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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.

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#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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18 Incredible Places To Visit In Pondicherry For A Magical Trip

Pondicherry is a confluence of two worlds, a place where dualism is exhibited at its best through the colonial division of the Old Town into White and Black, French and Tamil. It is a small town that has beautiful amalgamation of contemporary and colonial, hedonistic and spiritual, tranquil and chaotic. There are plenty of places to visit in Pondicherry where the past and the present wonderfully coexist. Not many cities in India can claim to be so compact and yet so cosmopolitan—the expats, people drawn by the ideology of Sri Aurobindo and the Mother, French citizens, old Pondicherrians, new settlers—all thrive happily in this city.

The Most Incredible Places To Visit In Pondicherry For A Magical Trip

Enough is said and written about the famous places to visit in Pondicherry like Aurobindo Ashram, Auroville, Rock beach, Paradise beach, café xtasi etc that stand like iconic symbols of the city. But there is much more to the beautiful French town that I was raised in. They city has now become one of the sought out beach destinations in India, while my memories trace back to the days of growing up in the broad, sun-dappled boulevards, watching cyclist pedalling in the streets lined with mustard, apricot and tangerine walls with bursts of bougainvillea cascading over them; catching the different shades of blue water hugged by an even bluer sky.

This is not one of those places you can walk around with a to-do list in hand, for there are few ‘sights’ to see, but much to experience. It is in its streets that the city truly reveals its soul. So many people miss the once-in-a-lifetime moments and the unforgettable encounters when their faces are buried deep in the maps or stuck with other tourists at iconic landmarks. The key to the most life-altering, memory-making and utterly beautiful travel is to do it like a local. And here is the list of off-beat places to visit in Pondicherry/ things to do in Pondicherry for all travelling souls.

Which Are The Best Places to Visit in Pondicherry?

Our lady of angels church.

While Basilica of Sacred Hearts and Cathedral Church are quite popular places to visit in Pondicherry, the Eglise de Notre Dame des Anges (Our Lady of Angels Church) depicts the Greco roman architecture. It is among the most popular places to visit in Pondicherry. This is the only church that celebrates mass in 3 languages with French mass happening every Sunday.

Botanical Garden

For all the Life of Pi fans this is where the Richard Parker Zoo scene was shot. The flower show conducted every year attracts a lot of locals and outsiders to visit the place. For people who love to just chill among the lush of green trees, Botanical Garden is among the most scenic places to visit in Pondicherry for you.

Intach Pondicherry

The beautifully restored INTACH building on Aurobindo street has a permanent display for pictures on how they restored the old buildings to conserve the city’s heritage and architecture. For all the art and architecture lovers, this building is one of the most insightful places to visit in Pondicherry.

Want to have a glimpse of Rome? Visit Arikamedu, the only city with an archaeological record of Roman presence in India. It is among the most popular places to visit in Pondicherry. Famous for manufacturing amazing bead jewellery, the glass beads site here was considered as the “mother of all bead centers” in the world.

The new light house provides the best vistas in the city and its coastline. This is one of those places to visit in Pondicherry where photographers will fall in love with the city.

Serenity Beach

This beach is a 20 min drive to the north of the town and is among the most captivating places to visit in Pondicherry Fishing boats are parked on the shore and one can see kids do summersaults off the deck. Most of the beach is covered with creepers and the green helps cool the place

Veerampattinam

Veerampattinam is the biggest coastal village in the Union Territory of Pondicherry and is very close to Arikamedu archaeological site. The village has one of the longest beach and most beautiful beaches in the south of India. It is among the most picturesque places to visit in Pondicherry. It is also home to one of the biggest festivals – The Temple car festival, where hoards of devotees pull massive wooden chariots using thick natural rope. A sight to behold indeed!

Places near Pondicherry

Pichavaram mangrove forest is one of the most popular places to visit in Pondicherry. It is at a distance of 78 kms from Pondicherry, the Vellar estuary in the north and Coleroon estuary in the south. The backwaters offer abundant scope for water sports such as rowing, kayaking and canoeing. The Pichavaram forest not only offers waterscape and backwater cruises, but also another very rare sight of the mangrove forest trees that are permanently rooted in a few feet of water.

Alamparai Fort

Constructed in the late 17th century during the Mughal era, the Alamparai Fort once had a 100-metre long dockyard stretching into the sea, from which zari cloth, salt, and ghee were exported. The remains of the fort still exists. Standup paddle boat ride is done on the backwaters here. It is one of the most historically significant places to visit in Pondicherry.

What to do in Pondicherry?

Wake up pondy cycle tour.

Stroll through the streets and explore the best places in Pondicherry on a customised and quirky vintage cycle. The trail starts from SITA cultural centre and goes via kuruchikuppam through goubert market and heritage town. This will give you a perspective of the city at dawn when the streets are empty and all yours.

Surfing sessions

Kallialay surf school.

Kallialay Surf School is one of the best places to visit in Pondicherry for your surfing sessions. If you are confident of swimming in the sea, Spanish brothers Juan and Samai Reboul will make sure you stand up on your board by the end of lesson one.

Scuba Diving

Temple adventure.

One needs to understand Pondicherry is no Andamans, but even our seas have so much to offer. Temple Adventures are the only people who take scuba diving sessions on the east coast. This is India’s first and only east coast scuba diving center.

Parasailing

There are plenty of sightseeing places to visit in Pondicherry, but it has also boosted a bit of its adventure tourism with scuba diving and surfing. Parasailing can also be done for the ones who are looking out for adventures.( Mind you, it’s an overland experience)

Arts and culture

Sita cultural centre.

Even if you’re someone who has come for a few days trip, you can find classes that suit you from kallaripayatu to French cooking. If you enjoy learning, then this is among the most enlightening places to visit in Pondicherry.

Cluny Embroidery

It is one of the most popular places to visit in Pondicherry. A gorgeous 18th-century mansion where women bend their heads over pieces of lace, their needles working nimbly, while old tunes drift out of a transistor radio. Choose from among intricately embroidered bed linen, tablecloths and handkerchiefs.

Be it capoeira or samba, this is the city’s exclusive address for latin cultural arts. P.S. The rooftop has a travellers café that serves amazing tibetian momos. If you would like to taste some lip-smacking dishes, it is one of the best places to visit in Pondicherry.

If you enjoy local artistry, then it is among the best places to visit in Pondicherry. Discover local art and watch free performances by various artists from across the globe while staying in the artsy rooms

Tasmai a Centre for Art & Culture

If you’re someone who wants to weave some art into their holiday, then it is one of the most enjoyable places to visit in Pondicherry. Check out this place which is a little ahead of aurodhan.

Adhisakthi projects

This is among the most unique places to visit in Pondicherry and is formed by thespian Veenapani Chawla. Head out to this place that has a sunlit stage among the acres of green where you can witness theatre acts performed by renouned artists.

Where to stay?

For every kind of traveller, Pondy offers a beautiful place to stay. From its super luxurious La Villa, Villa Shanthi, Hotel de L’Orient to affordable homestays, we have it all. For story-book like guest houses head to the white town area and stay in one of the above mentioned places. Most of these places are located in Rue Dumas, Rue Roman Rolland and Rue suffren ( between “rue”means street).

If you wish to stay in palatial restored tamil mansions, then you should pick La Maison Tamoule or Maison Perumal. The lemongrass scented rooms and the vintage teak furniture gives you the real essence of our heritage.

Where to eat?

This by itself needs a separate post. Anyways I have mentioned a few places to visit in Pondicherryhere. For all the food lovers, there are plenty of places to visit in Pondicherry that offer a plethora of cuisine options. If you’re someone who has a penchant for cheese, head to Mango Hill to try these 11 varieties of cheese. To indulge in some exotic French staples , head to Rendezvous or le club. For some European and Asian cuisine, Umami Kitchen is the best. For all the biryani lovers, we do have Kamatchi and Aristo. For Vietnamese cuisine, le Paris is one of the best places to visit in Pondicherry. If you’re someone who enjoys street food, then you should try the mutton samosas from the street shop bang opposite the railway station. This food stall is city’s famous spot of mutton samosa and soup. If you are looking for the best places to visit in Pondicherry to satiate your chocolate cravings, then Head to Zuka.

When should I visit Pondicherry?

We only witness different variations of summer. There are plenty of places to visit in Pondicherry and the ideal time to visit these destinations would be from November to February mid as the weather is pleasant and not burning hot. When you visit Pondy, don’t be surprised by shop keepers with strings of jasmine in their hair conversing in fluent French or if an autorickshaw-driver greets you with a resounding ‘Bonjour’. The French connection is the strongest, which collides with Indian sensibilities to create a concoction that’s uniquely Pondicherry.

Pondicherry is a place that makes us pause to find the parts of ourselves we lose while rushing between traffic lights, trapped in glass cabins of the corporate life, chasing the undefined. It is a place that has a part of my heart and my life forever.

Pondicherry Harbour

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38 Top Tourist Places to Visit in Pondicherry

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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 .....

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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 .....

French Quarters / White Town

#10 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 .....

Mahatma Gandhi Statue

#18 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

#19 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 .....

#20 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

#21 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

#22 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, .....

Basilica Of Sacred Heart Of Jesus

#11 of 38 Places to Visit in Pondicherry

At a distance of 2.5 km from Pondicherry Bus Station, The Church of Sacred Heart of Jesus is one of the highly revered religious places in Pondicherry and is located on the south boulevard of the town. It is one of the 21 Basilicas in India and only one in Pondicherry. This church was established in 1908 by the French missionaries and attained the status of basilica in 2011. This Catholic Church is one of the finest churches of Pondicherry. The Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus is an excellent example of Gothic architecture. The structure is 50 meters long, 48 meters wide and 18 meters high and is held by 24 columns. One can see the biblical words on entrance written in Latin along with the images of Sacred Heart of Jesus and Mother Mary carved in the entrance door. It contains rare stained glass panels depicting events from the life of Christ and saints of the Catholic Church. A striking statue of Madonna is placed at the right side of the high altar. The statue .....

Jawahar Toy Museum

#12 of 38 Places to Visit in Pondicherry

At a distance of 2.5 km from Pondicherry Bus Station, The Jawahar Toy Museum is situated close to the Old Light House on Goubert Avenue near Gandhi Maidan in Pondicherry. Jawahar Toy Museum is one of the popular museums carrying an exclusive display of a wide variety of toys. The museum has a collection of 120 dolls that are carefully labeled and dressed in beautiful costumes. These dolls and toys have been collected from several states in the country and are seen wearing the traditional dresses of that particular region. The rare collection of toys and decorated dolls represent the culture of different parts of the country. The museum is a must visit place for children. Jawahar Toy Museum is one of the rarest toy museums in the country. The best collection includes dolls from Punjab, Bengal, Haryana, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Gujarat, Assam, Kashmir and southern states. Through art and display, the Museum educates people about the importance of dolls and toys in Indian culture. The .....

French War Memorial

#13 of 38 Places to Visit in Pondicherry

At a distance of 3.5 km from Pondicherry Bus Station, French War Memorial on Goubert Avenue is located in French Quarter (White Town). It was built in 1971 to commemorate the brave soldiers who laid down their lives during First World War. The memorial has four stark white columns with a life-size statue of a soldier leaning on a rifle. On the memorial there is an inscription that says, 'Aux combattants des Indes Francoises morts pour la patrie, 1914-1918' which means French fighters of India who died for their country in 1914-1918. The memorial is a popular tourist attraction in Pondicherry. There is a small garden built around the monument. The Memorial is beautifully illuminated on the Bastille Day which is celebrated on 14th July. Timings: 10 AM to 5 PM

Immaculate Conception Cathedral

#14 of 38 Places to Visit in Pondicherry

At a distance of 2.5 km from Pondicherry Bus Station, The Immaculate Conception Church, also known as Eglise de Notre Dame de la Conception Immaculee, is located on the Church Street in Pondicherry. Dedicated to Saint Peters, it is famously known as the Church of Capuchins that was founded in 1686. In the beginning it was constructed as a small chapel, outside the government park. Till 1729, it served as the Parish church and the name was later changed to Immaculate Conception Church. The Cathedral is a magnificent structure with beautifully constructed interior and exterior designs. There is an esplanade in front of the Church where tourists can take part in the ceremonies organized in the church. The church was also visited by Mother Teresa. The feast of the church is celebrated on the 8th of December every year. It draws a large number of devotees from neighboring states. Mass prayers are organised at this church from Monday to Saturday at 5:15 AM and 6:15 AM. On Sundays, .....

Ananda Ranga Pillai Mansion

#15 of 38 Places to Visit in Pondicherry

At a distance of 2.5 km Pondicherry Bus Station, Ananda Ranga Pillai House is one of the oldest buildings in Pondicherry and is located right opposite the Grand Bazaar on Ranga Pillai Street. Built in 1735, the mansion was named after Ananda Ranga Pillai, who was the courtier of Governor Joseph Francois Dupleix. This beautiful mansion is a perfect example of Indian and Gothic architecture styles. The ground floor is traditional Tamil architecture with a huge courtyard with wooden pillars with exquisite carvings. Also called as Natives Quarters, this mansion is a treasure house to understand the French colonial period in Pondicherry as documented by Pillai in his diaries. The mansion was one of the few buildings to survive the British invasion and has been recognized by the Puducherry government as a heritage building. Timings: 10 AM to 6 PM

Auroville Beach

#16 of 38 Places to Visit in Pondicherry

At a distance of 9.5 km from Pondicherry Bus Station and 6 km from Auroville Matrimandir, the Auroville Beach situated near Bommayapalayam on East Coast Road is a nice and serene beach and also a must visit Pondicherry Beach . The Auroville Beach is one of the popular beaches in Pondicherry and also one of the less crowded beaches. The waters at the Beach are shallow and offer a great opportunity for swimming. The slope of the beach is gentle that facilitates the swimmers. The beach is mostly visited in the weekends by the local people. On the other days of the week, the beach remains isolated. Sunrise is more spectacular at this beach. There are some beach huts and resorts which provide food and accommodation for the visitors.

Serenity Beach

#17 of 38 Places to Visit in Pondicherry

At a distance of 7 km from Pondicherry Bus Station, Serenity Beach is a wonderful beach close to East Coast Road. It is a clean, calm and less crowed beach and also one of the famous Tourist places in Pondicherry . Serenity Beach offers several adventure activities like surfing, boating, canoeing and kayaking. This is a perfect destination for sunbathing, swimming and just relaxing. While the picturesque beach is graced by white sand bordered by palm trees, the surrounding blue waters are a surfing hotspot. Serenity Beach Bazaar is setup on weekends at the beach on East Coast Road. Some of the items sold in bazaar are handicrafts, garments and leather goods.

#23 of 38 Places to Visit in Pondicherry

At a distance of 3.5 km from Pondicherry Bus Station, Raj Niwas is the official residence of the Lieutenant Governor of Puducherry. It is one of the most important buildings, which once served as a palace during French colonization and was the official residence of the French Governor Dupleix. Raj Nivas, built during the 18th century is well-known as the 'Palais du Government'. It is a harmonious blend of French and Indian architecture. It was once the location of the Hotel de la Compagnie and later played host to Dupleix. One of the major attractions for the tourists is the monolithic pillars, brought from Gingee Fort after it was seized in 1751. The complex has an attractive water monument placed inside the middle of a well-maintained garden. Skillfully carved wooden pillars surround the courtyard and decorated stonework of European design support the first floor terrace. Two canons are exhibited on either side of the main gate. It is now the Lieutenant Governor's .....

Varadaraja Perumal Temple - Pondicherry

#24 of 38 Places to Visit in Pondicherry

At a distance of 2.5 km from Pondicherry Bus Station, Sri Varadaraja Perumal Temple located on M.G.Road is believed to be the oldest temple in Pondicherry, dating back to 970 AD. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, this temple is also famous for its Dravidian architectural patterns, front gopuram and sculptured towers. The idol can be seen in standing form, majestically 5 feet tall. The temple also houses a sannidhi for goddess called as Perundevi thayar. There is a mirror room in the temple. The Varadaraja Perumal temple houses assorted avatars of Lord Vishnu which are present in divyadesams. The idols of lord Rama, goddess Sita, lord Lakshmana, lord Hanuman, Lord Navaneetha Krishna, Sri Santhanagopala and Sri Venugopala are present in the temple. The temple also houses two great Vaishnava Acharyas, Nikamanda Mahadesikan and Manavalamamuni. This temple is also famous for first rice feeding of children known as Annaprasana. Sri Ramanavami festival, Vaikunta Ekadasi, .....

Varadaraja Perumal Temple - Villianur

#25 of 38 Places to Visit in Pondicherry

At a distance of 600 m from Villianur Railway Station and 8 km from Pondicherry Bus Station, Sri Varadaraja Perumal Temple is located at Villianur. It was built by Cholas during 12th century along with two beautiful temple tanks. Varadaraja Perumal Temple is an ancient temple and it has great religious significance. The structure of the temple is very attractive and is highly revered by its devotees. The temple has been constructed in traditional Dravidian style, with large front gopuram and sculpted pillars. It is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, locally called as Venkatachalapathy. There is a separate shrine of Lord Narashima behind the temple of the main deity. Timings: 6 AM - 12 PM and 4 PM - 9 PM.

Kokilambal Thirukameshwara Temple - Villianur

#26 of 38 Places to Visit in Pondicherry

At a distance of 750 m from Villianur Railway Station and 8 km from Pondicherry Bus Station, Sri Kokilambal Thirukameshwara Temple is an ancient temple located at Villianur in Pondicherry and is popularly known as Villianur Temple. This temple was constructed by a Chola king in the 12th century CE. According to the history, the king was suffering from leprosy and worshipped Lord Shiva in this temple and got cured. The King built a town in this place which was earlier a forest of Vilwa (Bel) trees and constructed the temple and named it Vilwanallur which gradually changed to Villianur. Dedicated to Lord Shiva in the form of Thirukameshwara, the goddess of this temple is known as Kokilambal. The lingam is made of mud and abhishekas are not performed to the linga directed. Instead, the lingam is covered with brass armor before abhishekas. The rays of the Sun fall on the presiding deity in the month of Panguni (March/April). The Nandi in this temple is called Prasava Nandi and .....

Kanniga Parameswari Temple

#27 of 38 Places to Visit in Pondicherry

At a distance of 3 km from Pondicherry Bus Station, Sri Kanniga Parameswari Temple on MG Road is an ancient temple and one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Puducherry. This temple is dedicated to Goddess Parvati. Kanniga Parameswari Temple is famous for its unique architecture that reflects the Dravidian and French architecture. The temple features curved walls, massive towers, angel decorations and stained glass windows influenced by French architecture. The inner sanctum and ceilings are designed in traditional Dravidian style. Navaratri is the most famous festival celebrated in this temple. All Fridays in the month of Adi (around August) are auspicious days and special Pujas are performed. Timings: 6.30 AM - 10.30 AM and 5.30 PM - 9 PM

Statue Of Dupleix

#28 of 38 Places to Visit in Pondicherry

At a distance of 3 km from Pondicherry Bus Station, The statue of Joseph Francois Dupleix is situated in children's park on the beach road. Dupleix was one of the most popular French governors to Pondicherry. He tried to prevent British supremacy by forming alliances with local princes. With the defeat of French in Second Carnatic War, Dupleix resigned his governorship and returned to France. The 2.88 m tall statue of Dupleix stands at the southern end of the park. This statue has been constructed over beautiful granite columns at Place du Republique. Even though Dupleix left Pondicherry in 1754, French recognition of his contribution came only in 1870, with the commissioning of two statues-one in Pondicherry and the other in France.

Romain Rolland Library

#29 of 38 Places to Visit in Pondicherry

At a distance of 3.2 km from Pondicherry Bus Station, Romain Rolland Library, formerly known as Bibliotheque Publique, is one of the oldest Libraries in the country and the biggest in the Union Territory of Pondicherry. Established in the year 1827, this library has been named after the French scholar - Romain Rolland. There are more than 315,000 books kept in this library printed in different languages. More than 45000 members are utilizing the Library and nearly 2 lakhs books are annually loaned to the readers. Apart from this, nearly 190 periodicals are being subscribed. About 1,000 readers are using the reading room facilities every day. The library has been segregated into numerous sections, including a separate children's section and the Rare Book Section. The Children's Section aimed to develop the reading habit among younger generation. The Rare Book section has a collection of about 15,000 old and rare books. Scholars from all parts of the country visit this Library .....

Church Of Our Lady Of Angels

#30 of 38 Places to Visit in Pondicherry

At a distance of 3 km from Pondicherry Bus Station, The Church of Our Lady of Angels, also known as Eglise de Notre Dame des Anges Church is one of the popular churches in Pondicherry. The Church was built in 1865 by French Missionaries in the Greek Roman architectural style. It was modeled after the Basilica at Lourdes located in Southern France. The masonry is done using the fine limestone, mixed with white part of the egg, giving it a texture that looks like a white marble. The church is named in the honor of Blessed Virgin Mary under the title of Our Lady of the Angels. The facade of the church has two large columns. The interior central dome has eight circular openings. The pastel peach and lime colours give it a very serene appearance. This church is also famous for its rare oil painting of Our Lady of the Assumption, which was a gift from the French Emperor, Napoleon III. The cemetery next to the church has the tomb of Marquis de Bussy (dated 1785), who was one .....

Ousteri Wetland & National Park Puducherry

#31 of 38 Places to Visit in Pondicherry

At a distance of 10 km from Pondicherry Bus Station, Ousteri Lake, also known as Ossudu Lake, is situated at Ossudu Village on Pondicherry-Villuppuram Road. It is one of the prominent Pondicherry places to visit . Spread over 800 hectares, the Ousteri Lake is situated between Puducherry and Tamil Nadu. About 390 hectares of the area falls in Puducherry and the remaining is under Tamil Nadu state. This is an artificial lake built by the French as a source of drinking water for the residents. The lake is fed by local run-off and an intermittent river and has a bund on its western bank. It has an average depth of 1 m and dries up completely in summer. Over the years, the lake has evolved into a wetland. In 2008, the Ousteri wetland in Puducherry was declared as a bird sanctuary, while the wetland in Tamil Nadu was declared in 2015. Ousteri Wetland is a paradise for bird watchers as it attracts .....

Old Light House

#32 of 38 Places to Visit in Pondicherry

At a distance of 3 km Pondicherry Bus Station, The Old Light House is one of Pondicherry's most famous landmarks and is situated on Goubert Avenue. The engineer of the project, Louis Guerre laid the foundation of this Lighthouse in 1835. The lighthouse is 29 meters high. Its round tower sits on a square base with a foundation 9 meters deep to stabilize the sandy ground on which it was built. However, the beacon had not arrived from France so the lighthouse was not operational until July 1836. The light house was considered to be quite modern for that time with its unique structure. Its light beam could be seen from a distance of 15 miles. The light source consisted of six oil lamps and two reflectors. The light source was converted to electric lamps in 1913. The new lamp had a range of 26 nautical miles. The lighthouse was shut down in the year 1979, but is an interesting place to visit.

#33 of 38 Places to Visit in Pondicherry

At a distance of 7 km from Pondicherry Bus Station, Arikamedu, the ancient Roman trade center is situated on the banks of Ariyankuppam River. Remains of the port which was a major maritime center between the 1st century BC and the 2nd century AD have been unearthed during excavations. Arikamedu is of special importance in South Indian archaeology and it is best known for its stone bead production. The port town was inhabited by Romans and Cholas and evidence of their stay have been unearthed by archeologists. It is believed to be the only city with an archaeological record of Roman presence in India. Arikamedu started off as a fishing village but with the development of trade, the village was replaced by a brick built harbour town. Today, only ruins of the town remain. Besides maritime commerce, evidence has also been unearthed of inland trade with Kaveripattinam, Alagankulam, Musiri and Suttukeni along the river. Various textiles, beads, terracotta artifacts, gold and jewellery .....

Meeran Mosque / Meerapalli

#34 of 38 Places to Visit in Pondicherry

At a distance of 2 km from Pondicherry Bus Station, The Meeran Mosque, also known as Meerapalli, is the 2nd oldest mosque in Pondicherry. It was built by the Arcot Nawabs in late 17th century. Meeran Mosque was built in the old Gothic Islamic style of architecture. The Dome of the Mosque is supported by four lofty. In order to enhance the beauty of the facade minaret a Bronze Kalasa is placed on the top of the structure. The Meeran Mosque is also the resting place of the grave of Meeran, the one who constructed the Mosque.

Quiet Beach

#35 of 38 Places to Visit in Pondicherry

At a distance of 1 km from Serenity Beach, 2 km from Auroville Beach, and 9 km from Pondicherry Bus Station, Quiet Beach is a secluded beach located in Auroville. It is one of the cleanest beaches in Pondicherry and among the must-include places in Pondicherry -Mahabalipuram tour packages . Quiet Beach is a tranquil paradise nestled along the pristine coastline of Pondicherry. Sandwiched between Serenity Beach and Auroville Beach, it is one of the most underrated beaches in Pondicherry. The beach is surrounded by lush greenery, including swaying palm trees and dunes covered in shrubs and grass. With its golden sands, clear waters, and a sense of serenity, Quiet Beach is known for its untouched natural beauty. As the name suggests, the beach boasts a calm and laid-back ambiance, making it an ideal destination for relaxation and solitude. The long stretch of golden sand offers ample space for visitors to find a secluded .....

Sri Vedapureeswarar Temple

#36 of 38 Places to Visit in Pondicherry

At a distance of 3 km from Pondicherry Bus Station, Vedapureeswarar Temple is a Hindu temple located in Pondicherry. Situated near Sri Varadaraja Perumal Temple, it is one of the top religious places to visit in Pondicherry . Also known as Eswaran Dharmaraja Koil, Vedapureeswarar Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Here, Lord Shiva is commemorated as Vedapureeswarar, and his wife Goddess Parvati is worshiped as Tiripurasundari. At more than 230 years of age, the temple is about 230 years old and is one of the oldest temples in Pondicherry, which receives a heavy footfall of tourists throughout the year. According to history, the original construction of the Vedapureeswarar temple was demolished during Governor Dupleix's rule in the year 1748. Dewan Kandappa Mudaliar, with the help of public contributions, reconstructed the temple in the year 1788. Dewan Kandappa Mudaliar, with the help of public .....

Cluny Embroidery Centre

#37 of 38 Places to Visit in Pondicherry

At a distance of 3 km from Pondicherry Bus Station, Cluny Embroidery Center is a remarkable initiative founded by a local convent to provide employment for impoverished women in the community. It is one of the offbeat Pondicherry tourist places . Cluny Embroidery Center is housed in an 18th-century heritage bungalow on Rue Romain Rolland Street. The building was donated by a French woman to help poor women in need and is currently run by Catholic nuns. It serves as a support Center for many poor and vulnerable women. It tells the tale of humanity's struggle for existence and hope. Functioning since 1829, the center has been creating exquisite embroidery products in the form of laces, crochets, and other handmade items. Tourists are encouraged to visit the workstation to see live women at work with needles and thimbles. While the center accepts commercial orders from big brands, it also has its .....

Goubert Market

#38 of 38 Places to Visit in Pondicherry

At a distance of 3 km from Pondicherry Bus Station, Goubert Market is a bustling market area located at the corner of Mahatma Gandhi Road and Jawaharlal Nehru Road in Pondicherry. It is one of the must-visit places as part of the Pondicerry tour packages . Also known as the Grand Bazaar, the Goubert Market is one of the oldest markets in the Union Territory of Pondicherry. It was named after Edouard Goubert, the first Chief Minister of Pondicherry. The market is set in a shopping hub of the city where you can find a cluster of shops selling various products. With its rich history, vibrant atmosphere, and wide range of products, Goubert Market is a must-visit place for those seeking to immerse themselves in the local culture and flavors of Pondicherry. Crowded for most of the day, Goubert Market is a popular destination for locals and tourists, offering a unique shopping and cultural experience. This market is a great .....

Most Asked Questions on Pondicherry

Winter from October to February is the best time to visit Pondicherry . December is also the busiest season and hotels are usually very expensive in this season. Summer would be quite hot and humid but the evenings are pleasant with cool breeze.

Pondicherry usually requires around 2-3 days to visit the most important attractions. Several tourists usually prefer visiting Pondicherry along with Mahabalipuram which requires an additional day. There are several wonderful places near Pondicherry like Kanchipuram, Chidambaram & Tiruvannamalai that can be visited with additional day for each place.

Budget of Pondicherry trip depends on the trip duration and category of hotel you choose for your stay along with the kind of vehicle you prefer. Pondicherry tour packages offered by Trawell.in start from as low as INR 5350 per person for a 2D/1N trip and from INR 9000 per person for 3D/2N vacation.

Ensure to cover most important places to visit in Pondicherry like Paradise Beach, Chunnambar Boat House, Promenade, Aurobindo Ashram, Auroville, etc . Mahabalipuram which is around 95 km from Pondicherry and can be visited along with Pondicherry.

There are several beach side resorts in Pondicherry near Paradise Beach, Promenade and ECR towards Mahabalipuram. Trawell.in can customize the package and include stay in a beach resort of your choice.

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Top Things to Do in Pondicherry, India

Places to visit in pondicherry.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Budget-friendly
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Good for Kids
• Good for Big Groups
• Good for Couples
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Honeymoon spot
• Hidden Gems
• Adventurous
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

31. Sri Karaneswara Nataraja Temple

32. Barathiyar Meseum at Pondicherry

33. Sandunes

34. Sunday Market

35. ISKCON Pondicherry

36. Vedapureeswarar Temple, Puducherry

37. Veerampattinam Beach

38. Pondicherry Botanical Gardens

39. Sita Cultural Center

40. Saint Joan of Arc Statue

41. Sri Kokilambika-Sri Kameeswarar Temple

42. Cluny Embroidery Centre

43. Police museum Pondicherry

44. Pogoland

45. Sri Ayyappa Swamy Temple

46. Ananda Ranga Pillai House

47. White Town

48. St.Francis of Assisi Church

49. Church Of Our Lady Of Good Health

50. Gangaivaraga Natheeswarar Temple

51. Keralaa Ayurveda

52. Cimetière français de Pondichéry

53. french quarter.

54. Shri Siva Subramanya Swami Temple

55. Van Cleef Hall

56. Yesu En Nesar Church

57. Indira Gandhi Sports Complex

58. kamarajar manimandapam, 59. instant infinity.

60. Crafts Emporium Pondy

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• 20 Places to Visit Near Pondicherry
• Pondicherry

Tourist Places Near Pondicherry

Here are some of the best places to visit near pondicherry:, quick navigation, tiruchirappalli.

Tiruchirappalli , popularly known as Trichy is situated on the banks of the Kaveri river, having plenty of spots around. The city has a rich history attached to it, which is evident in its architecture, culture and even its food. It was ruled by several different kingdoms, tracing back to the Chola Dynasty, it flourished during the Nayak reign, up until the British acquired power. Trichy has numerous ancient temples and forts that are reminiscent of the city’s history. Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple and The Rock Fort and Temple, also famous as a sunrise/sunset spots, are worth a mention. There are also a few Museums preserving the colourful history of the place for exploration. Apart from the beautiful architecture, you should spoil yourself with shopping at Sarnath’s (largest textile showroom) and gorge on delicious food at Vasant Bhavan. Other places to visit:  Kallanai Dam, Puliancholai waterfalls, Srirangam Island, Samayapuram Amman Temple, Vekkali Annam Temple, Jambukeshwara Temple, St. Joseph church, St. Johns church, Art Museum, and Rani Mangammal Mahal. Best Time to Visit: November - March. Distance from Pondicherry: 200 kilometres. Must Checkout:  Pondicherry Holiday Packages

Best of Bangalore

Bengaluru, formerly known as Bangalore, is the capital of the state of Karnataka. It is located in southern India on Deccan Plateau. The city is a mix of traditions and modernity. The various ethnicities residing in it celebrate their cultural festivities while engaging with the recent upsurge in its café culture and pub-hopping. It is often referred to as the ‘Silicon Valley’ being the hub of IT development in India.

The lush green area around Bangalore is interspersed with waterfalls, wildlife sanctuaries, and brooks and rivers waiting to be explored. Due to the presence of lush gardens and pastoral land, it has gained a reputation for being the ‘Garden City of India.’ Cubbon Park, Ulsoor Lake, Indira Gandhi Musical Fountain Park, Bugle Rock Park, and Lumbini Garden are the marvels of this city.

Bangalore is flushed with the picturesque sites where you can try the most adrenaline rushing activities. Trekking or hiking at places like Ramanagara, Nandi Hills, Savandurga, and Narayanagiri are exciting activities undertaken by trek enthusiasts. You can also try camping and fishing over here for a rejuvenating experience. 

Bangalore is not just a place for nature lovers, but also music enthusiasts. Hard Rock is an elite pub in Bangalore due to its live performances by renowned bands. There are various other entertainment places within the city including Snow City, which enthuses visitors with activities like ice-skating, gaming arcades and bowling alleys. 

Bangalore has two distinct seasons – wet and dry. The wet season begins with the monsoon in June and lasts till September. The rest of the year is mostly dry but may encounter unpredictable showers. The dry days are sunny, with temperatures not going beyond 25 – 30 degrees Celsius. The best time to visit Bangalore is from November to March. 

Top Experiences To Do in Bangalore

Best of North Goa

Madurai is one of our recommendations of places to visit near Pondicherry. An ancient city famous for the skyscraper-isque Meenakshi Annam Temple and other Dravidian-style structures is a southern pilgrimage city. Madurai too flourished under the rule of the Nayak dynasty. Dive into the spiritual and historical magnificence that the place offers by visiting Algar Koil, Thirumalai Nayak Mahal and Gandhi Memorial Museum. Another impressive sight is the mountains surrounding Madurai, Meghamalai, Nagamalai, Yanaimalai and Samanarmalai are to name a few. The city is huge on culture and art and has a mix of it from all of South. It is also great for shopping for local crafts and traditional jewellery and going to Bullion Bazaar or Puttu Mandap to splurge. Other Places to visit:  Vaigai Dam, Koodal Azhagar Temple, Mariamman Teppakulam, Arulmigu Subramaniya Swamy Temple, Karuppasamy temple and Jain caves, St. Mary’s Cathedral, Temple Art Museum, Madurai Government Museum, Chithirai Festival and Teppam festival. Best Time to Visit: October - March. Distance from Pondicherry: 150+ kilometres.

Top Experiences To Do in Madurai

Best of Coorg

Buzzing streets, stunning heritage temples, shopping arcades, and striking beaches are the elements that certainly allure the travel enthusiasts to visit Chennai. Located on the coast of Southeastern India, Chennai is one of the biggest cities in Tamil Nadu. It is also home to thriving technology, which makes it one of the largest IT parks in Asia. With Pondicherry and Mahabalipuram in its vicinity, it is pacing up as the cultural hub of India. This city has truly preserved its charisma all through its journey of becoming Chennai from Madras. Chennai is widely recognized for its bold flavors, warm hospitality, and colorful culture that never fails to impress the travelers. Whether you’re seeking for spiritual bliss, party frenzy atmosphere or mind boggling fun activities Chennai has so much in store for the tourists that it offers something for everyone. You can marvel at the beautiful expanse of the world famous Marina Beach or you can engage into the trekking activities that are organized close to the waterfalls. You can also buy souvenirs from the shopping arcades and try the lip smacking cuisines of Chennai to make your entire trip memorable. The magnificently built temples of Chennai also attract tourists to visit this city.  Chennai is not only the city of beaches and temples. This city offers you the provision to fly in the vast sky and sail in the water currents through the expansive sea. If you’re daring and have enough courage then get tied to the harness and jump from the highest mountain peak. Yes paragliding is a must try thrilling activity over here. Apart from this several other adrenaline rushing activities like river rafting, surfing and scuba diving are lined up for the tourists in Chennai. You can also indulge into rock climbing and camping session to test your adventurous streak.  The ideal time to visit Chennai is the winter and pre-monsoon season between February and October. During this time of the year, the weather is quite pleasant, which gives you a chance to explore this city at its best. Summers can be scorching and intensely harsh as the temperature rises up to 40 degrees Celsius, so it’s best not to visit Chennai during this season. During the winter season, the temperature hovers between 20-25 degrees Celsius and cool breezes flow from the sea, providing relief from the otherwise humid weather. The months between September to July constitute the monsoon season, which is accompanied by strong winds and heavy rainfall.

Top Experiences To Do in Chennai

Best of South Goa

Yercaud in Salem district lies in the Shevaroy hills is a quaint hill-station. It is still the less explored region but is one of the places around Pondicherry that should have your attention.  This town is proposing with orange groves, and Coffee and spice plantations. The Emerald lake of Yercaud is surreal; it also has a boathouse and is surrounded by gardens. The town has plentiful local plants displayed at Anna Park and bonsai at the Japanese garden.  A stunning vantage point of the hills and Salem from Lady’s seat, it has a watchtower and a telescope as well. It would be best if you also went on a drive on 32-km Loop Road, covered in trees. It is like a movie scene. Pagoda Point, Killiyur Falls and Tipperary Viewpoint are places to soak in all the natural beauty around. Other places to visit:  Bear’s Cave, Deer Park, Kottachedu Teak Forest, Karadiyur Viewpoint, Annamalaiyar Temple Viewpoint, Shevaroy Temple and Raja Rajeshwari Temple. Best Time to Visit: October - March. Distance from Pondicherry: 230+ kilometres.

Top Experiences To Do in Yercaud

Best of Chennai

Chidambaram

A pilgrimage spot for Lord Shiva devotees, it houses the Nataraja Temple among many others. Chidambaram also known as Thillai (the area was a mangrove forest in the olden days and got the name) still has Pichavaram Mangrove Forest and comes as one of the places to visit near Pondicherry. The temple town was ruled by the Chola dynasty, traces of which can be seen at Gangaikonda Cholapuram. Much like all of South, Chidambaram has a rich history with the reign of multiple kingdoms and mention in mythological tales as well. Poompuhar Beach is the ideal spot for all the water babies. Other places to visit:  Thirrukadiyar, Vaitheeswaran Koli, Sirkhazi, Kali Temple, Sivakami Amman Temple, Govindaraja Perumal Temple and Tirunallurpperumanam Temple. Some of the famous festivals to attend are: Brahmotsavam, Ani Thirumanjanam, Thai Poosam, and Arudra Darshan are temple festivals, while Natyanjali is a dance festival. Best Time to Visit: October - March. Distance from Pondicherry: 60+ kilometres. Also Checkout:  Pondicherry Honeymoon Packages

Best of Chikmagalur

Mamallapuram

Mamallapuram (also known as Mahabalipuram ) is a coastal city, some 60km off Chennai on the Bay of Bengal. The historic town is also a UNESCO World Heritage site for its stone carvings and ancient monuments such as the Arjuna’s Penance, Shore Temple and Five Rathas. Surrounded by water on three sides, Mamallapuram Beach and Pallava Beach are the two rugged coastlines, hosting fun activities such as fishing, surfing lessons, boating etc. A popular stopover, it is also one of the places to visit near Pondicherry. Apart from the pristine beaches and historical monuments, Malappuram also houses several temples and is regarded as an essential sacred destination; Krishna Cave Temple, Varaha Cave Temple, Ganesh Rath Temple are to name a few. Mamallapuram also hosts a Dance Festival annually in the months of December-January. Other places to visit:  Krishna Butter Ball, Tiger Caves, Alamparai Fort, Trimurti Cave, Sthalasayana Perumal Temple, India Seashell Museum and Aquarium, Dakshinachitra Museum, Crocodile Farm and Lion Throne. While here, go around town trying local delicacies and shopping. Best Time to Visit: October - March. Distance from Pondicherry: 95+ kilometres. Checkout:  Pondicherry Tour Packages From Kerala                     Pondicherry Tour Packages From Coimbatore

Best of Kovalam

Thanjavur (also known as Tanjore) is another one of the ancient cities holding historical significance amidst its architecture, culture and art. The Tanjore-style paintings and bobblehead dolls are especially famous, dating back centuries. The 11-century Brihadeeswara Temple is the highlight, built during the Chola dynasty era, having stunning architecture and frescoed interiors. The temple regularly organizes cultural events like Bharatanatyam recitals and Carnatic music concerts. Other places to immerse yourself in and learn the history of Tanjore is the Thanjavur Maratha Palace which houses the centuries-old Saraswathi Mahal Library (the library has preserved palm-leaf manuscripts). The Thanjavur Art Gallery is here as well and displays bronze statues. Tamil University Museum is one more place to go to; it displays coins, artefacts, musical instruments and more. Other places to visit are:  Vijayanagar Fort and Shiv Ganga Garden, Thanjai Mamani Koil, Alangudi Guru Temple, boat-ride in Sivagangai tank at Sivagangai Poonga, Maratha Palace, Schwartz Church, Swami Malai Temple, Take a tour of the doll making workshops and don't forget to try the traditional food! Best Time to Visit: October - March. Distance from Pondicherry: 160+ kilometres. You May Also Like:  Pondicherry Tour Packages From Cochin                                    Pondicherry Tour Packages From Mangalore

Best of Gokarna

Tharangambadi

Best of Mahabalipuram

Other places to visit:  Velankudi, Mathur, Iraniyur, Ilayathangudi, Allapanga University, Thiruvila, annual temple festival, Karaikudi, Athangudi,  Kandangi sarees and Chettinad cuisine. Best Time to Visit: October - March. Distance from Pondicherry: 200+ kilometres. Book Now:  Pondicherry Tour Packages From Visakhapatnam                      Pondicherry Tour Packages From Mumbai

Best of Varkala

Dindigul is an ancient city in the state of Tamil Nadu. Said to be a medieval city, it was once ruled by the Cholas, the Cheras, the Pallavas and the British among others. Thus giving the place a rich historical significance, the Dindigul fort is one such example. It is evident in the astonishing architecture of the monuments and temples of an olden-era. Palani Murugan Temple, Sri Abirami Amman Temple are worth mentioning. Begumpur Mosque and St. Joseph’s church make for a tranquil visit too. Dindigul also has mountains, lakes and other natural places that would leave you stunned. The Sirumalai Hills, Berijam Lake, Coaker's walk are some of the. Other places to visit:  Silver Cascade Falls, Dolphin’s Nose, Palani, Guna Caves, Sirumalai Reserved Forest,  Kurinji Andavar Temple, Sri Kottai Mariamman Kovil, Sendraya Perumal Temple, Soundararajaperumal Temple. Best Time to Visit: October - March. Distance from Pondicherry: 250+ kilometres. Must Read: Places to visit in Pondicherry

Tiruvannamalai

Tiruvannamalai, an ancient city, is one of the pilgrimage sites in the Southern region. The city has been associated with many yogis and sages. It has also emerged as an international centre to study Spiritualism; you should head to Ramana Ashram for a peaceful experience.  Tiruvannamalai gets its name from the holy mountain ‘Tiruvannan Malai’. The city’s major tourist attractions are religion centric; the Girivalam, Arunachaleshwara Temple is situated at the foot of Mount Arunachal. This temple is a stunning example of Dravidian-style architecture.  The Gingee Fort, Virupaksha Caves and the Tiru malai hill are perfect places for History enthusiasts, making Tiruvannamalai, one of the places to visit near Pondicherry. Other places to visit:  Annamalaiyar Temple, Padaveedu (temple village), Thirumeeyachur Lalithambigai Temple, Sri Seshadri Swamigal Ashram and Yogi Ram Surathkumar Ashram, Jadavu Hills, Sathanur Dam, Skandashramam, Agni; Varuna; Niruthi Lingams,  Brahmotsavam is an unmissable festival (during November-December). Best Time to Visit: October - March. Distance from Pondicherry: 100+ kilometres. Read More: Things to do in Pondicherry

• Kanchipuram

Kanchipuram (also known as Kanchi) is an ancient city that houses multiple temples. It is also one of our recommendations for places around Pondicherry.  Kanchi is a Hindu pilgrimage city with many sites of religious importance. The more renowned temples here are the iconic 8th-century Kailasanathar Temple, with sandstone carvings and the Ulagalanda Perumal Temple which has a Lord Vishnu statue. The Kanchi Kamakotti Peetham (one of the four seats of Sri Adi Shankaracharya, a Hindu sage) is another remarkable attraction situated here. Kanchi has also been a centre for Tamil learning and culture, displaying the marvellous Dravidian heritage.  Some of the more prominent festivals to attend are the Brahmothsavam, Garuda Utsavam, and Rath festivals, held in January, April, and May respectively. Other places to visit:  Kamakshi Annam Temple, Varadaraja Perumal Temple, Devarajaswami Temple, Kanchi KamakotiPeetam, Vaikunta Perumal Temple, Ekambarnath Temple, Thennangur Panduranga Temple, Jain Temple, Kailasakona Waterfalls and Mahabalipuram. Best Time to Visit: September - March. Distance from Pondicherry: 115+ kilometres.

Top Experiences To Do in Kanchipuram

Velankanni lies on the Coromandel Coast of the Bay of Bengal. It is a small settlement and is regarded as an essential pilgrim spot since Velankanni was declared a Holy City by the Vatican City.  Although famous as a sacred town, Velankanni with its splendid beach, immaculate churches, and exciting markets is a must-visit destination for every traveller. Velankanni is also famous for its exquisite handlooms and silk that would make for lovely souvenirs and gifts for family/friends on your way back. Places to visit:  Velankanni Church, Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health, Morning Star Church, Velankanni Shrine/Church Museum, Velankanni Beach, Nagapattinam town is only a few kilometres away,  Velankanni Festival is celebrated at the Velankanni church between August and September. Best Time to Visit: October - March. Distance from Pondicherry: 160+ kilometres.

A temple city within the Southern region, Kumbakonam will have a somewhat calming effect on you. It also comes in as one of the places around Pondicherry that you can visit.  The city is also famous for the Mahamaham festival and receives thousands of people from all around the world. It is also an ancient city and has some temples dating back centuries. Ramaswami Temple, Nageswaran Temple and Sarangapani temple are some exemplary names.  Near Kumbakonam in Thirupudaimaruthur village is the Tiruvidaimarudur Conservation Reserve. It sprawls over 2.8 hectares and is surrounded by ancient trees. It is home to 400+ birds and is a welcome change of scenery. Other places to visit:  Kumbeshwar Temple, Gangaikondacholapuram Temple, Adi Kumbeswarar Temple, Mahamaham Tank, Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Uppiliappan Temple, Suryanar Koil Temple (also known as Sri Suryanar Temple) and Kampaheswarar Temple (also known as Sarabeswarar Temple). Best Time to Visit: November - March. Distance from Pondicherry: 120+ kilometres.

Nagapattinam

Nagapattinam for the longest was part of Thanjavur district and was carved out as a separate city in 1991. It is also addressed as East Thanjavur. Nagapattinam lies on the Bay of Bengal, making it a port-city whose importance can be traced back to the Sangam Era of the Chola and the Pandyas. This quaint seaside town has a few beautiful places like the Dutch Fort, Archeological Museum and the Poompuhar Beach that would make your trip worthwhile. The festival of Pongal is a grand celebration here. Other places to visit:  Nagore (important Islamic Shrine), Velankanni, Ettukudi (Murugan Temple), Soundararajan Perumal Temple, Nellukadai Mariamman Koli, Sikkal Singaravelan Temple, Kayarohanaswami Temple and Kodikkarai Beach,  Velankanni, Tranquebar (Tharangambadi), Kodiakkarai, Sikkal are close by cities. Best Time to Visit: October - March. Distance from Pondicherry: 130+ kilometres.

Dhanushkodi

Dhanushkodi, a cyclone hit town, is one of its kind. An eerie ghost town now was once a flourishing port under the British Raj. The trails of which can be seen in the remains of the buildings here.  Dhanshukodi is at the end of India and closest to Sri Lanka. A fierce cyclone struck this port-town on 22, December 1964 which left the whole place inhabitable (declared by the Government) and a part of it even submerged under the sea. Before being an abandoned piece of land, Dhanushkodi was a thriving community that had its railway station, a customs office, post office, schools, hospital, church, hotels, and shops. The Islandic town also has links to the Hindu mythological epic the Ramayana.  In 2017 the government opened a road to the end land of Dhanushkodi at Arichal Munai, near Adam’s Bridge to encourage tourism. Other places to visit:  Dhanshukodi Beach, The Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park, Pamban Island and Ramar Patham Temple. Best Time to Visit: October - March. Distance from Pondicherry: 400+ kilometres.

The beautiful hill station of Yelagiri is situated in the Vellore district of the Tamil Nadu state, off the Vaniyambadi Tirupattur road. The Yelagiri village, also sometimes spelled as the Elagiri Village, is located at an altitude of 1,110.6 meters above the sea level. It is surrounded by eye catching orchards, rose gardens, and a lush green valley, thereby comprising the most amazing Yelagiri Tour Packages . The hill station of Yelagiri is mainly a cluster of fourteen hamlets, with Athanavur as its main and capital town. Yelagiri is among the most famous places in India that is known for many trekking,  climbing and other adventure activities as it has some beautiful hills and mountains to climb on. The highest point in the village of Yelagiri is the Swamimalai Hill which is 4,388 ft in height blessed with some mesmerizing views and places that will make your trek a memorable one.

There is no doubt that a traveller or an adventurer will find plenty of places and sites to explore as the beautiful hills and valleys of the district allows you to give a treat to your eyes with its exotic locales. One of the most amazing and mind boggling place is the man made Punganur Lake in the region which attracts many tourists and visitors every year. It is also one of the many places to visit in Yelagiri while you stay. Every year during the months of summer, the Tamil Nadu Tourism Department celebrates the Summer Festival in the Yelagiri district which showcases different cultural heritage and arts from across the country, which are considered to be the best in Yelagiri Tour. They organize several kinds of cultural programs like the flower show, the dog show, and much more. All of this festivity is conducted every year in which people from different parts of the state and country come down to take a part and is a perfect opportunity to know more about the people and past of Yelagiri.

Top Experiences To Do in Yelagiri

Mahabalipuram

Mahabalipuram is a small town situated in the southeastern part of Tamil Nadu, stretching between the Bay of Bengal and the Great Salt Lake. It is a renowned representative city of our rich Indian culture and heritage. It is mainly a seaport, which lies 58 km away from the capital city Chennai. Mahabalipuram is a place that is famous for its temples and monuments, especially the very famous Shore Temple. It consists of three temples built in one single complex, that was constructed way back in the 8th century. Another famous temple is the Pancha Rathas. As the name suggests- they are a group of five temples sculpted in the form of chariots. The Descent of the Ganga is a giant rock with an open mouth in the form of sculpture. Some other popular tourist attractions in Mahabalipuram are Arjuna’s Penance, the Crocodile Farm, the Cave temples, the Indian Seashell Museum, Krishna’s Butterball. Along with these, there are innumerable monoliths, temples and stone carvings that are a testimony to the rich cultural heritage of India. Even though Mahabalipuram is a small town situated in the suburbs, it is well connected by buses and cars because of its immense popularity amongst Indian and even foreigners. These buses ply from different parts of Chennai, Chengal Pattu and Kanchipuram. The weather here remains cool and moderately humid throughout the year, which makes it possible to visit any time of the year, even though the best time to visit is between October and March. The town is well equipped with multiple accommodations according to the tourists’ choice and budget. Local restaurants, as well as multi-cuisine restaurants, are available for a culinarily rewarding trip as well. The local language spoken here is Tamil, although the locals are fluent in other languages like English and Hindi as well.

Top Experiences To Do in Mahabalipuram

People Also Ask About Pondicherry

What are the best places to visit near pondicherry with the family, which are the best hill stations near pondicherry for a scenic trip, which are the best places to visit near pondicherry for couples, are there any waterfalls to visit near pondicherry.

Pondicherry Top Attractions

Aurobindo Ashram or the Sri Aurobindo Ashram is a spiritual group (ashram) situated in the union territory of Pondicherry. The ashram was a small community that expanded over some time as more and more disciples of Aurobindo Ghose gathered around to seek spirituality. Aurobindo Ghose founded this ashram after he left his political career and aspired to inherit spiritualism in his life. A few followers of Aurobindo joined him in the ashram with the same aim of seeking spirituality. Located in eastern Pondicherry, Sri Aurobindo Ashram has become a hub of tourists who are inclined towards divinity and simplicity in their lifestyle. The ashram is popular not only in India but also in other countries because of the work put forth by the community towards the healing of humanity. The ashram in its initial days only had a few buildings but later, as more and more people joined, the ashram grew bigger and presently, it consists of many small buildings that are adjacent to each other. The ashram provides all the basic needs of its members for living a healthy and simple life. There is a library in the ashram where members can read and learn about the history and teachings of the place. Also, there are various cultural facilities like dance, theatre, music, arts, and sports for the all-round development of the members. The ashram is managed by a board of five trustees who make sure that the legacy and vision of Aurobindo Ghose remains in the ashram.History of Aurobindo Ashram:After quitting politics, Aurobindo Ghose spent most of his time writing and meditating in the ashram. From 1910 to 1920, the ashram had a few members alongside Aurobindo who all lived a simple life involving reading, writing and doing their daily chores. In 1920, Mirra Alfassa or “The Mother” who was regarded as the “spiritual collaborator” of Aurobindo returned to Pondicherry and lived in the ashram. Soon, more and more people came in the ashram and it gradually became a community under the umbrella of Aurobindo and the Mother. In 1926, the formal foundation of the ashram was done and this resulted in more and more people coming to the ashram. From just 24 people in 1927 to 150 in 1934, the ashram started to grow like a community. Over the years, as the ashram grew in numbers more and more departments were formed and the sadhaks looked after the departments as a part of their sadhana. Today, the ashram is spread throughout the town in around 400 buildings and houses more than 2000 sadhaks. Highlights of Aurobindo Ashram:-Aurobindo Ghose founded the ashram in 1926 after quitting his career in politics -Mother (Mirra Alfassa) companion of Aurobindo carried on the legacy of the ashram after Aurobindo’s death in 1950.-One of the biggest Ashrams in India, Aurobindo Ashram housing more than 2000 people living and serving each other. -Auroville, the city of dawn was the brainchild of Mother. Auroville is associated with the ashram in its ideological structure and well-being.-Aurobindo Ashram publishes many periodicals about the essence of spirituality and peace in life-It takes around 2-3 hours to see the entire ashram 

Rock Beach, often referred to as the Promenade Beach or Pondicherry Beach is a beachfront located along the Bay of Bengal. The coastline of this beach is 1.5 km long and starts at the War Memorial built at the beginning of the beach, while ends at the Dupleix Park built at the Goubert Avenue. Unfortunately, this beach is not open for taking dips in the sea or any water sport activities, but many visit the place during sunrise and sunset for walking, jogging or taking a stroll. The beach is clustered with tetrapods along the coastline, while a concrete pathway has been constructed which is flanked with cafes, restaurants and pubs. These restaurants serve various cuisines including French, Indian, Arabic and Chinese. Some of the places have live band performances that attract many tourists. The restaurants and pubs do not allow any customers after midnight and shut down before 1:00 AM.Apart from restaurants, there are shopping boutiques that sell textile materials, home décor and souvenirs for you to take home. The various hotels built around the beach provide several stay-at options for foreigners and local travellers. There are no vehicles allowed on the concrete and paved path, but there is a parking space provided at the entrance where you can give a fee of NR 5 and let the watchman take care of your vehicle.One may encounter various hawkers and vendors selling balloons, neon bands and tiaras whose presence may be vexing. The beach is not as crowded on weekdays as it is on weekends.

The Raj Niwas building is constructed on the foundation of a hotel named Hotel De La Compagnie. This is the government house of the Pondicherry and is a blend of both Indian and French architecture. The previous name of this Raj Niwas is Palais du Government. The Raj Niwas isn’t open to public but it is one of the attractions in Pondicherry. Most of the people who went on a trip to Pondicherry will surely pay a visit to this Raj Niwas to enjoy the Indo-French architecture. The monolithic pillars, fountain are the biggest asset of this Raj Niwas. They enhance the look of the construction as well as add royalty too. The public can go into the Raj Niwas on some special days and occasions only.Location:White TownPondicherry 605001Best Time To Visit:The Best Time To Visit: Raj Niwas will be between 12 pm and 1:30 pm as you will be allowed into the house. The point to remember here is the passes are limited to 40 per day.TimingsThe Raj Niwas will be open between 12pm and 1:30 pmDistance Between Pondicherry Bus stand and Raj NivasThe distance from Pondicherry bus station to Raj Nivas is 2.6 kms which can be travelled in 4-5 mins.Image Credits: thehindu.com

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20 Places to Visit in Pondicherry with Photos and Location

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

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

1. Promenade Beach

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

2. Sri Aurobindo Ashram

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

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3. Arulmigu Manakula Vinayagar Temple

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

4. Rock Beach

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

5. The Sacred Heart Basilica

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

6. Puducherry Museum

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

7. Immaculate Conception Cathedral

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

8. Bharathi Park

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

9. Sri Varadaraja Perumal Temple

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

10. Mahatma Gandhi Statue

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

11. Botanical Garden

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

12. New Light House

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

13. Arikamedu

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

14. Notre Dame des Anges Church

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

15. Sunday Market

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

16. Pondy Marina

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

17. Auroville Beach

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

18. Sunrise View Point Rock Beach

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

19. Veerampattinam Beach

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

20. Serenity Beach

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

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

10 May 2023

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

42 Best Places To Visit In Pondicherry

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

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

1. Shri Aurobindo Ghosh Ashram – Beautiful Ashram

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

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

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Must Read: 11 Top Homestays In Pondicherry

2. Auroville – Peaceful Living

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

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

3. Paradise Beach – To Relax And Unwind

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

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

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4. Gingee Fort – Relive History

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

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

5. Sri Gokilambal Thirukameswar Temple – Find Inner Peace

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

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

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

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

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

7. Jawahar Toy Museum – Pamper Your Inner Child

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

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

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8. Le Club – Delicious Eatery

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

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

9. Promenade Beach – Relax Amidst Nature

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

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

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10. White Town – Mix Of Past And Present

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

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

11. Chunnambar Boat House – Amazing Cruise

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

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

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12. Sita Cultural Centre – Cultural Centre

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

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

13. Goubert Avenue – An Offbeat Location

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

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

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14. Ousteri Lake – Bird Watching

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

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

15. Old Lighthouse – Marvelous Architecture

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

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

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16. Pondy Bazaar – Shopping Spree

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

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

17. Raj Niwas – Stunningly Beautiful

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

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

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18. French War Memorial – Remembering The Martyrs

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

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

19. Pondicherry Botanical Garden – Amazing Beauty

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

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

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20. Rock Beach – Time To Relax

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

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

21. Mahatma Gandhi Statue – Paying Tribute

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

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

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22. The Pondicherry Museum – Explore The History

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

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

23. Bharati Government Park – Walk Into The Wild

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

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

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24. Statue Of Dupleix – Revisit The Past

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

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

25. Eglise de Notre Dame des Anges – Picturesque Church

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

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

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26. Immaculate Conception Cathedral – Sanctum Of God

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

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

27. Varadaraja Perumal Temple – Experience Tranquility

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

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

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28. Cluny Embroidery Centre – Vintage Handicrafts

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

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

29. Manakula Vinayagar Temple – Place Of Enlightenment

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

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

30. Kanniga Parameswari Temple – Mesmerizing Premises

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

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

31. ISKCON Pondicherry – A Day With God

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

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

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32. Serenity Beach – Pristine Beach

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

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

33. Yanam Beach – Take A Stroll

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

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

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34. Sri Karneshwar Nataraja Temple – Unique Design

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

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

35. Ganesh Garden – Secluded Place

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

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

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36. Ananda Ranga Pillai Mansion – Must Visit

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

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

37. Aayi Mandapam – Time In History

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

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

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38. Seafront Promenade – Amazing Experiences

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

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

39. Veerampattinam Beach – Exquisite Views

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

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

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40. Arikamedu – Beautiful Ruins

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

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

41. Chunambar Boathouse – Paradise

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

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

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42. Meeran Mosque – Oldest Mosque In Pondicherry

Image Credit: Pxhere

Disclaimer: The image is for representation purposes only.

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

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

Best Time To Visit Pondicherry

Image Credit: Karthik Easvur for Wikimedia Commons

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

Suggested Read: 25 Restaurants In Pondicherry

How To Reach Pondicherry

Image Credit: Bottlein for Pixabay

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

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

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

Further Read: 5 Walking Tours In Pondicherry

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

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Frequently Asked Questions About Places to Visit in Pondicherry

What are the best places to visit in Pondicherry?

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

Which month is best for Pondicherry?

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

What is the old name of Pondicherry?

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

Which language is spoken in Pondicherry?

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

Which are the famous beaches in Pondicherry?

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

How many days are enough for Pondicherry?

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

Why is Auroville famous?

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

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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.

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Vaibhav Mehta

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

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

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

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

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Things to do in Pondicherry

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Here is the list of 29 things to do in pondicherry, 1. take a ferry to paradise beach.

Also known as the Plage Paradiso, Paradise Beach is situated in Chunnambar, close to Pondicherry town. Adorned with the golden sand, this famous and highly sought after beach is always swaying in a cold sea breeze. This is a little-isolated beach, and to reach here, you have to take a ferry across the backwaters, which takes around 20-30 minutes, and is one of the most exciting things to do in Pondicherry.

2. Cruise and Spot Dolphins at Chunnambar Boat House

Chunambar is a quaint little hamlet located along Cuddalore Main Road, around 8 km from Pondicherry. This serene town is visited by tourists for its beach, which is know as Paradise Beach, situated near the mouth of the backwater. One of the delightful things to do in Pondicherry is to embark on a cruise and dolphin-spotting adventure at the Chunnambar Boat House. Offering a serene escape along the backwaters, this experience allows visitors to witness the charm of Pondicherry's coastal beauty while enjoying the thrill of spotting playful dolphins in their natural habitat. 

3. Cycle Around to Absorb the Gorgeous French Architecture

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

4. Relish a Mesmerizing Sunrise

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

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

Embarking on the thrilling experience of scuba diving is undoubtedly one of the most exhilarating things to do in Pondicherry. Beneath the turquoise waters of the Bay of Bengal, adventurers can discover a vibrant marine world teeming with colorful coral reefs and fascinating sea life. The underwater exploration not only offers an adrenaline rush but also provides a unique perspective on Pondicherry's coastal beauty, making scuba diving an unforgettable activity for those seeking adventure in this coastal haven.

6. Take a Leisure Walk by the Seaside Promenade

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

7. Try Water Sports and Get an Adrenaline Rush

With a unique, peaceful coastal beauty to it, Pondicherry is quickly becoming every beach lovers' favourite hideout. Among the several other things to do in Pondicherry, this one tops the list. A number of water sports options along its white sandy beaches are another reason for travellers to love Pondy, as it is lovingly known.

8. Explore the Sites of Arikamedu

Situated within a half hour drive of the French colonial town of Pondicherry, Arikamedu is an ancient Roman trade centre hidden from the eyes and ears of the commonplace Tamil tourism. Visiting the ancient town is one of the most essential things to do in Pondicherry. This port town was occupied by the people of Rome, Cholas, and French serving as a very famous maritime centre from 1st century BC to 2nd century AD. The glass bead manufacturing factory of Arikamedu is called the mother of all bead centres in the whole wide world.

9. Spot Birds at Ousteri Wetland and National Park

A national park rich in flora and fauna, Ousteri Wetland and National Park lay 10 km from Pondicherry town on the Pondicherry-Villuppuram road. Spread across an area of 3 sq kms, the place basically lies on the border of Pondicherry and Tamil Nadu. One can spot diverse variety of aqua-fauna and avi-fauna here. Apart from that, several distinct species of plants and trees call this place their home that also attracts a large number of migratory birds. Among the top things to do in Pondicherry, this one tops the charts.

10. Find Peace at Auroville Ashram

Conceived as the 'Universal Town', the Auroville Ashram is an experimental township - the idea is to create a city where people from across the world of all cultures and traditions come and live together in peace. Founded in 1926 by Sri Aurobindo and a disciple of Shri Aurobindo, French Lady known as 'Maa' or 'The Mother', the Aurobindo Ashram is a place where you can relax and calm your inner being. Visiting the Ashram should definitely be on your list of top 'things to do in Pondicherry'. 

11. Relax at Serenity Beach

Located at a distance of 10 kms, on the outskirts on Puducherry in Kottakuppam, Serenity Beach is one of the most amazing beaches and visiting here is one of the top things to do in Pondicherry. Boasting of supreme tranquility and sun-kissed sands, the beach is a gorgeous getaway from the city lapped by sparking waters of the scenic Bay of Bengal. The peaceful stretch is lined with a trail of rocks and dotted with sea-facing resorts ideal for honeymooners. Since the beach is isolated and little known by the locals, it provides an atmosphere of absolute ataraxy and quietude.

12. Take a Walk at Pondicherry Beach

Pondicherry Beach is also known as the Promenade Beach. It is a famous stretch of beachfront that extends from War Memorial to the Dupleix Park on the Goubert Ave, in the city of Puducherry, India. It stretches up to 1.2 kilometres along the Bay of Bengal and is the most popular stretch of road in Pondicherry. The beach is often crowded with groups of people playing volleyball, jogging, walking, skating, yoga and swimming, especially during the evenings. You definitely have to visit this promenade as it is one of the most surreal things to do in Pondicherry. 

13. Marvel At the Architecture of Meeran Mosque

One of the most revered religious spot by Muslims; Meeran Mosque was built about three hundred and fifty years ago. In fact, it serves as the oldest mosque in Pondicherry with a distinct type of architecture. Established by the Arcod Nawabs in Gothic Islamic style, there are four pillars supporting the dome of the structure. The beauty of the shrine is further enhanced by the placement of Bronze Kallasa on the front facing minaret.

14. Visit the Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus

One of the most sacred and religious places of Pondicherry, the Church of Sacred Heart of Jesus is situated 2.5 km away from the Pondicherry Bus Station on the south boulevard of the town. One of the 21 Basilicas in India and the only one in Pondicherry, this church was set up by the French missionaries in 1908 which was given the status of the Basilica in 2011. One of the most beautiful Catholic Churches of Pondicherry, the Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus beautifully showcases the Gothic architecture.

15. Pay your Respect at French War Memorial

French War Memorial is a stylish structure located in the Goubert Avenue and is dedicated to the soldiers who lost their lives in the First World War. On 14th of July every year, an annual commemoration ceremony is held here during which the monument is beautifully illuminated. This memorial offers a pleasant experience to all visitors.

16. Natural Retreat at Botanical Garden

A popular tourist attraction of Pondicherry, Botanical Garden was established by C.S. Perrotet in the year 1862. The garden is home to several exotic varieties of rare plants as well as an aquarium. This wide range of plants has been collected from various parts of India and around the globe. There might be several exciting things to do in Pondicherry but this one is tops the charts when it comes to gorgeous scenery and bounteous nature.

17. Take a Glimpse at History in Pondicherry Museum

Located in the Bharathi Park, Pondicherry Museum houses a fantastic collection of sculptures. It has the remains of the archeological findings from the Arikamedu Roman settlement. Bronze sculptures of god and goddess, a wide gathering of temple lamps, handicrafts and art are also kept here. Some specimens of Chola and Pallava art from Pondicherry and Karaikal are displayed in the sculpture gallery. A visit to the museum is one of the most amazing things to do in Pondicherry.

18. Marvel at Beauty of Immaculate Conception Cathedral

Immaculate Conception Cathedral or Eglise de Notre Dame de la Conception Immaculee Church is a beautiful place of worship established in year 1686. Dedicated to St. Peters, it is a church of Capuchins and was first served as a small chapel situated outside the government park. In fact, it was the only surviving structure during the British invasion who aimed at mass destruction of buildings and monuments. Here, the mass is performed at 5:15 am to 6:15 am from Monday to Saturday while on Sundays; it begins at 5:00 pm.

19. Kids Day Out at Jawahar Toy Museum

Embarking on a kids' day out at the Jawahar Toy Museum is one of the delightful things to do in Pondicherry. Located in the heart of the city, this museum is a haven for young minds, showcasing an extensive collection of toys from different cultures and eras. The interactive exhibits and playful atmosphere make it an engaging and educational destination, ensuring a memorable experience for children and families exploring Pondicherry.

20. Visit the Ancient Sri Manakula Vinayagar Temple

When in Pondicherry, a must-do activity is to visit the ancient Sri Manakula Vinayagar Temple, adding a touch of spirituality to your list of things to do in Pondicherry. This historic temple, dedicated to Lord Ganesha, boasts a unique architectural charm and a rich cultural heritage. Embark on a journey through the vibrant streets of Pondicherry and explore the intricate sculptures and rituals at the Sri Manakula Vinayagar Temple, immersing yourself in the cultural tapestry of this charming coastal town.

21. Visit the Magnificent Mahatma Gandhi Statue

The four-meter high statue of Mahatma Gandhi is surrounded by eight granite pillars, which were supposedly brought from Gingee, a fort some 70 km from Pondicherry. The statue is placed in the middle of a garden situated at Dumas Street and attracts tourists in large number. And if you around, visiting here should definitely be there on your list of things to do in Pondicherry.

22. Seek Solace at the Aurobindo Ashram

Located in the White Town of Pondicherry, Aurobindo Ashram has been named after its creator- Sri Aurobindo Ghosh. The foundation of this ashram was laid on 24th November in the year 1926 when he was surrounded by his disciples all over after he retired from politics and settled in Pondicherry. This ashram was set up with the aim of helping people attain moksha and inner peace. Thousands of tourists from all over the country visit the ashram to experience and achieve spiritual knowledge. The ashram is by far one of the wealthiest ashrams in the world. Also, the ashram does not have any branches and solely exists in Pondicherry.

23. Go Cafe Hopping in Pondicherry

Apart from being a great tourist spot, it is widely known for its cheap alcohol. However, if you are a connoisseur, then it is an excellent place for you to visit as it serves a wide variety of gourmet food. Housing the best French Cafes in India, Pondicherry is a foodie's paradise and is a great place for you to try out new gourmet cuisines from around the world.

24. Cycle Through the Town

25. Take a Walk through the White Town

Taking a walk through the White Town is a must for those seeking enchanting experiences in Pondicherry. This charming colonial quarter, characterized by its distinctive French architecture, offers a unique blend of heritage and tranquility. Amidst the vibrant colors and cobblestone streets, exploring the White Town stands out as one of the most delightful things to do in Pondicherry, providing a glimpse into the town's rich history and cultural tapestry.

26. Go Shopping in Pondicherry

Embarking on a shopping spree in Pondicherry is one of the quintessential things to do in this charming coastal town. The vibrant markets and boutique stores offer an array of unique finds, from exquisite handmade crafts to fashionable apparel. Roaming through the streets, exploring the diverse range of shops, and indulging in the distinct shopping experience adds a delightful dimension to your visit to Pondicherry.

27. Go Beach Hopping

Beach hopping is a delightful activity and one of the must-try things to do in Pondicherry, offering a unique blend of relaxation and coastal exploration. The town boasts a string of beautiful beaches such as Paradise Beach, Auroville Beach, and Promenade Beach, each with its own distinct charm. From serene shores to vibrant promenades, Pondicherry's beach hopping experience caters to every traveler seeking sun, sand, and the refreshing sea breeze.

28. Experience Pondicherry Nightlife

Exploring Pondicherry's nightlife is among the enticing things to do in Pondicherry, offering a unique blend of coastal charm and vibrant energy. As the sun sets, the beachside promenade comes alive with a myriad of cafes, bars, and cultural events. Whether it's sipping on a refreshing drink by the sea or enjoying live music performances, experiencing Pondicherry's nightlife adds an enchanting dimension to the city's diverse offerings.

29. Rent a Bike in Pondicherry

Renting a bike in Pondicherry is a popular choice for travelers seeking a convenient and adventurous way to explore this charming coastal town. It opens up a world of possibilities for things to do in Pondicherry, allowing visitors to effortlessly navigate through the vibrant streets, visit iconic landmarks like the French Quarter and Auroville, and soak in the laid-back atmosphere of the seaside promenade. With the wind in your hair, renting a bike provides the freedom to discover Pondicherry's unique blend of French and Indian cultures at your own pace.

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Places to Visit Near Pondicherry ( within 100 kms )

Whether you are planning for a family trip or just a weekend picnic, you must visit some interesting tourist attractions in Pondicherry . You must be wondering to visit the places near Pondicherry which are a perfect blend of trekking spots, hill stations , sacred pilgrimage , sunny beaches, and wildlife sanctuaries .

For trekkers and adventure lovers, this must be a great choice. Just go through the article to know more about the interesting places to visit around Pondicherry within 100kms for the weekend tour.

Table of Contents

Here is the list of 10 Tourist Places near Pondicherry within 100 Kms:

1. paradise beach.

Paradise beach is an amazing place to visit in Pondicherry. If you travel along the highways of Cuddalore, you can reach the paradise beach without hassle. A long ride from the Chunnambur will take you to the beach within an hour.

The beech keeps splashing nice waves on your face. You can make use of the showers, clean restrooms, dress changing rooms, and other such facilities that are provided near the beach.

• Timings : The opening hours are from 9 am to 5 pm
• Price : Free
• Location : 40, Goubert Avenue, Pondicherry

2. Light House

No matter how old are you, the lighthouse is something that we would love to enjoy seeing. It is one of the best tourist places to visit in Pondicherry .

Also, it is an important historical place to see in Pondicherry. Your kids would love the lighthouse and the pleasant scenes around there.

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3. Grabbing Lake

Have you ever visited this amazing tourist spot? If ‘yes, you might be the lucky visitor to enjoy this place else it should be on your plate. It is the most frequently visited place as the lake features several shops around apart from the boating and riding facilities. You can have damn fun around the lake. Grabbing a bit at every restaurant around the city could get you an enjoyable experience.

Heading to the lake and riding in the boat could get you a calm and relaxing mind. The best time to visit this place is from 9 am to 5 pm . If you have already visited this place, try exploring new places that are mentioned in our list. To reach the lake, you have to travel 10 km from the bus stand in Pondicherry.

4. Eglise de Notre Dame des Ange

As the name implies that this is a church that is maintained by a French pair in Pondicherry. It features a white chapel as a symbol of mother Mary holding her baby Jesus in her arms. The best time to visit this church is from 7 am to 6 pm.

It charges nothing from tourists. It is located just 2km from the Pondicherry bus stand. If you are looking for a sacred pilgrimage place, this might be your choice. Read Also: Best 100 Places to Visit in India

5. Ouster Wetland and National Park

Showcasing a great collection of flora and fauna, Ouster Wetland National park is considered the must-visit place in Pondicherry. It features an artificial lake that was made a hundred years ago. It feasts the visitor’s eyes with adorable plants and ever-blooming flowers.

Also, visitors will be able to see some rare species of flocks that are migrated from other surrounding states. Since it charges zero cost from visitors, you can easily get over there. The best time to visit this place is from 9 am to 5 pm. It is located along the highways of Villupuram road of Pondicherry.

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6. The Ganesh Garden

Ganesh Gardens is one of the popular places to visit in Pondicherry. It is much like a botanical garden that is maintained by a French pair. People can enjoy and spend quality time there. It acts as a meditating place that gets your mind calm and relaxed.

The best time to visit the Ganesh garden is from 9 am to 11 am and in the evenings. It is located just 2km from the Pondicherry bus stand. So, you can easily reach there through cab/auto.

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7. Goubert Market

When you are planning a weekend picnic with your girlfriend, don’t just miss out on the chance of visiting the Goubert market. Unlike beach and park areas, your girl would love to grab unique collections of costumes & garments that increase their attire.

This market features include vegetables and grocery shops. You can find a variety of shop that offers cheap garments including leather goods, trendy apparel, intricate jewelry, etc. Get your awesome costumes, shopping bags, and garments, and explore your day in Pondicherry.

Timings:  24 hours open Distance from Pondicherry Bus Stand:  Approx 2 km

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8. Pudukuppam Beach

No one says no for Beach. The creative coconut trees, cool atmosphere, and hot sunny air make your day more beautiful. It is found to be a serene tourist place in Pondicherry. You should not miss out on watching the beautiful sunset and sunrise time in the beach location.

The way the beach splashes the wave could make your trip more enjoyable. Lying on the beach sand and enjoying the hot sunbath could get you calm and relaxed.

• Timings: 24 hours open
• Distance from Pondicherry Bus Stand:  Approx. 20.4 km

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9. Jawahar Toy Museum

Showcasing a variety of the entertainment section, Jawahar Toy Museum is considered the best place to visit in Pondicherry. It is an adorable museum that boasts a good collection of toys and costumes. The dolls in this museum were collected from various states and thus retain the origin of their custom & tradition.

Although it seems to be a rare museum, visitors keep coming to this place for its popularity. You kids can enjoy seeing varieties of dolls that were taken from states including West Bengal , Punjab , Haryana , Rajasthan & several other states. If you are planning a family trip with your kids , this Museum must be on your plate.

• Timings:  10:00 am to 5:00 pm
• Price:  INR 10 for adults & INR 5 for kids.
• Location: Old Light House on Goubert Avenue, Pondicherry
• Distance from Pondicherry Bus Stand:  Approx. 2.5 km

No matter what type of tour packages you have for visiting places in Pondicherry, don’t forget to reach these must-visit places near Pondicherry.

Planning a trip to South India?  Check out our below suggested tour packages including private guide & car, relaxing itinerary and affordable price.  Get an update from our blog  with the  latest travel news,  places to visit, travel guide, Things to do.  Let’s be friends on social media  Follow TuskTravel.com  on   Twitter ,  Instagram ,  Facebook , and on  YouTube  and get our updates and fresh inspirations.

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27 Places to Visit in Pondicherry (2024): ✔Location, Timings

Budget Hotels > Travel Blog > Destinations > Pondicherry > 27 Places to Visit in Pondicherry (2024): ✔Location, Timings

Puducherry, better known as Pondicherry, is a scenic and quaint town on the south-eastern part of the Indian Peninsula. With remnants of the French colonial past spread across the town’s architecture and crystal clear beaches surrounding it, the city is among the most admirable destinations in South India. Adding to it, the places to visit in Pondicherry India are even more stunning. A visit to Pondicherry is an experience that no seasoned vacationer would want to miss. While there are plenty of places to visit in Pondicherry in a day, a retreat to the idyllic town for 2 days is an even better choice, especially, if you wish to explore the variety of attractions that it has to offer. With an area of 19.54 km² and an elevation of 3 m, Pondicherry is bound to sway you away!

List of Places to Visit in Pondicherry in 2024:

Here we have made a comprehensive list of the quintessential Pondicherry places to visit and explore, based on the number of days you have in hand:

Book Pondicherry hotels in your budget

Places to Visit in Pondicherry in one day

If you are here only for one day, a trip to the French Colony should definitely top the list. This part of the town has numerous attractions and delightful architecture that would indulge your senses. It is definitely one of the best places to visit in Pondicherry India.

The French Colony, also known as the White Town area, this two-century-old French quarter of Pondicherry is a must-visit. One can find a plethora of interesting colonial places dotting the lanes. The French influence is so great that even the streets are named in French. The grid-like patterned streets are also reflective of how the ancient planned city of Rome was built. Here are a few unique Pondicherry visiting places:

1. La Maison Rose

La Maison Rose is an excellent example of old French colonial architecture that has been converted into three boutique shops – Domus, Oh la la and Amethyst. While here, you can shop for unique souvenirs, jewellery and clothes. The interiors of the La Maison Rose retain the vintage allure supplemented with books and paintings of the bygone era. It is among the must-visit places to visit in Pondicherry for couples.

• Location : Romain Rolland Street
• Timings : 10.30 AM – 10.30 PM, all days of the week
• Places to Stay: Hotels in White Town

2. Villa Helena

Villa Helena, a heritage hotel with a beautiful garden restaurant, is another fine example of an old colonial-style building in White Town. Vacationers can enjoy sumptuous multi-cuisine food and cocktails here while soaking in the old-world charm of the place. It is truly one of the best places to visit in Pondicherry India.

• Location: Bussy Street
• Timings: 12 Noon – 3 PM, 7 PM – 10 PM, all days of the week

3. Eglise De Notre Dame Des Anges

The Eglise De Notre Dame Des Anges is one of the oldest churches in the White Town area, built in the 18 th Also known as the Church of Our Lady of Angels, this magnificent church is an architectural feat that resembles the Basilica at Lourdes in France. From the church, you can see the pristine green waters of the Bay of Bengal. Apart from a towering statue of Mother Mary holding baby Jesus, this historical site has an intricate statue of Joan of Arc. Another interesting trivia is that the only mass in Pondicherry is held here.

• Location : Dumas Street and Surcoof Street
• Timings: 7.00 AM – 6.30 PM

4. Rock Beach

It is one of the most beautiful beaches in Pondicherry  and is also known as Gandhi Beach or Promenade Beach. It stretches for about 1.5 km and offers an amazing view of the scenic landscape and the iconic landmarks that surround it. So, when in the city do not forget to explore one of the most fascinating places to visit in Pondicherry in one day.

• Timings: 24 hours
• Activities: Enjoy a leisurely stroll admiring the panorama
• Places to Stay: Hotels near Rock Beach

5. French War Memorial

If you are a history enthusiast, you must definitely visit the French War Memorial built in 1937, dedicated to the martyrs of World War I. Located near the beach, the memorial serves as the venue for Bastille Day celebrations on July 14 every year. It is also considered among the top places to visit in Pondicherry.

• Location : Goubert Avenue
• Timings: 10.00 AM – 5.00 PM, all days of the week.

Places to visit in Pondicherry in 2 days

• Places to Visit in Pondicherry

Pondicherry is a town replete with natural attractions that can only be enjoyed if you stay for more than one day. If you have an adventurous streak and are on the lookout for a good adrenaline rush, exhilarating water sports adventures at the popular beaches await you. Apart from the beaches, Pondicherry also has beautiful lakes and parks around the town. Also, explore the best places to visit in Pondicherry in the evening.

6. Paradise Beach

Also known as Plage Paradiso Beach, Paradise Beach is one of the cleanest beaches in Pondicherry, popular for its golden sands and clear waters. This beach is only accessible by a boat ride. You can enjoy sunbathing or relax under the cool shade of majestic palm trees lining the beach. It is definitely one of the best places to visit in Pondicherry.

• Timings : 9.00 AM – 6.00 PM, all days of the week.
• Activities : A boat ride through the Chunnambar backwaters surrounded by lush mangrove forests is a unique experience in itself. You can take photographs of numerous birds and if lucky, you may even spot dolphins.  You can also indulge in a game of volleyball at the beach. The most exciting part about a trip to the Paradise Beach is that you can spend the night in a tree house, an ultimate treat for nature lovers.
• Fee for Boat Rides : Motorboat rides cost approximately Rs. 50 for short trips and Rs. 100 for longer ones. Speedboat rides cost Rs. 125 for short trips and Rs. 250 for long trips. A short trip on a 2-seater Jet Ski costs Rs. 250 and a long one costs Rs. 500.
• Time Required: 1-2 hrs

7. Kairakal Beach

Situated in the city of Karaikal, Kairakal Beach is another tourist hotspot for adventure lovers as well as for those seeking solitude. The spectacular view of the sunrise from this beach is simply breathtaking. If visiting Pondicherry for 2 days, this beach is a must-visit, located about three to four hours from the main town area. This beach offers the best activities for all to enjoy and spend a great time with friends and family.

• Timings : 9.00 AM – 5.00 PM, all days of the week.
• Activities : Kayaking, boating and canoeing are some of the activities that one can choose from at Karaikal Beach. A volleyball match on the beach or a swim in the shallow waters are also great ideas.

8. Serenity Beach

Serenity Beach is a well-known beach in Pondicherry. You can spend your time leisurely on the beach while relaxing to the meditative sound of waves crashing. This beach is also quite popular among surfers who come here to catch the waves. Serenity Beach is considered among the most beautiful places to visit in Pondicherry for 2 days.

• Timings: The beach closes at 6.30 PM, all days of the week.
• Activities : You can head for a swim along the shoreline in the shallow waters. If you are more adventurous, try surfing. Also, don’t forget to take pictures of the tranquil greenery surrounding the beach. Apart from boating, kayaking and canoeing, you can also shop at the Serenity Beach Bazaar open only on weekends from 10.00 AM to 5.00 PM. Also known as the Handicraft Market, it offers products that mostly come from local boutiques around town. You can also learn the art of yoga at one of the many yoga centres located here. 
• Time Required: 1 – 2 hrs

9. Ousteri Lake

Ousteri Lake is a beautiful artificial lake built a century ago, and is one of Asia’s important wetlands. Covering an area of 390 hectares, this massive lake is the largest catchment area for fresh water in Pondicherry. Over 40 species of migratory birds such as the Open-bill Stork, Golden Oriole and Painted Stork among others migrate to this lake every year. Ousteri Lake is among the most stunning places to visit in and around Pondicherry.

• Activities : You can indulge in bird watching on a boat ride and enjoy taking photographs with your loved ones against the backdrop of the picturesque lake.

10. Botanical Gardens

The historical Botanical Gardens is truly a nature lover’s delight. Constructed in the early 19th century by French colonists, the gardens house over 1500 species of plants covering an area of 22 hectares. The common flora seen here are several different species of roses, along with bright orchids and jasmines. Kids would absolutely enjoy the fascinating train ride inside the Children’s Park. It is definitely one of the most famous places to visit in Pondicherry.

• Timings : 10.00 AM – 5.00 PM
• Entry Fee : The entry to the gardens is free. However, the fee for train ride is Rs. 10 for adults and Rs. 5 for children.
• Places to Stay: Hotels near Botanical Garden

11. Auroville

This is one of the most famous places in Pondicherry, one of the best places to visit in Pondicherry with friends and a must-visit for solace seekers. Founded in 1968, Auroville is a universal town where people from any country can live together in peace and harmony, irrespective of their caste, creed, religion and status. In the middle of the town, there is a temple called ‘Matrimandir’ which symbolizes the universal Mother.

• Location: Viluppuram
• Timings: 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM for visitors

12. Shri Aurobindo Ghosh Ashram

This popular spiritual community or ashram in Pondicherry was founded by Shri Aurobindo (Indian freedom fighter) in 1926. It is the most important Pondicherry tourist place for those looking for peace and tranquillity. This ashram is one of the most interesting places to visit in White Town Pondicherry.

• Location: Marine Street
• Timings: 8:30 AM to 11:30 AM and 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM

13. The Pondicherry Museum

The museum houses an amazing collection of bronze sculptures of the Chola and Pallava dynasties. It also has artefacts that were found during the archaeological excavations at Arikamedu. It takes at least two hours to see all the collections on display.

• Location: Easwaran Kovil Street
• Timings: 9:00 AM to 6:30 PM
• Entry Fee: INR 10 for adults, INR 5 for children, INR 50 for foreign nationals

14. Chunnambar Boathouse

If you love boating, Chunnambar Boathouse is a must-visit. It is also known as “Plage Paradiso” and is located where the Chunnambar River meets the Bay of Bengal. You can enjoy a relaxing sunbath here while admiring the unmitigated beauty of the place. 

• Location: National Highway 45A, Nonankuppam
• Timings: 9:30 AM to 4:00 PM
• Entry Fee: INR 10 per head, with extra charges for water sports and other activities

15. Sri Varadaraja Perumal Temple

This temple dates back to 600 AD and is considered the oldest Hindu temple in Pondicherry . It is dedicated to Sri Varadaraja Perumal, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. It displays the Dravidian style of architecture and also has an eye-catching gopuram with many sculptures of Hindu Gods and Goddesses. 

• Location: Mahatma Gandhi Road, Heritage Town
• Timings: 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM

Places to visit in Pondicherry in 3 days

16. Auro Beach

The serene and exotic Auro Beach or Auroville Beach in the “City of Dawn” is a major part of the ashram. Thousands of locals and tourists visit this beach every day to enjoy different activities and relax in a serene environment. Keep in mind that the beach closes at 6:30 PM.

• Location: Auroville Beach
• Activities: You can enjoy a swim in the sea or stroll on the sands. The waters of the beach experience low tides; hence surfers and water sports enthusiasts can spend quality time here enjoying their favourite activities. 
• Time Required : 1-2 hrs

17. Bharati Government Park

This lush green park is one of the most soothing places to visit in Pondicherry . Well-maintained lawns, fountains, and seasonal flowers accentuate its beauty. You must also check out the Aayi Mandapam or Park Monument here. This popular structure flaunting stunning Greco-Roman architecture was the main source of water in Pondicherry in earlier times.

• Location: Rue Saint Gilles Street, White Town
• Timings: 6:30 AM to 8:30 PM

18. Jawahar Toy Museum

This is a great place to visit with kids. It showcases over 120 dolls decked up in vibrant traditional costumes of different Indian states. Hence, this museum is a perfect place where both kids and adults can learn more about the cultures of the states in India. It is also one of the most unique places to visit in Pondicherry. This museum is rated highly among the unique Pondicherry places to visit in 3 days.

• Location: Old Light House on Goubert Avenue
• Timings: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
• Entry Fee: Entry to the museum is free

19. Arikamedu

If you are keen to learn more about the history of South India, Arikamedu is a must-visit. This archaeological site was built in the 19th century and it once served as an important trading place in Pondicherry. Intensive studies and several excavations at the site confirm trade connections with the Roman Empire during the supremacy of Augustus Caesar. Arikamedu is truly one of the most unique places to visit in Pondicherry India.

• Location: Ariyankuppam
• Timings: 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM
• Time Required : 2-3 hrs

20. Old Lighthouse

This is yet another delightful site for history buffs. It was built in the 19th century by the French rulers and was once the only guiding light for ships at sea. Although the lighthouse was shut down in 1979, it is still a popular tourist attraction in Pondicherry.

• Location: Goubert Avenue
• Timings: 8:00 AM to 12:30 PM and 1:30 PM to 5:30 PM

21. Kokilambal Thirukameshwara Temple

It is also known as Villianur Temple and is dedicated to Lord Shiva in the form of Thirukameshwara and Goddess Kokilambal. The temple has exquisitely sculpted majestic towers and several pillars with carved images. It is also known for the annual temple car festival celebrated here during May and June.

• Location: Villianur
• Places to Stay: Hotels in Villianur Main Road

22. Manakula Vinayagar Temple

This ancient temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha is quite popular in Pondicherry. It is spread over an area of 8000 sq. ft and has a spectacular gold-plated kodikambam. The outside wall of the temple with different forms of Lord Ganesha is unmissable. The shrine also has a golden vimana that enhances its architectural beauty.

• Location: White Town
• Timings: 5:45 AM to 12:30 PM and 4:00 PM to 9:30 PM

23. Basilica of Sacred Heart of Jesus

The church is one of the most sacred religious places in Pondicherry. It was established in 1908 by the French missionaries and boasts excellent Gothic architecture. When you visit the church, remember to check the stained glass panels depicting events related to the life of Lord Jesus Christ.

• Location: South Boulevard
• 5:30 AM, 12:30 AM, 6:00 PM from Monday to Saturday
• 5:30 AM, 7:30 AM, 12:00 PM, 5:00 PM, 6:15 PM on Sunday

24. Park Monument

When visiting places in Pondicherry , make sure you check out the Park Monument. It is also known as Aayi Mandapam and was built during the reign of the French Emperor Napoleon III. This iconic structure stands proudly in the middle of the Bharati Government Park.

• Timings: 8:00 AM to 8:30 PM

25. Statue of Dupleix

The statue was built in 1870 in honour of Dupleix, a French Governor who ruled Pondicherry till 1754. It is made of granite and is positioned at the end of Rock Beach. If you are interested in the history of the French colonial rule over Pondicherry, this statue is one of the most interesting places to see in Pondicherry. 

26. Kanniga Parameswari Temple

Sri Kanniga Parameswari temple is a beautiful amalgamation of Deccan and French architecture. Goddess Shakti or Goddess Kali is the main deity of this temple. The temple is exquisitely decorated with motifs and murals which draw the attention of all tourists. One of the holiest places in Puducherry, the temple looks stunning when it is lit up at night.

• Location: Mahatma Gandhi Road
• Timings: 6:30 AM to 10:30 AM and 5:30 PM to 9:00 PM
• Places to Stay: Hotels near MG Road

27. ISKCON Pondicherry

Dedicated to Lord Krishna, ISKCON Puducherry Temple or Sri Sri Radha Madhava Temple is a famous Hindu temple in Pondicherry. Established in 2003, the temple promotes peace, unity and self-realisation. When at the temple, listen to Vedic lessons, attend meditation sessions, take part in the Sunday Feast, and volunteer for community events.

• Location: Krishna Nagar
• Timings: 5:00 am – 1:00 pm and 4:00 pm – 8:30 pm, all days of the week

Pondicherry is an idyllic tourist haven and a quiet and peaceful retreat away from the bustling lifestyle of cities. Besides, the numerous historical landmarks and natural attractions that can be visited in a day or two, await you. From various water sports adventures around the tranquil beaches to the town’s colonial heritage, vacationers can keep themselves entertained throughout and make the most of their holiday.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pondicherry:

Q: Which are the must-visit beaches in Pondicherry?

A: Serenity Beach and Auroville Beach in Pondicherry are definitely a must-visit, especially if you’re a surfer or an amateur interested in learning the sport. Paradise Beach truly justifies its name and is known for its choice of water activities. For a quiet stroll, Reppo, Promenade and Veerampattinam beaches in Pondy are ideal.

Q: Where can I go to enjoy the nightlife in Pondicherry?

A: There are some amazing pubs and nightclubs in Pondicherry, the most popular of all being Pub Zipper, Toxic, L’Aqua, Tantra, Bay of Buddha, Ozone Bar and Dragon Lounge.

Q: Which are the ideal months to visit Pondicherry?

A: October to March makes the best time to visit Pondicherry when the weather is not too hot but just chilly enough to be pleasant for sightseeing and other outdoor activities.

Q: Suggest some good places to eat in Pondicherry.

A: Café dés Arts, Le Rendezvous, Surguru, Domus, Satsanga, Restaurant Chez Francis, Maison Perumal, Kasha Ki Aasha, Bay of Buddha and Gelateria Montecatini Terme are the top 10 restaurants in Pondicherry for an eclectic dining experience.

Q: How to reach Pondicherry?

A: Pondicherry Airport has direct connectivity to Bangalore and Hyderabad. Moreover, the railway station at Puducherry services regular express and high-speed trains from different parts of the country. You can also reach Pondy via taxis or PRTC buses from cities like Bangalore, Chennai, Coimbatore, Tirupati, etc.

Q. What are some places to visit in Pondicherry in night?

A: Le Club, Kofi Bar, The Storytellers’ Bar, Bay of Buddha, Asian House, Paradise Beach and Rock Beach are some of the best places to visit in Pondicherry in night.

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Officially known as  Puducherry , this Union Territory of India has an uncanny resemblance with typical French colonies such as Montpellier or Bordeaux. Once inhabited by the natives of France, Pondicherry, therefore, has a blend of Indian and French culture. Also, the eye-catching colonial structures with a mustard yellow facade covered under bougainvillaea flowers is a sight to behold.

Pondicherry tourist places, inclusive culture, French bakeries, pleasant weather, architectural marvels, Bohemian stores, pristine beaches, and vibrant vibes are some of the high points of tourism that attract people across the world.

If this has raised your curiosity about this tranquil beach town off the Bay of Bengal then you have landed at the right place. Come, check out the list of top 15 places in Pondicherry mentioned below that must be on your wishlist.

List Of Top 15 Tourist Places To Visit In Pondicherry  

Here’s a complete Pondicherry Tour Guide to help you spot your favourite hangouts and things to do.

• Paradise Beach
• Serenity Beach
• Aurobindo Ashram
• War Memorial
• Botanical Garden
• Sri Manakula Vinayagar Temple
• Ousteri Lake
• Cluny Embroidery Centre
• Veerampattinam Beach
• Goubert Market

1. White Town

Strolling through the boulevard of White Town, aka the French Quarter can put anyone in awe. Apart from the vibrant French colonial mansions dotted around the street, one can expect the whiff of French delicacies coming from bakeries and cafes at every corner. A few breathtakingly beautiful buildings in White Town are popular heritage sites in Pondicherry as they were built some 200 years ago when this coastal region was under French colonialism. Even the sign boards on the streets read ‘Rue’ with the name of the street, which means street in French. Don’t miss to catch a glimpse of this favourite tourist spot in Pondicherry that will give you a feel of France in India. 

2. Paradise Beach

Also known as Plage Paradiso, Paradise Beach is one of the must visit places in Pondicherry. It’s not too fancy but the quaintness and sailing on the backwaters to reach the spot is quite an amazing experience. Ideal to view sunrise and sunset, there are a plethora of thrilling water activities which will help you unwind and relax. Dotted with beach shacks, palm trees, shimmering water, and golden sand, the view of the beach is totally mesmerising. So don’t miss basking under the sun at Paradise beach to get the heavy dose of vitamin sea, good for skin and soul.

3. Serenity Beach

Just 20 minute drive from the French Colony, Serenity Beach ensures you get a serene and calming view of the azure sea of the Bay of Bengal. Flanked by palm trees, rocky patches, golden sand, blue sea, fishing boats adds up to the perfect backdrop for a photoshoot. Ideal spot for honeymooners, Serenity Beach is a quiet tourist spot in Pondicherry where you can spend some memorable moments with your partner.

4. Auroville

The list of Pondicherry tourist places is incomplete without visiting Auroville. Nestled between Tamil Nadu and Puducherry, Auroville - the universal town of south India aims to create a progessive space where men and women of all countries can live together in peace and harmony. Such a noble thought behind this quaint establishment makes Auroville one of the must-visit places in Pondicherry. Also known as the City of Dawn, Auroville is the largest spiritual paradise in the world.

5. Aurobindo Ashram

One of the sacred places in Pondicherry, Aurobindo Ashram is very popular among the spiritual seekers around the globe. Built in the name of Sri Aurobindo who fought for our Nation's Independence, this Ashram is a quaint place where you can sit and meditate for sometime. Inside the Ashram, you will find the great master, Shri Aurobindo resting peacefully in his grave. There is nothing much but still Aurobindo Ashram is among top Pondicherry tourist places as it has a positive vibe which serenades the senses and makes you feel at peace. Some places are to connect you to your innermost self and this place in Pondicherry will do the same.

Read More  - Beaches In Pondicherry

6. War Memorial

Built in the memory of brave martyrs who lost their lives in World War I, War Memorial is one of the must visit places in Pondicherry. Reckoned as one of the popular historical places in Pondicherry, the memorial was constructed in 1938 at Goubert Avenue. While visiting the War Memorial you can also visit another historical site where the statue of Mahatma Gandhi is placed. Both these Pondicherry tourist places can be covered together when you are out for sightseeing as these places are opposite to each other.

7. Arikamedu

The famous archaeological site in Puducherry, Arikamedu was once a port city and a hub for manufacturing fine muslin cloth, terracotta pots, glassware, and jewellery made from gold and semi-precious stones. Here you can spot the relics of a bygone era as it was once a quintessential centre of trade and commerce with Roman traders. Arikamedu is visited by many tourists as it is located on the seaside close to the famous Promenade of Pondicherry. You can click some pictures with the ruins in the backdrop and take a short walk which is quite rejuvenating. You can feel the cool sea breeze brushing against your skin.

8. Botanical Garden

Considered as the landmark of Pondicherry, an excursion to the Botanical Garden is totally unwinding. Spreading across 22 acres of land, this sprawling garden is considered as the centre of recreation and education as visitors get a chance to witness more than 1500 species of flora. Boasting a large number of trees and plants of medicinal value, various plants from the Botanical Garden of Pondicherry are used in research which also makes it the top contender in the list of best Botanical gardens in the country. Don’t miss the enriching experience of visiting famous Pondicherry tourist places.

9. Lighthouse

If lighthouses from fairytales fascinated you when you were a child then it’s time to visit the famous old and the new Lighthouses during your trip to Pondicherry. As you reach the top of the Lighthouse, you will catch a spectacular view of the entire coast. The rustic beauty of these famous tourist attractions of Pondicherry is the talk of the town as both these lighthouses offer a unique experience of reliving childhood memories of fairytales and dreamy sagas.

10. Sri Manakula Vinayagar Temple

Dedicated to Lord Ganesa, Sri Manakula Vinayagar Temple is the popular pilgrimage site in Pondicherry which is visited by locals and tourists alike. It is one of the ancient temples and said to be in existence much before the French settled in Pondicherry. The 15th century temple has a magnificent idol of Lord Ganesha and intricately carved interiors that are painted in vibrant hues. This temple adorned with beautiful paintings is definitely a must-visit place in Pondicherry. 

Read More:  Churches In Pondicherry

11. Ousteri Lake

Just a few km away from Pondicherry lies the serene Ousteri Lake, a favourite spot for nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers. Surrounded by lush greenery and wetlands, the lake covers an area of about 390 hectares and is home to many migratory birds such as kingfishers, egrets, and herons. Visitors can enjoy boat rides, go fishing, or simply sit back and gaze at the natural beauty of area. Sunrise and sunset are particularly magical and worth witnessing. You can plan a picnic at this tourist place in Pondicherry.

12. Rock Beach

Also known as Promenade Beach, Rock Beach is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. Stretching along the coastline of Pondicherry, the rocky shoreline provides a stark contrast to the calm waters of the Bay of Bengal. Take a relaxing stroll along the promenade, watch the waves crash against the rocks, or grab a bite to eat at one of the nearby cafes around this Pondicherry tourist place. In the evening, join crowds gathering to watch the beautiful sunset.

13. Cluny Embroidery Centre

For those interested in arts and crafts, Cluny Embroidery Centre is one of the best Pondicherry tourist places. Established by the Sisters of Saint Joseph of Cluny, this centre trains women in various forms of embroidery and needlework. Visitors can observe the skilled artisans and purchase intricate tablecloths, bedspreads, wall hangings, and other decorative items made entirely by hand.

14. Veerampattinam Beach

Located south of Pondicherry, Veerampattinam Beach is less crowded than Rock Beach and offers visitors a more secluded experience. With its pristine white sand and clear blue waters, it's an ideal location for swimming, sunbathing, or simply taking in the stunning coastal views. During festivals like Diwali, locals celebrate with colourful processions featuring decorated boats and fireworks displays.

15. Goubert Market

No trip to Pondicherry would be complete without visiting the bustling Goubert Market. Situated near the waterfront, this marketplace sells everything from fresh produce and flowers to textiles, spices, and souvenirs. It's a place where you can shop till you drop as haggling is expected. So don't hesitate to negotiate prices. Be sure to try street foods and filter coffee available at numerous food stalls inside the market.

Read More: Places To Visit In Pondicherry

From quaint beaches to breathtaking sites, there’s a lot to explore in India's French colony. Pondicherry tourist places will give you the most beautiful memories. Also, note that the best time to visit Puducherry is between October and March when the weather is extremely pleasant. So, plan your holiday accordingly.

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Frequently asked questions about places to visit in pondicherry.

Q1: What are the places to visit in Pondicherry with family? A1: Some of the places to visit in Pondicherry with family include 

• Promenade Beach
• Sri Aurobindo Ashram
• Chunnambar Boat House

Q2: What are the tourist places in Pondicherry to visit with friends? A2: Some of the tourist places in Pondicherry to visit with friends include 

• Rock Beach,
• Seaside Promenade
• Cafes and Restaurants in White Town.

Q3: What are the visiting places in Pondicherry for a solo trip? A3: Some of the visiting places in Pondicherry for a solo trip include 

• Manakula Vinayagar Temple
• French War Memorial
• The Lighthouse

Q4: What are the places to see in Pondicherry for a group trip? A4: Some of the places to see in Pondicherry for a group trip include 

• Pondicherry Museum
• Bharathi Park

Q5: What are the places to visit in Pondicherry for a couple? A5: Some of the places to visit in Pondicherry for a couple include 

• Rock Beach 

--- Published By  Adotrip

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