pondicherry visit guide

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Complete Pondicherry Travel Guide & Things To Do

Table of Contents

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If Jaipur is the Pink City and Jodphur is the Blue City, then Pondicherry is certainly the Yellow City. In this Pondicherry travel guide, I’m going to share my experiences and help you have the best possible visit! Known by the locals as Pondy, this charming city in Tamil Nadu is yet more proof of India’s diversity. My first two months in India had already included snowy mountains, desert, busy cities, tranquil nature, Hindu temples and Sikh pilgrimage sites, so why not throw a tropical Catholic town into the mix?

PONDI ESSENTIALS India Lonely Planet Accommodation: Booking.com / Hostelworld Getting there: flight ( Skyscanner ) / bus / train ( 12Go ) Travel insurance:   True Traveller  (European travellers) /   Hey Mundo  (other nationalities) /   Safety Wing  (digital nomads)

Like many other Asian settlements – Hoi An in Vietnam for example – the French are responsible for the look of Pondicherry. While I did really enjoy my time in Pondy, the colonialist influence made me feel uncomfortable. Probably because I’ve learnt so much about the British involvement in India and the atrocities that came with it. That’s not the most upbeat way to start this Pondicherry tourist guide but I had to get it out of the way! Pondicherry is a perfect destination for solo female travel in India . If the fast pace of life has got on top of you while in India, Pondy is the perfect place to unwind. You can relax in cute cafes, drink good coffee and simply relax a little.

In this Pondicherry travel guide, I’ll cover some of the things to do in Pondicherry and share the cutest cafes, something I’m always sniffing out. Pondicherry wasn’t the best budget destination in India because there weren’t many hostels and I got sucked into the fancy brunch scene! Still, you can see the whole town on foot and eat street food when you want to save money.

Pondicherry travel guide

Let’s start with a quick history. There aren’t any records of Pondicherry before the colonial era so it’s only been known as a European settlement. While it was originally French in the 16th century, Britain and France repeatedly fought over it during the Anglo-French wars. They each both took control three times. During the lengthy British rule before Indian independence, France was allowed to maintain Pondicherry. It’s crazy to think that this town has only been independent for 70 years in the last 350. Understandably, the effects have lasted. Today, Pondicherry looks French rather than Indian and many locals speak French as well as Tamil.

When to visit Pondicherry

If you don’t want to die of heat exposure, consider timing your trip between October and March. I visited in early April and genuinely have never been so hot in my life. I wasn’t expecting it because my research had told me that temperatures were only in the mid-30s. What I hadn’t gaged from Google weather was the humidity. The south of India has a humid rather than dry climate which makes everything feel so much hotter. While the temperatures were in the low 40s in Rajasthan, it felt so much worse in Pondy. For more about visiting India during all seasons of this year, research the best time to visit India here.

Getting to Pondicherry:

I flew into Chennai and caught a bus to Pondicherry which is the most common way to arrive. Check buses on 12Go Asia .

Things to do in Pondicherry

Aside from just chilling out and seeing a different side to India, get stuck into these things to do in Pondicherry…

Visit Cafe des Arts

More than just a cafe, this sunny yellow building takes up the whole corner of Surcouf Street and Suffren Street. It’s usually packed with weekend guests snapping photos for social media. It’s a cute place for lunch and brunch, as well as one of the most iconic sights of pretty Pondi .

Read next: the best cafes in Pondicherry

Sri Aurobindo Ashram

Over 90 years old, this ashram is named after a well-known Indian philosopher and yogi, Sri Aurobindo. If you don’t know already, an ashram is a spiritual house for Hindus. O ften they offer accommodation, meals and yoga classes, but this one is just for day visits. Today, around 2,000 locals use Sri Aurobindo Ashram to pray and meditate. Visiting is one of the most popular things to do in Pondicherry. It’s free and, although I wasn’t allowed to take photos inside, I can promise it’s very pretty and peaceful. Take 30 minutes to relax and let all that fast-paced travel stress go.

Wander White Town (especially Rue Surcuof)

White Town is the area close to the sea, once known as the French Quarter. This is the area that French colonialists would have lived and socialised. While they’re no more, the area has remained as charming as I imagine it once was. Cobbled streets, sunny yellow buildings and old-fashioned lampposts give it a very European feel, while charming cafes and restaurants serve a mix of South Indian and French-influenced food. For this alone, I’m going to say Pondicherry is one of a kind!

Sample local food & chai

I don’t want to paint Pondicherry as a totally idyllic French village because, while there’s a lot of that, it’s definitely still India – in the best way! After a few days of feeling like I was back in Europe, I was seeking out chai stands and more affordable local food as much as possible.

Since no Pondicherry tourist guide would be complete without food and drink, I’d recommend you prop yourse lf at a chai stall and watch the local vendors ‘pull’ the tea. They’re incredibly skilled at what they do, pouring hot tea from great heights in the process of frothing the milk. The guy I watched was so charming. He was obviously proud of his work and, seeing my camera, encouraged me to take as many photos as possible, all while acting nonchalant like he had no idea. When another customer leaned across me, he was agitated, telling him to stop blocking my view. I had to smile!

Chai will set you back about 10 rupees, and the street food won’t cost much more. This yoghurt dish from KBS Coffee scattered with pomegranate and mint was so refreshing in the heat. This hawker stand has lots of traditional South Indian dishes to try for pennies. You can take away or perch at a makeshift table. Read about where to eat and drink in Pondicherry here.

Browse the Sunday Market

If you’re keen to see the real India, rather than just pretty White Town, the Sunday Market is a great place to start. This runs all along Mahatma Gandhi Rd which was conveniently right in front of my hostel. The Sunday Market sells everything from silverware to gadgets, books, home items, toys and anything else you can think of. It’s very local so you might not buy anything, but it’s worth the wander. It runs from morning to night.

Check out the beach

I’ll give the beach a quick mention but it’s not the greatest thing to do in Pondicherry. The strip of sand is used by locals for paddling but the strong currents prevent anyone from swimming. I had a little wander along the sand and took a few (uninspiring) photos of the pier. It was nice to see the sea after 2 months in landlocked cities. While Pondy is less conservative than North India and you don’t need to worry so much about covering up, it would definitely be inappropriate to strip into your swimwear.

Related read: what to pack for a trip to India (female)

Take a trip to Auroville

One of the best things to do in Pondicherry is take a day trip to Auroville. In fact, this spiritual settlement is the reason some people visit Pondicherry in the first place. This alternative community is based around the Matrimandir, a giant gold dome in the countryside, set up by an Indian woman named The Mother. During the Cold War, there was a call for a new society, a place away from politics where people could be accepted regardless of race, religion and gender. This was the result! Auroville is a 20-minute drive from Pondicherry. You can take a tuk-tuk for 400 rupees each way or do what I did, catch the local bus (see details in this blog post below).

Read next: Visiting Auroville from Pondicherry

If you turn up for a day visit, you have to register at the visitor’s office before walking over to view the Matrimandir. There’s also a museum where you can learn more about it. While there, I also registered for a meditation session inside, something that you have to do in person a day in advance. It’s a bit of a faff as the registration office is only open during certain hours (and closed on Tuesdays) but again, all the details are in my blog post. Overall, I found this hippie community quite strange. It was certainly interesting, and the inside of the Matrimandir is like something from a sci-fi movie, but I wonder how it operates day-to-day. It was hard to gather during a quick visit and it seems like you have to be quite wealthy to join. Whatever your view, it’s a thing to do in Pondicherry.

Related activity: Auroville walking tour with a local guide ($10)

Our Lady of Angels Church

The churches in Pondicherry are charming. I don’t really like seeing colonial landmarks in countries that suffered at their hands but it’s definitely a popular thing to do in Pondicherry. I find it so interesting that the locals still use them today – there’s a big Catholic population among the Tamil-speaking Indians in this area.

Our Lady of Angels is a pink-washed church in White Town built in 1855, offering services in French, English and Tamil. It’s gorgeous both outside and inside with its pale pink and blue-domed ceiling.

Immaculate Conception Cathedral

If you have time or find yourself passing by, the Immaculate Conception Cathedral is another photo-worthy spot in Pondicherry. I didn’t go inside but I took some snaps of the white and yellow church at sunset with birds flitting around the spires. Very pretty and peaceful!

Where to stay in Pondicherry

There’s only one hostel that I know of in Pondicherry, Nomad House . I forgot to take photos but it was lovely: the beds were comfy and the aircon was icy. There’s a rooftop area where you can bond with fellow travellers. They don’t run any hostel activities like the ones up north but it was still a good place to meet people. Check availability from 600 rupees a night .

Thanks for reading my Pondicherry travel guide

I hope you’re excited to visit and ready to indulge at all the best cafes in Pondicherry. Bon appetit!

Check out my other India posts:

• Backpacking in Rajasthan itinerary
• Auroville to Pondicherry day trip
• Pondicherry cafe guide
• Places to travel solo in India
• India packing list for women
• Why to visit Pushkar
• What to do and see in Pushkar
• The best restaurants and cafes in Pushkar
• Ultimate Rishikesh travel guide
• Seeing tigers in Ranthambore National Park
• The perfect 3 day Jaipur itinerary
• Jaipur Instagram guide
• Amristar travel guide
• Dharamsala travel guide
• Travel tips for Holi festival

See you next time for more adventures,

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Ps. Liked my Pondicherry tourist guide? Pin it for later!

VISITING INDIA?  These are my trusted resources: Getting around by air – it’s easy to get between cities by flight. I use Skyscanner and search by whole month to find the best value dates. Buses – buses are comfy and efficient. Use 12Go to book . Trains – these are a good option for long journeys because you have a bed rather than a seat. Use 12Go to book . For hotels , I use Booking.com – they also have self-catering apartments. You can filter by review score and price to find the best-rated budget places. For hostels, I use Hostelworld . Browse tours and activities on GetYourGuide . I also check Viator and Klook in case they have a better price. For food tours with passionate local chefs and foodies, check out EatWith . Pack the latest copy of India Lonely Planet . Need travel insurance ? I use True Traveller (for UK & Europe residents) since it’s affordable but covers everything you’d need including various activities, valuables and pre-existing conditions. Unlike some companies, they insure you if you’re already travelling / don’t yet have your flight home booked. Get a quote . For travel insurance for other nationalities, I recommend Hey Mundo and for long-term digital nomad travellers, I suggest Safety Wing . Check out my resources page for more travel discounts and tips!

Rose is a solo traveller from the UK who has been on the road since 2015. She wants to show other women that solo travel isn't scary and doesn't have to be expensive! Rose has lived in Mexico, Canada and all over Asia, seeking out food, bubble tea and street art wherever she goes!

5 thoughts on “ Complete Pondicherry Travel Guide & Things To Do ”

Need to visit those cute cafés ?

Nice write up. Couple of times you have mentioned that you are nervous or not comfortable about places because people had suffered under colonial rule. Even today many parts of the world people are suffering under many undemocratic governments. It is part of life, we should move on and enjoy the good moments of life rather than living in guilt for someone’s deeds. Not all foreigners who governed India were bad.

Thanks for reading and your comment, PJ! Good to hear your view 🙂

Rose thank you for the beautiful pictures and perfect articulation about my home town Pondy.

Hi Pravin! Thanks for reading, you have a lovely hometown

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Pondicherry Travel Guide 2024 with Top Things to Do!

By: Author Sophie Pearce

Posted on Last updated: January 1, 2024

Categories PONDICHERRY , INDIA

This post may contain affiliate links. Please see my disclosure policy for details.

Pondicherry was like a dream. A beautiful dream that was full of clean sandy beaches, laid back colourful streets and European architecture.

I kept asking myself ‘am I in India or France?’.

It’s quite a bizarre feeling seeing all French on street signs, cafés and from people’s mouths here! But, the food was to die for. A perfect taste of home and welcome comfort food.

They even had a mini Notre-dame, but here it was a lovely shade of salmon pink and was framed with palm trees.

It was like it had its own mood, a rhythm. As you walk around the laid back atmosphere is catching.

The people are so friendly and it’s far less touristy than Goa in the West. This was one of my favourite places in South India.

So without further ado, here’s the ultimate Pondicherry travel guide!

How to reach Pondicherry in India

If you’re travelling from Delhi, your best bet is to fly. The nearest major airport that runs flight services daily is Chennai. From here, you can grab a taxi from the airport straight to Pondicherry.

Always leaving things to the last minute, I ended up getting a pre-paid taxi from the airport but this had a hefty price tag of 3000 rupees! (ouch) You will pay more for air conditioning.

I would highly recommend booking via an online cab service in advance to ensure you don’t have the same dent in your wallet.

I also misjudged how long it would take. Google maps will tell you around 2 hours and a half but it was actually more like 3 hours and a half!

If you’re heading here from Bangalore, they run daily flights to Puducherry airport which will save you some time and money.

It is also well connected via rail services from Chennai, Bangalore and Mumbai which run three times a week. New Delhi and Kolkata  have weekly trains which run here – but it will take you 3 days!

According to the official Pondicherry tourism board, the road is your best option. It is well connected by bus from most major southern cities like Bangalore and Chennai.

Where to stay in Pondicherry

Pondicherry has a wealth of suitable hotels to stay in, whatever your budget!

I decided to stay in White Town which is a heritage area. Being a history buff this suited me perfectly.

It was right next to the rock beach by the sea and all major attractions were within walking distance.

I booked a cute heritage hotel called Le Dupleix. It was a quaint little place with friendly staff and they only had 14 rooms available.

They also had a really good restaurant which served up authentic French cuisine. After 9 months of living in India, it was heavenly and my tummy was very happy.

For available dates and prices for Le Dupleix check here.

Things to do in Pondicherry

Explore white town.

White Town is like every photographer’s dream. The typical Pondicherry scenes were vintage bicycles perched up against vibrant yellow walls with oil lamps.

All the electric blue street signs will begin with ‘Rue’ and palm trees will sway on nearly every road! It’s truly a feast for your eyes if you’ve been used to seeing Indian architecture.

I simply enjoyed just walking around the streets here. Seeing all the effortless beauty of the buildings and the life which was going on around them.

The Tuk-Tuk drivers taking it easy, the fruit stalls and the smell of the patisseries baking in the air. As I say, like a dream.

Take a snap outside Cafe Des Artes

One of the coolest and most ‘Instragrammable’ walls of Pondicherry is the famous Cafe Des Artes’.

When I visited the cafe it was closed, presumably because of the monsoon season.

But, their beautiful wall was still there for some fantastic picture opportunities! I guess Instagram locations are that way for a reason, right?

Visit Arulmigu Manakula Vinayagar Temple

One of the famous temples in this area is the Arulmigu Manakula Vinayagar Temple.

Its colourful dioramas of Hindu religious scenes are beautiful but most notably it draws visitors for a daily blessing from the Lakshmi elephant.

Shamefully, I did pay for a blessing of this elephant when I travelled there two years ago. But, I would encourage you NOT to do it.

Although I would never attempt to try to assume Hindu culture and how the temple treat their animals (when I visited she seemed healthy).

From recent research on PETA it seems that Lakshmi’s health and well being has fallen into decline.

Lakshmi attends certain ‘rejuvenation camps’ each year for her ‘wellbeing’ according to the government in Tamil Nadu.

But, there seems to be a blatant disregard for her health recently. She has a foot fungus and this is not being treated properly for it.

Despite all this, no wild elephant should be kept in a temple for profit or entertainment. This treatment is barbaric.

Take a stroll to Rock beach

I love being by the sea and when I reached the water’s edge in Pondicherry, it brought it home just how much I missed the ocean air.

Although this beach isn’t as sandy as others in the area, it’s still a really nice place to visit and stroll along the promenade.

Have a coffee in Le Cafe

This beach is a great place to wander at any time with the best being at sunset.

Make sure you visit the famous ‘Le Cafe’ which is open for the finest south Indian coffee 24 hours a day!

I sipped an iced coffee on the rocks while enjoying the view. This is White Town’s only waterfront cafe, so make sure you pay it a visit.

Visit the Pondicherry Promenade

The Promenade is lined with famous attractions and statues.

The most notable being Gandhi Ji.

You’ll see locals taking selfies and in the evening there was a brass band playing which draws in a huge crowd!

Visit one of the many churches in Pondicherry

Being a French colony all those years ago, their legacy has left a lot of French culture in Pondicherry.

Along with the French language, patisseries and signs, they have also left a lot of churches with a European influence.

Being from the UK, churches in India aren’t really my bag. I get enough of them at home and I came to India to experience a culture that isn’t my own. But, these churches were different.

They were so colourful and had some glorious architecture inside.

You can visit the Church of the Sacred Heart, the Notre-dame des Ange and the Immaculate conception cathedral to mention a few. Mass and services are still read in French.

Take a trip to Serenity beach

My favourite place in Pondicherry was Serenity Beach. It’s one of the cleanest beaches in the area and the scenes are just perfect.

You can reach here via an auto, motorbike or taxi and it’s around 20 minutes away from the main town on the East Coast Road (ECR to locals).

Fishing boats line the shore, with fishermen sewing and preparing their nets for the catch of the day.

The palm trees, colourful guesthouses and cabanas all contribute to making this the perfect place to spend an afternoon.

The community here are very conscious of making sure this beach remains clean and they’re doing a pretty good job.

Littering is a constant struggle in India wherever you go and beaches, even as pretty as this, aren’t immune to it.

But at Serenity, there’s hardly any rubbish and so it’s just clean sands to enjoy.

Take a day trip from Pondicherry to Auroville & the Matrimandir

Auroville is an experimental township in India.

The land was bought by “The Mother” or Mirra Alfassa in 1968 and today, it is a community where everyone of all creeds and class is welcome.

Here, you can visit the ‘soul of the city’ their famous Matrimandir.

The orb made of gold is a symbol of spiritual significance to those who practice integral yoga, a philosophy which was practised by Shri Aurobindo and “The Mother” here. It took 37 years to build.

If you’re only here for a couple of hours, you can obtain a free pass from the visitor centre to walk to the viewing point. This is open daily to visitors and only in the morning on Sundays.

If you’re a first time visitor and would like to enter the temple for concentration, all bookings must be made in person and on an individual basis (no group bookings). You will be issued a pass one day in advance.

The locals say you can feel the energies in your blood if you meditate here and it’s recommended to spend some time doing so.

Once you’ve finished make sure you pay a visit to their restaurant. Using mainly organic ingredients from the Auroville farms in the area, they serve the best mix of South Indian and European cuisine. Their cakes are also some of the best I’ve had in India.

It can be a little bit of a mystery getting here as it’s deep in the Pondicherry jungle. But, if you ask any of the taxi drivers in the area, they will know where you want to go!

To read more about Auroville and the reasons to visit, see my article here.

So, that’s my Pondicherry Travel Guide!

Pondicherry, for me, was simply perfect. It had everything.

Beaches, culture, history, yummy food and friendly locals.

I was sad to leave this place and the amazing cakes behind, but I’m sure I will be back in the near future.

Make sure you add Pondicherry to your South Indian adventure! You honestly cannot miss it.

Heading around the south of India? Read more of my articles!

Goa beyond beaches guide

A first-timers guide for Mumbai

My one week in Kerala Itinerary

Things to do in Fort Kochi

Places to visit in Munnar

Amazing things to see in Alleppey

A guide for the Kerala backwaters

The best Munnar tea plantations

Save this Pondicherry travel guide for later!

Saturday 16th of April 2022

With all due respect to the blogger, Le Cafe is to be avoided at all costs. The coffee is not spectacular and the view even less so. The staff is not welcoming and it seems they put even less effort into their food and cleanliness than they put into their name.

Sophie Pearce

Tuesday 19th of April 2022

Hi Dhruv, sorry to hear you had a bad experience. It wasn't the same for me. Sophie x

Shashank Shekhar

Thursday 11th of November 2021

Thanks,Very nicely depicted, described and well narrated description of pondi, which is so good as if I was physically roaming arround the place. Touring clips and clues are really a welcome and helping tips.Loved it. Thanks again.

Friday 12th of November 2021

Hi Shashank, thanks so much for your kind comments! I’m glad you had a good time.x Sophie x

Thursday 18th of March 2021

Nice Guide of Pondicheery. Loved it such a simple and neat post. Have a look of some more attraction of pondicherry which may be useful for your trip.

Thursday 15th of April 2021

Hi Nishi, thank you for your kind words! I'm glad you like the post. I loved Pondicherry and would love to return one day. Sophie x

Laxmi narayana

Saturday 24th of October 2020

Thanks for reading! Sophie x

Friday 16th of October 2020

Dear Sophie, you do not seem happy and almost derogatory about most things Indian and Hindu. Well, guess what! Unlike the French and the whites, we never enslaved people, captured and colonised countries and are not snobs. Every country you visit has a culture of its own- you need to respect that. Like all cultures on this Earth we too have our negatives but, your genalisation of the HINDU treatment of animals shocked me- how ignorent are you! Typical white! Well most Hindus are vegetarians and what about your Fox hunting and rampant animal killing and eating in the west?! The British nearly wiped out the tiger population in India by their hunting practices. Your Blog is so insensitive. I will take this up so that whites like you are not allowed to stay on for so long in our beautiful country!!!

Hi there Anushua, to say that I am ‘unhappy’ and ‘derogatory’ about all things Indian and Hindu is a vast generalisation and quite ignorant. You do your own country a disservice. I have currently travelled to over 22 states in India and they are all different and, remember, not everyone in India is HINDU! I could say ‘typical Hindu’ and ‘typical religious intolerance based on a totalitarian pro-Hindu government that casts out minor beliefs and the lower caste’. But I won’t, because that’s not always true. There are Muslims, Sikhs, Buddhists, Christians, Jains and more that I always Refer to and respect on my Blog. Even the North East cultures. I know most Hindus are vegetarian that’s why this mistreatment shocks me. Just because I don’t believe a poor elephant should be chained up at the temple, beaten by mahouts and then made to give blessings is right. That doesn’t mean I’m an ‘ignorant’ white. Funnily enough, I know that the British did bad things before and almost wiped about many beautiful creatures and cultures. Are all us ‘whites’ responsible for our elders actions? So would you like me to support animal cruelty still and then ask people to further mistreat your elephant population? What is it, Kya? Go on your racist, bitter and intolerant tirade if you must and campaign for all whites to be chucked out of India. It’s very short sighted. But, I think the real issue here is animal cruelty. hain na? Should that elephant be kept at the temple and chained up? Yes the Whites and the French DID bad things. We don’t forget that. But what really matters is what we do NOW. AND giving Laxmi fair treatment and a better life would be better than being treated like a circus animal. Maybe use your channeled aggression for something good that makes a difference instead of attacking people Based on assumptions you’ve made about a person online.

We’re in Myanmar right now and it’s SO epic… click here to follow along on Instagram.

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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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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. […]

[…] Jibhi is a secret treasure located in the Banjar Valley of the Kullu district. Situated in the middle of the Great Himalayan National Park, Jibhi is a gorgeous and highly underrated travel destination in India. […]

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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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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States › Pondicherry

PONDICHERRY TRAVEL GUIDE

Oh the charm of the French world meeting the sea life - how can one not fall for something so surreal yet so real? The quietude of the alleys and the bustling boulevards; the amalgamation of Tamil and French cuisines and architecture; and the jaunty crowd, all make Pondicherry a compelling place to visit in India. The Union Territory of Pondicherry blessed with picturesque coastline is indeed a destination for beach lovers where they can enjoy multiple water activities. The colonial architecture compliments the beach life whereas the far situated Auroville add another dimension to Pondicherry tourism. If there is one tourist destination in India that can cater to your need for a relaxing holiday, Pondicherry has to be it.

Capital: Pondicherry/Puducherry Location: Southeast India

Best Time to Visit Pondicherry:

The months between October and February are ideal for visiting Pondicherry.

Why Visit Pondicherry?:

For picturesque beaches, French architecture, Auroville, Aurobindo Ashram, heritage, history, French cuisine, honeymoon, watersports, cheap alcohol, relaxing holiday, family vacation, pilgrimage tour.

Temperature

30°c to 45°c.

March to May

20°C to 35°C

June to September

17°C to 25°C

October to February

Popular Tour Packages Pondicherry

See the Best of Puducherry

Puducherry Tour with Chennai and Mahabalipuram

Kanchipuram Mahabalipuram and Puducherry Tour

Wonderful Puducherry - Chennai Tour

An Insight into Pondicherry Tourism

The silhouette of Pondicherry comprises the famed French Town or White Town, spectacular churches, temples, and statues with an additional charm of the sea and that of the swaying palm and coconut trees. On the Southeast side of the Indian subcontinent Pondicherry or Pondy or Puducherry, whatever you like to call it, is a tourist destination for a calm and relaxed holiday any time of the year. Once the part of the neighbouring state of Tamil Nadu, Pondicherry displays a great influence of it in its cuisine, architecture as well as language. Hence, you can expect to relish potpourri of Tamil and French culture in this is beautiful union territory. Pondicherry is indeed a synonym of Auroville. Of course, tourists know it for its French houses and cafes, but Auroville certainly has its own importance when it comes to must-see places in Pondicherry.

The much revered Matri Mandir and the concept of human unity in diversity are a big draw for people who spend days, weeks, and months here volunteering, meditating, and interning. Once, out of the spiritual realm of Auroville, tourists have the chance to relish the beach life of Pondicherry. The Promenade Beach that flanks the White Town area may not have a sandy area to stroll on but it does offer quite a scenic spot for visitors to spend hours at. The Paradise beach, on the other hand, has everything a beach lover is looking for - golden sand, azure water, water activities, and the coolest crowd.

Keep some time at hand to relish the French and Tamil culture and tradition meld where you have the opportunity to witness Pondicherry’s cuisine, rural life, cooking demo of old recipes, weaving workshops, sculpture art, musical trail, the local game "petanque", puppet shows along with an experience of handmade paper tours with workshop and much more. Another major attraction of Pondicherry that cannot be missed is Aurobindo Ashram. Yes, you may have to stand in a long queue for your turn to enter but the place is worth the wait. Pondicherry, when compared to other tourist destinations in India, may have a slower pace of life, but this attracts anyone looking for a quiet holiday time with an opportunity to cycle everywhere and relish cheaper booze, and delectable food coming from the Tamil and French kitchens.

Apart from this, Pondicherry also houses a number of must visit Hindu temples and Churches that have spectacular architecture to adore. The churches in Pondicherry mostly date back to 18th or 19th century, whereas the Hindu temples have a history going back to the 17th century. Amongst the popular temples in Pondicherry are Villianur Thirukameeswarar Temple and Arulmigu Manakula Vinayagar Devasthanam. Library, museums, war memorial, and statues are some other important places for sightseeing in Pondicherry and missing out any of these is not suggested.

A quiet holiday on balmy beaches soaking up the sun await you in Pondicherry. Make the most of this travel destination by booking your Pondicherry vacation with us. Choose from an assorted tour packages that are designed keeping in mind your specific needs and preferences. Up for grab are affordable Pondicherry vacation packages that without compromising with the quality offer the kind of holiday you like.

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Popular Tourist Attractions in Pondicherry

The White Town charms with its French style houses, shops, churches, and cafes, while Auroville assures you a spiritual journey in Pondicherry unlike any other. The Union Territory also draws attention to pristine beaches, revered Aurobindo Ashram, Hindu temples, and French style Churches, museums, and palaces.

Sri Aurobindo Ashram

Promenade Beach

Aayi Mandapam and Bharathi Park

Chunnambar Boat House

Top hotels in pondicherry.

There is no dearth of accommodation when you are in a welcoming destination like Pondicherry. The French part of the city is replete with dreamlike hotels and resorts done in the authentic French architecture style. From budget to luxury, rest assured that the staying options are in plenty that will add to your holiday experience in Pondicherry an unmissable charm.

Kohima Imphal Tour

Fascinating imphal tour, scenic north east, uncover the beauty of manipur, top things to do on your holiday to pondicherry.

Ideal for a relaxing vacation, Pondicherry is a destination for cycling through beautiful French alleys, relishing flavoursome French and Tamil cuisines, enjoying water activities including scuba diving at pristine beaches, and finding the best yoga and meditation centres.

Azure sea, long coastline, golden sand, and a vivacious vibe await you in the beaches of Pondicherry. Here, neither fun ends nor the quietude fades away; thus a beach holiday in Pondicherry is everything you could ask for.

Heritage Tourism

The meticulously metalled streets lined-up with French-style churches, government offices, palaces, museums, and houses make for the best heritage tourism destination in South India. It is in Pondicherry, a walk back in the time is possible.

Dotted with a plethora of French-style churches and Dravidian-style Hindu temples, Pondicherry is where seeking the blessings of the almighty seems easiest. Boasting rich architecture and history, these sacred sites in Pondicherry are not be missed.

Reflecting the opulent art and culture, the museums in Pondicherry are the haven for every history buff. Offering a sneak peek in the history of the trade prevailing in Pondicherry and the transport used in the ancient colonial era, they make for a perfect historical tour destinations.

Gifted with a potpourri of French and Indian culture, Pondicherry is the destination where the celebrations have no end. From Villianur Temple Car Festival to the Bastille Day to food festival, the festivities keep the locales and the tourists engaged around the year.

The seamless Bay of Bengal has a lot of adventure in store in Pondicherry. From taking that breathtaking plunge for scuba diving to soaring high in the sky while parasailing, there is one or the other adventure awaiting you.

Arts & Crafts

The diversity and rich history have blessed pondicherry with an array of exclusive local art and craft. From stunning woodwork to paper and glass products are capable enough to steal your heart in Pondicherry.

Health and Wellness

Amidst the tranquil surroundings of Pondicherry, it is ideal to relish age old Ayurveda or Siddha, Marma and several variants of Yoga. This tourist destination can be a heaven for those seeking rejuvenation of mind, body, and soul.

Cuisine of Pondicherry

The melange of culture influence the food in Pondicherry making it more delicious, decorative, and desirable. The flavours in Pondicherry are authentic and you have the chance to choose from fine taste of France to that of South India.

Film Tourism

Picture perfect beaches, streets with beautiful French-style building and a rustic charm make Pondicherry an idyllic destination for film tourism. Be a modern-day love story or a one based in 17-18th centuries, Pondicherry offers the perfect location and background.

From the weekend Beach Bazaar to markets with charming shops and boutiques to factory outlet of Hidesign, Pondicherry offers an unparalleled shopping experience. Enjoy the laidback settings, and haggle your way to buy everything that the union territory has to offer.

Scenic and full of serendipity, the backwaters in Pondicherry are everything a nature lover wish for. Making for a perfect vacation destination, these add charm to the landscape of Pondicherry.

Nature Parks & Gardens

Adding to the charm of the landscape, the nature parks and gardens in Pondicherry are nothing short of surreal. Proffering a quiet ambiance and the best of the flora, they make for places to give your heart to.

Bird Watching

Pondicherry along with inviting tourists from around the world gives a warm welcome to its feathered guests as well. Offering Ousteri Lake site to the migratory as well as indigenous birds, Pondicherry claims to be one of the best birdwatching sites in India.

Pondicherry Travel Information at a Glance

Find the detailed information on how to plan trip to Pondicherry conveniently. We offer authentic information on how to reach Pondicherry by different means of transport along with details on best hotels, places to see, and things to do. Also, rely on us for trustworthy weather and best time to visit information. Also explore different sightseeing attractions in Pondicherry with the help of the map made easy for you to navigate.

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PONDICHERRY TOURISM | TOURIST PLACES TO VISIT & TRAVEL GUIDE TO PUDUCHERRY

• Pondicherry Overview
• Top 38 Places to Visit in Pondicherry
• 26 Best Pondicherry Tour Packages
• Top Resorts in Pondicherry
• Best Time to Visit Pondicherry

How to Reach Pondicherry

• Pondicherry Tour Plans
• Driving Directions to Pondicherry

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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The Best Places to Visit in Pondicherry in 2 Days – A Pondicherry Itinerary

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. I earn from any qualifying purchases, at no additional cost to you.

This Pondicherry travel guide contains a Pondicherry itinerary for 2 days.

Pondicherry, Puducherry or Pondi is a Union Territory of India geographically located in the state of Tamil Nadu. Since Pondicherry is ideally located close to big cities like Bangalore and Chennai, it's a common weekend getaway for people residing or working in these cities. Moreover, the quaint lanes of Pondicherry make it a popular tourist attraction. Thus, take a look at this Pondicherry travel guide that contains a list of all places to visit in Pondicherry in 2 days.

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Table of Contents

Places to Visit in Pondicherry in 2 Days

Pondicherry was under European (mostly French) rule for more than 250 years. Having joined India in 1954 as a union territory, Puducherry has still managed to retain a major part of it's French culture. In fact, it's this French influence which predominates the first half of the movie Life of Pi. When I watched this movie, 7 years ago, back when I was in first year of college, I inculcated a strong desire to visit Pondicherry. I'm delighted that I got to check off this charming place from my bucket list. This article serves as the ultimate Pondicherry travel guide - containing information on the places to visit in Pondicherry in 2 days in the form of a Pondicherry itinerary along with a information on where to eat in Pondicherry, shopping in Pondicherry, what to pack for Pondicherry and more. Happy reading!

How to Reach Pondicherry

Pondicherry's close proximity to Chennai as well as Bangalore makes it a popular weekend getaway among students and working professionals. Take a look at the various ways you can reach Pondi for your 2 day trip to Pondicherry.

Nearest Airport to Pondicherry

The Chennai International Airport is the closest airport to Pondicherry. One you land at Chennai airport, catch the airport metro to Guindy. You'll find buses to Pondicherry from Guindy bus stand. The journey from Chennai to Pondicherry can be covered within 3 hours.

Nearest Railway Station to Pondicherry

Pondicherry is connected by rail with the Villupuram Railway Junction being the closest railway station. While not a lot of trains go through this railway station, you can reach Chennai and then change trains to catch a train from Chennai to Pondicherry.

Chennai to Pondicherry Bus

Chennai to Pondicherry is a distance of 125 km. This journey from Chennai to Pondicherry takes less than 3 hours by bus . There are regular buses plying at regular intervals, all day from Chennai to Pondicherry and back from Pondicherry to Chennai as well.

Bangalore to Pondicherry Bus

Bangalore to Pondicherry takes anywhere between 6-8 hours depending on the mode of transportation and the traffic. There are overnight buses running between Bangalore and Pondicherry daily.

Best Time to Visit Pondicherry

The best time to visit Pondicherry is from October to March . This is when humidity in Pondicherry is at its lowest and there temperature is pleasant. On the other hand, avoid visiting Pondicherry during summer and monsoon from April to August. The heat and humidity during these months can be overbearing for some. However, if you want to enjoy Pondicherry to yourself without the crowds, then this is the best time to visit Pondicherry.

How Many Days Should You Spend in Pondicherry?

Because I have written a Pondicherry itinerary for two days, I think it's clear that 2 days are sufficient to see Pondicherry. Within 2 days, you can see all the popular tourist attractions in Pondicherry. That being said, if you want to try surfing, or spend some more time in an ashram or Auroville or just chill at one of the beaches in Pondicherry, then you should consider spending 3-5 days in Pondicherry. You'll still have plenty to do, see, and eat without geting bored!

Getting Around Pondicherry

You will need a vehicle in order to get around Pondicherry. Renting a two-wheeler is the most common way to get around Pondicherry. You'll find rental shops near the Pondicherry bus stand. If you're staying in the white town area, you can simply walk to the local sightseeing places or rent a bicycle. However, if you want to venture further to the beaches and Auroville, you will need a 2-wheeler.

2 Days Trip to Pondicherry Cost

You can very easily make a budget trip to Pondicherry as long as you keep the cost of accommodation and the cost of travel low. First, travel to Pondicherry by bus or train rather than via flight to lower the cost of your trip. Secondly, find budget hotels or airbnbs in Pondicherry in order to stick to your budget. While it may be difficult to find lower rates at hotels in white town, you can get budget hotels just outside white town. In fact, rates of stays in Pondicherry is quite reasonable on various online booking platforms.

Search for budget-friendly stays in Pondicherry below:

When I look back at my Pondicherry trip I remember sprawling courtyards, colourful walls, plentiful flowers, endearing cafes and a romantic promenade. All these reasons make Pondicherry an ideal weekend getaway. While there's isn't a whole lot to do here, you can can sit back in a cute little cafe and devour a croissant or walk around the flower laden streets. Better yet, rent a bicycle, visit the local sightseeing spots and blend in with the locals. Take a look at the places to visit in Pondicherry in 2 days.

1. Promenade

The promenade is a long, clean road alongside the ocean, stretching for approximately 1.5 km. It's an ideal place to start your morning with a jog or to spend the evening leisurely walking along. While on one end of the promenade is a pier, the other end is marked by a statue of Mahatma Gandhi. In the mornings, this stretch of road is deserted whereas it gets extremely crowded in the evening . I personally liked it more in the morning when there was hardly anyone on the road. Do remember to catch the sunrise from here. There are plenty of restaurants, shops and stores adjoining the promenade. My favourite restaurant here is Bay of Buddha. Get here early for a romantic dinner on a rooftop overlooking the ocean.

2. Old Lighthouse

Located on one end of the promenade is an old lighthouse. While I'm not aware if visitors are allowed inside, it's a charming old thing to photograph from the outside. While you're here, grab a bite at Le Cafe which has a terrace overlooking the ocean. There's another lighthouse on the opposite end of the promenade which is open to visitors.

Must Read: A Guide to Gokarna - The 5 Beach Trek

3. Our Lady of Angels Church

Painted in a deep tone of peach, this glorious church rests surrounded by the streets Dumas, Surcouf and Romain Rolland in White Town Pondicherry. Visible from the promenade , the church is located at a distance of 500 m from the old lighthouse. While the upper part of the church was made in the Ionic style, the lower part was inspired by the Doric style of architecture. The inside of the church is spacious, airy and has a number of intricate paintings adorning the walls. I sat inside the church on an afternoon while visiting the white town area. It was a relaxing and rejuvenating stop for me. When it comes to things to do in Pondicherry in 2 days, it's worth paying a visit to the many churches.

4. Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus

The Basilica is located in the Southern Boulevard of Pondicherry, on the MG Road, and is an example of Gothic architecture. The 100-year old church has numerous stand-out features. Some of these features include stained glass windows, walls adorned with terracotta motifs and twin spires and a sparkling interiors. Come here during mid-morning to enjoy some quiet time to introspect inside the church.

Must Read: How to Spend 2 Days in Gokarna

5. Sri Aurobindo Ashram

Sir Aurobindo, after retiring from politics, settled down in Pondicherry with a bunch of followers and started a spiritual movement. His remains, along with those of Mother, his spiritual partner, are laid to rest here at the ashram . Devotees and tourists line up outside the ashram  to pay homage to him. The people at the ashram are extremely particular about maintaining silence and request all visitors to turn off their cellphones. Once inside, you can visit the samadhi (tomb) and sit in the ashram courtyards. It's a peaceful place with gentle breeze and only the sounds are those of birds chirping. There is also a book store where you can get more information about the ashram, Auroville and the founders of both. The ashram premises can be identified by the distinct grey walls right next to #Dilliwala restaurant in the White Town, Pondicherry.

6. White Town

Pink bougainvillea flowers peering over colourful walls, French street names and artsy cafes are the highlight of the white town area. White town is named as such because it used to be an area reserved for the "white" French folk settled in Pondicherry. One can easily spend an entire morning walking around, sampling French food, basking in the vibrantly hued houses and photographing beaming bicycles parked against flower laden walls.

Also known as the French Quarters, most houses in this area have been converted into heritage hotels, boutique cafes and art galleries . Cafe des Arts is a great cafe here that is not to be missed. This area is best explored by foot or on a bicycle for the simple reason that you will want to stop and take a picture in front of every other wall. The main streets composing white town are Rue Dumas, Rue Romain Rolland, Rue Suffren and Rue La Bourdonnais. Keep one morning aside just to walk around these streets and practice your French on random passersby. Comment allez-vous? 

7. Auroville

Auroville is a universal town where people from all over the world live together in harmony. The concept of Auroville was conceived by the Mother in the 1930s. In 1966 UNESCO passed a unanimous resolution commending it as a project of importance to the future of humanity, thereby giving their full encouragement. On 28th February 1968 some 5,000 people assembled near the banyan tree at the centre of the future township for an inauguration ceremony attended by representatives of 124 nations. The representatives brought with them some soil from their homeland, to be mixed in a white marble clad lotus-shaped urn, which now sits at the focal point of the Amphitheater.

The Matrimandir is at the centre of Auroville, shown in the picture above. A heliostat at the top of the mandir reflects a ray of sunshine, which travels through different layers and touches the 'lotus pond' at the bottom. Thus it completes the link between spirit and matter. Keep in mind that you need permissions beforehand, in order to visit in Matrimandir, although the rest of Auroville is free and open to visit. Check out the Auroville website for more details.

8. Serenity Beach

Serenity beach is located between Auroville and Pondicherry city. It's a petite beach with white sand and plenty of rocks. Besides, the beach is usually deserted. The only people you might encounter on the beach are the surfers from the Kallayali Surf School or curious explorers like you. It's imperative for me to mention that in case you're not there for the places to visit in Pondicherry in 2 days, rather plan on staying for 3-4 days then if you feel adventurous, you can sign up for surf lessons at the Kallayali Surf School. You can go for 2 or 3 sessions, depending on how long you're staying in Pondicherry. An added bonus is that you get bragging rights and killer pictures!

Must Read: A Complete Guide to Kodaikanal

Pondicherry Hotels - Places to Stay in Pondicherry

While there are hotels all across Pondicherry, it would be ideal to stay near the white town area. This way, you will be in close affinity to the promenade and most of the good restaurants and cafes.

Find hotels in Pondicherry on Booking.com

Villa Monte Carlo Hotel ₹₹

I highly recommend staying at Villa Monte Carlo in the White Town . Not only is it situated right next to the extremely popular Cafe des Arts at a prime location but the rooms here are clean and spacious . Each room comes with a massive bed, cupboard, study table, television and air conditioning. What's more, the staff here is absolutely wonderful, always greeting everyone with a smile. Another great selling point of Villa Monte Carlo is that they have rooms for different budgets .

Book a stay at Villa Monte Carlo on Booking.com

Treebo Red Lotus ₹

If you're looking for a budget-friendly option in a well-known chain of hotels, then Treebo Red Lotus is the place for you. It's ideal location inside the Heritage Town area is perfect for walking around the Pondicherry attractions.

Book a stay at Treebo Red Lotus on Booking.com

La Maison Radha ₹

A simple, budget-friendly option located in the M G Road area. The hotel is just a short walk from the While Town area, making it the ideal place to stay if you're on a tight budget.

Book a stay at La Maison Radha on Booking.com

Villa Krish ₹₹₹

A comfortable luxury stay in the White Town of Pondicherry, they are known for their excellent hospitality . Not only do they offer spacious rooms with a balcony and tons of amernities , but they also have a rooftop restaurant where you can have a candlelight dinner under the stars! Book this stay for a comfortable and relaxing stay in Pondicherry.

Book a stay at Villa Krish on Booking.com

Beyond Community, Auroville ₹

This extremely cheap stay is located very close to the Matrimandir in Auroville . You can experience the simplicity and the earthiness of Auroville whilst staying here with the community. Moreover, you'll get a chance to experience ' glamping ' in Auroville, Pondicherry.

Book a stay at Beyond Community on Booking.com

Where to Eat in Pondicherry

There's no doubt that Pondicherry has some great restaurants. Some of them are so good, I made my parents parcel food from there and fly it back to Goa when they visited Pondicherry. Yup, it's that good. You can read this guide to the best restaurants in Pondicherry   where I've mentioned a list of all the best restaurants and cafes in Pondicherry.

Shopping in Pondicherry

You can buy organic and ayurvedic products in Pondicherry at the shops run by Aurobindo ashram. These shops are located in the french colony of Pondicherry. Moreover, quite often there are markets set up near the promenade beach that sell clothing and various handicraft items.

What to Wear in Pondicherry?

The White town area of Pondicherry is particularly one of the most picturesque areas there. Make sure you pack fun, bright coloured clothes. Maxi dresses and maxi skirt will work wonders. Read this guide on what to pack for Pondicherry . On the other hand, while roaming around the other parts of Pondicherry, especially Auroville, make sure you cover our shoulders and knees as the area is still conservative.

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22 Comments

I have to admit I have never heard about this place before. But it looks so beautiful! I love all the colours!

Thanks Liz! It’s a tiny place in India that used to be a French colony a few years back.

I’ll surely include Pondicherry in my next trip to India! I’ve been to your country only once so far but I’m planning to return soon because it was love at first sight! 🙂

Oh you definitely must return! Each place in India has a unique culture of it’s own. You’ll never see two places alike in India 🙂

First of all, what a cute name Pondicherry! Secondly thank you so much for showcasing another side of India – had no idea there was a French Quarter and really makes me what to check out these boutique-filled streets!

Hey Julia! Pondicherry is indeed a cute name. You ought to go there someday just for the French food and the bougainvillea lined streets!

hi, you stumbled upon me a short while earlier on insta I and I liked your bio and took it from there. Pondi is a place I wanna visit and explore, but first up I have Gokarna in mind. When in Goa next, we should catch up over a cuppa.

Pondicherry is a must-visit place for sure ! I’m heading to Gokarna soon as well 🙂

how many days were you here and where did you put up? I have been told Auroville itself requires an entire day. My former colleague has been to Pondy and thereabouts for five days, I am looking at four at least. Initially, planned three days. Trying to figure out dates and an itinerary to go with it.

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Hey! I am 24 yr old woman working in IT , Bangalore. I am planning to do solo travel to Pondi, Leaving on Apr 27( Fri Night) and can stay till 1/2nd may . So Basically 3-4 days. Questions Ive: 1. Since i will be traveling solo, no friends(male/female) to accompany me, how safe it is? 2. Is it worth to spend 3-4 days in Pondi? 3. If it is safe, please can you guide me in detail? I will be very grateful.

PS: My birthday is on May 2nd. All my life(23 years) i have never tried something like this. I am true introvert and would even hesitate exploring my own city Bangalore with my own friends. Now for this 24th birthday , i want to break free and challenge myself 🙂

Hey Aishwarya. I’m really happy that you’re going on a solo trip. To answer your questions, 1. Rent a 2-wheeler and ride around on your own instead of hiring auto rickshaws every time. Get back to your hotel by 9-9.30. Get a hotel in a nice area, close to White Town. You should face no problems, because I wandered around at night without any issues. Just trust your instincts. 2. Yes, it’s worth spending 3 days in Pondicherry. Day 1 can be spend visiting local sights. Day 2 can be for Serenity Beach and Auroville. On Day 3 you can either visit Paradise beach or roam around White Town and eat amazing food. I wish you a happy birthday in advance. Make this trip happen! You can reach out to me via mail for more details 🙂

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Amazing article that is…Amazing Places to visit Thanks for sharing the information with us.

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Pondicherry Travel Guide: From Places to Visit to What to Pack

Pondicherry, also known as Puducherry, attracts tourists from all over the world for different reasons. For some it is to discover the enthralling utopian community in Auroville, while for some it is a spiritual calling beckoned by Matrimandir and Aurobindo Ashram. For some, it is an amazement at the vigor with which Pondicherry has held on to its French heritage, while for some tourists, it is a fascination ignited by Yann Martel’s novel (or the movie), Life of Pi .

If none of the above was your reason to plan a visit to Pondicherry, you are visiting Pondicherry for absolute fun, and Pondicherry is a great place for fun (and food!). Let me take you through all that you need to know to plan your visit to Pondicherry.

Places to Visit in Pondicherry

Pondicherry is a perfect blend of the Tamil and French culture, be it in food, architecture, or lifestyle. The best places to visit in Pondicherry reflects a diversity not found in anywhere else in the world.

Promenade Beach

Promenade Beach, also known as Rock Beach, is one of the most popular places to visit in Pondicherry. The beach is a perfect place to relax and unwind while enjoying the sea breeze. You can also take a stroll on the long sandy promenade that runs along the length of the city.

In the morning, you can come here to get a breathtaking view of the sun rising from the horizon on the Bay of Bengal. It is a peaceful time and you can see many people come here for jogging and cycling. If you visit in the morning, head to one of the cafés by the beach and enjoy a hearty breakfast and sip some coffee while watching the sea crashing against the large rocks. You can also sit on the rocks and watch the day come to life.

In the evening, Promenade Beach is a very happening place filled with tourists, street hawkers selling snacks and trinkets, and sometimes social events. The cafes lining the beach also hit a different vibe in the evening.

One of the most striking features of the Promenade Beach is the French War Memorial, located at the center of the beach. The memorial was erected in honor of the soldiers who died during the First World War, and it is a significant landmark in the town.

Apart from the French War Memorial, the beach also has several other interesting landmarks, such as the Mahatma Gandhi statue, the statue of Joan of Arc, and the old lighthouse. You can explore these landmarks while taking a leisurely walk along the promenade. You will also find here interesting graffiti to click pictures of.

Promenade Beach is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting Pondicherry. Its unique rocky shoreline, stunning sunrises and sunsets, and the various landmarks lining the promenade make it an ideal place for relaxation, exploration, and fun. Whether you’re a tourist or a local, the Promenade Beach is a place that will leave you mesmerized and longing to come back.

However, keep in mind that this is a very dangerous beach to swim due to its rocky terrain and high and powerful waves. This is NOT the place to get adventurous!

Sri Aurobindo Ashram

Sri Aurobindo Ashram, located in the French colonial town of Pondicherry, is a spiritual community that attracts people from all over the world. Founded in 1926 by Sri Aurobindo and his spiritual collaborator, the Mother, the ashram is known for its emphasis on inner growth and spiritual development.

The ashram is situated in the heart of the city and covers an area of around 50 acres. It is a quiet oasis amidst the hustle and bustle of the city, with serene gardens, beautiful buildings, and a tranquil atmosphere. The ashram is open to all, and visitors are welcome to explore its grounds, attend meditation and yoga classes, and participate in various cultural programs.

One of the most striking features of the ashram is its main building, which is called the “Samadhi.” This building houses the physical remains of Sri Aurobindo and the Mother, and is a place of meditation and contemplation for many of the ashram’s residents and visitors. The Samadhi is a beautiful white marble structure, with a dome that is illuminated at night and can be seen from afar.

Another important part of the ashram is the meditation hall, which is open to all and is a peaceful space for people to sit and meditate. The hall is simple and unadorned, with white walls and a wooden floor, and it is kept quiet at all times to facilitate meditation and concentration.

The ashram also has a library that houses a collection of over 80,000 books in 25 different languages and manuscripts related to Sri Aurobindo’s teachings and the Mother’s spiritual philosophy. Visitors are welcome to browse the collection and read books in the library’s peaceful reading room.

Apart from the library, Sri Aurobindo Ashram also houses an art gallery called “ The Studio ” with a selection of over 2500 paintings by ashram artists. The gallery is open from 9:00 a.m. – 11.00 a.m., 3.00 p.m. – 4.00 p.m to tourists.

In addition to these facilities, the ashram offers a variety of programs and activities for visitors and residents. These include yoga classes, meditation sessions, workshops on spiritual and personal growth, and cultural events such as music concerts and dance performances.

Whether you are a spiritual seeker or simply looking for a quiet and peaceful place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life, Sri Aurobindo Ashram is well worth a visit.

Auroville is an experimental community located on the outskirts of Pondicherry. It was founded in 1968 by Mirra Alfassa, or The Mother, and its aim is to create a universal town where people from all over the world can live in harmony. Auroville is a great place to visit if you are interested in sustainable living and alternative lifestyles.

 The town was designed as a place of unity, where people from all over the world could come together to live and work in harmony, regardless of their race, religion, or nationality. The town has a unique governance system, with a council consisting of representatives from all the different communities, which makes decisions based on consensus.

The town also has several community-based initiatives, such as organic farming, alternative education, and renewable energy. Visitors can take part in various activities such as yoga, meditation, workshops, and volunteering in community projects.

The best way to experience Auroville is by staying in one of the many guesthouses or homestays that the town has to offer. This will allow you to immerse yourself in the unique community and way of life that Auroville offers. A visit to Auroville is a must for anyone interested in spirituality, sustainable living, or community-based initiatives.

Matrimandir

The most notable landmarks in Auroville is the Matrimandir, a spherical golden temple that serves as the town’s spiritual center. The temple is surrounded by beautiful gardens and is open to visitors for meditation and introspection. You can get free passes to go to the Matrimandir Viewing Point from the Visitors Center at Auroville. The center also has a shop where visitors can buy books, handicrafts, and other items made by the residents of Auroville.

At the Visitor’s Center you will be shown a video that explains the history, vision, and mission of Auroville and the significance of Matrimandir. After this, you can take a 10-12 minutes’ walk through a shaded pathway to reach the viewing point. You can also avail batter car service to reach the viewing point for people with needs.

Timing: Monday to Saturday, 9.00 a.m. – 4.30 p.m.

Sunday, 9.00 a.m. – 1.00 p.m. only [Sunday Afternoons Closed]

How to Visit Matrimandir Inner Chamber

While Matrimandir Viewing Point is a tourist place in Pondicherry, Matrimandir Inner Chamber is NOT a tourist place. You visit Matrimandir for meditation and introspection.

Here are a few points you need to know if you wish to go inside Matrimandir:

• You have to apply for the free pass to enter Matrimandir by going to the Visitor’s Center in person at least 3 days in advance.
• You can also apply for the pass by scanning the QR code on Auroville’s official website on all days except Tuesday. The QR code booking timing is from 7:00 am to 12:00 pm. You will get your booking confirmation by an email.
• You can only get individual passes and no group booking is allowed.
• Only children above 10 years are allowed inside.
• In case of confirmed booking, you are required to reach the Visitor’s Center before 8:30 am.
• If you are planning your first visit to the Inner Chamber, it is best to stay in one of the Auroville- registered guesthouses to get priority and other benefits like Aurocard.
• You are expected to maintain absolute silence inside the chamber as everyone will be meditating.
• In case of rainy weather, all bookings are cancelled.

Pondicherry was a French colony, and White Town is a testament to its colonial past. White Town is filled with colonial-style buildings, charming cafes, and quaint streets. It is a great place to explore on foot and to immerse yourself in the city’s unique cultural heritage and visit its iconic landmarks.

The streets are lined with colorful houses, painted in shades of pastel pink, yellow, and blue, giving the area a distinctly French feel. You can also see some iconic landmark buildings of Pondicherry here.

Another must-see landmark in the French Quarter is the Church of Our Lady of Angels, also known as Eglise de Notre Dame des Anges. This stunning church is one of the oldest in Pondicherry and is famous for its striking white façade and beautiful stained glass windows.

White Town is also home to several museums and art galleries, where visitors can explore the town’s rich history and culture. The Pondicherry Museum, located in the former residence of the French Mayor, is a great place to start, as it provides an excellent overview of the town’s history and showcases artifacts from the French colonial era.

I like visiting museums and Pondicherry museum was not one of my favorite, but I would still recommend it as a starting point.

You can also take a leisurely stroll along the streets of White Town, admiring the beautiful architecture and stopping at the many quaint cafes, restaurants, and boutiques that dot the area. White Town is known for its excellent French cuisine, with several restaurants offering delicious pastries, bread, and other French delicacies.

Pondicherry Botanical Garden

If traveling with children, Pondicherry Botanical Garden is a great place to spend a day. This is not just a recreational site, but an educational center. The park was designed by the French colonists in 1826 on a 22 acres land.

The theme of the park, the way the plants and trees are laid out and the very design of its arch gate are testimonies to the perfect Tamil-French amalgamation.

Pondicherry Botanical garden Visiting Time and Entry Fee

Timing: Sunday to Saturday: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm

Fee: Rs. 10 for adults

         Rs. 5 for Children

Paradise Beach and Chunnambar Backwaters

Paradise Beach is another beautiful beach located near Pondicherry. It is a secluded beach with golden sand and clear blue water. You can take a boat ride to the beach and spend the day relaxing and enjoying the view.

On one side of the beach you have the Bay of Bengal and on the other side is Chunnambar backwaters. This gives you an opportunity to witness the confluence of two different water bodies, making it a photographer’s paradise. The backwater lagoon is also a popular spot for water sports activities such as kayaking, canoeing, and boating.

Where to Stay in Podicherry

Best Homestays in Auroville

Best Homestays Near Rock Beach

Things to Do in Pondicherry

There are plenty of things to do in Pondicherry, whether you’re looking for a relaxing vacation or an adventure-packed trip. Here are some of the top things to do in Pondicherry:

Guided Tour of Handmade Paper Making

One of the must visit enterprises in Pondicherry associated with Aurobindo Ashram is Sri Aurobindo Handmade Paper established in 1959. At the Handmade Paper you can get a guided tour of the papermaking process using recycled cotton rags. You can also buy multicolored and textured handmade papers as souvenirs and gifts for your special ones.

They are open from 9:300 am to 12:30 pm and 1:30 pm to 5:30 pm on all days except Sunday.

Visit French Institute of Pondicherry

If you are a passionate historian or just a curious explorer, pop into the French Institute of Pondicherry for a tour of some rare artifacts and books. You can also participate in the events and performance conducted frequently at the institute.

Yoga and Meditation

Pondicherry has many centers that offer extended stay with yoga classes and daily yoga sessions. You can also utilize the facilities offered by Aurobindo Ashram and Auroville to connect with your inner self.

Volunteering at Auroville

If you are attracted to the philosophy of Auroville, you can participate in the community living by volunteering at one of its centers. The various activities include organic farming, and cooking. Apart from this, you can also connect with like-minded people across the world and participate in workshops and events.

Food Tour at Pondicherry

Pondicherry is a food paradise! From authentic French pastries to Italian pizzas to Japanese sushi to a perfect English breakfast, you can get just about anything. Whatever you do in this lovely French town, don’t forget to check out the best cafes in Pondicherry .

Also check out the Best Restaurants in Pondicherry

How to Reach Pondicherry

If you’re planning a trip to Pondicherry, here’s how you can reach there:

The nearest airport to Pondicherry is the Chennai International Airport, which is located around 135 km away from the town. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a bus to Pondicherry. There are also several private taxi services available from the airport.

Pondicherry has a railway station, which is connected to several major cities in India like Chennai, Bangalore, Kolkata, Mangalore, and New Delhi. The station is located in the heart of the town, and you can take an auto-rickshaw or a taxi to your destination.

 Pondicherry is well-connected by bus to several major cities in South India, including Chennai, Kochi , Bangalore, and Hyderabad. There are several private and government-run buses available from these cities to Pondicherry. You can also take a direct bus from Chennai Airport to Pondicherry.

If you’re traveling from nearby cities like Chennai or Bangalore, you can hire a car or take a taxi to reach Pondicherry. The journey from Chennai takes around 3-4 hours, while the journey from Bangalore takes around 6-7 hours.

 If you’re an adventurous traveler, you can rent a bike and ride to Pondicherry. Several bike rental companies offer bikes on rent, and the journey from Chennai takes around 3-4 hours.

Best Time to Visit Pondicherry

If you’re planning a trip to Pondicherry, one of the important factors to consider is the best time to visit. Here’s a guide to help you choose the best time to visit Pondicherry:

Pondicherry in Winter (November – February)

Winter is the best time to visit Pondicherry. The weather is pleasant, with the temperature ranging from 15°C to 30°C, making it perfect for sightseeing, exploring the beaches, and enjoying outdoor activities. The town is also less crowded during this time, making it an ideal time for a peaceful and relaxing vacation.

Pndicherry in Summer (March – June):

Summer in Pondicherry is hot and humid, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 40°C. This makes it a less popular time to visit the town, especially for those who cannot tolerate the heat. However, if you’re willing to bear the heat, you can enjoy some water sports activities like jet skiing, banana boat rides, and parasailing.

Pondicherry in Monsoon (July – September):

Monsoon in Pondicherry is characterized by heavy rainfall and occasional thunderstorms. The weather is cooler during this time, with temperatures ranging from 22°C to 32°C. While it may not be the best time to visit for beach activities, it is a good time to enjoy the lush greenery, and visit places like Auroville and the Sri Aurobindo Ashram.

Post-Monsoon (October – November):

The post-monsoon season in Pondicherry is characterized by pleasant weather, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C. The town is also less crowded during this time, making it a good time to visit for a peaceful and relaxing vacation.

In conclusion, the best time to visit Pondicherry is during the winter season, from November to February. However, if you’re willing to bear the heat or enjoy the monsoons, you can plan your visit accordingly. Keep in mind that the town is more crowded during peak season, so plan your trip in advance to avoid any last-minute hassles.

How to Get Around in Pondicherry

If you’re planning a trip to Pondicherry, one of the important factors to consider is how to get around the town. Here’s a guide to help you choose the best ways to get around in Pondicherry:

Auto-rickshaws

Auto-rickshaws (tuk tuk)  are a popular mode of transport in Pondicherry. You can easily hail one from anywhere in the town. However, make sure to negotiate the fare with the driver before getting in, as they may overcharge you if you’re a tourist.

Pondicherry has a good network of local buses that connect all parts of the town. They are cheap, and the fare ranges from INR 5 to INR 20 depending on the distance. However, they can be crowded, especially during peak hours, so be prepared for a tight squeeze.

Motorbikes and Scooters

If you’re comfortable riding a two-wheeler, you can rent a motorbike or scooter to explore the town at your own pace. Several rental companies offer bikes on rent, and the rates are reasonable. Make sure you ask them for a helmet too. Keep in mind that the traffic in the city can get crazy with so many narrow byroads running left and right.

Taxis are available in Pondicherry, but they can be expensive compared to other modes of transport. They are a good option if you’re traveling in a group or need to travel long distances. Typical taxi services like Uber and Ola are NOT available in Pondicherry.

Another popular way to get around in Pondicherry is by bicycle. You can rent a bicycle from several rental companies, and it’s a great way to explore the town at a leisurely pace. You can take bicycle rentals especially for the White Town tour and Auroville tour.

Where to Eat in Pondicherry

Whether you are looking for chic restaurants or artistic cafes in Pondicherry , this lovely coastal town will not disappoint you. Here are some of my top picks

Best Restaurants near Auroville

French/ Continental: Naturellement Garden Café, Dreamer’s Café, Marc’s café – Store, Cafe 73, Hope café, Bread & Chocolate, Auroville Bakery & café (must-visit bakery)

Mediterranean: Neem Tree Café (Mediterranean-South Indian Fusion),

Italian: Tanto Pizzeria, Brothers’ Pizzeria, Roma Italian Cuisine

Hungarian: Kurtosshhh

East Asian: Nowana (Korean), Goyo Korean Silent Restaurant, Sakura Sushi Auroville (Japanese)

North Indian: Punjabi Dhaba Auroville, Bro’s plan B restaurant, Roots North Indian Home Cafe

South Indian: The Secret Garden Restaurant, Sustenance Farm & Café, Right Path Café

Best Restaurants in White Town

French/ Continental: Baker Street (must-visit), Celine’s Kitchen, Les Saveurs, Hope Cafe Pondicherry (vegan available), Coromandel Café, La Maison Rose, Cafe Veloute, Le Club, 1 Rue Suffren,

Italian: Cafe Xtasi, Sauce N’ Toss, New Farm Fresh, Sicilys, Auro Pizza

Asian: Bay of Buddha

North Indian: L’Aqua (Bar), Escape In, Dilliwaala6

South Indian: Surguru (veg), Adayar Ananda Bhavan,  Kamatchi (Non-Veg)

Multicuisine: Villa Shanti, Vélo Café & Le Velo Box, The Indian Kaffe Express, Le Dupleix

Where to Shop in Pondicherry

The town is also known for its unique shopping experience, which offers a blend of Indian and French influences. Here’s a guide to help you choose the best places to shop in Pondicherry:

Organic Products: Cottage Industries, Sri Aurobindo Handmade Paper Factory

Street Shops (cloths, handicrafts, trinkets): JN Street, Goubert Market, Craft Bazaar

Premium Clothing: Anokhi, Kalki, Janaki

Premium Handicraft: Auro Woodworks, La Boutique D’Auroville, SUND’art, Aura Experience

What to Pack for Pondicherry

Here’s a guide to help you on what to pack for a Pondicherry trip:

Light and comfortable clothes: Pondicherry has a tropical climate, which means it’s hot and humid for most of the year. Pack light and comfortable clothes made of breathable fabrics like cotton and linen. Avoid tight and restrictive clothing as they can be uncomfortable in the heat.

Sun protection: The sun can be intense in Pondicherry, especially during the summer months. Pack a hat or a cap to protect your face and head from the sun. Don’t forget to carry sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher to protect your skin from harmful UV rays.

Footwear: Pack comfortable and sturdy footwear , especially if you plan to do a lot of walking or exploring. Sandals or flip flops are perfect for the beach, while sneakers or walking shoes are suitable for sightseeing.

Mosquito repellent: Pondicherry is prone to mosquitoes, especially during the monsoon season. Pack mosquito repellent to protect yourself from mosquito bites.

Swimwear: Pondicherry has several beautiful beaches, so pack swimwear if you plan to take a dip in the ocean.

Light jacket or sweater: While Pondicherry is generally hot and humid, the evenings can be cool during the winter months.

I wish you have an awesome vacation in Pondicherry and if you found my Pondicherry Travel Guide helpful in planning your trip, do let me know in the comments below.

Wrapping Up: Pondicherry Travel Guide

Pondicherry is not a place to “see”, it should be experienced. When planning a trip to Pondicherry, try slow travel to let this beautiful town unravel itself to you, one layer at a time. Whether you are here for the peace and community experience offered by Auroville and Aurobindo Ashram or to explore the French heritage of the White Town, this travel guide is all you will need to plan your trip.

Related Posts:

Kochi Travel Guide

Ooty Travel Guide

Coonoor Travel Guide

Image Credit: Auroville Township Map

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8 thoughts on “pondicherry travel guide: from places to visit to what to pack”.

I believe, Pondicherry, like for me for many, is the best place to rest one’s mind and body… This blog is definitely going to be of good help to first timers and even people who have visited Pondicherry once or twice.

Happy to know that you found my Pondicherry Travel Guide useful!

What a thorough guide! Thank you for sharing. Matrimandir looks interesting!

I have visited Pondicherry quite a number of times and it is beautiful. I once ate in a French cafe and the food was so delicious. Seeing your list I realize that I have missed visiting a few of them.

Yes, Pondicherry is a very beautiful place. Next time you visit, do try more of the exotic cafes in Pondicherry.

Pondicherry has been in my bucket list for a long time.. Thanks for the recommendations 👍

Wonderful! Highly informative Appreciate your hard work!

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Pondicherry travel guide

Pondicherry tourism | pondicherry guide, you're going to love pondicherry.

Puducherry or Pondicherry is an Indian city with French flair; it was once the largest French colony within the subcontinent. There is a long history and unique culture to explore in what is nicknamed the French Riviera of the East. You can go to the beach in the morning, shop for hand-painted silk or go to a yoga class in the afternoon, and finish the day by sampling the best of French and Indian cuisine.

Top 5 Reasons to Visit Pondicherry

1. fascinating culture and history.

Where else can you enjoy the charms of the French Quarter, visit the beautifully ornate Varadaraja Perumal Temple, and take yoga or Bollywood singing and dancing lessons at the Sita Cultural Center, all within walking distance?

2. Fabulous Food

The combination of Indian and Mediterranean influences creates a wealth of options for foodies, including the best of Indian cuisine along with French wines and foods you wouldn't expect on the subcontinent.

3. Shop Local

The city offers a shop-till-you-drop experience, including local goods such as silk clothing, shoes, candles, jewelry, handmade paper, and many more local specialties, along with outlet shopping malls full of international goods.

4. Hit the Beach

The beach and promenade are among the city's most popular attractions, where you can swim and enjoy water sports, including scuba diving.

5. Auroville

Just outside the city of Puducherry, Auroville is a utopian community founded as an experiment in universal living. You can visit and view marvels like the Matrimandir lotus-shaped dome gleaming with golden discs, shop, and much more.

What to do in Pondicherry

1. 300 years and counting.

Thanks to the diligence and efforts of Jesuits nearly 300 years ago, the Immaculate Conception Cathedral still stands tall as a monument to the faith and the industrious nature of the French Jesuit Fathers who came to the then-French colony of Pondicherry. However, the church has received a number of additions and undergone some remodeling since it was consecrated in 1791. Nonetheless, you can expect grand splendor and exquisite sacred hangings in this vaulted interiors of this exquisite church. Visit during a popular service or during quieter hours, when you can view the stunning ceiling painting over the altar in peace.

2. Remembering French Culture

You may think the Puducherry Museum is going to focus entirely on French culture - but you'd be wrong. The collections and exhibits feature, rather, the interplay of French influence and local, South Indian Culture. Artifacts like terracotta elephant statues coupled with quaint French antique teak furniture, rare bronzes and stone sculptures from the Pallava and Chola dynasties seem to ask a larger question about the place of colonialism in the legacy of South India in general. Once you're done touring the exhibits and pondering this question, make your way to the courtyard where there awaits the remains of a fossilized tree trunk.

3. Views Of The Water

Located at the edge of the waters of Rock Beach, right in White Town, is this old and iconic 95 foot lighthouse, which was erected in the 1830s. Today, this 19th century relic attracts many visitors seeking the opportunity to climb to its very top and take in views of the water on one hand and of the shimmering city of Pondicherry on the other.

4. In The Heart Of White Town

This is the largest urban park in the town of Pondicherry and sits right at the heart of White Town. With multiple activities, various monuments scattered about the park and pleasant facilities for joggers, families and children, this is the perfect space for a time-out or a green oasis from which to begin a new adventure. While at Bharathi Park, enjoy its lush fountains, a play area for kids, activities such as biking and rollerblading, as well as a well-cultivated garden.

5. Strolling On The Edge Of The Bay Of Bengal

Nearly 4 miles long, this generous stretch of beachfront rests right on the edge of the Bay of Bengal and provides visitors with a clean and well-maintained spit of land on which to relax, take a stroll, or head out for a dip. Take in a sunrise, a moonrise, or simply come at the sunset to wade into the waters or sit on the rocks and take in the waves crashing on the shore. This beautiful area is lined with the shade of palm trees so you can cool off out of the sun.

Where to Eat in Pondicherry

You'll enjoy the menu of upscale Indian and Asian cuisine in the elegant rooftop dining room at Lighthouse, with views of the water. Mains start at ₹600. Enjoy the cafe atmosphere and French classics at Cafe des Arts, where main dishes start at ₹385.

When to visit Pondicherry

With monsoon season from October to December, and summer temperatures that routinely hit above 100 degrees from April to June, many tourists choose to visit the city in the more moderate spring and fall seasons.

How to Get to Pondicherry

Chennai International Airport (MAA) is the closest to the city at a distance of about 84 miles. There are bus connections to Puducherry starting at ₹1,500.

The Puducherry Railway Station is one of India's oldest train hubs, with daily connections to Chennai and Tirupati, weekly service to Bhubaneswar, and overnight service to Bangalore.

The city is connected to other major centers throughout the region by well-maintained highways, including the picturesque ECR or East Coast Road to Chennai.

The Puducherry Road Transport Corporation or PRTC provides intercity bus service, with connections throughout Puducherry union territory and other major centers in the country, including Chennai and Hyderabad.

Airports near Pondicherry

Airlines serving pondicherry, where to stay in pondicherry.

Enjoy the beach and seaside views in luxury at The Promenade Hotel. The Villa Shanti offers upscale accommodation with continental style in a convenient location in the French Quarter.

Popular Neighborhoods in Puducherry

French Quarter - this is the main tourist area of the city, lined by charming Mediterranean-style buildings, with many places to shop and eat as you stroll along the street.

Indian Quarter - separated from the French Quarter by a canal, this is where you will find Indian/Tamil markets, shopping, and dining.

Promenade Beach - this is the city's most popular beach area, stretching for just under a mile along the Bay of Bengal.

Where to stay in popular areas of Pondicherry

Most booked hotels in pondicherry, how to get around pondicherry, public transportation.

Local bus service is provided by PRTC. Fares vary by zone, starting at ₹4.50.

Taxis are reasonably plentiful throughout the city, with fares that start at ₹6 per 0.6 miles.

The city is small, with most attractions within walking distance. There are a few local car rental companies, with rates that start at ₹300.

The Cost of Living in Pondicherry

Shopping streets.

Mission Street is where you will find outlet shopping centers, including Kalki for local goods, and Casablanca and Titanic for international brands.

Groceries and Other

F&F and Go Pondy are two of the supermarket brands in the city. A gallon of milk costs ₹145 and a dozen eggs is ₹67.

Things to do in Pondicherry: The Travel Guide

If you’re looking for things to do in Pondicherry, then this travel guide is for you.

Where is Pondicherry, you might ask? It’s a city in the south of India, situated on the Bay of Bengal.

When I was based in Chennai earlier this year with my husband,  we spent a weekend in Pondicherry and were completely captivated.

Pondicherry is unlike any other place I’ve visited in India. Some might say it’s the cobblestone streets, or the brightly painted colonial buildings of White Town, or even the sea air. But I think it’s a feeling, a joie de vivre that permeates this seaside city and makes you feel charmed and relaxed, all at once.

In a turn of phrase, Pondicherry is a mood.

It’s the perfect city to explore because there is so much to do. Whether you want to admire the architecture, soak up the city’s rich history, enjoy the stillness at the famous Sri Aurobindo Ashram, sunbathe on the beach or indulge in French-inspired food, there is literally something for everyone.

So are you ready to learn more about this French colonial city in southern India?

The Pondicherry Travel guide:

The History of Pondicherry

Pondicherry, (Officially known as Puducherry now) was a French colony until 1954, and it became a Union Territory of India in 1962. (For reference, Delhi is another Union Territory in India.) It is surrounded by the southeastern Indian state, Tamil Nadu.

Related: My top places to visit in Tamil Nadu, India

The French first came to Pondicherry in the 1700s. Originally a fishing village, Pondicherry became a major port city for the French, and their continued presence for over two centuries would shape it into the unique Indian city that it is today.

Today, the French influence of this city is primarily found in its architecture, food, and attitude. The city is a very popular tourist destination for Europeans, particularly the French.

White Town in particular (also informally called Old Town and French Town) is a small neighborhood adjacent to the sea, with French colonial buildings and tree-lined streets. It is the area where most tourists stay as its full of quirky cafes, bohemian shops, and boutique hotels.

Outside Cafes des Arts, one of the most popular cafes in White Town

How to Get to Pondicherry:

Pondicherry has a small domestic airport with daily flights from Bangalore. There are also trains and buses available to the city.

My husband and I have were based in Chennai when we visited Pondicherry, so we hired a car and a driver for the 3-hour road trip south along the East Coast Road. It’s actually a very scenic drive, so if you are visiting from an international destination, my recommendation is to fly into Chennai (Madras) international airport and then drive down to Pondicherry.

Pro Travel Tip : While you can use Uber in India, my husband and I use Ola more because the rates are cheaper. Ola is exactly like Uber except it’s local to India. Download the app onto your phone once you’re in India.

The Climate in Pondicherry

The climate in Pondicherry is hot and humid, pretty much year-round! That said, it gets a little cooler during the winter months. In general, pack light, breathable clothing. Linens and maxi dresses are the best. (As a woman, I recommend dressing more modestly in India, in keeping with the culture.) Bring a sweater for the evenings when the ocean breeze cools things down. And rain gear is a must if you visit during monsoon season, which is generally July through September.

The bar at Villa Shanti

Where to Stay in Pondicherry

There are quite a few stylish and affordable boutique hotels in Pondicherry. I recommend staying in White Town because there are so many things to do in this part of Pondicherry and its helpful to be walking distance to the many popular restaurants, bars, and shops in the area.

• Villa Shanti : This is my top recommendation for anyone coming to stay in Pondicherry. It is a boutique hotel with understated luxury. The building has a large central courtyard with a living plant wall, a chic bar, and a fabulous restaurant. The rooms are well-appointed and comfortable and it’s centrally located in White Town.
• La Villa : This place books up fast because there are only a few rooms. I can’t wait to stay here the next time I visit because I love good design and this hotel, designed by two French architects, has done a great job of blending the old with the new. It’s also situated right in the heart of White Town.
• Palais de Mahe : Close to the seaside promenade, this is a hotel that oozes French charm. With a large courtyard, a private swimming pool and sweeping verandahs, the only problem you might have here is leaving the historic charm here to go sightseeing.
• Promenade : If you don’t mind a larger, less unique hotel, I recommend the Promenade which, as the name suggests, is right on the seaside. Get a room with a view of the Bay of Bengal, and feast on Asian fare at their rooftop restaurant Bay of Buddha (more on this restaurant below) or enjoy a cocktail at the trendy Storyteller’s Bar (one of our favorite watering holes in Pondicherry).
• Sri Aurobindo Ashram : By far, the most unique stay you can have in Pondicherry is renting a room at the Sri Aurobindo Ashram. The guest houses are located in close proximity to the Ashram (which is definitely worth a visit if you are in Pondicherry) and the beach, and some rooms even have ocean views. Please note the Ashram has strict rules which you must abide by if you stay there.

Taking a boat ride to Paradise Beach

Things to do in Pondicherry:

• Stroll the seaside promenade at sunset – One of the things we loved most about visiting Pondicherry was taking a stroll at sunset along the seaside promenade. In general, Southern India comes alive in the late afternoon and sunset, after everyone has taken respite from the afternoon heat. So it was great to people watch as other couples and families took in the sea air and enjoyed the cool ocean breeze. I highly recommend doing this if you make it to Pondicherry!
• Sri Aurobindo Ashram : Visiting the Ashram and learning more about the Mother (one of the founders of the Ashram) was a highlight for us. We really tapped into the peaceful and meditative spirit of the Ashram and enjoyed spending time sitting in silence with other visitors. Please note that you must take off your shoes and turn off your cell phones before you enter the premises.
• Bike ride tour through Pondicherry : We did not have a chance to do this while we visited Pondicherry but it’s at the top of our list when we make it back for another visit. I think bike riding is such a great way to explore a city, especially the charming streets of Pondicherry.
• Boat ride to Paradise Beach : One of the activities we did that we really loved was taking a boat ride from Chunnambar Boat House to Paradise beach. A word of warning though, this is a public beach and in general, Indians are much more modest than Westerners. While I did take a quick dip in the ocean, I did not feel comfortable sitting on the beach in my bathing suit and kept my cover up on the entire time.
• Temple Hopping : There are a few great temples to see in Pondicherry including, Arulmigu Manakulu Vinayagar Temple , dedicated to Lord Ganesha and located in White Town, Sri Varadaraja Perumal Temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu and built in the Dravidian style of architecture, and Sri Kokilambigai Vudanurai Sri Thirukameswarar Temple , dedicated to Lord Shiva and boasting ornate carvings and a brightly colored exterior, located 9 KM southwest of Pondicherry. Make sure you check the times that the temples are open before visiting. Most Hindu temples open very early in the morning but are closed for a few hours in the afternoon.
• Auroville : It’s hard to describe Auroville but it is a very special place that if possible, you should make time to visit. Auroville is an experimental township dedicated to the ideal of Human Unity. It was founded by Mirra Alfassa (the Mother) in 1968 and is affiliated with the Sri Aurobindo Ashram. Approximately 2500 people live there now. It’s about 11 km outside of Pondicherry, so you need transportation to get there. You can either take your own car, hire a taxi or take a bus. I recommend giving yourself at least half a day to visit Auroville. The most important site to see is the Matrimandir , a giant geodesic dome, surrounded by 12 petals. It is meant to represent the soul of the city.

The Matrimandir at Auroville

Pro Travel Tip : You can sign up to spend time visiting the inside of the Matrimandir but you must arrive very early in the morning at Auroville to get on the list, and you must sign up the day before you plan to visit. So plan ahead if you want to do this. Go to Auroville on your first morning in Pondicherry so you have time to fit this in during your stay. We were not in Pondicherry long enough to do this but plan to sign up for this the next time we are there.

A dish at Coromandel Cafe

Where to Eat and Drink in Pondicherry:

• Storyteller’s Bar : My husband and I discovered this bar by accident but it was one of our best discoveries. Hidden on a subterranean level of the Promenade Hotel, walking into the bar felt like finding a tucked-away speakeasy. The theme – a celebration of books – spoke to my heart since reading is one of my favorite things to do. The cocktails were also on point. It’s a great spot for a drink or two.
• Bay of Buddha : Located on the rooftop of the Promenade Hotel, this is a great spot if you’re looking for an alfresco dinner with panoramic views. While the food was good, the service was definitely lacking. Be prepared to wait if you eat here.
• Villa Shanti : We had an incredible dinner here. We loved the French-inspired menu and the setting in the courtyard was magical. Please note this is a very popular restaurant so I recommend making reservations in advance.
• Café des Arts : This is another restaurant I absolutely loved. From their cheeky murals out front to the bohemian design inside, this cafe was a dreamy respite from the heat. The laid back vibe of the place makes it a better spot for breakfast or lunch. Try one of their smoothies or many coffees, along with a salad or sandwich. They also have a boutique selling a mishmash of clothing, home décor, and accessories.
• Coromandel Café : This was one of the most beautifully designed restaurants we visited in all of Pondicherry. The attention to detail in this café says it all. From the beautifully painted walls and tiles to the sculptural chandeliers, every piece was picked out with precision. The French-inspired menu was also a crowd-pleaser. We came for lunch but can’t wait to try dinner here the next time we return to Pondicherry.

The shop at Café des Arts

Where to Shop in Pondicherry:

With so many things to do in Pondicherry, we didn’t have much time for shopping. Based on research I did, these are the boutiques to keep on your radar:

• Kalki Boutique : showcases Auroville products in Pondicherry
• Geethanjali : for all kinds of antiques
• La Boutique D’Auroville : for handicrafts and home decor
• Casablanca : for both Western and Indian styled clothing and decor
• Anokhi : The original store is in Jaipur, they sell Indian ethnic womenswear (It’s one of my favorite stores in India)
• Café Des Arts – A great shop for unique clothing, home decor and vintage pieces

At the seaside promenade

Are You Ready to Visit Pondicherry?

I hope this Pondicherry travel guide will help you plan your trip! As you can see, there are plenty of things to do in this charming, French colonial city. We really loved our visit here and can’t wait to go back.

If you’ve already been, which places do you love? Please comment below because I always getting new adding travel recommendations.

Happy travels!

About Meredith

Merry Lerner is an Emmy Award Winning TV Showrunner and Executive Producer with a passion for sharing travel, wellness, and lifestyle tips. She is a certified yoga teacher and graduate of the Institute of Integrative Nutrition health coaching program.

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I was aware of the British influence in India but not the French! Pondicherry looks fascinating!

Merry Lerner

Yes, I know! A lot of people don’t know about Pondicherry and the French influence there. It’s a great city to visit!

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Pondicherry Travel Guide

• Overview Of Pondicherry

History And Culture Of Pondicherry

How to get to pondicherry, best time to travel to pondicherry, getting around pondicherry.

Breaking Stereotypes About Pondicherry

Go Check Out

A guide to exploring pondicherry.

The French Riviera of the East, as it is fondly called by travelers who fall in love with this pretty Indian union territory. Pondicherry is a city quite like none other in India. A former French colony, Pondicherry is charming in every sense of the word.

A beautiful promenade that overlooks the majestic Arabian sea, home to an experimental township unlike anywhere else and an extremely rich yet unique history, Pondicherry’s serenity attracts everyone, the regular traveler, the spiritual seeker and those who want a break from their hectic day-to-day lives.

Pondi, as it’s affectionately known, or officially Puducherry, has an extremely strong French influence. An influence so strong that for a second you may be forgiven for thinking you aren’t in India anymore but in a coastal town along the Riviera. Quaint cafes, narrow lanes, pristine beaches and heritage buildings will transport you to a different time and a different world. Want to know how to best explore this town? Read our Pondicherry travel guide to find out!

If there was one place you could identify Pondicherry with, it would have to be France. Never under the British rule, Pondicherry was always an integral part of a much smaller French, things stayed that way up until the point where after India attained independence from all its colonist rulers, Pondicherry was absorbed into the Union of India and given the special status of a Union Territory to preserve and promote its unique identity and heritage.

One of the most interesting things about Pondicherry is that almost all of its history has been recorded after the advent of European colonists. In this case the Dutch, they were followed by the Portuguese, the British and then the French who would come to be the most closely associated with Pondicherry forever after. The French established the French East India Company in Pondicherry in the 17th century, and even though they had to surrender Pondicherry to the Brits a few times after, somehow Pondicherry would always eventually land back in the control of the French.

The interesting and relatively recent history of this beautiful coastal town can be seen through its heritage buildings, the French War Memorial, a site that honors the fallen French soldiers in World War I, The French and Tamil quarters, where the two major communities lived and the world renowned community centric township, The Auroville Ashram.

Pondicherry has an extremely distinct culture, it has managed to take the best of its Tamilian roots, infused it with its French influence, and managed to create a special identity that resonates with both India and France. While the French character is quite prominent, Pondicherry remains a place that is Indian at heart. Indian festivals are celebrated with fervor. With people from all over the world living in Pondicherry, this city is a great example of a multi-ethnic, multi-cultural and an extremely cosmopolitan society.

Apart from all Indian festivals that are celebrated, the people of Pondicherry also celebrate the Mascarade (Mask Festival) in France and it’s one big party on the streets of Pondicherry. The Hindu festival of Masi Magan is also widely celebrated and on Bastille Day, which is the national day of France, you can see the French Memorial site lit up.

The food has an extremely strong Tamil influence with rice and sambar being staple for the large Tamilian population of the city. There are plenty of non-vegetarian options too, especially with Pondicherry being home to many finishing communities. Owing to a strong French influence, it’s not hard to find a cafe that serves a baguette, brioche or a pastry in Pondicherry.

By Air - Pondicherry does have an airport, however, the frequency of flights into Pondicherry is abysmal. You may still find a flight from Bangalore or Hyderabad. Practically your best bet to fly into Pondicherry is via Chennai. Fly into Chennai and drive to Pondicherry, which is about 3 hours away, making it a very viable option.

By Rail - Just like its airport, Pondicherry also has a railway station, Puducherry Junction. However it’s not very well connected with long-distance trains and train journeys that originate outside of Tamil Nadu. The closest major station to Pondicherry is the Villapuram Junction, it’s well connected to most major railway stations and is about an hour away from Pondicherry.

By Road - Pondicherry is well connected by road to most major cities and tourist destinations in Tamil Nadu, Getting a bus or hiring a cab from places like Chennai, Thanjavur, Madurai, Trichy, Coimbatore and even Bangalore is definitely a good idea.

The best time to visit is definitely in the winter months from October to March, the weather is pleasant and makes exploration and beach days a lot more fun. Pondicherry does get some rainfall from October to December but those days are far and few in between! You must try attending the Mascarade festival if you visit in March.

The months from April to June are hot and ideally best skipped. The monsoon months from July to September may play spoilsport to your outdoor plans or days where you want to visit the beach, but the monsoons don’t hit Pondicherry as heavily as they do on the western coast of the country.

Neighborhoods like the French Quarter and the Tamil Quarter are best explored on foot. If you have a bike, navigating around the town gets much simpler. It also enables you to visit some of the smaller fishing villages around the coast. Having a bike or a car also makes exploring Auroville a lot more easier and fun.

The public transport in Pondicherry is admittedly quite poor. While you can book an Ola or Uber on your phone in Pondi, renting a bike or a car remains the best mode of exploration.

For all its French connection, you may think that it’s a common language of communication in Pondicherry. Statistically speaking, only about 20% of the population in Pondicherry knows French to an extent. Tamil, Malayalam, Telugu and English are the official languages of Pondicherry and learning French is equivalent to learning Sanskrit. It’s a prestigious language to learn, however, it has little use for in the day-to-day life of Pondicherry.

French Memorial Site - A memorial built to honor all the French soldiers who lost their lives in the first world war is a frequent site among tourists to this day. It’s well lit up and decorated on Bastille Day and makes for a beautiful sight.

Auroville Ashram - Auroville is a one of its kind experimental township, which focuses on community living. The Ashram is administered by the Indian government and operates completely independently. The whole purpose of Auroville is to promote human unity and for people to live in peace and progress together regardless of their nationality, race or gender.

What makes Auroville special is it has its own economy which is different from the traditional way of doing things. Every resident has an account linked to the central account and through guest houses and sale of stationery items like handmade paper and incense sticks. Auroville is a self-sustaining global community.

Arikamedu - You don’t want to miss Arikamedu if you’re a history buff. It was once a roaring trading port that had commercial relations with the Greeks and Romans as early as the 2nd century BCE. Years later, the French colonizers built a seminary here, known as the Mission House. While most of the seminary and the ancient historical structures have been destroyed over time and natural calamities, Arikamedu still makes for a great place to visit when in Pondicherry.

The Promenade - It’s just what it says - a beautiful promenade overlooking the sea. The French Riviera of the East tag comes from The Promenade and the beautiful heritage buildings that are a symbol of the stunning French architecture. Chill in one of the quintessentially French cafes that offer amazing views of the sea or go for a swim while the sun is still out. The Promenade is arguably the best spot in Pondicherry to unwind.

Is Pondicherry Worth Visiting?

A place where the look and feel is markedly French, the beautiful yellow walls, breezy beaches by The Promenade and the dappled path in the Auroville are just a few of the attractions in Pondicherry. To put it simply, Pondicherry must be in the bucket list of every traveler!

How Many Days Are Enough For Pondicherry?

2-3 days would be sufficient for you to explore the best locations in Pondicherry and experience the vibe of the town. But of course, it depends on the type of traveler you are. Make sure that you visit Auroville, The Promenade and Paradise Beach. Don’t forget the many cafes too!

How Expensive Is Pondicherry?

Pondicherry isn’t a particularly expensive place to visit. You can expect to spend about ₹1,500 per day excluding travel. Speaking of cheap, you can get alcohol at lower rates here as Pondicherry is a Union Territory.

Can I Wear Shorts In Pondicherry?

Yes! You can wear shorts in Pondicherry, no problem. This might even be the better choice of attire to wear, considering the warm weather of Pondicherry.

Is Pondicherry Better Than Goa?

While Goa is known as the ‘it’ place for beaches (and quite rightly so), Pondicherry is relatively quieter. You may not be able to experience the bustling nightlife scene of Goa, exploring the streets of Pondicherry at night can be quite a wonderful experience too. If you ask us, we say that both places have their own charm and are worth visiting.

How Can I Spend 2 Days In Pondicherry?

There’s a lot for you to experience in Pondicherry for 2 days. The beach bums can visit the famous Paradise Beach and Promenade Beach. Want some peace and quiet? Head on to Auroville or the Aurobindo Ashram. Pondicherry may not be the first place that comes to mind when talking about places of worship, but the Manakula Vinayagar Temple and the Immaculate Conception Cathedral are places that you can visit too!

How Far Is Mahabalipuram From Pondicherry?

The historical town of Mahabalipuram is about 95 km from Pondicherry. You’ll be driving on the East Coast Road, and bus services ply regularly between the two towns as well.

What Is The Best Time To Visit Pondicherry?

October to March is the best time to visit Pondicherry. This is when the weather is relatively mild, with temperatures ranging between 15-30°C. Also, rains are relatively uncommon during this time of the year.

Which Is The Best Area To Stay In Pondicherry?

Being a tourist hub, Pondicherry has no lack of places to stay. It depends on the kind of traveler you are, and your budget. Why not check out Unstumbled’s curated list of the best hotels in Pondicherry? We’re sure we can show you something that suits your tastes!

Is Pondicherry Safe At Night?

Pondicherry is quite safe at night, even for solo female travelers. In any case, there isn’t much to do here in terms of nightlife, as businesses are shut down by 11 pm.

South India

Places to See in Pondicherry

Promenade, auroville ashram, fr.

Best time to visit

October to march.

What's the weather like?

Winter months are really pleasant summer months can be unbearably hot.

Food you must try

Chicken kamatchi, fish kamatchi, karandi omlettes, quiches & crepes.

English, Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam

• Pondicherry
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Places you can combine Pondicherry with

Pondicherry Tourism

• Pondicherry
• Immaculate Conception Cathedral Pondicherry
• Goubert Avenue (Beach Road)
• Raj Niwas Pondicherry
• Pondicherry Museum
• Serenity Beach
• Ousteri Lake
• Bharathidasan Museum
• Bharathi Park
• The Pondicherry Botanical Garden
• View all 20 places
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• Best time to visit
• How to Reach
• Tourist Map

Other Suggested Reads for Pondicherry

• Places To Visit in Pondicherry
• Things to do in Pondicherry
• How to Reach Pondicherry
• Best time to Visit in Pondicherry
• Pondicherry Tourism History
• Food in Pondicherry
• FAQS about Pondicherry
• Pondicherry Tourist Map

Travel Pondicherry with Us! - A Foreigner's Guide to Pondicherry

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Pondicherry Beach

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1. Is Language causing a disaster?

2. Be on your guard

Do not let the shopkeepers make a fool of you, stay inside as the dusk takes over.

Light it UP!

Carry limited things, control the human inside you, 3. health is wealth.

4. Clothes to wear

A. ideal clothes for summertime (march-june).

b. Ideal clothes during the Wintertime (October - February)

5. smoking and drinking policy.

7. Is it safe to travel with children?

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// City Guides // Destinations // Weekend Getaways // Pondicherry // India // South India

Treebo’s Ultimate Pondicherry Travel Guide

by middha on April 20, 2022

A calm beach holiday on your mind? Paint your days in vibrant hues of yellow, and gear up to explore Tamil Nadu’s fun beach town, Pondicherry. Treebo presents *drumrolls* the ultimate Pondicherry travel guide to help you plan a delightful trip in the right weather, covering all the gorgeous places to visit in Pondicherry, along with the best ever places to stay in this Catholic town.

Pondicherry Weather

Just like Goa, Pondicherry can be visited round the year. The sun may get slightly harsh in the summer, but the clean beaches, the colonial vibe, and the pictures you’ll click at these places will definitely make up for it. The place is a vision during monsoon and winter. From September till March, this quaint town witnesses the maximum footfall. 

Places to visit in Pondicherry

If you’re in search of a European vibe, but time and budget are two legit constraints, you can consider visiting this gorgeous town. The next segment in this Pondicherry Travel Guide is about all the cool places that you must visit when in town. 

Coromandel Cafe and Restaurant, White Town

La Maison Rose was once an it-spot in Puducherry. The old french quarter housed an eatery and a few shops that sold jewellery, footwear, apparel, souvenirs, and home decor. 

Coromandel Cafe and Restaurant is a charming eatery that has replaced La Maison Rose. The place is as much a treat to the eyes as to a starving belly. The artistically decorated cafe has gigantic pillars, chandeliers, very European wallpapers, and a lot more to please an avid Instagrammer’s heart.

Some of the must-orders from the menu are prawns, pizzas, American cheesecake, carrot cake, ice-cold coffee, and garlic bread.

In Gen Z’s lingo, this popular tourist attraction in Pondicherry has the vibe !

French War Memorial

The French War Memorial in Goubert Avenue was erected in the year 1971 to honour the brave soldiers who lost their lives serving in World War 1 (1916-1919). Amid the four mighty white columns stands the statue of a French soldier leaning on a rifle, with his gaze fixed downward. A well-kept garden surrounds the ensemble.

The monument is a sight to behold on Bastille Day, celebrated on July 14 every year. It’s illuminated with attractive lights, and people from all over the city gather to pay veneration.

It can be visited from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm on all days of the week. Do add the French War Memorial to your list of places to visit in Pondicherry!

Eglise De Notre Dame Des Anges

Visit the Eglise De Notre Dame Des Anges Church in Rue Dumas for the charm of French and Portuguese architecture. This place of worship dedicated to St. Peters was established in the year 1686 and served as a parish church till 1729. It was redecorated in 1855 to look like Basilica at Lourdes in southern France.

The church faces the statue of Mother Mary holding baby Jesus in her arms and lies opposite to the Joan of Arc Park.

It opens at 7:00 am in the morning and has its doors open for visitors till 6:30 pm. Do add this church to your Pondicherry itinerary if you’re a history buff or an appreciator of age-old architecture.

Botanical Gardens

Remember the European gardens described by Austen and other famous authors in their books? Well, the Botanical Gardens, also known as Jardin Botanique, in Pondicherry are decorated just like that!

Everything about this garden, from the entry gate to the toy train ride, the musical fountain, and the never-seen-before species of flowers and trees, is mesmerizing. The constant chirping of the birds is another pleasant highlight.

Viewing their collection of unique and healthy succulents, cactus plants, and aquatic animals is another visual treat. Oh, and did we mention the fossil plants that you can check out at Jardin Botanique? Well!

If you aren’t tempted to visit already, click here and learn why you should add this tourist attraction to your list of places to visit in Pondicherry.

The park opens at 10:00 am and closes at 5:00 pm, like most of the other visiting places in Pondicherry. 

Old Lighthouse

Pondicherry’s Old Lighthouse was built by the renowned engineer, L. Guerre in the year 1836. After being productive for longer than a century, the 29-meter high lighthouse went out of order in 1979 and was given the due retirement. It’s undergoing restoration and will soon be turned into a museum.

The old lighthouse near Promenade Beach is most certainly one of the places to visit in Pondicherry if you want some instagram-worthy photos!

The entry ticket to the lighthouse costs INR 10. 

Statue of Dupleix

Joseph François Dupleix was the last French governor of Pondicherry. He had dreamt of establishing a French colony in India, and had even reached the verge of actualizing it. But after facing defeat in the second Carnatic war, he left for France. 

He saved Pondicherry from British domination during his tenure, i.e., from 1742 to 1754. To honour him, a 2.88-meter-tall granite statue was carved and established in the union territory.

The statue shows Dupleix in an authoritative posture, with the map of Pondicherry in one hand and a sword in the other.

It’s situated in a children’s park at Place du Republique, Goubert Avenue, and can be visited at any time between 6:00 am to 6:00 pm.

Gingee Fort

Up for a sunny adventure? The next destination on Treebo’s Pondicherry travel guide is where you can enjoy one! Trek all the way to the Gingee Fort situated in the outskirts of Pondicherry. Out of the many names given to the fort, a few are Senchi, Jenji, and Senji. This fort has witnessed the rule of Marathas, Mughals, Cholas, and even Nayakas. Due to its indestructible traits, it was titled “ Troy of the East” by the British. 

The fort has three citadels that give it the shape of a triangle. The surrounding hills added another layer of boundary to the already impenetrable Gingee Fort. The scenic setting is good for photography, along with a dose of some interesting history.

Some interesting things to look at are the vintage banquet halls, the tanks, the granaries, and a few other antiques.

As you move a few kilometres towards the south of Pondicherry, you’ll reach the old, historical Arikamedu. The town that now sits abandoned was developed as a port back in the Roman times (sometime in the 1st Century BC, to be precise).

The town has been named after the Tamil word Arikanmedu, which means “eroding mount”. After centuries of abandonment, the town was rediscovered in 1940 by an Indologist, Gabriel Jouveau. The site was excavated, and several awe-striking articles belonging to the Megalithic period were discovered, like utensils, cutleries, ornaments, gemstones, and even epitaph stones.

The area is in ruins and doesn’t have many guesthouses or eateries either. So pack for your outing accordingly. We advise carrying your own water and food to the site.

Immaculate Conception Cathedral – Sanctum of God

The 3-centuries-old Immaculate Conception Cathedral is one of the most-visited tourist spots in Pondicherry. It’s also popular as Samba Covil.

In a span of about 350 years, the church has faced brutal destruction and undergone 3 renovations. The first one was constructed in the year 1692 by the Jesuit Fathers, using the financial aid provided by King Louis XIV. The first time, the Dutch took the credit for demolishing the holy place. It was reconstructed to be destroyed yet again by the British during the Seven Years’ War.

The church was reconstructed in 1791 with elements of Portuguese, Herrian, and French architecture, and has been standing proudly ever since. 

The small town of Auroville was established in the year 1968 by Mirra Alfassa, referred to as The Mother. Auroville is one of the places to visit in Pondicherry if you’re looking for optimism, calm, and belongingness.

The town intends to inspire humans to rise above creed, nationalities, and politics, and live together in harmony. The folks at Auroville recommend the visitors to spend a good number of hours, or maybe even a day at the place. 

People travelling to Auroville from Pondicherry generally rent a scooter, take a tuk-tuk, or hop into a city bus from Bussy Street.

Matrimandir is another must-visit place in Pondicherry that should be reserved for the day you visit Auroville. The temple is open between 9 am, and 4 pm from Monday to Saturday, and 9 am to 1 pm every Sunday.

Beaches at Pondicherry

Whether you’re a party fanatic or someone who’s looking for some tranquil hours by the splashes of water, Pondicherry has beaches to cater to every kind of mood. Here are some of Puducherry’s best beaches, along with the reasons why you should visit them:

Paradise Beach 

It’s an unspoken rule to take out an afternoon to unwind and make castles with the golden sand at Paradise Beach when visiting Pondicherry. One will have to take a boat and ride through the mangrove forests and city’s backwaters to reach this heavenly-in-all-senses beach. Unlike a majority of Goa’s overcrowded and sullied beaches, this beach has blue waters, clean and soft sand, and unmatched tranquility.

The setting is ideal if you’re looking for some quality time to spend with a loved one, read a book, indulge in photography, or enjoy the water. The beach is open from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm every day.

Serenity Beach

As the name suggests, the tourists come here to escape the chaos of their routine lives and find serenity. This beach is perfect for youngsters on a workation or holiday, or newlyweds looking forward to spending a few laid-back hours.

Want to learn how to surf? Well, you can find your instructor and learn the art of surfing in no time at this tourist attraction in Pondicherry. 

If you chance upon the beach on a weekend, do not miss the Serenity Beach Bazaar. Local vendors set up their kiosks and sell handicrafts, jewellery, footwear, bags, and various other trinkets that you can store in your Puducherry souvenir collection. One can also relish some delish seafood, shakes, ice creams, etc., at this bazaar. The doors to this bazaar stay open from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm on all Saturdays and Sundays.

Nothing to worry about even if you’re visiting the place in the middle of the week. You’ll still find some small eateries and shacks by the beach to keep the hunger at bay. 

Interested in knowing more about such unique marketplaces? Do check out our blog on Iconic Indian Markets .

Auro Beach, a.k.a. Auroville Beach, is situated far from the centre of Pondicherry and close to Auroville. From a calm, picturesque, and sun-kissed shore with soft sands, to crystal clear waters perfect for a swim or surf, this beach has a lot to offer.

Auro Beach is one of the few beaches in the city with shacks. Not just the tourists, even the folks from the Auroville Ashram love to gaze at the rising and setting sun at this beach.

This beach on the list of places to visit in Pondicherry can be visited for free during the hours when the sun’s up on all days of the week.

Pondicherry Hotels

Looking for a budget-friendly and, at the same time, a safe and cosy place to stay in Pondicherry? Treebo’s doors are always open for you! Treebo’s Pondicherry hotels are all geared up to host you in this quaint town. Arrive, unpack, and explore every destination mentioned in this Pondicherry travel guide. For everything else, Treebo has got you covered.

We offer thoroughly sanitized rooms packed with all the amenities, complimentary breakfast, free wifi, and a lot more! Click here to check out all our hotels in this vibrant, picturesque city.

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• 12 Essential Pondicherry Travel Tips in 2024

23 Mar 2023

Visiting a place with historical background along with geographical excellence is worthwhile. Pondicherry is such a place which is the collection of certain districts, like Pondicherry, Yanam, Karaikal, and Mahe. Till date, you can get the French essence in this town in the designs and architecture of houses, in the taste of foods, and the culture of the town. Once you visit this place, you fall in love with the rich heritage of this beach town while enjoying the outstanding natural beauty of this place. Whether planning a solo or a group trip, some tips are always useful. So, here are Pondicherry travel tips that will help you plan a better excursion.

12 Pondicherry Travel Tips

Here is a list of some travel tips that will be useful while you are planning a getaway to Pondicherry. Take a look at them and revamp your itinerary if required.

1. Know How To Reach Pondicherry

Image Source

This is the first thing you need to know about visiting Pondicherry. If you are planning to reach by air, there is no direct flight that connects Pondicherry with other parts of the country. So, you need to go to Chennai by flight and take a bus or cab from Chennai to Pondicherry . There are also flights to Bangalore and Hyderabad from where you can take a connected taxi. If you have time, you can travel by train too and reach Villupuram. The popular trains are Nagercoil Express and Pondicherry Express.

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2. Language Won’t Be A Problem Here

In many South Indian states, people often complain of understanding the accent of the locals and face problems. In Pondicherry, you won’t have any such problems. As this town was a French Colony for a long period, people still talk in French here and English is also popular. Among the local languages, Tamil, Malayalam, Telegu, etc. are common. You don’t need to know the local language if you can talk in English.

3. Travel Around The City

Wondering how to travel in Pondicherry ? This is another important thing you need to know before visiting Pondicherry. There are rickshaws to cross small distances, but those charge huge! You can get rental cabs to visit around the city safely. The auto-rickshaws are also there to go the small distance. But, the most interesting and the cheapest transformation in Pondicherry is to hire a bike or scooter. You can feel the adventure of exploring the city as you want and with the help of Google Map, you won’t get confused.

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4. Book Your Stay In Advance

If you want to avoid the crowd in hotels in Pondicherry, you need to book it quite early in the tourists’ season. There are lots of hotels in this beach town where you can stay and enjoy your holiday. As per your visit, you can find different types of hotels in Pondicherry. If you are a history buff, you can stay at the White Town of Pondicherry where you can stay closer to the French culture of this city.

5. Know The Best Time to Visit Pondicherry

Whenever you visit any new place, you need to know the best time to visit it so that your vacation won’t get ruined. Visiting Pondicherry is no exception to that. The best time to visit this beautiful town is at the monsoon and winter. You can plan your vacation from November to March when the temperature is soothing and it is within the range of 17 to 35 degrees Celsius. Try to avoid Pondicherry during summer as the sun is scorching and the temperature goes more than 40 degrees Celsius.

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6. Stay Safe and Alert In Pondicherry

Pondicherry is indeed relatively safe from lots of other cities around. Still, there are lots of scammers who look for opportunities to trap travelers. While renting jeeps, or bikes, you should always take a picture of the entire vehicle so that the owner won’t blame you for any damages caused not by you. Also, you should not roam around the city at night. You can stay inside any resorts, cafes, etc. instead of roaming around. If you want to go outside at night, be in a group of 5-6 people and don’t take kids with you. Several areas are quite dark and quiet, so always carry a torch and also don’t carry any valuables or bigger amounts. You should also stay away from talking much to beggars or any unknown person here.

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7. What To Wear

You can wear decent and modern clothing here, in Pondicherry. If you are here in winter, cover yourself in comfortable woolens, but don’t just layer up with many clothes as Pondicherry is never too cold to wear those. Also, if you are here around spring or summer, wear cotton clothes, like cotton skirts, tops, shirts, shorts, etc. In monsoon, you can pack with colorful cotton dresses with floral prints or geometrical designs to always make your mood always uplifted.

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8. Get An Idea About The French Heritage

Usually, the entire town is always throbbing with life, bursting with regular crowds and chaos. But, once you enter the White Town, you can realize the other side of Pondicherry. This place is the bearer of the rich French Heritage and there is also a small part in White Town, known as the French Quarter. The architecture of the pastel-colored houses is an example of small France in India. Located on each side of the alleys and shaded by the bushy trees, this place will make you feel the serenity of your surroundings. Find a French café and spend your afternoon or evening here to know this place even more.

9. Take Care Of Yourself

Image Source You don’t want to ruin your vacation by falling ill. So, while you are in Pondicherry, you need to follow certain health tips. Here, the weather often gets too humid in the monsoon and summer. So, always wear a loose fitted dress so that you don’t catch up cold by excessive sweating. You can stay away from the street foods as those can upset your stomach. In winter, you need to drink lots of water to keep yourself hydrated. Pondicherry is a bit dry, so you don’t want dehydration.

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10. What To Eat In Pondicherry

Food is something that introduces you to the culture and tradition of a new place. Pondicherry is a South Indian coastal city that was under French influence for a long time. So, it is obvious that you can get a great fusion of culinary to taste here. Start your day with a French breakfast with a cup of fuming French espresso along with crispy croissant and freshly baked baguette. To have lunch and dinner quite local, you can try tandoori potato, coconut curry, Assad, soya dosa, podanlangkai, and kadugu yerra (a scrumptious dish of prawns). At the dessert, you should not miss palpayasam.

11. Best Places To Visit

There are lots of places to visit in Pondicherry that you have to come back here again. To make your trip exciting you can visit Paradise Beach and Chunnambar Boat House, Pondicherry Beach, Immaculate Conception Cathedral, Sri Aurobindo Ashram, Serenity Beach, Botanical Garden, Auroville Beach, etc.

11 Best Beaches In Pondicherry You Must Visit Before They Go Mainstream

12. Things To Do In Pondicherry

As Pondicherry is a beach town, you can go for water sports, like scuba diving, surfing, or snorkeling here. You will find lots of centers which will give you professional training on such watersports before you try it. You can also learn yoga at Sri Aurobindo Ashram and feel the calmness of the place in you.

So, here you get a thorough guide to visit Pondicherry. Pack your bags now and set forth for your winter vacation to Pondicherry , an amazing historical town with lovely coastal culture. Make sure that you go through this list of Pondicherry travel tips before heading out. Enjoy your holiday, buy some souvenirs for your loved ones, and click amazing pictures for memories.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Pondicherry

What is the best time to visit Pondicherry?

You can visit this beautiful city in the monsoon and winter. The weather is the best from November to March as the temperature is soothing here.

What can you wear in Pondicherry?

You can wear decent and modern clothes in the city. Cotton shirts, trousers, skirts, shorts, tops, etc. are always welcome. Never wear beachwear in the city as that can grab unwanted attention.

What is Pondicherry famous for?

Pondicherry is famous for its mixed culture where the south Indian culture is highly influenced by French intervention. Apart from that, there are lots of monuments, museums, and beaches to attract tourists.

Is Pondicherry safe to visit?

Pondicherry is safe for the tourists if you maintain certain cautions. The places, like Rock Beach and the French Quarter, are quite safe at night while the other part of the city is not.

What can you buy from Pondicherry?

If you love shopping wherever you go, Pondicherry won’t disappoint you. You can buy stylish garments, hand-made incense, semi-precious stones, aromatic candles, perfumes, French and Tibetan antiques, marbled silk, and so on.

Can you buy alcohol at a cheap rate in Pondicherry?

As Pondicherry is a Union Territory, there are certain tax benefits. That’s why alcohol is quite cheap here rather than in other places in India.

How to enjoy your night in Pondicherry?

Though traveling at night isn’t safe, you can have fun at night in groups. Take a boat ride at the Paradise Island, experience bird watching at Ousteri Lake, or go for scuba diving and enjoy beautiful corals.

What to eat in Pondicherry?

There are lots of French cafes, restaurants, and bistros, along with lots of South Indian restaurants and cafes. So, you can try French cuisine along with the local and coastal foods.

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Art of Nomads

Backpacking pondicherry: an easy travel guide.

If you are planning on taking a backpacking Pondicherry trip, then you are in the right place. This is an easy to follow Pondicherry travel guide.

Pondicherry is one of the top destinations on most people’s bucket lists. We get to see a glimpse of the French influence through this beautiful union territory located on the coast. It is also not too huge where you have to stay for weeks to complete exploring the place. This is why a backpacking Pondicherry trip is most likely to be a success.

This ‘French Capital of India’ is located in the south India. It offers a bit of everything you would like to see. It has beaches, churches, French buildings, cafes, restaurants with multiple cuisines from various cultures, temples, churches, ashrams, bars, pubs, golden spheres and numerous workshops and activities that you can take part in.

With all that said, it could be confusing to find your way around the place. This is where this complete travel guide to Pondicherry comes in. Use this guide to make your backpacking Pondicherry trip one of the smoothest trips you have ever been on.

A Complete Pondicherry Travel Guide

How to get there, 1. road.

Your backpacking Pondicherry trip is best on the road. Road travel is going to really help you reduce your Pondicherry travel cost. It is one of the most budget-friendly and convenient (and fun) ways to reach Pondicherry. The roads to the coastal town are pretty well-maintained. It could make for a great road trip too, if you plan on taking your own vehicle.

Otherwise, there are a number of state and private buses which would help you get there. Fortunately, if you are travelling from south India, you might find buses more frequently. Make sure to be on the lookout for ECR, East Coast Road if you like visual treats. It is truly a wonderful experience to drive through this picturesque highway.

In case you are interested to know the distance to Pondicherry from your location, here are a few major cities:

• Mumbai to Pondicherry: 1290 km (around 23 hours)
• Chennai to Pondicherry: 151 km (around 4 hours)
• New Delhi to Pondicherry: 2350 km (around 40 hours)
• Ahmedabad to Pondicherry: 1808 km (around 32 hours)
• Pune to Pondicherry: 1156 km (around 20 hours)
• Kolkata to Pondicherry: 1847 km (around 36 hours)
• Bangalore to Pondicherry: 308 km (around 7 hours)
• Visakhapatnam to Pondicherry: 960 km (around 18 hours)
• Kochi to Pondicherry: 563 km (around 11 hours)
• Goa to Pondicherry: 903 km (around 18 hours)
• Ooty to Pondicherry: 427 km (around 9 hours)
• Mysore to Pondicherry: 445 km (around 9 hours)
• Alleppey to Pondicherry: 581 km (around 12 hours)
• Vellore to Pondicherry: 154 km (arround 4 hours)
• Vijayawada to Pondicherry: 613 km (around 11 hours)
• Hyderabad to Pondicherry: 786 km (around 14 hours)
• Mangalore to Pondicherry: 667 km (around 14 hours)
• Thiruvananthapuram to Pondicherry: 645 km (around 12 hours)
• Madurai to Pondicherry: 334 km (around 6 hours)
• Salem to Pondicherry: 218 km (about time 4 hours)
• Coimbatore to Pondicherry: 378 km (around 7 hours)

2. Railways

If you choose the train to get to Puducherry, the Puducherry railway station is what you must keep in mind.

In case you are planning on travelling from Bangalore, there are trains that ply on a regular basis and only take about 9 to 10 hours.

You can get to Pondicherry via the Chennai International Airport. However, the airport is about 150 km away still, and you would have to either take a cab service or the bus to Pondicherry. This is obviously going to increase your Pondicherry travel cost.

The airport is well-linked with not just Indian cities but international ones too. So, if you are looking to travel to Pondicherry internationally, then there are good international carrier flights like AirAsia, British Airways, Cathay Pacific, Lufthansa willing to make it happen.

Also Read : When To Find Cheap Flights

Where to stay while you are backpacking Pondicherry?

There are a few hostels around to make your backpacking Pondicherry adventure cost-effective.

1. Nomad House

Nomad House is reviewed as one of the best places to stay in Pondicherry. A definite add to the Pondicherry travel guide. It is located about 2.3km from Promenade Beach and 3.7 km from Sri Aurobindo Ashram. Hence, staying at Nomad House could cut financial costs on travelling about. It is close to many places you would like to visit.  

The accommodation provides a shared kitchen and a shared lounge area. It can also help you with currency exchange, in case you need it.

The facilities offered are free parking, free WiFi, terrace. Nomad House also allows pets, in case you are travelling with your animal buddy. The prices start at about 300 INR. There are a variety of rooms and dorms to choose from. The Nomad House is designed to make your backpacking Pondicherry trip a fun one!

2. Micasa Hostels

Micasa Hostels is quite a fancy hostel to stay in Pondicherry. It is located at the heart of the city. It has about 10 rooms. Micasa Hostels is termed to be one of the backpacking hostels that meets international standards. It is one of the best hostels to stay in while you are backpacking Pondicherry.

Micasa, along with 10 rooms, has 4 common spaces you can use, a kitchen, laundry provisions and a home theatre. There are plenty of dorm room options to choose from.

Since Micasa is located on MG Road in the heritage town, you can experience city life without much effort. On Sundays, you can visit the old flea market.

The facilities offered are free WiFi, air conditioning, terrace, kitchen, laundry facilities. The rates of the rooms start at 629 INR.

3. Valentine Hostel

Valentine hostel is located only within 800m of Promenade beach and about 1.6 km from Sri Aurbindo Ashram. Valentine hostel provides accommodation with a shared lounge and free WiFi. This is a cosy and comfortable hostel for digital nomads in Pondicherry. You can work near the beach and you do not have to worry about finances either.

One of the greatest things about this hostel is that each room comes with its own private bathroom and shower. There are also so many types of rooms to choose from. There is an option to even accommodate in a tent!

Facilities offered by Valentine is free parking, free WiFi, terrace, kitchen, luggage storage.

4. Routard Pondicherry

Routard is situated only about 400 m from Promenade Beach and 400 m from Sri Aurobindo Ashram. The property is located about 800 m from Pondicherry Museum. This means that inhabitants at this hostel could literally walk to their destinations. Bharathi park is about a km away from this hostel. Botanical gardens also happen to be quite close at about 2.4 km.

This hostel offers a vegetarian breakfast every morning.

Many tourists remark this hostel as a great place to stay for a workcation because of the facilities that they over. The location of the hostel is also great for travellers.

5. Vagabond Pondicherry

Vagabond Pondichery is an accommodation which is situated around 6 km from Sri Aurobindo Ashram. It is also within a 6 km radius from the Consulate General of France and Mankula Vinayagar Temple.

Each room in Vagabond has a wardrobe, a flat-screen TV and a private bathroom. Some rooms have a balcony. A fridge is also provided in reach. The common space in Vagabond has large French windows. It is a recommended stay for workcations.

The hostel is located at a walkable distance from Auroville beach and Serenity beach.

The facilities available are free parking, terrace, air conditioning, dining table, fridge. In case you are travelling with a pet, there are no extra charges for its stay here.

6. Malar Residency

Malar residency is located at a distance less than a km of Promenade beach and at a walkable distance from Sri Aurobindo Ashram. The accommodation offers a common lounge and free WiFi throughout. There is also free parking available for guests.

There are plenty of rooms to choose from at Malar. Each room comes with air conditioning, a TV, kettle, a shower, free toiletries. Each room also gets its own private bathroom and bed linen. They also provide vegetarian breakfast options.

The facilities available are free parking, free WiFi, room service, ATM/cash machine on site, common lounge.

7. Anantha Heritage

Anantha heritage is a property from the 18 th century. It is a member of Dravidian Hotels. This property has been renovated and kept with architectural changes made to the property with antique furnishings.

The rooms are air-conditioned and provide a TV, kettle and private bathrooms. Ironing facilities are also provided.

The facilities available are free parking, free WiFi, family rooms, restaurant, room service.

8. Gurukulam Hostel

Gurukulam hostel is in close proximity to several attractions. It is 1 km from Sri Aurobindo Ashram, 500 m from Botanical Garden and less than a km from Bharathi Park. It is also at a walkable distance from Promenade beach. Gurukulam hostel is a great budget hostel to stay in while you are backpacking Pondicherry.

Gurukulam hostel has a tour desk, a garden, free WiFi and a terrace. There is also a shared kitchen available. Continental breakfast is available every morning at the hostel. The area is popular for cycling. Extra beds are available but depend upon the rooms you choose.

9. The French Villa Elite

The French Villa Elite is an accommodation located in the White Town district. It offers a smokers lounge, an elevator and a parking lot. This is not your everyday backpackers’ accommodation.

However, if you do want to just relax and enjoy your vacation to Pondicherry, this is one of the best places to stay.

Some rooms feature a TV, refrigerator and a writing desk. A shower is included in each room. Towels are also included. Each room comes with its own terrace and sea view.

The facilities available are free parking, garden, terrace, housekeeping, air conditioning.

10. The Dreamcatcher Hostel

The Dreamcatcher hostel is located in Auroville. This is a nice peaceful accommodation if you do plan on skipping through Auroville. It provides accommodation with a garden, free private parking and a terrace. One of the most-opted hostels in Auroville while backpacking Pondicherry.

This hostel is located near some famous eateries like Bread & Chocolate, Tantos, Marc’s café. The Auroville beach is about 2.6 km away.

The facilities are an outdoor fireplace, terrace, garden, kitchen and games room, free WiFi, daily housekeeping, car hire and classes like yoga.

What to do on your backpacking Pondicherry trip?

1. white town.

The White town is known for its French aesthetic rues. It is a must-visit location in your Pondicherry travel guide. The serene, vibrant yellow and white walls, European style cafes, the beautiful trees on either side of the roads, coloured doors, balconies, bougainvillaea hanging around archways make it a great atmosphere to be around.

This town was once a secluded part of Pondicherry, which was only reserved for white French people. The main walks to take on this French Quartier is through four streets-  Rue Dumas, Rue Romain Rolland, Rue Suffren and Rue la Bourdonnais.

This part of Pondicherry is closely located to the seaside of Promenade, facing the Bay of Bengal. It is not just the colourful French residences that create the lovely atmosphere, the graffiti on the roads and the walls add a certain something to the vibe. Your plans of backpacking Pondicherry is incomplete without a visit here!

2. Café Des Arts

This 19 th century building needs to be on your Pondicherry travel guide. Another historical location with vintage décor and garden seating offers French café and coffee.

Café des Arts is a unique ‘Antique Art’ inspired café. It is located in the middle of Pondicherry. Luckily, to explore more, the café is located on Rue Suffren. It is an old, historical Franco Tamil residence that was converted into a chilled-out café.

All the dishes made here are made with fresh ingredients. So, this is not just a pretty café, the food is pretty good too.

The café is meant to help you unwind and chill you out with its open environment and garden. There is very little that is formal about it. However, the place does close down at 7 PM. This is not a terrible thing as you get to leave when the mosquitos begin to visit.

3. Rock Beach

Rock beach, also known as promenade beach, has got to be on your Pondicherry travel guide. It is one of the famous beaches and is also the most visited. It is about 1.2 km long. The beach expands from War Memorial and ends at the Duplex Park on Goubert Avenue.

There is a grand statue of Mahatma Gandhi on the coastal line of the time. This statue is four-meter high. It is made up of black stones and is surrounded by granite pillars.

The promenade beach is known for the ‘promenades or the leisurely walks. The long coastal line makes it the perfect spot. There is a gelato shop nearby too. So, imagine spending your time in Pondicherry with leisurely walks on a hot day with smooth Italian ice cream in your hands.

4. Coffee in le café

Le café is one of the iconic cafes to add to your Pondicherry guide. It is located along the Promenade beachfront. You can visit this café for a great dining experience. Your food is going to be served with a view of the waves hitting the coast.

It is the wonderful location and the unique and original set-up of the café that makes it worth it. le café used to be a port office during the times when the railway used to be running. It used to stretch from South Boulevard to the old Boulevard. However, in the middle 20 th century a cyclone made the piers collapse causing a shutdown.

Le café also offers terrace seating. Unfortunately, one of the biggest cons of the place is the access of crows to the place. This could get annoying—nonetheless, a great place to keep on your Pondicherry guide.

5. Visit churches

Visiting churches is another great idea to add to your Pondicherry guide list. There are about 7 churches scattered around the town. Each one is different in its own way. Churches are a great way to discover the architectural influence of the town.

Churches are one of the best places to visit during the winter months, especially in December. You can be a part of the Christmas processions in Pondicherry. The churches are decorated with bells, Christmas trees, lights, cakes, carols, and everything that you would expect Christmas to be (without the snow, of course)

Some of the churches in Pondicherry that you need to visit are:

• Hallelujah Assembly of God Church
• Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus
• Zion Methodist Church
• Immaculate Conception Cathedral
• Our Lady of Angels Church
• Our Lady of Lourdes Shrine, Villianur
• St. Andrew’s Church

6. Serenity Beach

Serenity beach is one of the most loved beaches in Pondicherry. Obviously, beaches are a must-see and must-visit on your travel guide to Pondicherry, but this beach is truly beautiful. It has palm trees on the shore, and the Bay of Bengal striking it.

This beach is not overcrowded and so you can enjoy your privacy in peace and quiet. It is a beautiful place for photographs with palm trees as your background.

The beach is not the only one near this area. There is a market located quite close to the beach. It is a handicrafts bazaar which is open on weekends from 10 am to 5 pm. The market sells handmade crafts of India, garments, accessories, bags. Also, Auroville is only 3 km away from this beach. If you plan it right, you can make a short visit to the beach before you head there.

7. Auroville

Auroville is located 15 km away from Pondicherry city. It is located in the Viluppuram district. This place is known for its peace and tranquillity. Trees are all around Auroville. You can feel the hippie vibe just stepping into the place. The carefree environment is really meant to bring you into the spirit. There are many stores around Auroville to help you shop for clothes that fit the ambience. Pondicherry and Auroville are completely different. While Pondicherry is commercialised to make you feel like you are in a French quartier, Auroville makes you feel like you are in a spiritual sanctuary where you can lay yourself out.

You cannot miss out on Auroville if you want to go backpacking Pondicherry. There are so many places in Auroville that would be great to visit. It is truly a must-visit place on this travel guide to Pondicherry. However, Mantri mandir is probably one of the top places to pay a visit to.

8. Mantri Mandir

Mantri mandir in Auroville is one of the greatest tourist attractions in all of Pondicherry. On the exterior, it looks like a large golden sphere appears to come out of the ground. Even though the Mati mandir is not actually made of gold, it is made of stainless steel which is later gold plated. It symbolises the birth of a new consciousness.

There are 12 gardens surrounding the golden sphere. The names of the gardens are Harmony, Bliss, Perfection, Progress, Consciousness etc. These gardens have their own variety of flowers, shrubs, trees and make it the perfect garden to find some peace among nature.

The name ‘Mantrimandir’ means ‘Temple of the Mother’. The concept of ‘Mother’ here is said to be the conscious and intelligent principle of Life, the Universal Mother. This is an important spiritual concept in Auroville.

9. Sri Aurobindo Ashram

This ashram is on every travel guide to Pondicherry out there and rightfully so. The Sri Aurobindo Ashram is a spiritual or monastic community or an ashram. It is a favourite place to visit for backpackers from all over the world. People gather here to attain eternal peace and harmony. This is why Pondicherry is loved by many; you can find what you came in search for, although time is an indefinite factor.

Sri Aurobindo was a man in politics who has retired from it in 1910 and began the ashram with some of his disciples to spread his awareness. He devoted the ashram to inner spiritual life and work. He evolved a new method of practise called Integral yoga.

The ashram provides its guests with all they need for a healthy and peaceful life. It looks after your basic requirements of food, clothing and shelter. Medical care is also taken care of. There are libraries for study, facilities for cultural pursuits in music, dance, theatre and even physical health activities like sports, asanas, strength training and swimming.

10. Nightlife

Backpacking Pondicherry can be really fun! Fortunately, Nightlife in Pondicherry exists but is deeply underrated. Surprising since alcohol prices are extremely low in this coastal town. This is even going to help with your Pondicherry travel costs.

Nightlife is the best way to measure how the town is and truly understand its dynamics. You can see how the locals or the youth of the city enjoy their nights here. Pondicherry is always beautiful at night with the voice of the seas whispering constantly.

Some of the popular bars in Pondicherry are

Le Club at White Town

The bamboo bar at MG Road

Paradise Lounge at Saram

Ecstacy at SV Patel road

Zero House Bar

Pondicherry In A Nutshell

With its old-world French charms, Pondicherry is able to give you an almost real taste of French culture and allure while being thousands of miles away from the country of its origins. Famous for its brilliantly painted residences, vast boulevards and street signs with French names, gothic churches and colonial structures, peaceful backwaters and pristine beaches, Pondicherry has a lot to offer. The city’s authentic French cuisine is the cherry on top.

The above-mentioned details will help in the best way possible to find the traveller in you while exploring Pondicherry.

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Pondicherry travel guide

Pondicherry tourism | pondicherry guide, you're going to love pondicherry.

Puducherry or Pondicherry is an Indian city with French flair; it was once the largest French colony within the subcontinent. There is a long history and unique culture to explore in what is nicknamed the French Riviera of the East. You can go to the beach in the morning, shop for hand-painted silk or go to a yoga class in the afternoon, and finish the day by sampling the best of French and Indian cuisine.

Top 5 Reasons to Visit Pondicherry

1. fascinating culture and history.

Where else can you enjoy the charms of the French Quarter, visit the beautifully ornate Varadaraja Perumal Temple, and take yoga or Bollywood singing and dancing lessons at the Sita Cultural Center, all within walking distance?

2. Fabulous Food

The combination of Indian and Mediterranean influences creates a wealth of options for foodies, including the best of Indian cuisine along with French wines and foods you wouldn't expect on the subcontinent.

3. Shop Local

The city offers a shop-till-you-drop experience, including local goods such as silk clothing, shoes, candles, jewelry, handmade paper, and many more local specialties, along with outlet shopping malls full of international goods.

4. Hit the Beach

The beach and promenade are among the city's most popular attractions, where you can swim and enjoy water sports, including scuba diving.

5. Auroville

Just outside the city of Puducherry, Auroville is a utopian community founded as an experiment in universal living. You can visit and view marvels like the Matrimandir lotus-shaped dome gleaming with golden discs, shop, and much more.

What to do in Pondicherry

1. 300 years and counting.

Thanks to the diligence and efforts of Jesuits nearly 300 years ago, the Immaculate Conception Cathedral still stands tall as a monument to the faith and the industrious nature of the French Jesuit Fathers who came to the then-French colony of Pondicherry. However, the church has received a number of additions and undergone some remodeling since it was consecrated in 1791. Nonetheless, you can expect grand splendor and exquisite sacred hangings in this vaulted interiors of this exquisite church. Visit during a popular service or during quieter hours, when you can view the stunning ceiling painting over the altar in peace.

2. Remembering French Culture

You may think the Puducherry Museum is going to focus entirely on French culture - but you'd be wrong. The collections and exhibits feature, rather, the interplay of French influence and local, South Indian Culture. Artifacts like terracotta elephant statues coupled with quaint French antique teak furniture, rare bronzes and stone sculptures from the Pallava and Chola dynasties seem to ask a larger question about the place of colonialism in the legacy of South India in general. Once you're done touring the exhibits and pondering this question, make your way to the courtyard where there awaits the remains of a fossilized tree trunk.

3. Views Of The Water

Located at the edge of the waters of Rock Beach, right in White Town, is this old and iconic 95 foot lighthouse, which was erected in the 1830s. Today, this 19th century relic attracts many visitors seeking the opportunity to climb to its very top and take in views of the water on one hand and of the shimmering city of Pondicherry on the other.

4. In The Heart Of White Town

This is the largest urban park in the town of Pondicherry and sits right at the heart of White Town. With multiple activities, various monuments scattered about the park and pleasant facilities for joggers, families and children, this is the perfect space for a time-out or a green oasis from which to begin a new adventure. While at Bharathi Park, enjoy its lush fountains, a play area for kids, activities such as biking and rollerblading, as well as a well-cultivated garden.

5. Strolling On The Edge Of The Bay Of Bengal

Nearly 4 miles long, this generous stretch of beachfront rests right on the edge of the Bay of Bengal and provides visitors with a clean and well-maintained spit of land on which to relax, take a stroll, or head out for a dip. Take in a sunrise, a moonrise, or simply come at the sunset to wade into the waters or sit on the rocks and take in the waves crashing on the shore. This beautiful area is lined with the shade of palm trees so you can cool off out of the sun.

Where to Eat in Pondicherry

You'll enjoy the menu of upscale Indian and Asian cuisine in the elegant rooftop dining room at Lighthouse, with views of the water. Mains start at ₹600. Enjoy the cafe atmosphere and French classics at Cafe des Arts, where main dishes start at ₹385.

When to visit Pondicherry

With monsoon season from October to December, and summer temperatures that routinely hit above 100 degrees from April to June, many tourists choose to visit the city in the more moderate spring and fall seasons.

How to Get to Pondicherry

Chennai International Airport (MAA) is the closest to the city at a distance of about 84 miles. There are bus connections to Puducherry starting at ₹1,500.

The Puducherry Railway Station is one of India's oldest train hubs, with daily connections to Chennai and Tirupati, weekly service to Bhubaneswar, and overnight service to Bangalore.

The city is connected to other major centers throughout the region by well-maintained highways, including the picturesque ECR or East Coast Road to Chennai.

The Puducherry Road Transport Corporation or PRTC provides intercity bus service, with connections throughout Puducherry union territory and other major centers in the country, including Chennai and Hyderabad.

Airports near Pondicherry

Airlines serving pondicherry, where to stay in pondicherry.

French Quarter - this is the main tourist area of the city, lined by charming Mediterranean-style buildings, with many places to shop and eat as you stroll along the street.

Popular Neighborhoods in Puducherry

Indian Quarter - separated from the French Quarter by a canal, this is where you will find Indian/Tamil markets, shopping, and dining.

Promenade Beach - this is the city's most popular beach area, stretching for just under a mile along the Bay of Bengal.

Where to stay in popular areas of Pondicherry

Most booked hotels in pondicherry, how to get around pondicherry, public transportation.

Local bus service is provided by PRTC. Fares vary by zone, starting at ₹4.50.

Taxis are reasonably plentiful throughout the city, with fares that start at ₹6 per 0.6 miles.

The city is small, with most attractions within walking distance. There are a few local car rental companies, with rates that start at ₹300.

The Cost of Living in Pondicherry

Shopping streets.

Mission Street is where you will find outlet shopping centers, including Kalki for local goods, and Casablanca and Titanic for international brands.

Groceries and Other

F&F and Go Pondy are two of the supermarket brands in the city. A gallon of milk costs ₹145 and a dozen eggs is ₹67.

When and where the solar eclipse will be crossing the U.S.

A total solar eclipse will grace the skies over North America on Monday, one of the most hotly anticipated sky-watching events in recent years.

Weather permitting , millions of people in Mexico, 15 U.S. states and eastern Canada will have the chance to see the moon slip between Earth and sun, temporarily blocking the sun’s light .

The total solar eclipse will be visible along a “path of totality” that measures more than 100 miles wide and extends across the continent. Along that path, the moon will fully obscure the sun, causing afternoon skies to darken for a few minutes.

In all other parts of the continental U.S., a partial solar eclipse will be visible, with the moon appearing to take a bite out of the sun. Exactly how big a bite depends on the location.

The first spot in North America that will experience totality on Monday is on Mexico’s Pacific coast at around 11:07 a.m. PT, according to NASA .

After moving northeast across Mexico, the eclipse’s path travels through Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine. Slivers of Michigan and Tennessee will also be able to witness totality if conditions are clear.

In Canada, the eclipse will be visible in parts of southern Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island and Cape Breton, at the eastern end of Nova Scotia.

The timing of the eclipse and the duration of totality varies by location. Most places will experience around 2 minutes of darkness, but the longest periods of totality are typically in the center of the eclipse’s path.

This year, the longest stretch of totality will last 4 minutes and 28 seconds in an area northwest of Torreón, Mexico.

Below is a list of timings for some U.S. cities along the path of totality, according to NASA .

• Dallas: Partial eclipse begins at 12:23 p.m. CT and totality at 1:40 p.m. CT.
• Idabel, Oklahoma: Partial eclipse begins at 12:28 p.m. CT and totality at 1:45 p.m. CT.
• Little Rock, Arkansas: Partial eclipse begins at 12:33 p.m. CT and totality at 1:51 p.m. CT.
• Poplar Bluff, Missouri: Partial eclipse begins at 12:39 p.m. CT and totality at 1:56 p.m. CT.
• Paducah, Kentucky: Partial eclipse begins at 12:42 p.m. CT and totality at 2:00 p.m. CT.
• Carbondale, Illinois: Partial eclipse begins at 12:42 p.m. CT and totality at 1:59 p.m. CT.
• Evansville, Indiana: Partial eclipse begins at 12:45 p.m. CT and totality at 2:02 p.m. CT.
• Cleveland: Partial eclipse begins at 1:59 p.m. ET and totality at 3:13 p.m.
• Erie, Pennsylvania: Partial eclipse begins at 2:02 p.m. ET and totality at 3:16 p.m. ET.
• Buffalo, New York: Partial eclipse begins at 2:04 p.m. ET and totality at 3:18 p.m.
• Burlington, Vermont: Partial eclipse begins at 2:14 p.m. ET and totality at 3:26 p.m. ET.
• Lancaster, New Hampshire: Partial eclipse begins at 2:16 p.m. ET and totality at 3:27 p.m.
• Caribou, Maine: Partial eclipse begins at 2:22 p.m. ET and totality at 3:32 p.m. ET.

Other resources can also help you figure out when the various phases of the eclipse will be visible where you live, including NationalEclipse.com and TimeandDate.com .

If you plan to watch the celestial event, remember that it’s never safe to look directly at the sun, including through binoculars, telescopes or camera lenses. Special eclipse glasses are required to safely view solar eclipses and prevent permanent eye damage.

Denise Chow is a reporter for NBC News Science focused on general science and climate change.