluence of River Godavari and its tributary the River Coringa. Deeply influenced by the French colonial rule, it has a history of about 200 years. Yanam Beach is one of the most popular places to visit in Pondicherry. Also known as Rajiv Gandhi Beach, this is relaxing spot in Yanam. Sit on the cement chairs installed at the beach, watching the waves or simply take a stroll. Taking a ferry ride is also an exciting things to do here.

Location: Yanam, Pondicherry Timings: Sunrise to Sunset Good For: Relaxing, strolling, family picnic Entry Fee: None Recommended Duration: 2 – 3 hours Distance From City Centre: 595 kms

Suggested Read: 20 Spectacular Places Near Pondicherry

34. Sri Karneshwar Nataraja Temple – Unique Design

Sri Karneshwar Nataraja Temple is a unique designed in the shape of the Egyptian pyramids. This temple is one of the best places to visit in Pondicherry in a day. It is situated on the Pudukuppam Beach, and is dedicated to Hindu God, Shiva. It was built in 2000 by the Chairman of Auroville Foundation, Dr. Karan Singh. The original structure was destroyed by the 2004 Tsunami, and was rebuilt in a bigger size. The placement of Lord Shiva’s statue has also a lot of significance, relating to his third eye. There are 3 paths for pradakshina or revolving around the temple.

Location: Eco Village And Spa, Gangaiamman Koil Street Beside Dune, Keelputhupet, Tamil Nadu 605014 Timings: NA Good For: sightseeing and worship Entry Fee: None Recommended Duration: 1 – 2 hours Distance From City Centre: 3 kms

35. Ganesh Garden – Secluded Place

Ganesh Garden is a small botanical garden and nursery in Pondicherry. Located in a residential building, a French couple has maintained the garden. Full of bushes, trees and flowers, with seating area here and there, this place feels cozy and refreshing. If you are looking for places to visit in Pondicherry for couples, then this is the spot to be at. This is where you can hangout if you want an earthy and less crowded space.

Location: 12, Ramaraja St, MG Road Area, Puducherry, 605001 Timings: NA Good For: Relaxing, strolling Entry Fee: Nominal fee Recommended Duration: 3 hours Distance From City Centre: 2 kms

Suggested Read: 5 Resorts Near Pondicherry

36. Ananda Ranga Pillai Mansion – Must Visit

Pondicherry is known for its heritage buildings from the French colonial era. Ananda Ranga Pillai is one such ancient structure located opposite to Grand Bazaar. Built in 1735, this is one of the few private mansions that lasted after the British invasion. Also known as Native Quarters, this mansion was named after Ananda Ranga Pillai, a French Governor’s courtier. This structure has been designed in European architectural style and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Pondicherry.

Location: MG Road Area, Puducherry, 605001 Timings: NA Good For: Heritage sightseeing Entry Fee: None Recommended Duration: 1 – 2 hours Distance From City Centre: 3 kms

37. Aayi Mandapam – Time In History

Aayi Mandapam is a monument which was built during the time of Napoleon III. Also famous as Park Monument, it was named after the lady courtesan who was called Ayi. She had given away the land where her house stood to build a reservoir for the entire city. The term ‘Mandapam’ in Tamil refers to a temple porch. Located amidst Bharathi Park, t his monument is surrounded by beautiful lawns, gardens and granite benches. It is one of the best places to visit in Puducherry for all nature lovers.

Location: Bharati Park, White Town, Puducherry, 605001 Timings: 9 am – 7 pm Good For: strolling, relaxing, sightseeing Entry Fee: None Recommended Duration: 1 – 2 hours Distance From City Centre: 3 kms

Suggested Read: 10 Churches In Pondicherry

38. Seafront Promenade – Amazing Experiences

Pondicherry is known for its stunning Seaside Promenade which is one of the popular places to visit in Pondicherry. Designed in the signature French style, it has come to symbolize this union territory. The promenade is well maintained, clean and wide enough for a relaxing evening stroll. The beautiful sight and the cafes lining this place makes your experience amazing.

Location: NA Timings: NA Good For: Strolling, relaxing, family picnic, photography Entry Fee: None Recommended Duration: 2 hours Distance From City Centre: 3 kms

39. Veerampattinam Beach – Exquisite Views

Veerampattinam is the largest coastal village in Pondicherry. The village is lined by rivers on both sides that act as natural shield from the cyclones and is one of the top places to visit in Pondicherry. Veerampattinam is an old village which has a history of about 1000 years. The popular Veerampattinam Beach has one of the longest coastlines in Pondicherry. This makes it a perfect place for long relaxing strolls. You would also notice some major fishing activities being conducted here throughout the day. The fishing nets lining the coastline make some of the perfect scenes for your pictures.

Location: Veerampattinam, Puducherry Timings: 4 am – 9 pm Good For: beaching, strolling, relaxing, fishing Entry Fee: None Recommended Duration: 1 – 2 hours Distance From City Centre: 3 kms

Suggested Read: Shopping In Pondicherry

40. Arikamedu – Beautiful Ruins

If you are looking for offbeat tourist attractions in Pondicherry then Arikamedu is one of those. An ancient Roman trade centre, the name comes from the Tamil word ‘Arikanmedu’ which when translated means ‘an eroding mount’ and speaks volumes about Indo-Roman connections and this is a place that you can’t miss if you are a history buff.

Location: Ariyankuppam, Puducherry 605007 Timings: 10 AM – 4 PM Good For: Getting to know the history and culture of the place better. Entry Fee: None Recommended Duration: 2 – 3 hours Distance From City Centre: 2 kms

41. Chunambar Boathouse – Paradise

Popular by the name of ‘Plae Paradiso’, Chunambar Boathouse is a beautiful boating spot in the backwaters, a place where the river meets Bay of Bengal and believe us when we say that any adjective won’t justify how marvelous it looks. One of the top tourist places in Pondicherry , you can also sun lounge at Chunambar or maybe indulge in some beach sports.

Location: Chunnambar River, Puducherry Timings: 8 AM – 6 PM Good For: Boating and witnessing backwaters Entry Fee: INR 5 Recommended Duration: 2 – 3 hours Distance From City Centre: 3 kms

Suggested Read: 9 Hill Stations Near Pondicherry

42. Meeran Mosque – Oldest Mosque In Pondicherry

Image Credit: Pxhere

Disclaimer: The image is for representation purposes only.

Meeran Mosque is the oldest mosque in Pondicherry and is amongst the best tourist attractions in Pondicherry. Established around three hundred and fifty years ago, it is famous for its distinct Gothic Islamic style architecture. Built by the Arcod Nawabs, it is one of the most sacred sites in the region.

Location: Yanam Vengadasalam Pillai St, MG Road Area, Puducherry, 605001 Timings: Madrasa from 6:30 PM to 8:00 PM Good For: Serene ambience, enchanting prayers Entry Fee: None Recommended Duration: 1 – 2 hours Distance From City Centre: 2 kms

Best Time To Visit Pondicherry

Image Credit: Karthik Easvur for Wikimedia Commons

Pondicherry is a ravishing city and attracts a lot of travelers. The best time to visit Pondicherry is in the winter season as the weather is pleasant and you can make the most out of your vacation by exploring the famous tourist attractions. The summer season between April to June is extremely hot and you won’t be able to explore the city properly. Plan your trip between October to March and get ready to experience the best of everything. From enticing activities to tourist attractions, you can tick off it all from your itinerary while enjoying cool weather.

Suggested Read: 25 Restaurants In Pondicherry

How To Reach Pondicherry

Image Credit: Bottlein for Pixabay

All set for your trip? Take a look at the ways through which you can reach Pondicherry. From the nearest airport to the railway station, here are all the details you need to know!

• By Air: You can take a connecting flight from Chennai to Pondicherry. Chennai Airport is well-connected with all major cities in India.
• By Rail: The nearest railway station to Pondicherry is Villupuram. You can hire a taxi from Villupuram railway station to Pondicherry as it is located around 38 kilometers only.
• By Bus : Local buses are available from cities like Chennai, Bangalore and Coimbatore.

Ideal Duration: To make the most of your vacation, you must at least spend 4 days exploring all the popular tourist attractions and try all the must-dos.

Further Read: 5 Walking Tours In Pondicherry

So, now that your exhaustive list of the best places to visit in Pondicherry is ready, when do you plan to leave? What can be a better time than now? Plan your trip to Pondicherry with the help of TravelTriangle at once and savor all that this delightful little seaside town has to offer to you and your loved ones! Happy Tripping!

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Frequently Asked Questions About Places to Visit in Pondicherry

What are the best places to visit in Pondicherry?

Paradise Beach, Aurobindo Ashram, Seaside Promenade, Promenade Beach, Serenity Beach, Auroville Beach, Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, Rock Beach, Ouster Lake, Varadaraja, Perumal Temple, etc. are the top tourist attractions in Pondicherry.

Which month is best for Pondicherry?

The best time to visit Pondicherry is between October to March. The weather remains pleasant during this time with temperatures ranging between 15 degree Celsius to 30 degrees Celsius.

What is the old name of Pondicherry?

Puducherry is the old and the official name of Pondicherry. Do visit the French capital of India which will create beautiful memories for you and your family.

Which language is spoken in Pondicherry?

Tamil, Telugu, and Malayalam are the regional languages spoken in Pondicherry but the locals are quite familiar with the English.

Which are the famous beaches in Pondicherry?

The following are the most popular beaches in Pondicherry: 1. Auroville Beach 2. Promenade Beach 3. Paradise Beach 4. Serenity Beach 5. Mahe Beach 6. Karaikal Beach 7. Reppo Beach

How many days are enough for Pondicherry?

There are lots of sightseeing places in Pondicherry to explore. Specifically, if you are looking to visit Pondicherry then 4 days would be sufficient to see the places nearby also.

Why is Auroville famous?

The Auroville Visitors Center is a popular place for first-time visitors. It was constructed in 1988 with grants from HUDCO and the Foundation for World Education. It has become famous for its architecture and energy-saving construction materials.

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Perfect 3 Day Pondicherry Itinerary – Top Things to See and Do

Pondicherry in South India is one of the best getaways. If you are thinking of a trip to Pondicherry, then read on for a perfect Pondicherry itinerary.

Puducherry, the coastal Union Territory in South India , is one of the best winter getaways. If you like the sea, sun and good food, taking a trip to Puducherry will surely be refreshing and adventurous. Pondicherry, Puducherry and Pondy are the different names by which this enticing part of India is known as. If you are thinking of a trip to Pondicherry, then read on for a perfect Pondicherry itinerary .

Table of Contents

Perfect 3 Days Pondicherry Itinerary: Top Things to See, Do & Everything Else

Until 1954 Pondicherry was a French colonial settlement and therefore it has a lot of French influence in its architecture and food. A trip to Pondicherry and a walk about the streets will give you a sense of the legacy that the French have left behind. The tree-lined streets, the boutiques, the villas all of them take you back in time. Additionally, it shares its borders with the state of Tamil Nadu, which also ensures it shares cultures with the state of Tamil Nadu .

The beaches in Pondicherry are a treat in itself. Promenade Beach, Paradise Beach, Auroville Beach, Mahe Beach, Serenity Beach, and Karaikal Beach are just some of the many popular beaches that one can spend time enjoying basking in the sun. Beach resorts in Pondicherry make for a relaxing and rejuvenating stay. The beaches are of course bound to be a part of any Pondicherry itinerary.

The food is something that will make you want to come back for more. The pastries, pizzas, croissants, south Indian fare, North Indian options are available and worth trying in any restaurant. There are many cafes (hole-in-the-wall or otherwise) and street food that are certainly must try . Experiencing the food is again a must whether you are on a Pondicherry itinerary for 2 days, Pondicherry itinerary for 3 days, or following a Pondicherry itinerary for 4 days.

We were also told that there is a great nightlife of dancing and celebrations that happen throughout the year. It carries with it the culture of the old, such as it’s French heritage, and Aurobindo’s influences, and temples and also caters to people that want to party and eat out. It just further proves that Pondy is a place where the old meets the new. The Puducherry itinerary is a complete feast for the senses with varied heritage, cultural, and epicurean nuances.

There are many things to do in Puducherry , however, we had to pack in as much as we could in just three days. So, I and my wife had to make some tough choices on what to see. I am sure there is a lot we have missed out on. Nonetheless, here is a list of things we did in our three-day visit to Pondicherry, which should be helpful in planning your own Pondicherry itinerary.

How to reach Pondicherry / Puducherry

• Puducherry or Pondicherry is Union Territory located in Southern India
• Chennai to Pondicherry distance is about 153 kilometres
• There is an airport in Puducherry which has limited flights under the UDAAN scheme
• The other nearest airport is Chennai International Airport at a distance of about 148 kilometres

If you are planning a trip to Pondicherry, you can book a cheap flight through TripAdvisor  or  Agoda  or  CheapAir  or  Cleartrip  or  Makemytrip  or  Priceline right here.  If you are thinking of a road trip to from Chennai to Pondicherry or Bangalore to Pondicherry or anywhere in India check out the rental car  and  bus  options.

Where to stay in Pondicherry / Puducherry

There are many places to stay in Pondicherry for everyone with different budget sizes. You can find the poshest rooms at the biggest hotels or find a homestay at a lesser budget. However, for the most part, if you are travelling to Pondicherry in all likelihood you will find many reasons to leave the room rather than stay in it. For example, Ananda Inn is cheaper than The Promenade.  At The Promenade, the room charges per night vary depending upon the view of the room that you choose. That being said there are many more options, in between, above and below you can opt for based on your budget to stay in Puducherry.

One can also choose beach resorts in Puducherry – beach resorts in Pondicherry and enjoy and have a relaxed stay in Pondicherry.

For your Pondicherry accommodation If you are looking for the best hotels in Puducherry   – best hotels in Pondicherry to book, you can do that right here. You can book your hotel in Puducherry – your hotel in Pondicherry through TripAdvisor  or  Cleartrip  or  Agoda  or  Makemytrip  or  Priceline  conveniently right here!

Tours And Activities in Pondicherry

You can plan your Pondicherry itinerary and book your  Puducherry trips – Pondicherry trips, right here.  So go ahead and book online places to see in Pondicherry and indulge in popular activities in Puducherry – popular activities in Pondicherry and cover attractions in Puducherry – attractions in Pondicherry. If you are planning a day trip from Chennai to Puducherry – a day trip from Chennai to Pondicherry then you can book online one day trips from Chennai to Puducherry – one-day trips from Chennai to Pondicherry.

When to go to Pondicherry / Puducherry 

  Puducherry, fondly called Pondy, tends to get pretty warm during the summers. So, if you prefer a calmer experience without having to experience the wrath of the Pondy summers, the winters are ideal. Go there anytime between October and February. The weather is pleasant and you can have maximum fun.

How to move around in Pondicherry / Puducherry?

If you do not drive there yourself or have access to your transport there are many ways to move around in Pondy. You can hire cycles if you want to see the place while cycling. If you are a biker, you have many places that let you hire bikes. There are auto-rickshaws you can hire to take you around to all tourist spots. Also, some cabs can be hired for a day or a half and more. Therefore, there is no dearth of options when it comes to travel in this place.

This said, here is what we did on our 3-day trip. What we want to call the Perfect 3-day Pondicherry trip. After we were done, and reading this, I guarantee you will want to visit it, as we do.

When visiting Pondicherry you can also avail of package tours that will cover other must-visit places in and around Pondicherry. You can plan your trip and book online places to visit in Puducherry – places to visit in Puducherry.

3 Day Pondicherry Itinerary – Day 1 in Pondicherry / Puducherry

My wife and I drove down to Pondy from Chennai, and even before we reached there we could not resist visiting Mahabalipuram which is en route on the ECR. The heritage town is a must-see for its wonders, beaches, and sculptures. After experiencing Mamallapuram , we headed to Pondy. We reached Puducherry or Pondicherry and we checked into The Promenade in White Town. Surely, it is an upscale hotel, but it is right there on the Promenade Beach with a great view. So, our first place to see in Pondy had already been checked.

The Promenade

The Promenade has a great lunch buffet so we indulged in it. They also had outdoor seating if you wanted to brave the sun and listen to the sounds of the ocean.

After relaxing for a bit we headed for the adventures of Pondy. Here are some of the places we saw on our trip to Pondicherry  on day one.

Aurobindo Ashram

First stop was the Aurobindo ashram. Had heard a lot about him and the ideology and had to see that place. It is a place that enables everyone to sit and meditate. They also have a library if you want to go looking.

Manakula Vinayagar Temple

Walking distance away is the Manakula Vinayagar Temple. We went there and the architecture of the place was simply stunning. It is a temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha and has one of the most beautiful ceilings, paintings and sculptures. It is huge and we took our time to look at every part of it as we walked through for the darshan.

Basilica of the Sacred Heart

Then we headed to the Basilica of the Sacred Heart, again a heritage place. It is built based on Gothic architecture and is something to marvel at. It is believed to be one of the few Basilica churches in India and set up by French missionaries in 1908. An interesting thing I learnt online was that there are 21 Basilica churches in India and Pondy is the home to one of them.

French War Memorial

We went to the French War Memorial that was built for the soldier for those who lost their lives in the first world war. Visiting that place was a humbling experience. Those young people could fight for a cause at such a young age and knowing they could die is something that is moving and chilling at the same time. Their sacrifices are represented by this French War Memorial and are a must-visit place in Pondy.

Botanical Garden

This is certainly one of those places you must see if you are a flower lover. It is believed to have been built by the French and is a garden true to its name. You can take time looking through the different flora and fauna. You also get to see paintings, sculptures and photography of nature as an additional treat for your eyes. We surely had a lot of fun strolling through the garden and identifying different plants and flowers.

Bakers Street

We then headed to the famous Baker’s street. It is not too far away from the Promenade and has great french influences. If you are craving for french croissants, sandwiches, and coffee this is the place to go. We had our dinner at Bakers street. We had a lovely time with delicious food and ended it with the perfect dessert as well. A perfect place, self-service, and unmatchable taste.

Asian House

Though we were full, we had to experience the nightlife in Pondy. We were told the Asian House is one of the hot spots close to The Promenade and yes they had a dance floor. We had to check it out. It certainly was everything it promised. A dance floor, with a really good DJ, great food options and lots of liquor from different parts of the world. The food was also pretty multi-cuisine in terms of what they offered. We did, of course, enjoy shaking those legs to the DJs music.

What was left was a stroll on the Promenade beach and see the Gandhi statue and retire for the night.

3 Day Pondicherry Itinerary – Day 2 in Pondicherry / Puducherry

Day 2 we started with breakfast at The Promenade. It included an entire continental fair with a touch of Tamil food options. But we were mostly excited to leave for our next destination in our list of things to do in Puducherry.

Visit Auroville

Auroville is one of those must-visit places if you travel to Pondy. It is certainly recognized for its architectural show. It is believed to be a 20 square kilometres site founded in 1968 by the Aurobindo Spiritual Collaborator. The Matrimandir Temple, designed by Roger Anger is one of those marvels that is a must-visit place in Pondicherry. However, The Auroville Visitor Center, designed by Suhasini Iyer-Guigan is also something astonishing to see.

Auroville Beach

Auroville beach popularly known as Auro Beach is a part of Auroville Ashram and is a beach in Pondicherry that is secluded. It is cleaner than most beaches. We decided to take a look and got a beautiful glimpse of it. It may be one of the few beaches you can wet your feet in. However, we were told that high tide is something that we need to watch out for. The beach closes around 6.30 PM.

Lunch at Surguru

After the long walks, it was time to head back to Pondy. For lunch, we decided to go with Surguru. It is one of the most popular vegetarian restaurants in Pondicherry that offers multiple food options. We had the South Indian meals there, and of course, the suggestions did not fail us. It was delicious and everything we had hoped it would be. The ambience of the restaurant is great along with the divinity of their food flavours.

Paradise Island

Paradise Beach or Island is an isolated island located at Chunnambar. The beach is mesmerizing and because of the shallow waters, we saw many kids having great fun there. There is nothing that can replace a serene, breathtaking sunset that we experienced at this beach. We enjoyed the boat ride to the place. It wasn’t expensive and has the best and cleanest beach in the area. It is one of the gorgeous beaches. Possibly a place where I have seen the best sunsets in my life. It obviously got more special because I had my partner with me.

Dinner at Cafe Xtasi

What is a trip to Pondy without experiencing their pizza? That is exactly what we did on Day 2 with Cafe Xtasi. We indulged in their awesome pizzas. It is a vegetarian-friendly treat that people can have a lot of fun in the evening. It is safe to book a table in advance. Their variety of pasta is great too if you are into that kind of thing. For us, it was wood fire pizza all the way.

3 Day Pondicherry Itinerary – Day 3 in Pondicherry / Puducherry

Our last day in Pondy we were already sad to leave. But we needed to head back to Chennai soon. Not without getting a final glimpse of most that are pondy, because we know we have not seen it all and we will be back. But we had to get most of it.

Breakfast at Crêpe in Touch

What is the point of going to a place that has french influence and not trying crepes? So, for breakfast, we landed in Crepe in touch to get our bellies introduced to and satisfied by our crepe cravings. The ambience, the place, the location, just about everything worked for us. What, however, blew our mind was the crepes themselves. They have all the options you need. Vegetarian, vegan, whatever you need they are happy to serve up.

Shopping at Casablanca

Local shopping was a great option for us to carry home the rich culture of Puducherry. So, we headed for some quick shopping at Casablanca, which is a 3-floor departmental store. It is a great place for local shopping in Pondicherry. You will find an amazing range of candles, perfumes, trendy jewellery, furnishing, handicrafts, locally made pottery items, leather products and more. They have a great collection of homemade chocolates. You can spend an entire day shopping in Pondicherry, but we quickly bought a few items and headed to our next destination. Shopping in Pondicherry is an experience to cherish and definitely an integral part of any Pondicherry itinerary.

Puducherry Museum / Pondicherry Museum

Yes, had to go there to get a sense of history. I and my wife live for the moment, surely, but appreciate and respect the past. We realize that what happens in our pasts shapes what we are now and what will make us in the future. So, that was our next stop. To understand history. On Saint Louis street it has bronze and stone sculptures way back from dynasties like the Pallavas and Cholas. It is certainly a treat if you have any curiosity for history in you.

Lunch at Dilliwala6

We heard a lot about this place and had to try it out on our own. As usual, the suggestions did not fail us. If you miss your North Indian fair after eating a lot of French and South Indian food, this is a North Indian restaurant in Puducherry you must try. They serve up all kinds of good North Indian food, while their paneer dishes require a special mention apart from their dal makhani and the ambience and the courtesy of the staff.

It was clear to us that we had to head back post-lunch to avoid the traffic and we did have a plan en route as well. So, we decided we have seen all we need to see on our trip to Pondicherry. Surely we will come back and explore Pondy again for its beauty that it beholds! Now it became our dear Pondy, not Puducherry.

However, now without a pitstop. We had to try the boating at Muthukad that we have learnt and heard about so much with love and nostalgia.

Boat Ride in Muttukadu

Muttukadu is a great lake that you can go boating, depending on how much time you have you can choose to select the different boats. We picked the speed version. We wanted to make sure that we skip the traffic as much as we possibly could, while we enjoy the experience. The Muttukadu boat ride was a magnificent experience and a time well spent. It was beautiful, wind in our hair and smiles all around. It was certainly a boat ride to remember.

Pondy, what a place, what a great trip it was. As we travel outside the country, we often forget that there is so much beauty in our backyard. It is one of those places where you can kick back and relax amongst wonderful and friendly people. It is a place that has something for everyone. There are places to stay at different budgets, there are places to eat at different budgets, and places to go and things to do based on your interest. It doesn’t matter what, when and where, all you need to do is just ask and go.

We cannot help but reminisce about our trip to Puducherry. The tree-lined boulevards, the heritage buildings, the beaches, the food, the spirituality all of these are things that my wife and I will carry with us forever. There are very few travels I have made where everything came together all in one place.

Typically, different places are known for different things. Some places you can go to for the temples, other places you might go-to for the food, other places for the architecture, while other places you may go for adventures. You can go to Pondy and satisfy all your needs. What’s greater is that especially if you live in Chennai it is just about a 3-hour drive from it. That means Chennaiats have a bigger advantage than most others.

There are discotheques, romantic getaways, lounge bars, boathouses, restaurants, hotels, beaches and more that remain unexplored by us. All things said and done, there is one thing for sure, there are many things to do in Pondicherry aka Puducherry or Pondy as we have fondly come to call it. Our dear Pondy, we are definitely going to return and explore it more.

Hope you found this Pondicherry travel blog post useful and you will use this Pondicherry itinerary to plan your trip to Pondy!

This is a guest post by Gulshan Bafna.  

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33 thoughts on “perfect 3 day pondicherry itinerary – top things to see and do”.

I love the idea that you can eat South Indian food for one meal, French for another, and then some North Indian food, and it all be authentic to the area. I rather suspect that I’d spend too much money in Casablanca!

WOW! We just got back from India but did not get to travel in the south. You blog and suggestions for Pondicherry makes us want to head back.

Pondicherry looks like a wonderful place to visit – it looks as though it has something for everyone’s interests!

Looks real interesting and I love the looks of the Matrimandir Temple. Judging by the waves and the color of the water, I guess snorkeling is no option there?

Sandy and Vyjay, awesome breakdown guys. We spent 1 month in Pondy in 2013. Loved the place. We visited a temple there weekly to meditate. I believe The Mother and Sri Aurobindo had influences there. Great energy in that nice little town on the water.

We spent two months in India and unfortunately we never made it to Pondicherry! I wish we had though as it looks like such a lovely place to explore. I especially love the style of some of the buildings 🙂

What a beautiful variety of things to see and do, from the beaches to the memorial, museum and temples. I love the 3 day itinerary you shared. I would love to experience that boat ride too.

I’ve always wanted to visit Pondicherry, but somehow never got the chance. Thanks for this extremely detailed guide – hopefully I’ll be able to put it to good use someday soon!

Woww now thats quite an elaborate list and detailed itinerary. Reading this made me relive my travel days. Its really very helpful

This looks like such a perfect place for a getaway holiday, there’s so much to see and do, and you can also go to the beach.

I feel so ignorant as I always thought the British were the only colonists in India and I had no idea about its French heritage! Being a culture lover with a special interest in architecture, I would definitely consider visiting Pondicherry if I were ever to go to India! Thanks for the inspiration (and education) 🙂

I really need to spend more time in India. My only experience was a few months spent in Goa, which is a strange bubble and not an authentic India experience. Hopefully soon I’ll get a chance to explore more of the south.

Such a great itinerary and beings back so many memories of my visit to Pondicherry! My absolute favorite bit is walking on the promenade along the Rocky beach. Gorgeous!

Took me on a flashback of my Pondicherry trip. Went to most of these places and missed some. Gonna come back to this blog if I happen to be in Pondicherry again.

Pondicherry sounds like a great place to visit! I would love to explore the basilica and the botanical gardens would be something my daughter and I would enjoy. Visiting the secluded beaches would be perfect to.

What an interesting area! I would not have expected to see architecture like that in South India, but it is soo cool to see the mixture of cultures (especially with the food!)

I love Pondicherry. I used to go to Auroville every late summer and this year I have missed it. Your blog brings these old memories back.

Pondicherry is one of my favourite travel destinations. Thanks to you, I saw it in a different light. Fantastic blogpost. Thank you for writing this one.

It certainly sounds like you had a good time in Pondy. I think the boat trip would be something I would like to do.

Loved walking through the promenade and watching the sunset from le cafe. Pondy trip on the cards post October

Pondy seems like an awesome option for visiting. I have traveled to Bangalore so many times, but in summers. So was unable to visit Pondy, after reading your blog, I realised there are so many things to do, but we need to travel at the right time. Amazing read.

Pondicherry is in my list from so long. Thanks for this itinerary , I will surely visit the place and check this post again.

Pondicherry is on my travel list for a long time. I’m gonna use your itinerary when I do visit this beautiful place 🙂

I absolutely loved Paradise beach. It was worth the effort of taking the lazy boat ride to that place. When I visited the beach was very rough, its good to see people enjoying in the water in your picture. Pondicherry is my favourite place in Tamil Nadu and I traveled solo here, I had such an awesome time.

this reminds me of my trip to Puducherry, the food and lovely walks through French Quarters, the food at Sadguru’s and the most important the visit to Aurobindo Ashram and Auroville.

Wow, I’ve almost seen everything on this list. In fact I loved exploring Pondicherry on foot. It was an amazing experience.

So well documented about Pondicherry… Can you imagine i stayed in Chennai for 3 months and didn’t travel to pondi 😞 … Every post related to Pondicherry makes me feel so sad…

So well documented about Pondicherry… Can you imagine i stayed in Chennai for 3 months and didn’t travel to pondi … Every post related to Pondicherry makes me feel so sad… This post made me felt sadder due to the great documentation

Really Pondicherry looks awesome place and I really want to visit here. Thanks for sharing the article.

Pondicherry looks like an incredible place to visit. So colorful too. Would love to visit one day since I haven’t made it to India yet. Great and detailed post.

I had never even heard of Pondicherry!! It looks just so amazing, with so many different cultures, foods & esthetics… it’s basically a few countries in one. I’m saving + pinning your blog for when I plan my next India trip.

From this post it seems like Pondicherry is a must-see on a trip to India! I love the Matrimandir Temple, and the variety of things to do (and eat) here!

When I was planning my first visit to India last year, I had to choose between Kochi and Pondicherry. I ended up going with Kochi, but now I know I need to go back and visit Pondicherry! I love the architecture and the Matrimandir Temple is so stunning!

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Places to Visit in Pondicherry

• Post last modified: 6 April 2023
• Reading time: 21 mins read
• Post category: Places to Visit

Pondicherry, now known as Puducherry is and has always been one of the favourite places to visit in Tamil Nadu . Sharing the border with Tamil Nadu has a massive influence on this city in terms of culture and the influx of tourists. Pondicherry boasts a rich historic value and was home to the French East India Company. The city is known for its colonial buildings, shrines and statues.

Table of Content

• 1.1 Paradise Beach
• 1.2 Aurobindo Ashram
• 1.3 Auroville
• 1.4 Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus
• 1.5 Arulmigu Manakula Vinayagar Temple
• 1.6 Seaside Promenade
• 1.7 Serenity Beach
• 1.8 Chunnambar Boat House
• 1.9 Arikamedu
• 1.10 Pondicherry Botanical Garden
• 2.1 Are 2 days enough for Pondicherry?
• 2.2 Which is the best time to visit Pondicherry?
• 2.3 Is Pondicherry expensive to visit?

From beautiful monuments to serene beaches, there are a lot of places to visit in Pondicherry . Visit this city to witness a perfect amalgamation of French and Indian culture that reflects in its architecture and food. Pondicherry is the most populated city of the Pondicherry Union Territory. It is a destination that one can easily explore by themselves.

All you need is your backpack full of essentials and a free mind to grasp the positive vibes around. With an array of places to choose from, seek help in this article where we bring you the best places to see in Pondicherry .

10 Places to Visit in Pondicherry

Paradise beach, aurobindo ashram, basilica of the sacred heart of jesus, arulmigu manakula vinayagar temple, seaside promenade, serenity beach, chunnambar boat house, pondicherry botanical garden.

Walk right into the lap of serenity by visiting Paradise Beach . Staying true to its name, Paradise Beach provides its visitors with a heavenly feeling. However, to access this beach, one needs to get a boat ride from Pondicherry town. Indulge yourself in a short yet peaceful trip amidst mangroves and calming backwaters. It is one of the best places to visit in Pondicherry with family.

The strong currents of the sea urge the visitors to enjoy the majestic water body from a distance. Nevertheless, dip your feet in the soft sand around here while enjoying sunset to make the most of your evening. Travellers can also choose one of the many shacks at the beach for a quick refreshment or a fresh sip of coconut water. Paradise Beach is also a haven for shutterbugs.

Opening hours: Monday to Sunday from 09:00 AM to 05:00 PM

Major Attractions: Sunset/Sunrise view, Rocky Beach

Ideal duration to explore: 2 hours

Things to do: Bird Watching

Sri Aurobindo Ghosh, a politician turned spiritual leader, established the Aurobindo Ashram in 1926. Today, the Ashram is one of the most famous places in Pondicherry . Tourists from all over flock to this place to learn and achieve spiritual knowledge. Sri Aurobindo set up this ashram for the very purpose of helping people find their inner peace.

Aurobindo Ashram is one of its kind and is considered one of the wealthiest ashrams in the world. The Ashram comprises a block of houses and a library. Tourists also visit the samadhis of Shri Aurobindo and Mirra Alfassa, referred to as the Mother. Mirra Alfassa took care of the Ashram after Shri Aurobindo passed away. As of today, this massive Ashram is spread throughout 400 buildings and is worth your visit.

Opening hours: Monday to Sunday from 04:30 AM to 11:00 PM

Major Attractions: Samadhis of Shri Aurobindo and Mirra Alfassa

Ideal duration to explore: 1-2 hours

Things to do: Meditation, Learn about spirituality

Dubbed ‘The City of Dawn’, Auroville is an experimental township located about 15 kilometres from the city of Pondicherry. Founded in 1968 by Mirra Alfassa, a disciple of Aurobindo, Auroville is a part of every travellers’ list of must-visit places in Pondicherry . Auroville is a world on its own where people from various countries, castes and cultures live together in peace. Auroville houses about 2800 people from over 195 nations (that’s pretty much the whole world) as of now.

Visit Auroville to indulge yourself in moments of tranquillity. From meditation to yoga, one can find various activities to find mental peace while here. The major attraction within the township is the Matrimandir. The aesthetically appealing golden sphere is called “a symbol of the Divine’s answer to man’s aspiration for perfection.” It is mandatory to maintain silence in and around Matrimandir.

Best Time To Visit: November to March

Major Attractions: Matrimandir,

Ideal duration to explore: 1-2 days

Things to do: Indulge with people from all over the world, enter and learn more about the world of spirituality and inner peace

A visit to the Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus is certain to end your search for a holy place when in Pondicherry. Set up by French Missionaries in 1908, the shrine received the status of Basilica (higher authority of the church) in 2011. Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus is one of the 21 Basilicas in India and the only one in Pondicherry. Reflecting Gothic architecture in every way, this Basilica must be included in your places to visit in Pondicherry .

Upon entering the shrine, one can come across meticulously carved biblical words in Latin. On the stained glass panels of this century-old Basilica, one can find the paintings of the lives of Christ along with the saints of the Catholic Church. If your travel is pre-planned, then make sure you match your schedule with New Year, Christmas or Easter eves. These occasions are celebrated lavishly by the Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus.

Opening hours: Monday to Saturday from 07:00 AM to 06:30 PM, Sunday from 08:00 AM to 06:30 PM

Major Attractions: Paintings of the lives of Christ along with the saints of the Catholic Church

Ideal duration to explore: 1 hour

Things to do: Celebrate New Year, Christmas and Easter fests

Arulmigu Manakula Vinayagar Temple is a shrine that has stood the test of time. This five century-old temple is dedicated to the elephant god Ganesha. The major attraction within the temple is a majestic idol of Vinayaka called Vellakkaran Pillai. Vinayak Chaturthi and Brahmotsavam are celebrated with ardour over here. Devotees visit in large numbers particularly during the 18th day of Brahmotsavam.

If you are an ardent devotee of Lord Ganesha then Arulmigu Manakula Vinayagar Temple has to be one of the destinations in Pondicherry that must be visited by you. No famous religious sanctum in the world goes without a legend and Manakula Vinayagar Temple is no different.

As per renowned folklore, a French traveller tried to remove the Ganesha idol from the temple. However, each time the idol was removed, it reappeared. Giving in to the power of the lord, the Frenchman turned a dedicated devotee of Ganesha.

Opening hours: Monday to Sunday from 05:45 AM to 12:30 PM; Monday to Sunday from 04:00 PM to 09:30 PM

Major Attractions: Vellakkaran Pillai

Idol Ideal duration to explore: 1 hour

Things to do: Vinayak Chaturthi and Brahmotsavam celebrations

A lazy stroll around the Seaside Promenade might be just the break that you need away from the busy life you have been living. Enjoy the grandeur of French-colonial architecture on one side and the beautiful horizon on the other. The calming decibels of water splashing against the rocks is second to none. Seaside Promenade is one of the best places to visit in Pondicherry for couples .

Seaside Promenade is very well maintained and is home to numerous cafes. This location is also close to many popular attractions. Make sure you visit the Gandhi statue, the war memorial and the town hall nearby. Whether you choose to enjoy a sunrise, sunset, or a starry night, Seaside Promenade is just the right place for you. Top your trip to this destination by grabbing a nice meal from one of the restaurants lined up along the promenade.

Opening hours: Monday to Sunday around the clock

Major Attractions: Gandhi Statue, War Memorial, Town Hall

Things to do: Evening walk, photography, street-food

Surrounded by tall palm trees stands the pride of Pondicherry coastal town, the Serenity Beach . Staying true to its name, Serenity Beach is where visitors come to revel in peace. Despite its popularity, the Beach is not overcrowded and thus is amongst the beautiful places in Pondicherry . Serenity Beach is visited mostly by couples and families.

The expansive beach has portions of sandy and rocky areas. Do not forget to get an extra pair of lenses to capture the beautiful sun rising from the majestic Bay of Bengal. Surfing is a major attraction around here. Visitors also happen to take a look into the fishing boats anchored by the shore when in Serenity Beach.

Major Attractions: Sunset point, Fishing boats

Things to do: Photography, evening walk

Do not mistake Chunnambar Boat House for one of those boathouses found in the backwaters of Kerala. Nestled 8 kilometres from Pondicherry, Chunnambar Boat House facilitates the tourists to take a thrilling boat ride downstream. Situated in the Pondy-Cuddalore Road, Chunnambar Boat House is easily accessible.

It is one of the perfect places to visit in Pondicherry in the morning. Indulge yourself in making the most of the water sports on the beach while being sun kissed. Or go for night camping downstream in one of the boats. Chunnambar Boat House is a haven for group vacationers. It is also one of the most famous summer destinations in Pondicherry.

Major Attractions: Boating, Night Camping

Ideal duration to explore: 2-3 hours

Things to do: Beach Sports

Arikamedu stands as a sign of one of the first known human civilisations in the world. Travel down the road for about 7 kilometres towards the south of Pondicherry to visit one of the ancient archaeological sites in the world. The abandoned city of Arikamedu dates back to the 1st century BC and was a trade hub for Indo-Roman traders. Arikamedu is a popular tourist place in Pondicherry among history lovers.

This heritage site is rich with relics of walls, columns and mortars that have seen the world evolve for thousands of years. Use your imagination to picturise yourself back to the time when this place took its birth. The atmosphere here smells of early urban settlement. The shabby 18th century French Jesuit Mission building is one of the major attractions at this location. The ruins represent the rich economic relationship between the east and the west.

Opening hours: Monday to Sunday from 10:00 AM to 04:00 PM

Major Attractions: 18th century French Jesuit Mission building

Things to do: Check out ancient relics, learn more about Indo-Roman trade relations

Botanical Garden in Pondicherry is a location in the city that is pleasing to the eyes. Situated in the heart of the city, the Botanical Garden is one of the popular places in Pondicherry . The garden sprawls over 22 acres of land and was established in 1826. Influenced massively by French culture, the beautifully organised garden is home to over 1500 species of trees.

Breathe in fresh oxygen while enjoying a beautiful view of the neatly arranged flower beds while here. The gravel lined route is just perfect for an evening stroll around the garden. The Botanical Garden in Pondicherry has placards with information about every tree and is visited mostly for educational purposes.

Opening hours: Monday to Sunday from 10:00 AM to 05:00 PM

Major Attractions: Wide variety of trees

Ideal duration to explore: 1-2 hours Things to do: Learn about trees in depth

In conclusion, Pondicherry is a striking city with an array of French-Indo culture that caters to every traveller’s desires. A well-planned trip to this Union Territory can help you make the most of your vacation. Visitors from around the world visit Pondicherry for leisure and knowledge.

Pondicherry, one of the tourist hotspots in South India, must be visited at least once in a lifetime. One can refresh themselves by simply taking a walk around one of the beaches. Or update their knowledge by learning about the city’s influential history. Pondicherry is a place for all.

Are 2 days enough for Pondicherry?

One can easily cover all major tourist attractions in Pondicherry within a day or two. However, if you are a fan of making the most of your trip by exploring leisurely then you should consider more than 2 days.

Which is the best time to visit Pondicherry?

Pondicherry is a year-round destination. But the period between October to March is considered the best time to visit. The soothing climate during this period is just perfect to roam around the city.

Is Pondicherry expensive to visit?

Pondicherry is a tourist place that can’t be too harsh on one’s pocket. Though not the cheapest, expect mid-range expenses while you consider visiting Pondicherry. However, the same also depends on the nature of your trip.

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18 Top Places to Visit in Pondicherry

Looking for the best places to visit in Pondicherry? This charming town in South India offers a delightful mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. You can explore its famous beaches, spiritual centers, historic sites, natural wonders, cultural landmarks, unique experiences, and hidden gems.

Whether you want to discover the beauty of Paradise Beach or experience the serenity of Auroville, Pondicherry has something for every type of traveler. It’s one of the top places to visit in Pondicherry and a must-see offbeat destination in India .

Famous Beaches in Pondicherry

Looking for summer vacation places for families in India? Pondicherry is a top choice! Check out the variety of stunning beaches here, each with its own unique charm and appeal. Paradise Beach is a true paradise for beach lovers, while Serenity Beach offers a peaceful retreat surrounded by nature’s beauty.

Auroville Beach is perfect for adventure seekers and water sports enthusiasts, and Veerampattinam Beach is renowned for its crystal-clear waters, making it a popular spot for picnics. Don’t miss out on these amazing places to visit in Pondicherry!

1. The Beauty of Paradise Beach

Looking for introvert-friendly destinations in Pondicherry? Look no further than Paradise Beach! This must-see location offers pristine white sand, clear waters, and a captivating view of the Bay of Bengal. Whether you’re looking to relax with a seaside stroll or get your adrenaline pumping with jet skiing and boat rides, Paradise Beach has something for everyone. And for nature lovers, the serene ambiance presents ample opportunities for photography. Don’t miss out on one of the top places to visit in Pondicherry!

2. Exploring Serenity Beach

Looking for the best places to visit in Pondicherry? Serenity Beach should definitely be on your list! This charming beach offers a seaside bazaar with souvenirs galore, as well as a quaint town market to explore. For nature lovers, the seaside promenade offers stunning views of the Bay of Bengal. And if you’re planning a trip to India in March, don’t miss out on the serene ambiance of Serenity Beach!

3. A Day at Auroville Beach

Auroville beach is a must-visit spot for those exploring top places to visit in Pondicherry. Offering a blend of French-influenced architecture and natural beauty, this quaint town adjacent to the beach is perfect for a leisurely picnic or peaceful boat ride along the coast. With its charming promenade and serene sea view, Auroville beach provides a relaxing and enjoyable seaside experience – a great addition to your list of places to visit in India in February .

4. Relaxing at Veerampattinam Beach

Looking for peaceful retreats and hidden gems to explore? Look no further than Veerampattinam beach, one of the top places to visit in Pondicherry. This serene picnic spot boasts an ancient temple and an old lighthouse, perfect for a leisurely stroll through the quaint town.

History buffs will love the monolithic pillars that offer a glimpse into the past. With its unique blend of history and natural beauty, Veerampattinam beach is a must-visit on any trip to Pondicherry or for those seeking places to visit in India in April .

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Pondicherry’s Spiritual Centers

Discover the top places to visit in Pondicherry for a spiritual and historical experience. Visit Sri Aurobindo ashram and Matrimandir for a serene meditation. Explore the ancient Manakula Vinayagar temple and find solace at ISKCON Pondicherry. These spiritual centers offer a divine experience and are must-visit historical places in India .

5. Peace at Sri Aurobindo Ashram

If you’re looking for peaceful places to visit in Pondicherry, you should definitely check out the Sri Aurobindo ashram. The surrounding area offers many tranquil experiences, such as a visit to the serene Pondicherry Museum or a leisurely stroll through the botanical garden.

Overall, the ashram is a perfect sanctuary for those seeking solace amidst the hustle and bustle of tourist places. It’s no wonder why it’s considered one of the top places to visit in Pondicherry, and one of the top places to visit in January in the world .

6. Meditation at Matrimandir – Auroville

Looking for a peaceful retreat in Pondicherry? Matrimandir at Auroville is a must-visit destination. This tranquil sanctuary is a popular tourist attraction and is considered one of the quietest places in the world . It’s also a great place to learn about the history of its architecture and connect with its spiritual and historical significance. Don’t miss out on this enriching experience during your visit to the best places to visit in Pondicherry.

7. The Divine Manakula Vinayagar Temple

If you’re looking for top places to visit in Pondicherry, don’t miss the ancient Manakula Vinayagar temple. This sacred place of worship offers the chance to witness a Lord Shiva procession and marvel at its ancient architecture.

It’s a perfect spot for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts who can enjoy the serene surroundings on a leisurely stroll. The temple’s ambiance is a great way to connect with south India’s rich heritage and spirituality. Visit this divine temple for an authentic cultural experience that’s a must-see for tourists and locals alike.

8. Visit to ISKCON Temple Pondicherry

If you’re looking for places to visit in Pondicherry, don’t miss out on ISKCON Pondicherry. This popular tourist attraction houses an ancient temple and is located near the serene Pondicherry Railway Station. Besides exploring the quaint town, visitors can also indulge in nature photography at the temple.

With its picturesque setting, ISKCON Pondicherry is a great spot for a leisurely picnic. Don’t forget to visit during the blooming season for some amazing nature photography opportunities. As seen in many Bollywood travel movies , this iconic location is a must-see in Pondicherry.

9. The Serene Sri Karaneswara Nataraja Temple

When exploring the top places to visit in Pondicherry, be sure to include the Sri Karaneswara Nataraja Temple. This historic temple offers a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle, with intricate architecture and a rich past that will leave visitors captivated. The temple’s cultural significance attracts both devotees and tourists alike, making it a must-visit for those seeking inner peace and tranquility.

Historic Sites in Pondicherry

Looking for the best places to visit in Pondicherry? Look no further than the town’s rich history, which is on full display at sites like the Ananda Ranga Pillai Mansion and the French War Memorial. For a glimpse into the town’s unique history and architecture, don’t miss the Immaculate Conception Cathedral and the Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus.

And if you’re looking for a truly unforgettable experience, be sure to catch one of the best sunsets in the world at any of these essential tourist places, including the impressive statue of Dupleix.

10. The Majestic Ananda Ranga Pillai Mansion

Visit the Ananda Ranga Pillai Mansion in Pondicherry to step into history. Built during the 18th century, this architectural marvel showcases traditional French design and attracts history and architecture enthusiasts. Explore opulent rooms with vintage furniture and artwork, and browse through an extensive library collection. Immerse yourself in Pondicherry’s rich heritage at this remarkable cultural gem.

11. A Glimpse into History at the French War Memorial

If you’re interested in history, don’t miss the French War Memorial – one of the top places to visit in Pondicherry. This 19th-century monument commemorates the brave soldiers who lost their lives during World War I. The memorial’s serene setting and striking architecture make it an ideal spot for reflection and remembrance.

Located on Goubert Avenue, it’s a testament to the town’s rich heritage and a must-visit for history enthusiasts. You can also combine a trip to the memorial with a visit to the scenic Rock Beach – one of the unique museums in the world .

12. Immaculate Conception Cathedral: A Marvel

The Immaculate Conception Cathedral in Pondicherry is a 300-year-old architectural marvel. With stunning interiors, impressive stained glass windows, and a serene ambiance, it’s a must-visit for history and art enthusiasts. Located near Rock Beach and Goubert Avenue, it’s convenient to include in your itinerary. Experience the essence of South India’s spiritual and architectural heritage at this rewarding destination.

13. Magnificent Basilica Of Sacred Heart Of Jesus

The Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus is one of the best places to visit in Pondicherry. This 19th-century architectural marvel showcases French Gothic design and is a spiritual center for both locals and tourists. Located on the south side of the city, the basilica provides a serene escape from the lively atmosphere of the South Boulevard.

Visitors can admire the ornate interiors and take in the breathtaking view of the city from the elevated surroundings near the rock beach and Goubert Avenue. As an integral part of Pondicherry’s cultural heritage, the basilica attracts visitors throughout the year, making it a must-visit destination.

14. The Impressive Statue Of Dupleix

One of the top places to visit in Pondicherry is the impressive statue of Dupleix, paying homage to the former governor of Pondicherry during the 18th century. Located near the Rock Beach and set against the bustling Goubert Avenue, the monument offers a glimpse into the rich colonial history of South India.

History enthusiasts will find visiting the statue an enriching experience, and it’s a convenient stop for those exploring the tourist places in the area. Don’t miss this must-see attraction during your visit to Pondicherry, especially in the best season.

Cultural Landmarks in Pondicherry

Looking for places to visit in Pondicherry? Check out the Aurobindo Ashram, Pondicherry Museum, French Quarter, Promenade Beach, and Matrimandir. Each of these landmarks offers a unique glimpse into the city’s rich cultural heritage and are must-see destinations in South India.

From tranquil spiritual centers to colonial architecture and breathtaking beaches, Pondicherry has it all. Don’t miss out on exploring these vibrant cultural landmarks during your trip to Pondicherry.

15. A Walk through French Quarters / White Town

The French Quarter, also known as White Town, is a must-visit among the many places to visit in Pondicherry. Marvel at the exquisite stained glass windows and intricate architecture of the iconic Notre Dame des Anges church. Explore colonial architecture at the Governor’s Palace and French consulate.

Discover unique souvenirs at local boutiques and shops. Unwind at charming cafes and restaurants, soaking in the laid-back atmosphere. Embrace the cultural richness and historical allure of the French Quarter, making it a top pick among the top places to visit in Pondicherry.

16. Discovering Artistry at Cluny Embroidery Centre

One of the must-visit places in Pondicherry is the Cluny Embroidery Centre. Here, you can witness skilled artisans showcasing their traditional embroidery techniques. They offer workshops and training programs for those interested in learning the art of embroidery. The center also sells beautiful embroidery pieces that make for unique souvenirs.

A visit to the Cluny Embroidery Centre is a great way to immerse yourself in Pondicherry’s rich cultural heritage and witness the time-honored craft. Make sure to add this to your list of top places to visit in Pondicherry.

17. Shopping Extravaganza at Goubert Market

Goubert Market is a must-visit place for tourists exploring the cultural and shopping delights of Pondicherry. Located in the French Quarter, this vibrant shopping paradise offers a mix of clothing, handicrafts, souvenirs, fresh produce, and local snacks. Bargaining with the vendors is a must for the best deals and prices. Conveniently positioned, it allows for easy exploration of other nearby attractions. So, if you’re looking for places to visit in Pondicherry, make sure to add Goubert Market to your list.

18. Pondicherry’s Jawahar Toy Museum

Looking for the best places to visit in Pondicherry? Check out the Jawahar Toy Museum! This museum is a dream come true for toy lovers, offering a variety of dolls, wooden toys, and board games that provide insight into their cultural and historical significance.

You can even participate in toy-making workshops to add a creative touch to your experience. Located in the heart of Pondicherry, it’s easily accessible to both locals and tourists alike, making it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the cultural landmarks of Pondicherry.

What makes Pondicherry a must-visit destination?

Discover the allure of Pondicherry, a town that seamlessly blends history, culture, and natural beauty. From its French-inspired architecture to its serene seaside promenade, Pondicherry offers a unique charm. Immerse yourself in its captivating ambiance and experience the timeless appeal of this must-visit destination.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS)

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PONDICHERRY TOURISM | TOURIST PLACES TO VISIT & TRAVEL GUIDE TO PUDUCHERRY

• Pondicherry Overview
• Top 38 Places to Visit in Pondicherry
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About Pondicherry

Country: india | state: pondicherry, #1 of 2 places to visit in pondicherry | #21 of 100 places to visit in india, ideal trip duration: 1-2 days, base station: pondicherry, nearest city to pondicherry: pondicherry, best time to visit pondicherry: october to march, peak season: december to january, pondicherry weather: summer: maximum - 40°c and minimum - 24°c winter: maximum - 30°c and minimum - 18°c.

At a distance of 170 km from Chennai, 204 km from Trichy, 233 km from Tirupati, 335 km from Madurai, 639 km from Trivandrum, 578 km from Kanyakumari, 96 km from Mahabalipuram , 368 km from Bangalore and 564 km from Kochi, Pondicherry or Puducherry is a city and capital of the Union Territory of Pondicherry and is one of the most popular tourist destinations you must include in honeymoon packages . It is among top 2 day trip from Bangalore and Chennai. Pondicherry is located along the Coromandel Coast of Bay of Bengal. The Union Territory of Puducherry comprises of four coastal regions namely Puducherry, Karaikal , Mahe and Yanam. Puducherry and Karaikal are situated on the East Coast of Tamil Nadu, Yanam in Andhra Pradesh and Mahe on the West Coast in Kerala . According to legend, Pondicherry was known by the name Vedapuri and this place is also believed to be the abode of the revered sage, Saint Agasthya. Pondicherry had trade relations with Rome during 1st century AD. Roman pottery excavated from Arikamedu near Pondicherry dates back to 1st century AD. Pondicherry was ruled by the Pallava dynasty in 4th century AD followed by different southern dynasties like the Cholas, Pandyas, Vijayanagar kings and later by the Sultanate of Madurai . The unique location of Pondicherry captured the attention of Portuguese, Dutch, English and French. Pondicherry came under the rule of the French in 1673 and since then it became the site for the battle between the British and the French. Pondicherry remained as the capital of French India for about 300 years, before it attained its independence in 1954. It was in 2006 that the name Pondicherry was changed to Puducherry, which means 'New Village' in Tamil language. The city is separated into two quarters known as French quarter and the Indian quarter. The French quarter is characterized by building of typical colonial architecture and the latter boasts of ancient Tamil styles and designs. The strategic location, awe-inspiring natural beauty, coupled with its French past and cultural heritage make Pondicherry a major tourist destination. Pondicherry is also famous for its serene beaches. Hotel de Vile, French War Memorial, Puducherry Museum, Aayi Mandapam, Auroville Ashram, Sri Aurobindo Ashram, Promenade, Chunnambar Resort, Old Light house, Romaine Rolland Library are some of the major Places to visit in Pondicherry . The nearest airport is at Chennai, which is about 148 km away. Pondicherry Railway Station is well connected with cities like Chennai , Kanyakumari, Tirupati, Bangalore, Villupuram, Howrah, Mumbai, New Delhi and Mangalore. Villupuram Junction is the nearest major railway junction, about 39 km from Puducherry. It has trains from Chennai, Madurai, Mumbai, Rameswaram , Tirunelveli, Trichy, Mangalore, Karaikal, Tirupati, Nagercoil, Kanyakumari, Trivandrum, Delhi, Bangalore, Kolkata, Bhubaneswar and Varanasi. Pondicherry is well connected by bus with Chennai, Villupuram, Coimbatore, Trichy, Madurai, Bangalore, Trivandrum, Calicut, Palakkad, Thrissur and Ernakulum.

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Nearest Airport: Chennai - Chennai International Airport (148 Kms)

Direct flights to chennai, nearest train station: pondicherry railway station (0 kms) villupuram railway station (39 kms), direct trains to pondicherry, villupuram, nearest bus station: pondicherry bus station (0 kms), direct buses to pondicherry, distance chart, distance chart & driving directions to pondicherry, top 15 places to visit in pondicherry, paradise beach.

#1 of 38 Places to Visit in Pondicherry

At a distance of 8 km from Pondicherry Bus Station, Paradise Beach, also known as Plage Paradiso, is an isolated beach located at Chunnambar. This is one of the most famous Pondicherry Beaches and also one of the best places to experience Pondicherry Tourism . Paradise Beach is another popular attraction not to miss in a Pondicherry tour packages . The beach is extremely attractive as the sands are very clean and the water is crystal clear. The Paradise Beach is situated close to Cuddalore main road and it houses the famous Chunnambar resort. Visitors have to cross the Chunnambar backwaters by boat to reach Paradise Beach. These boats leave from Chunnambar boathouse around 6 km from Pondicherry . The beach has shelters and palm trees for shade and protection from the sun and rain. There is one small bar which serves .....

Pondicherry Beach / Promenade Beach

#2 of 38 Places to Visit in Pondicherry

At a distance of 3.5 km from Pondicherry Bus Station, Promenade Beach is one of the popular beaches in Pondicherry along the Bay of Bengal. It is a 1.5 km long stretch between War Memorial and Dupleix Park. This is one of the top places to visit in Pondicherry . This beach is called by multiple names like rock beach due to rocks along the beach, Gandhi beach because of statue of Mahatma Gandhi and also as Promenade beach. Popularly this beach is also called Pondicherry beach because of its close proximity to the city. It's a long stretch of rocky beach with benches and wide pavement for morning and evening walks. It is adjacent to Goubert Avenue, the historical section of the city which has several beautiful colonial buildings. This long stretch has statues of Jeanne d'Arc Dupleix, Mahatma Gandhi and War Memorial. There is also a 27 meter .....

Matrimandir - Auroville

#3 of 38 Places to Visit in Pondicherry

At a distance of 13 km from Pondicherry, Auroville (City of Dawn) is an experimental township in Villupuram district of Tamil Nadu. It lies on the East Coast Road and was founded by Mirra Alfassa in 1968 and was designed by the French architect Roger Anger. The word Auroville essentially means a universal town, where people can live peacefully, irrespective of nationality, colour, caste and creed. The purpose of Auroville, Pondicherry was to emphasize human unity, promoting message of the founder of Auroville, Mirra Alfassa. It is one of the best Pondicherry places to visit . Auroville was officially inaugurated on 28th February, 1968 and was endorsed by UNESCO and the Government of India. During its inauguration, soil from over 124 countries was placed and mixed inside a lotus shaped urn, symbolizing universal oneness. Auroville was built to welcome people from all over the world to live together .....

Chunnambar Boat House

#4 of 38 Places to Visit in Pondicherry

At a distance of 6 km Pondicherry Bus Station, Chunnambar Boat House also known as Plage Paradiso is famous for its backwaters and it's a popular boating venue and is. Located on the Cuddalore main road, the backwater is situated at a point where the Chunnambar River meets Bay of Bengal. Paradise beach is usually reached by boat from Chunnambar Boat House. Chunnambar Boat House is ideal for boating and also a great picnic spot. The backwater houses a nice resort managed by the Pondicherry Tourism and Transport Development Corporation (PTTDC), known as Chunnambar Beach and Backwater Resort. The resort offers a range of fun and entertainment options include trekking, yachting, backwater boat trips and beach games. The boating options include motor boats, speed boats, sail boats, rowed boats, water scooters, paddled boats and pedaled boats. Accommodation facility is available on tree top houses. Timings: 9 AM to 6 PM. Ferry .....

Sri Aurobindo Ashram

#5 of 38 Places to Visit in Pondicherry

At a distance of 3 km from Pondicherry Bus Station, Sri Aurobindo Ashram is a famous spiritual community (ashram) located in Pondicherry. Founded by Sri Aurobindo and Mirra Alfassa (The Mother) in 1926, it is one of the major highlights of Pondicherry and is visited by thousands of people from all over the world. The ashram is also the place of Samadhi of Sri Aurobindo and The Mother. The Aurobindo Ashram is one of the most visited tourism sites in Pondicherry. This ashram comprises several buildings and there are around 1,200 members along with 400 students living in this center. The serene Aurobindo Ashram comes alive during the festivals. Thousands of tourists, followers and visitors come here. Despite the large crowd the members maintain discipline within the complex, restoring its peaceful environment. The ideals of the ashrams are based on the teachings of Sri Aurobindo and Mira Alfassa. The ashram contains a library, printing press, playground, art gallery, a dispensary/nursing .....

Pondicherry Museum

#6 of 38 Places to Visit in Pondicherry

At a distance of 3 km from Pondicherry Bus Station, Pondicherry Museum is situated in the Bharathi Park and is known for its unique collection of sculptures. It is one of the popular places in Pondicherry Sightseeing . This museum has an excellent gallery with sculptures and has the remains of archaeological findings from the Arikamedu Roman settlement. This gallery is known to have artifacts belonging to Cholas and Pallavas rule of Pondicherry and Karaikal. Burial urns, French furniture, terracotta figures, crockery, guns, swords, paintings, mirrors and several other things dating back to different periods are preserved here. The painting section includes Tanjore and glass paintings, colonial prints and contemporary oils, pastels and water colors. It has bronze statues of several gods and goddesses along with handicrafts, art work and temple lamps. The ground floor of the museum has a palanquin .....

Botanical Garden

#7 of 38 Places to Visit in Pondicherry

At a distance of 1.5 km Pondicherry Bus Station, the Botanical Garden is located south of the New Bus Stand and is one of the top Pondicherry Tourist Places . The Botanical Garden along with Aquarium was established in 1826. The Botanical Gardens is spread over an area of 22 acres in the center of the city. The garden is a famous retreat for locals and tourists. It is spread with pruned trees, flower beds and fountains. Perrotet was responsible for transforming the place into a botanical garden. His memorial can be seen inside the garden premises. He introduced many exotic plants from all over the world. In 1960, after the Transfer of Power from the French, the garden became the hub of horticultural development in Pondicherry. There are 28 plots in the Botanical Garden and each one has separate theme. Other attractions of the Botanical Garden include Children's toy train, musical fountain, aquarium .....

Bharathi Park / Government Park

#8 of 38 Places to Visit in Pondicherry

At a distance of 3.5 km from Pondicherry Bus Station, The Bharathi Park, also known as the Government Park is situated in the central region of the old colonial town of Pondicherry. Government Park was once the location of the first French garrison and Fort Louis which were destroyed by the British. In 2006 the park was renovated and several new sections were included to make it more attractive. It is a beautiful and peaceful park ideal to spend time with family or for a morning / evening walk. The Aayi Mandapam or the Park Monument is a famous monument which lies at the center of the park. At one point, Aayi Mandap was the main water source for Pondicherry town. The Mandapam is an imposing structure that flaunts brilliant Greco-Roman architecture. The presence of flowerbeds, well-manicured lawns and beautiful fountains around the monument make it an attractive place. There is a wonderful children's play area with several playground equipment. This park is surrounded .....

Manakula Vinayagar Temple

#9 of 38 Places to Visit in Pondicherry

At a distance of 3 km from Pondicherry Bus Station, The Manakula Vinayagar Temple is one of the famous ancient temples dedicated to Lord Ganesha and is a popular pilgrimage site in Puducherry. Manakula Vinayagar Temple was in existence before the French came and settled in Pondicherry and the idol of Lord Ganesha is locally known as Vellakkaran Pillai. The French Jesuits and missionaries tried to demolish the temple several times, but every time local population saved the temple. Facing the east near Bay of Bengal, the temple was known as Bhavaneshar Ganapathy, now called as Manakula Vinayagar. In Tamil Manal means sand and Kulam means pond near the sea. The temple is spread over an area of about 8000 sq. ft with outer mandapam, raja gopuram and outer enclosure. Measuring 18 feet in height, the gold plated kodikambam is a spectacular highlight of this temple. The outside wall of the temple depicts various forms of the Ganesha with its timelines and locations. The rich architectural .....

Mahatma Gandhi Statue

#10 of 38 Places to Visit in Pondicherry

At a distance of 2.5 km from Pondicherry Bus Station, The Statue of Mahatma Gandhi is located on the beach front of Pondicherry. Built by the famous sculptor Roy Choudhary from Madras School of Art and Crafts, it is one of the major landmarks in Pondicherry. It is surrounded by eight exquisitely carved monolithic granite pillars which were brought from Gingee Fort. The statue stands 4 m (13 feet) high is the 3rd biggest Mahatma Gandhi statue. It was inaugurated on January 26, 1965. The square in front of the statue referred to as Gandhi Thidal, plays host to various cultural and musical activities through the year. There is a tunnel below the Gandhi statue which is believed to be leading to Gingee Fort. There were some efforts to explore the tunnel. But, after a few people died of suffocation, the tunnel was closed.

Veerampattinam Beach

#18 of 38 Places to Visit in Pondicherry

At a distance of 8 km from Pondicherry Bus Station, Veerampattinam Beach is a beautiful beach located in the largest coastal village called Veerampattinam. This is one of the most famous Pondicherry Beaches and among the must-include places in Pondicherry -Mahabalipuram tour packages . Situated on the outskirts of Pondicherry, Veerampattinam Beach or Virai Beach has an extensive coastline, and is counted as the lengthiest in all of Pondicherry. With its smooth golden sands, azure waters, and serene ambiance, this pristine beach offers a perfect getaway for nature lovers, beach enthusiasts, and those looking to spend some moments of solitude on the sunkissed beach. Most tourists visit Veerampattinam Beach to relax and get sun-kissed. The water at the beach is shallow, making it suitable for swimming. The long shoreline offers a good stretch for walking on the golden sands. Veerampattinam Beach is famous for its breathtaking .....

#19 of 38 Places to Visit in Pondicherry

At a distance of 1 km from Paradise Beach, 2 km from Veerampattinam Beach, and 9 km from Pondicherry Bus Station, Eden Beach is a newly developed beach by the government of Pondicherry. Located at Chinna Veerampattinam village, this is one of the cleanest beaches in India, and among the top places to visit in Pondicherry . Flaunting spotless surroundings with sparkling white sand, and azure blue waters, Eden Beach in Chinna Veerampattinam is the first beach in Pondicherry to gain the Blue Flag certification from the Foundation for Environment Education (FEE) in Denmark, which makes it one of the 10 Blue Flag beaches in India. Blue Flag beaches are the cleanest beaches globally, which are eco-friendly and have all the amenities for tourists. Eden Beach is located between Paradise Beach and Veerampattinam Beach. The Arch at the entrance of Eden Beach welcomes you. As you arrive at Eden Beach Pondicherry, .....

ISKCON Pondicherry

#20 of 38 Places to Visit in Pondicherry

At a distance of 10 km from Pondicherry Bus Station, ISKCON Temple, also called Sri Sri Radha Madhava Temple, is a Hindu temple located near Ousteri Lake in Pondicherry. It is one of the prominent ISKCON temples in India and among the most popular places of pilgrimage in Pondicherry. ISKCON Temple in Pondicherry is dedicated to Lord Krishna and his consort Radha. ISKCON Temple Puducherry was established on the principles of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness, an international religious organization, also popular as the Hare Krishna movement. And, ISKCON Temple in Pondicherry was established in 2003 in the Krishna Nagar area. However, it was shifted to its present location on the outskirts of Pondicherry in 2012. ISKCON Pondicherry boasts unique architecture and exquisite statues of Lord Krishna and his consort. The serenity of the temple and the charisma of Lord Krishna relieve your mind and lift your soul. The temple premises always vibrate with soothing .....

Sri Karneshwar Nataraja Temple

#21 of 38 Places to Visit in Pondicherry

At a distance of 17 km from Pondicherry Bus Station, Sri Karaneswar Nataraja Temple is a Hindu temple located at Pudukuppam Beach in the village of Pudukuppam. It is one of the most popular religious places to visit in Pondicherry . Located off the East Coast Road, Sri Karaneswar Nataraja Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Dr. Karan Singh of the Auroville Foundation built Sri Karaneswar Nataraja Temple. The temple was first built in 2000 and was destroyed in the tsunami of 2004. The current Pyramid Temple was built in 2006, with the help of Auroville Earth Institute. The temple is built in the shape of a pyramid resembling the Great Pyramid of Egypt. Popularly called Pyramid Nataraja Temple, it is probably the most peculiar-looking temple in the world. Sri Karneshwar Nataraja Temple boasts striking architectural finesse. The temple doesn't have a kalasam on the top. Its entrance faces south, .....

French Quarters / White Town

#22 of 38 Places to Visit in Pondicherry

At a distance of 3 km from Pondicherry Bus Station, White Town is a residential area in Pondicherry. Popularly called the French Colony of Pondicherry, it is one of the must-see places as part of the Pondicherry -Mahabalipuram tour . A quaint little town on the Coromandel Coast of the Bay of Bengal, Pondicherry or Puducherry was the last French colony in India. Pondicherry had been passed on to multiple colonial powers of Dutch, Portuguese, and English, but predominantly French. It became a part of India in 1954 as a union territory. When Pondicherry was handed over to India, the residents were given the choice to take Indian or French citizenship. There are still some French citizens in Pondicherry who retained their French citizenship. The White Town of Pondicherry still has a strong French influence with French names on the streets, many of the residents speak fluent French, restaurants, and caf�s serve French food .....

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10 Top Attractions In Pondicherry That Showcase The French Culture In India

Did you know that you can experience French culture in India? Pondicherry, the favorite Union territory of India, one of the seven; is a charming holiday destination in India. The former French colony along the Bay of Bengal is truly enthralling. The top attractions in Pondicherry will create for you a memorable vacation with interesting sights and experiences.

Read on as you get introduced to the charming concoction of picturesque beaches, appealing monuments, delightful cafes, by lanes that can explore on bicycles, watersports and so much more.

Here are the Top Attractions in Pondicherry:

Eglise de notre dame des anges, immaculate conception cathedral, sri aurobindo ashram, puducherry museum, kallialay surf school, paradise beach, promenade beach, serenity beach, water sports & adventure.

Eglise de Notre Dame des Anges , also known as Our Lady of Angels Church is one of the most popular places to visit in Pondicherry. Reputed for its brilliant masonry, the church has an appearance that is inspired from the churches in France, especially the breathtaking Basilica at Lourdes in Southern France.

Limestone mixed with white of eggs were mixed to create a mixture that gives it a marble-like appearance. The church altar has a statue of Our Lady holding a baby Jesus in her arms. Inside the church, there are eight barrel vaults and a central dome that is pierced with eight round openings.

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Moving on to another relic of the French colonial days, we come to the Immaculate Conception Cathderal .  One of the oldest churches in Pondicherry, it was built by the very first Jesuit Fathers that came to the French colony in 1689. Pay a visit to marvel at its typical Jesuit edifice.

Known as the mother church for the Roman Catholic Archideose of Pondicherry, it was destroyed and rebuilt a number of times in its long history. At the esplanade in front of cathedral, you can partake in the church ceremonies organized. The holy site is said to have been visited by Mother Teresa. Every year in the 8 th of December, the church celebrates its annual feast.

Spiritual bliss is one of the reasons that tourists from far and wide plan a holiday in Pondicherry. The  Sri Aurobindo Ashram is a famous spiritual community founded by Sri Aurobindo and Mirra Alfassa (The Mother) in 1926.

One of the most visited places in Pondicherry, the ashram is a retreat for your spiritual needs. Take a break from the world and focus on your evolution to higher spiritual beings with International Yoga Festival , meditation, sermons and other activities. Around 1,200 members along with 400 students can easily accommodate in the complex. Spread over 400 buildings, the ashram has facilities of library, printing press, playground, art gallery, dispensary/nursing home, dairy, farms, guest houses, etc.

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Trace the French roots and even older histories at the Puducherry museum . Explore the wonderful collection of artifacts, relics and historic treasures. From archeological findings of Arikamedu Roman settlement, to Chola and Pallava dynasties, there are various eras of history preserved here.

Listed among the top attractions in Pondicherry, the museum has stone-carved statues, bronze sculptures of Indian Gods and Goddesses, fossilized trunks of ancient trees, models of modes of transportation, brass temple lamps, church relics, handicrafts, coins, shells and fossils. A completed section is dedicated to the history and legendary French colonial information. Do check out the painting gallery which has colonial prints, Tanjore paintings as well as contemporary works in glass, colors, pastels, and oils.

Also Read :   16 Museums in India That Must Be Put on Your Bucket List

One of the premium surfing schools in India, Kallialay Surf School is one of the unmissable tourist attractions in Pondicherry. Located on the Serenity beach, the school was started by two brothers, Juan and Samai Reboul from Spain who settled down in Auroville.

Catch some waves and enjoy the thrill of riding one, if you are a learner you can choose from different kinds of packages and training according to your interest, budget and requirements. You can also avail surfing equipment of international standards. Also, an annual festival, the Summer Swell Challenge calls for visitors from all around the world.

Like its name, Paradise beach is truly a world apart! Adorned with golden sands, this is a little-isolated haven, one of the top attractions in Pondicherry. Reaching the beach is amazing as the shoreline itself. You need to board the ferry traveling through the backwaters surrounded with thick mangrove forests that takes around 20-30 minutes to get to the golden shores.

Spot birds, walk on the silky sands, enjoy the opportunity to get some great photos or sitting and enjoying the waves. A variety of water sports facilities are also available for enthusiastic tourists to try a hand at fishing as fishing rods and nets, easily available for rent.

The Promenade beach is among the most popular places to visit in Pondicherry . The rock-lined shore, 1.2km long stretch is marked with popular sites, monuments, cafes, eateries, restaurants, roadside food stalls, shopping options and hotels. Take a walk on the promenade. Stop to admire the statue of Marquis Dupleix. Pay respects to the Father of the nation, Mahatma Gandhi. Visit the First World War Memorial.  Sit on the rocks watching the playful waves hitting the rocks.

For a break from the city, Promenade is a scenic getaway. Stroll, dine, click pics and or enjoy the charming setting along the picturesque views of the Bay of Bengal.

Serenity Beach , like its name offers peacefulness to all its visitors. The relaxing spot along the Bay of Bengal, 12 km from the town is one of the must visit places in Pondicherry. The warm golden sand with a trail of rocks leading to the cerulean sea is perfect for basking in bliss

Relatively isolated, the beach is to be definitely not to be missed by honeymooners for a quiet time. Early in the morning, fishermen add to the charm as they gear up for the day. Surfing is a thrilling pleasure here as massive waves lead to the shore. Avail surfing lessons and equipments from the nearby Kallialay Surf School.

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Close to Auroville, Auro Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in Pondicherry. Known for the shallow waters and small waves, it is one of the must visit tourist attractions in Pondicherry, especially during sunrise or sunset.

Take a swim in the sea, stroll on the golden sands, relax on the shore or try your hand at surfing for both beginners and professionals. The long stretch of beach has all facilities for visitors. From an option of stay, dining, shopping, yoga, etc.

Adventures abound in Pondicherry. Cycling, horse riding, trekking and hiking, rock climbing, rappelling, abseiling and parasailing are some exciting activities to indulge in. Lying in close proximity to the cerulean spread of Bay of Bengal, the union territory has lots of  scope of water sports include surfing, banana boat rides, body boarding, scuba diving, free diving, kayaking, boat rides on backwaters through mangrove forests, and more.

Diving to explore the underwater world is particularly delightful as one can easily spot stunning corals, a variety of sea plants, some rare fishes, sea turtles, whale sharks, and more.

Plan an enjoyable beach vacation with well-crafted Pondicherry Tour Packages .

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Attractions to Visit in Pondicherry in One Day

Here are some of the best places to visit in pondicherry in one day:, quick navigation.

Begin your journey with ‘The City Of Dawn’. Arguably one of the most tranquil sights in Pondicherry, Auroville was built in 1968 as a futuristic township where people from all walks of life can live in peace and progressive harmony. A visual treat here is the Matrimandir, a dodecagon marble dome dedicated to meditation, with an optical glass globe at its centre, allowing a shaft of sunlight to stream in. This focused sunlight is believed to enhance concentration whilst in the midst of peace. Make sure you visit the boutiques, the bookshop and the cafeteria and ride along on e-cycles while here. Location : Auroville Universal Township, Town Hall, Auroville, Pondicherry, Tamil Nadu 605101, India Timings : Daily 9:30 am - 5:30 pm Price : Free Entry.

Best of Bangalore

Old Lighthouse

The Old Lighthouse was built by the French, back in 1836, as a guidance for mariners, who up until then relied only on the Red Hills to approach Pondicherry. It was originally a simple rectangular base with a shop, an area for the watchman and an inner staircase leading to the light which shone up to a distance of 29 kms. As time moved on, a second storey was added and a 1000-watt revolving light replaced the original one. Today, the Old Lighthouse has been converted partly into a museum while a new one has been constructed to the south of Pondicherry. Location : Goubert Ave, White Town, Puducherry, 605001 Timings : Tues - Sat - 9 am to 5 pm | Sun-Mon - 3 pm to 5 pm Price : Rs. 10 per person Must Checkout:  Pondicherry Tour Packages From Kerala

Best of North Goa

Bharathi Park

Surrounded by lush greenery, a picturesque pond, a hill, and granite benches, Bharathi Park is an ideal picnic-spot if you’re travelling to Pondicherry with family. The area around the park is dotted with ancient sculptures, statues and stately buildings, including the Raj Nivas, the Museum and more. Take a stroll, sit by the pond, enjoy some quality time with your loved ones, whilst you make the most of an unhurried experience. Location : 20, Rue Saint Gilles Street, White Town, Puducherry, 605001 Timings : 6:30am–8:30pm Price : Free Entry. Planning a honeymoon trip to Pondicherry? Checkout:  Pondicherry Tour Packages For Couple

Best of Coorg

Botanical Gardens

Built in colonial times, the Botanical Gardens boast of French architecture, standing out from the Southern-style surroundings. The sprawling 22-acres garden has more than 1500 species of plants, including endangered and exotic ones, making it one of the best gardens in South India. The garden also offers toy train rides, musical and dancing fountains that you can catch only on the weekends, an aquarium, pruned trees and beautiful flower beds, all which add to the aesthetic of the venue. Location : Maraimalai, Maraimalai Adigal Salai, Near Anna Statue, Ambedkar Nagar, Orleanpet, Puducherry, 605001 Timings : Daily, 10 am - 5pm Price : Adults - Rs. 10 / Children - Rs. 5. You May Also Like:  Pondicherry Tour Packages From Cochin

Best of South Goa

Mahatma Gandhi Statue

The Mahatma Gandhi statue pays homage to the Father of The Nation. With a foundation laid in 1866 and the inauguration done a century later, the 13-feet high statue is apparently one of the biggest Gandhi statue in Asia. The monument is encircled by eight exquisitely carved granite pillars brought in from Gingee, a fort close to Pondicherry. There is also a tunnel below the statue, which leads right up to Gingee, but owing to some unfortunate mishaps, the entrance was sealed soon after. The statue stands strong, right in the city centre, so make sure you pay it a visit on your one day trip in Pondicherry. Location : No. 40, Goubert Avenue, Beach Rd, White Town, Puducherry, 605001 Timings : Open 24 Hours Price : Free Entry. Click Here To Book:  Pondicherry Tour Packages From Trivandrum

Best of Chennai

Sri Aurobindo Ashram

Known to be one of the wealthiest Ashrams in India, this is a must visit on your one day trip in Pondicherry. It is built on the spiritual philosophies of Aurobindo Ghosh, a globally renowned philosopher-poet and yogi. Visitors from across the world flock the Ashram to seek blessings from the mortal remains of Aurobindo and his entrusted disciple called Mirra Alfassa or ‘The Mother’.The remains lie in the courtyard of the main Ashram building, under a frangipani tree, accessible to all. Location : Near Junction of Manakula Vinayagar No. 9 Marine Street, Manakula Vinayagar Koil St, Near Junction of, Puducherry, 605002 Timings : Samadhi - 8 am - 12 pm and 2 pm - 6 pm Price : Free Entry. Click Here To Book:   Pondicherry Tour Packages From Visakhapatnam

Best of Chikmagalur

Arulmigu Manakula Vinayagar Temple

Standing magnificently tall, this temple, dedicated to Lord Ganesha, was built three centuries ago. The interiors bear forty incarnations and forms of Lord Ganesha, intricately carved on the temple walls. A golden pyramid crowns the temple and the premises are home to Lord Murugan’s shrine, who is believed to have been the younger brother of Lord Ganesha. Together, the shrine and pyramid, create a blissful aura.Rest assured, once here, you’ll be amused by the temple elephant Lakshmi, who gathers coins from tourists and blesses them with her trunk! Location : Manakula Vinayagar Koil St, White Town, Puducherry, 605001 Timings : 5:45 am - 12:30 pm and 4:00 pm - 9:30 pm Price : Free Entry.

Best of Kovalam

Pondicherry Museum

Housing a rare collection of bronze and stone sculptures, steeped into our history, excavated from the Pallava and Chola dynasties and Arikamedu, the local museum is definitely one of the many places to visit in Pondicherry in one day. A major attraction here is the coach, the palanquin and the pousse-pousse, which was an ancient rickshaw, needed to be operated by two people at a time. Once here, you’re sure to be transported to the mythological era. Spot the fossilised tree trunk, Greek and Roman relics, Hindu deities, handicrafts, coins, French furniture and more. Location : Eswaran Kovil Street, Canteen St, Puducherry, 605001 Timings : 9 am - 5:00 pm. Monday closed Price : Rs. 15 per person. Must Checkout :  Pondicherry Tour Packages From Bangalore

Best of Gokarna

Aayi Mandapam

Among the many places to visit in Pondicherry in one day, the Aayi Mandapam is on our list for its history. Legend has it that the memorial is dedicated to Aayi, a courtesan, whose brothel was ordered to be torn down by the King. After bringing it down herself, Aayi built a pond there to make potable water accessible to the residents. Her generosity is marked by the structure in Bharathi Park, which is illuminated in all its glory in the evenings. It is flanked by monuments and statues that also make for interesting tourist spots. Location : White Town, Puducherry, 605001 Timings : 9 am - 7 pm Price : Free Entry. Also Checkout:    Pondicherry Tour Packages From Coimbatore

Best of Mahabalipuram

French War Memorial

The French Memorial is a beautiful but grave reminder that pays tribute to the bravehearts who laid down their lives during World War I. It was erected in 1937 and inaugurated a year later. While nobody is permitted to enter the grounds of the war memorial, on the occasion of Bastille Day, every year, the memorial is beautifully illuminated so as to pay homage to the valiant martyrs. Behind the memorial is a bronze carving that marks the day the then Governor-General of France, Joseph Dupleix, arrived in Pondicherry in 1742. Make sure you visit this too. Location : Mahe de Labourdonnais St, White Town, Puducherry, 605001 Timings : 10 am to 5 pm Price : Free Entry. Also Checkout and Book:   Pondicherry Tour Packages From Mumbai

Best of Varkala

Promenade Beach

If you’re looking for places to visit in Pondicherry in one day, don’t miss the infamous Promenade Beach. The 1.5 km stretch is often called the Pride of Pondicherry for its sparkling sands and glistening waters.You’ll spot a juice vendor early in the day, and street-foods lining the beach late in the evenings. That’s not all, tourists and locals alike, frequent this beach for their evenings strolls or jogs, while a majority are here to simply enjoy the vibe at the popular Le Cafe. After all, iIt isn’t everyday that you can sip on some delicious coffee and bite into some lip-smacking food while the waves lap at your feet, right? Location : White Town, Puducherry, 605001 Timings : Open 24 hours Price : Free Entry.

Known to be one of the finest beaches Pondicherry has to offer, feel free to lose yourself amidst nature’s charm at the Rock Beach. Situated in the heart of the city, right next to the Promenade Beach, and surrounded by the most popular sights in town, the beach is lined by huge rocks. A trip here during sunrise or sunset is absolutely surreal, as you watch the mighty waves crash against the rocks ever so often. Location : White Town, Puducherry, 605001 Timings : Open 24 hours Price : Free Entry. You May Also Like:  Pondicherry Tour Packages From Chennai

Our Lady of Angels Church

Translated from the French term, Eglise de Notre Dame des Anges, the Church should certainly feature on your list of places to visit in Pondicherry in one day. With a mix of limestone and egg whites, lending it a white marble texture, the structure is built in Greek-Roman architectural style. Inside, you’ll be welcomed by rare oil paintings and pastel colours which soothe your senses as you walk in. Bang opposite the church is a statue of Virgin Mary cradling Baby Jesus in her arms. The diversity here is visible through the Mass, which is read in French, English and Tamil. Location : Dumas St. and Surcouf St, Puducherry, India Timings : 7 am - 6:30 pm Price : Free Entry.

Paradise Beach

Looking for Paradise? It’s right here amidst the pristine beauty of Pondicherry! Offering a rustic ambience, Paradise Beach is where time stands still, yet the endless activities are a good reminder of how quickly time flies by. Feel the sand between your toes, the waves lapping at your feet, and the soft rustle of the coconut trees that transport you into a surreal space. You can dine at the multi-cuisine shack here, take a dip in the waters, indulge in some beach sports with your loved ones, or even enjoy a game ot two with strangers. Everyone’s welcome here! All of this and more makes Paradise Beach a must-visit on your one day trip in Pondicherry. Location : Chinna Veerampattinam, Puducherry 605007 Timings : 9 am - 5 pm

Price : Boat rides and activities are charged. Recommended Read:  Pondicherry Tour Packages From Mysore

Top Experiences To Do in Paradise Beach

Chunnambar River

End your day with a serene boat ride or even better, a tree-house stay, at the Chunnambar River, 8 kms from Pondicherry. Yes, a tree-house stay! You read that right. Following your picnic at the adjoining Paradise Beach, the backwaters are not only home to a quaint resort, but also offer a host of activities including trekking, yachting, boating and beach sports. With a panoramic view of abundant greenery, a slice of ‘Paradise’ by its side, quite literally, and the gently flowing river, an overnight stay or a short trip to Chunnambar is probably the nicest ways to end your day at Pondicherry. Location : Pondy-Cuddalore Road, Nonankuppam, Puducherry 605101 Timings : 24 hours Price : Boat rides and activities are charged. Click Here to Book Now :  Pondicherry Tour Packages From Mangalore

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Aurobindo Ashram or the Sri Aurobindo Ashram is a spiritual group (ashram) situated in the union territory of Pondicherry. The ashram was a small community that expanded over some time as more and more disciples of Aurobindo Ghose gathered around to seek spirituality. Aurobindo Ghose founded this ashram after he left his political career and aspired to inherit spiritualism in his life. A few followers of Aurobindo joined him in the ashram with the same aim of seeking spirituality. Located in eastern Pondicherry, Sri Aurobindo Ashram has become a hub of tourists who are inclined towards divinity and simplicity in their lifestyle. The ashram is popular not only in India but also in other countries because of the work put forth by the community towards the healing of humanity. The ashram in its initial days only had a few buildings but later, as more and more people joined, the ashram grew bigger and presently, it consists of many small buildings that are adjacent to each other. The ashram provides all the basic needs of its members for living a healthy and simple life. There is a library in the ashram where members can read and learn about the history and teachings of the place. Also, there are various cultural facilities like dance, theatre, music, arts, and sports for the all-round development of the members. The ashram is managed by a board of five trustees who make sure that the legacy and vision of Aurobindo Ghose remains in the ashram.History of Aurobindo Ashram:After quitting politics, Aurobindo Ghose spent most of his time writing and meditating in the ashram. From 1910 to 1920, the ashram had a few members alongside Aurobindo who all lived a simple life involving reading, writing and doing their daily chores. In 1920, Mirra Alfassa or “The Mother” who was regarded as the “spiritual collaborator” of Aurobindo returned to Pondicherry and lived in the ashram. Soon, more and more people came in the ashram and it gradually became a community under the umbrella of Aurobindo and the Mother. In 1926, the formal foundation of the ashram was done and this resulted in more and more people coming to the ashram. From just 24 people in 1927 to 150 in 1934, the ashram started to grow like a community. Over the years, as the ashram grew in numbers more and more departments were formed and the sadhaks looked after the departments as a part of their sadhana. Today, the ashram is spread throughout the town in around 400 buildings and houses more than 2000 sadhaks. Highlights of Aurobindo Ashram:-Aurobindo Ghose founded the ashram in 1926 after quitting his career in politics -Mother (Mirra Alfassa) companion of Aurobindo carried on the legacy of the ashram after Aurobindo’s death in 1950.-One of the biggest Ashrams in India, Aurobindo Ashram housing more than 2000 people living and serving each other. -Auroville, the city of dawn was the brainchild of Mother. Auroville is associated with the ashram in its ideological structure and well-being.-Aurobindo Ashram publishes many periodicals about the essence of spirituality and peace in life-It takes around 2-3 hours to see the entire ashram 

Rock Beach, often referred to as the Promenade Beach or Pondicherry Beach is a beachfront located along the Bay of Bengal. The coastline of this beach is 1.5 km long and starts at the War Memorial built at the beginning of the beach, while ends at the Dupleix Park built at the Goubert Avenue. Unfortunately, this beach is not open for taking dips in the sea or any water sport activities, but many visit the place during sunrise and sunset for walking, jogging or taking a stroll. The beach is clustered with tetrapods along the coastline, while a concrete pathway has been constructed which is flanked with cafes, restaurants and pubs. These restaurants serve various cuisines including French, Indian, Arabic and Chinese. Some of the places have live band performances that attract many tourists. The restaurants and pubs do not allow any customers after midnight and shut down before 1:00 AM.Apart from restaurants, there are shopping boutiques that sell textile materials, home décor and souvenirs for you to take home. The various hotels built around the beach provide several stay-at options for foreigners and local travellers. There are no vehicles allowed on the concrete and paved path, but there is a parking space provided at the entrance where you can give a fee of NR 5 and let the watchman take care of your vehicle.One may encounter various hawkers and vendors selling balloons, neon bands and tiaras whose presence may be vexing. The beach is not as crowded on weekdays as it is on weekends.

The Raj Niwas building is constructed on the foundation of a hotel named Hotel De La Compagnie. This is the government house of the Pondicherry and is a blend of both Indian and French architecture. The previous name of this Raj Niwas is Palais du Government. The Raj Niwas isn’t open to public but it is one of the attractions in Pondicherry. Most of the people who went on a trip to Pondicherry will surely pay a visit to this Raj Niwas to enjoy the Indo-French architecture. The monolithic pillars, fountain are the biggest asset of this Raj Niwas. They enhance the look of the construction as well as add royalty too. The public can go into the Raj Niwas on some special days and occasions only.Location:White TownPondicherry 605001Best Time To Visit:The Best Time To Visit: Raj Niwas will be between 12 pm and 1:30 pm as you will be allowed into the house. The point to remember here is the passes are limited to 40 per day.TimingsThe Raj Niwas will be open between 12pm and 1:30 pmDistance Between Pondicherry Bus stand and Raj NivasThe distance from Pondicherry bus station to Raj Nivas is 2.6 kms which can be travelled in 4-5 mins.Image Credits: thehindu.com

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Tourist Places to Visit in Pondicherry

A beach town hungover on its colonial past, Pondicherry or what is now known as Puducherry, is a spirited city that leaves an indelible mark on every visitor’s memory. Its extraordinariness lies in the seemingly ordinary experiences it offers to visitors – whether it is exploring the vibrancy of the French town, dining at the exceptionally aesthetic cafes or strolling along the shores beside the Bay of Bengal. You can cover a lot of the places to visit in Pondicherry in even a weekend, yet a desire to travel slow and relish all kinds of experiences will make you want to extend your stay or resolve to return here. This union territory is surrounded by Tamil Nadu and is close to other South Indian states. None of the places to visit near Pondicherry, however, can hold a candle to this picturesque city. Besides engaging with the city’s heritage, natural beauty and art, the powerful spiritual energy at Auroville allures travellers from all around the globe. The places to visit in Pondicherry are on top of most travellers’ itinerary planning a trip to South India. Read on to know more about the various places to see in Pondicherry.

Places to Visit in Pondicherry: Beaches

Promenade Beach

The central beach of the town, Promenade Beach, also known as Rock Beach and Gandhi Beach, is the most popular of all the places to visit in Pondicherry . It is a strip beside the sea stretching from the War Memorial to Goubert Ave. Similar to Marine Drive in Mumbai, the shore constitutes large rocks and boulders adding to the aesthetic value of the beach. The best characteristic of this Pondicherry tourist destination is that vehicles are only allowed on the road between 7am and 6pm. Owing to this, you will find plenty of locals and tourists sauntering about, playing games, skating and doing yoga after dawn and dusk. It is recommended to not loiter around after 11pm for safety reasons. A lot of places to visit in Pondicherry for delicious food are also lined up at the beachfront. Other than that, many street shops and hawkers sell souvenirs here every day. As the road is empty after six in the evening, sometimes it is used as a venue for events too. There are a number of places to visit in Pondicherry close to this beach such as the War Memorial, Mahatma Gandhi Statue, Dupleix Park, the remains of a pier, Chief Secretariat, old lighthouse, statue of Joan of Arc, the old Town Hall, Park Monument, Sri Aurobindo Ashram and the Pondicherry Museum. Paradise Beach

One of the most beautiful seaside places to visit in Pondicherry as well as the whole of India, travellers visit Paradise Beach from near and far. The process of reaching the beach is fun too. You can ride a two-wheeler rental or take public transport to Chunnambar Boathouse, located at the fringes of the city. From there, you need to take a ferry traversing the backwaters to arrive at the beach. Overlooking mangroves and avifauna, the ride is extremely pleasant. Remember that this is one of the places to visit in Pondicherry that is only open from 9am to 6pm. You should plan to spend a couple of hours to have an ideal beach day, therefore aim to arrive as early as possible. As you walk on the fine white sand, gaze at the turquoise blue water which will welcome you to take a dip. Stop at the many shacks along the shore to put your feet up and relax. This is one of the best places to visit in Pondicherry where you can indulge in a variety of activities such as rain dance, fish spa, ATV rides, zorbing, horse riding, trampolining and others. There is a small food joint here too, although it is recommended to bring a few snacks of your own. You are not allowed to go far from the main beach area, but the water is ideal and clean for a quick swim. There are also small showers and changing rooms right on the beach. Auroville Beach

Auroville Beach, or Auro Beach, is among the best places to visit in Pondicherry. It is situated just a few kilometres away from its namesake, the renowned township of Auroville. It is one of the most peaceful Pondicherry tourist places where you can simply swim in the sea or just sprawl on the sand watching the waves crash with your travel companions. It is advised to carry your own snacks and water since you will not find many options here. The best time to go is during sunrise and sunset; the sky takes on vibrant hues perfect to take some beachside photographs. Keep in mind that the beach is one of the places to visit in Pondicherry that is closed off to the public after sunset around 6.30pm. Serenity Beach

True to its name, this beach is one of the most serene places to visit in Pondicherry. Swathed in gleaming sand with a magnificent view of the horizon, this is one of the best places to visit in Pondicherry for a pleasant getaway from the bustle of the touristy destinations. The waves here are high, that allows several water sports to be organised here. You can find a few sea-facing resorts here, perfect for honeymooners. Veerampattinam Beach

To spend your day at a beach devoid of huge crowds, head to Veerampattinam Beach. It is among the places to visit in Pondicherry where you can sunbathe in tranquillity. You have the chance to see a number of busy fishermen here, preparing or returning from their voyage. It is known for having the longest coastline in Pondicherry, so you would not want to miss this destination. It is one of the best places to visit in Pondicherry, on the way to Cuddalore, which can be easily reached via your own vehicle or public transport. The village, where the beach is located, is one of the places to visit near Pondicherry that invites many tourists during its annual car festival held in August.

Places to Visit in Pondicherry: Important Areas and Landmarks

French Town

The former French quarters of the city, also known as White Town, is probably the most favoured of all places to visit in Pondicherry. The pastel, colourful walls ornate with bougainvillea flowers will teleport you back to the time it was inhabited by the French. The architecture and layout are characteristically foreign and add to the charm of the town. The French influence is also evident when you read the names of the street such as Romain Rolland Street, La Bourbonnais Street and Suffren Street. How it is dotted with chic cafes and eateries besides being only at a walking distance from Promenade Beach makes it one of the most famous places to visit in Pondicherry. This is also the most cultural location in the city, home to many well-known places to visit in Pondicherry as well as a centre of events and fests. Even if you choose to only roam around the streets of this area on foot, you will not be disappointed. Auroville

This experimental, universal township is among the most well-known places to visit in Pondicherry. Its philosophy of unity and goodwill within diversity is attractive to people across continents. Today it stands as the only internationally recommended place to get in touch with your consciousness. Auroville has adopted the practice of sustainable living and researches the different needs of humankind to march towards a peaceful and united future. Its inception took place in 1968, after clearing up a wasteland and turning into one of the most beautiful places to visit in Pondicherry. Representatives of more than 100 countries, along with those of all the Indian states, brought soil from their land which is now memorialized in a lotus-shaped urn here. The township currently is inhabited by about 2,500 people of different ages, countries, genders, classes and cultures. Of all the places to visit in Pondicherry, this unique destination stands out as the most tranquil and spiritual. The greenery, kindness of people and experience one gets within the complex are unmatched. As a visitor, you can learn about the tenets the residents abide by here. You can also sign up for the various workshops organised here. Do not miss the Matrimandir as it is on top of the list of places to visit in Pondicherry , being one of the major attractions of Auroville. It is a large golden sphere that symbolizes the emergence of a fresh consciousness. Not only is it magnificent to look at from outside, but it is also an astounding thing to witness from within. You need to get a permit in advance, which makes it difficult for people on shorter trips to obtain permission. After spending a couple of hours here, you can head on to other places to visit in Pondicherry, such as Auro Beach. Shri Aurobindo Ghosh Ashram

Founded in 1926 by former Indian freedom fighter and philosopher Sri Aurobindo, this ashram is one of the places to visit in Pondicherry that people visit to enhance their spiritual connections. A site to find inner peace, this ashram is one of its kind and only exists in Pondicherry. Located in French Town, thousands of devotees reside in and around the ashram, focussing on community life. At the centre of the ashram, in the courtyard, lie the remains of Sri Aurobindo and Mirra Alfassa (his follower, also known as The Mother). Visitors come here every day to pay their respects. This is among the wealthiest ashrams in the country, and there are several systems in place to offer all necessities to residents. During your visit, you will not be allowed to bring your bag or camera inside. Some parts of the ashram can only be accessed after getting a pass from the Bureau Central. There are several presentations and tours organized to learn about the founders’ lives and writings as well as the daily life and tasks carried out in the ashram. Frequent trips to Auroville is organised by the ashram too. Pondicherry Lighthouse

If you want to get a lovely sweeping view of the city, head to Pondicherry Lighthouse, one of the top places to visit in Pondicherry. It is located near the famous Gandhi Statue on Promenade Beach. There is also an old lighthouse in the city that was once instrumental in guiding ships to Pondicherry, but was closed in 1979. The new lighthouse has now become a centre for several events and cultural activities. Interestingly, there is a striking difference in the architecture of the two structures. It has become one of the most popular places to visit in Pondicherry, hence you might not have the view all to yourself. You should definitely plan a visit here, especially if you want to click panoramic pictures of the breathtaking vistas of the beach town. Pondicherry Museum

One of the important places to visit in Pondicherry for history lovers, this museum houses the largest bronze sculpture collection from the Chola Dynasty. It also consists of relics from Arikamedu and the Pallava Dynasty. The bronze selection showcases various statues of gods and goddesses. Besides sculptures, you can also find impressive ancient handicrafts, furniture, coins, utensils and other different archaeological specimens. There is also a section with geological findings. You will find many tourists making a stop here among other places to visit in Pondicherry. The Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus

This church is among the holiest places to visit in Pondicherry. Founded by French missionaries in the early 20th century, it is the only basilica in the city. Its outstanding Gothic architecture is embellished by Latin biblical engravings as well as images of Jesus and Mary at the entrance. You can also learn about the biblical tales encapsulated in the large stained glass panes. Its stunning architecture invites tourists from different parts of the world throughout the year, but the best time to visit is during Christian festivals such as Christmas and Easter as they are celebrated with immense pomp and gaiety.

Places to Visit in Pondicherry: Eateries

This is one of the few places to visit in Pondicherry that is open 24x7. Located in a former port house on Promenade Beach, Le Cafe is the only waterfront eatery in Pondicherry. Unsurprisingly, it has acquired the status of a landmark in the town. Tourists consider it a mandate to at least have one meal here, preferably early in the morning for a beautiful view of the sea while enjoying some scrumptious food. You can get a seat either on the verandah or the roof to enjoy the mellow sea breeze. The wonderfully ideal location of the cafe has unanimously turned it into a meeting spot or a place to relax while on tour of the places to visit in Pondicherry. For a cafe this popular, the menu is surprisingly well priced. Cafe Des Arts

Every traveller visiting Pondicherry ends up at this cafe clicking pictures in front of its mustard yellow walls or using the rickshaw permanently parked in the lawn as a prop. Located in White Town, it is one of the most famous places to visit in Pondicherry where you can get authentic French food. Besides the delicious food, the delightful decor based on pop culture infused with a vintage touch and the tiny nook with a make-shift library also invites tourists. Within the cafe there are two small shops where you can buy souvenirs. Cafe Xtasi

This cafe has become a must-visit in the town. You can go to the branch on M. G. Road or in Auroville. This is one of the places to visit in Pondicherry that has become legendary owing to its large, wood-fired pizzas. Not only does it have a wide variety of pizzas, but you can also find pastas, and other fast food items along with some delectable specials. You will always leave this cafe full and satisfied, hence you must definitely make a stop here for a meal. Eat My Cake

Hidden in plain sight, this is one of the most aesthetic places to visit in Pondicherry on the streets of White Town for a quick bite. Painted with bright, contrasting colours, you cannot help but be drawn to this cafe on Romain Rolland Street. Its value yet does not only lie in its mouth-watering French dishes and desserts, but more importantly in its social initiative to empower local women hailing from unfortunate circumstances. There is no reason to not stop here while exploring Pondicherry! Tanto

If you want a break from the French food and are interested in some Italian, Tanto is one of the best places to visit in Pondicherry . Strategically located en route Auroville, it is a flourishing restaurant almost always full to its maximum capacity. The menu appeases all kinds of food preferences – whether you are a vegan or love seafood, you will find something you like here. Health conscious people will be assured to know that the food is only prepared with organic ingredients in a hygienic environment. If that is not good enough, the service is impeccable, carried out by a polite and helpful staff.

Written by Shruti Mishra, an in-house Tripoto writer. Frequent searches leading to this page:- Best places to visit in pondicherry, Tourist Places in pondicherry, Place to see in pondicherry, tourist destinations in pondicherry, places to visit near pondicherry, pondicherry tourist places, pondicherry famous places, pondicherry sightseeing, beautiful tourist places in pondicherry, pondicherry picnic spot, sightseeing near me, pondicherry tourist places list, must see places in pondicherry, near pondicherry tourist places, tourist attraction in pondicherry, place to visit in pondicherry and coonoor, top places to visit in pondicherry, places to visit in pondicherry at night, most beautiful places to visit in pondicherry, best tourist places to visit in pondicherry, unique places to visit in pondicherry, best places to visit in pondicherry for couples, pondicherry places to visit in evening, unknown places to visit in pondicherry, most important places to visit in pondicherry, places to visit around pondicherry, places to see in pondicherry, pondicherry tourist destination  

15 best places to see in Pondicherry

• Post author: Subhadeep Mondal
• Post last modified: July 10, 2021
• Reading time: 42 mins read

Pondicherry or Puducherry is one of the eight union territories of India. It is comprised of four places, and they are Pondicherry, Karaikal, Mahe and Yanam. These four places and Chanadannagaar in West Bengal were once the only French settlements in India. Even today, Pondicherry has many things that indicate a French colonial past. That is why it is also called the “Little France of India”.

Read more : Pondicherry in November Rain | A 3-Days Trip With Family

But French history is not the only thing that attracts travellers to visit Pondicherry. The natural vibe of a beach town, the left behind legacies of Sri Aurobindo and Mother Alfassa and the peaceful co-existence of rich Tamil culture are equally important for its glittering presence in the tourist map of India.

Below are the 15 best places in Pondicherry that you should not miss during your visit to this beautiful beach town.

Table of Contents

Tourist Map of Pondicherry

Places to see in Pondicherry

The most visited place near Pondicherry is Auroville. Though Auroville is not a tourist place per se, the concept and the ideology behind it always attract travellers around the globe to experience it. While talking about living the lifestyle, you need to stay for a few weeks inside Auroville, but that does not restrict tourists to pay a day visit to the Matrimandir.

Auroville is a universal township with residents from all over the world. The purpose of Auroville is to realise human unity while practising sustainable living addressing the cultural, environmental, social and spiritual needs of humanity.

It is the vision of Mirra Alfassa (known as Mother to his followers) which finally materialised on 28th February 1968 by an inaugural ceremony attended by 5000 people from 124 nations worldwide. They brought soil from their homeland, all of which was kept in a marble-clad lotus-shaped urn that is cited at the focal point inside the amphitheatre now.

The Matrimandir is at the centre of the township around which the township is built divided into 4 zones – Residential Zone, International Zone, Cultural Zone and Industrial Zone. These zones are collectively encircled by Green Zone, which is comprised of organic farms, dairies, orchards, forests and wildlife areas.

Auroville township is located partly in Pondicherry and the rest in Tamilnadu. It is 10 km north of Pondicherry and at a distance of 150 km from Chennai.

The first place that you will come across after entering is the Visitor’s Centre where you can get information regarding Auroville. The entry passes for Matrimandir are issued here. A visitor has to watch an introductory video on Matrimandir following which the pass is issued.

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A shaded 15 minutes walk from the Visitor’s Centre leads to Matrimandir. There is also an electric shuttle service for aged persons who will find it difficult walking. The distance is 1 km from the Visitor’s Centre. While returning, everyone can avail the bus service back to the Visitor’s Centre. Or you can walk back and explore some other interesting places like Unity Pavillion, Bharat Nivas, Tibetian Pavillion, Sabitri Bhavan etc. Before you eave Auroville you can spend some time in the nice food court near the Visitor’s Centre.

Address: Auroville Township, Pondicherry / Tamilnadu, India

Google Map: Auroville

Entry Time for Matrimandir: 9 am – 5 pm, Passes to visit Matrimandir are issued from 9 am – 4:30 pm (Mon – Sat) and 9 am – 1 pm (on Sundays)

Entry Fee: Free

Promenade and Rock beach

The promenade is the road right beside the rock beach. It extends from the Gandhi statue in the north to the Dupleix park in Goubert Avenue. And Rock Beach, the beach alongside the Promenade, is a long 1.5 km stretch of shoreline covered by large rocks. The promenade is Pondicherry’s own little “Marine Drive”. Traffic on this road is restricted from 6 pm to 7 am.

Several heritage buildings and monuments are present around the Promenade, such as – Children’s Park and Dupleix Statue , Gandhi statue , Nehru Statue , Le Café , French War Memorial , 19th Century Light House , Bharathi Park , Governors Palace , Romain Rolland Library , Legislative Assembly , Pondicherry Museum and the French Institute of Pondicherry at Saint Louis Street.

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The promenade is not just a place for Pondy people; it is more of an emotion. The character of the Promenade changes with the time of the day.

In the early morning after the first mass is over, the street becomes full of walkers and fitness freaks. You may find a few couples busy in pre-wedding photoshoots on the Rock beach. After 7 am on weekdays, you will see kids going for school, and when the traffic restriction lifted off, there are lines of bikes and auto-rickshaws full of school kids moving in both directions.

In the late morning and noon, the crowd gets thinned out even in the winter due to the tropical sun. But once the clock gets past 4 in the afternoon, the locals and the tourists again start gathering in the Promenade. This time the crowd comprises more of young souls. The cafes gradually fill up, and the beachside roars with fun and laughter until sunset.

Address: Promenade, White Town, Pondicherry

Google Map: Promenade Beach

Entry Time: Open 24 hours

Sri Aurobindo Ashram

This is the place where Sri Aurobindo spent most of his life. It is located in the eastern part of Pondicherry, inside White Town. Founded in 1926, Sri Aurobindo Ashram has grown, under Mother’s (Mira Alfassa) guidance, from a small group of two dozen disciples into a large and diverse community of almost 1600 members.

Ashram main building has houses of Sri Aurobindo and The Mother, as well as their Samadhis (mausoleum) where they were laid to rest.

The Ashram provides its members with all they need for a healthy life. Various departments look after the basic requirements of food, clothing and shelter, as well as medical care. There are also libraries for study and facilities for a variety of cultural pursuits including music, dance, theatre, and the arts.

Read more : White Town in Pondicherry – A Photo Walk

The Ashram is open to the general public every day from 8 am – 12 noon and 2 pm – 6 pm.

Visitors can also access some facilities of the Ashram like the Library and the main building (during collective meditation) with gate pass from Bureau Central or Ashram Guest House.

Address: Marine Street, White Town, Puducherry, 605002

Google Map: Sri Aurobindo Ashram

Entry Time: 8 am- 12 noon and 2 pm – 6 pm (All Days)

Paradise Beach

Paradise Beach is the most beautiful sea beach in Pondicherry. This pristine white sand beach is a perfect place to have fun under the tropical sun. The beach can only be accessed by a boat from Chunnambar Boat House on Cuddalore Road. The boat ride takes 15 minutes to reach there. But the ferry timing is fixed and depends on weather condition.

There are a few beach shacks and restaurants available where you can get foods and beverages. However, the price is much higher than usual. Showers and restrooms are also available on the beach. You can have a game of beach volleyball or swim in the small waves near the shore, or you can lie down on the sand and take a sunbathe at the beach.

Address: Manaveli Rd, Chinna Veerampattinam, Pondicherry

Google Map: Paradise Beach

Entry Time: 9 am- 5 pm (All Days), depends on ferry time in Chunnambar Boat House

• ₹5 for children
• ₹10 for adult
• ₹20 for still camera
• ₹50 for video camera
• ₹200 per person for beach trip by motorboat (pick-up and drop)
• Car parking, food and beverages are extra

Pondicherry Museum

Pondicherry Museum is a must-visit place if you are a history buff. It has a large collection of many bronze and stone sculptures from the Pallava and Chola Dynasty and also the artefacts which were excavated from Arikamedu (the Roman Empire Link to Pondicherry).

The museum is inside an old two-storied building on Saint Louis Street. At the courtyard, you will see many stone statues and a fossilised tree.

On the ground floor there is a geology room, a shell and a fossil room, On the first floor, there is collection of handicrafts, coins and French furniture with three more attractions kept in the veranda – they are three curious transport mechanisms- a coach, a palanquin and a pousse-pousse (an earlier version of the rickshaw).

The bronze gallery displays the images of gods and goddesses together with a wide collection of temple lamps used across different dynasties down the centuries.

Address: Saint Louis Street, Pondicherry

Google Map: Pondicherry Museum

Entry Time: 10 am – 5 pm (Except Mondays and National Holidays)

Entry Fee: ₹15 per person

Churches of Pondicherry

Basilica of the sacred heart of jesus.

You can find this century-old church right opposite Pondicherry railway station. It was built in Neo-Gothic style in the first decade of the twentieth century.

This church looks like a cross in aerial view and is 50 metres long, 48 metres wide and 18 metres high. A biblical verse from 2nd chronicle is written in Latin right above the main entrance.

Inside the church, there are rare stained glass panels depicting events from the life of Christ and the saints of the Catholic Church. The Grotto for Sacred Heart of Jesus facing the City Railway Station was added, and the church illuminated inside and outside with chandeliers, focus lights and floodlights.

Address: Subbaiah Salai, Pondicherry (opposite Pondicherry station)

Google Map: Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus

Entry Time: 5 am – 10 pm (All Days); Mass Timings: Monday to Saturday – 5:30 am, 12:30 pm, 6:00 pm, Sunday – 5:30 am, 7:30 am, 12:00 pm, 5:00 pm (English mass) 6:15 pm (Tamil mass)

Immaculate Conception Cathedral

Immaculate Conception Cathedral is the cathedral mother church for the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Pondicherry and Cuddalore. This church is located on Mission Street on the ruins of old churches. The first church was built here back in 1692 which was demolished by Dutch within a year.

Then the second church was built in 1699, which also could not last long. This final structure was built in the 18th century and remodelled many times. Mother Teresa visited this 300 years old church during her visit to Pondicherry. The Bishop House is also situated here.

Address: Mission Street, Near V.O.C School, Pondicherry

Google Map: Immaculate Conception Cathedral

Entry Time: 7 am -12 noon, 3 pm – 8:30 pm (All Days)

Church of our Lady of the Angels

This church is located in Dumas Street inside White Town and also known as Domas Church. The church was built in Greco-Roman architecture. There is a main chappel in the centre with two pillars on either side. On aerial view, this church also looks like a Latin cross. Two spiral staircases could reach the main entrance. The inscriptions in Latin can be seen over the facade. The bells in the church are believed to have been procured from France.

There is a statue of Joan of Arc erected in a small garden between the church and the sea and was donated to the church by the then Mayor of Puducherry, Goubert.

Church of our Lady of the Angels is the only church in Pondicherry where every Sunday mass is celebrated in all three languages – English, Tamil and French.

Address: Dumas street, White Town, Pondicherry

Google Map: Church of our Lady of the Angels

Entry Time: 6 am – 10 pm; Mass Timings – Visit here

Read more: 10 Best Hotels In The White Town Of Pondicherry That You Can Book On Your Next Trip

Arulmigu Manakula Vinayagar Temple

Manakula Vinayagar Temple is a Hindu temple of Lord Ganesa. This temple is a popular pilgrimage site and tourist destination in Pondicherry. This temple was built before the French came to India. During the tenure of Dupleix, there were attempts to destroy the temple, but there was strong resistance by Hindu people which compelled the French to spare it.

Located close to Sri Aurobindo Ashram, this temple has a beautiful entrance with a wall lined by carvings of Hindu gods and goddesses. Inside the temple, the southern sidewall has three rows of gods, sculptures and stone engravings. There is a large golden chariot inside the temple which is believed to bring good luck to devotees if they can pull it.

Brahmothsavam, the mega festival of Lord Manakula Vinayagar is celebrated every year for 24 days during August and September.

Address: Francois Martin St, White Town, Pondicherry

Google Map: Arulmigu Manakula Vinayagar Temple

Entry Time: 5:45am – 12:30pm and 4:00pm – 9:00pm (till 10:00pm on Fridays), timings are subject to change during Festival days and Holidays.

Serenity Beach

Serenity beach is around 8 km from Pondicherry and is quite popular among young people. It is the nearest sand beach from Pondicherry. You can see many fishing boats lined along the shoreline and a stone laid pavement that encroaches little inside the sea. This encroachment is a favourite place of locals to enjoy the sunset while sitting on a large rock.

This beach is also popular among surfers as the waves are bigger than other sand beaches. There are a surf school and a cafe near the beach. The weekend market is also a nice place to hang out.

Address: Kottakuppam, Off ECR, Tamil Nadu 605101

Google Map: Serenity Beach

Entry Time: till 6:30 pm

Chunnambar Boat House

Chunnambar Boat House is 8 km away from Pondicherry on Cuddalore Main Road. The boathouse is situated beside Chunnambar creek where the river Chunnambar meets the Bay of Bengal. As the name suggests, this place is perfect for boating in the placid backwaters with thick mangrove forest on the sides. This boathouse is also the boarding point for a ferry to Paradise Beach which is at the mouth of the backwater.

Chunnambar Boathouse is basically a part of Chunnambar Beach and Backwater Resort, a PTDC (Puducherry Tourism Development Corporation) enterprise. Inside there is a multicuisine restaurant and three treehouses where you can stay overnight. Among them “Sunrise Panorama” which is two-storied treehouse offers an unrestricted view of backwaters up to its mouth.

Apart from boating, you can also enjoy other activities like jet skiing, banana boat ride, windsurfing etc.

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Address: Pondicherry-Cuddalore Road, Nonankuppam, Pondicherry

Google Map: Chunnambar Boat House

Entry Time: 9 am – 5 pm (All Days)

• ₹400 for Speed Boat ride (2 seaters)
• ₹800-1000 for Jet Skiing
• ₹600-1000 for Banana Boat ride
• ₹350-700 for Sikhara ride
• ₹100/hour for Kayak Boar and Row Boat
• Car parking charges, foods and beverages extra

Auroville Beach, popularly known as Auro Beach is located beside ECR. The entry to the beach is opposite the road that cuts from ECR towards Auroville. The beach is relatively less crowded and mostly visited by people from Auroville town.

Auro beach is another beach near Pondicherry which is popular among surfers. The small waves are also favourable for swimming close to the shore.

Address: Off ECR (opp Auroville entrance), Periyamudaliar Chavadi, Tamil Nadu

Google Map: Auroville Beach

Entry Time: Closes at 6:30 pm

Arikamedu is an archaeological site near Pondicherry. It was used to be an important Roman trading post from 2nd century BC to 2nd century AD. The excavations led to antiques of Roman origin such as beads and gems, amphorae (winemaking vats) with remnants of wine, a Roman stamp, big bricks recovered from an old wall, Arretine ware and so forth.

From these antiquities, Sir R.E.M. Wheeler (former Director-General of the Archaeological Survey of India in pre-independence period) concluded that the site was related to a period of trading with Rome. And emperor Augustus Caesar was the first to establish this trade with India. There is also considerable evidence to suggest that the site was occupied during medieval Chola times. Finds of Chola coins, Chinese Celadon pottery and other East Asian glazed ceramics suggest occupation of the site and some involvement in the medieval East-West maritime trade as well.

Between 1771 and 1773, a seminary and residence were built here for Christian Missionaries which was abandoned a decade later. Today a few gateway pillars and walls of the original structure remain which is called Mission House by locals. The isolated perpendicular walls which are claimed as part of a Roman settlement and this Mission House there is nothing much to see for visitors. But if you are imaginative enough, then you will be thrilled to walk around a place that had a history connecting back to a civilisation existed 2000 years ago.

Address: Ariyankuppam, Pondicherry

Google Map: Arikamedu

Entry Time: 10 am – 4 pm

Bharathi Park

Bharathi Park is a perfect green escape among the heritage buildings of White Town. The Aayi Mandapam is at the centre of the park from where four roads diverge to four corners of the park dividing the whole area into four equal parts.

The large green trees provide a much-needed relief from the scorching summer sun. With children playing over the green carpet of grass and the grown-ups sitting on granite benches or walking on the tiled path, this park is the most appreciated public space in the town.

Address: Ranga Pillai Street, Pondicherry

Google Map: Bharathi Park

Entry Time: 6 am – 9 pm

Ousteri Wetland

Ousteri Lake or Ossudu Lake is a large human-made lake near Pondicherry town that has been recognised as one of the important wetland of Asia by the International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (IUCN).

It is a popular tourist spot and a paradise for bird-watchers during winter. Many migratory birds fly here every year from November to February. PTDC (Puducherry Tourism Development Corporation) also operates a small boating club here. The 20 seater boat offers a 30-minute ride that allows visitors to enjoy the cool breeze and the lovely landscape here.

Address: Oussudu village, Vazhudavoor Road, Pondicherry

Google Map: Ousteri Lake

Entry Time: 9 am – 5 pm

Entry Fee: Free, Boating charges extra

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

You can not cover all of the above places in a day. If you have only one day to spend in Pondicherry, then you should cover the following places – 1. Promenade Beach 2. Sri Aurobindo Ashram 3. Pondicherry Museum 4. Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus 5. Immaculate Conception Cathedral 6. Manakula Vinayagar Temple 8. A visit to Matrimandir in Auroville

To see all the places comfortably, you need at least 3 days in Pondicherry.

Day 1 – Explore White Town and nearby places which are in walking distance from White Town. 1. Promenade Beach 2. Sri Aurobindo Ashram 3. Pondicherry Museum 4. Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus 5. Immaculate Conception Cathedral 6. Church of our Lady of the Angels 7. Manakula Vinayagar Temple 8. Bharathi Park Day 2 – Go to Auroville and nearby places 1. Auroville 2. Auroville Beach 3. Serenity Beach Day 3 – today you should visit Paradise Beach and the rest of the left out places 1. Chunnambar Boat House 2. Paradise Beach 3. Arikamedu 4. Ousteri Lake

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I am reaching to Puducherry with family between 11march to 13march

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