The French Quarter of Pondicherry is a beautiful representation of India's colonial past. The area is full of charming streetscapes, French-style houses, and colonial buildings, giving you a glimpse into Pondicherry's history. Start the day at the Alliance Francaise de Pondicherry, an institute that promotes French language and culture in the city. Walk around Rue Dumas and Goubert Avenue to see grand old mansions and tree-lined streets. Visit the Sri Aurobindo Ashram, founded by Sri Aurobindo Ghose, a philosopher, yogi, and poet, and experience peaceful vibes. Get lost in the French-style architecture and gardens that surround the ashram.
Start the day at the Puducherry Museum, which houses a fine collection of Chola and Pallava sculptures as well as bronzes from the region. You can also see archaeological artifacts, French furniture, and family portraits here. From there, head to the Promenade Beach, which is an iconic spot in Pondicherry. Walk along the beach and take pictures of the waves crashing against the rocks, or find a spot to relax and enjoy the view. Finish the day by visiting the stunning Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, a church that boasts of Gothic-style architecture and stained glass windows.
If you have more time, take a trip to Auroville, an experimental township that's around 30 minutes from Pondicherry. You can take a taxi, bus, or rent a bike to reach there. If you're a foodie, head to the Goubert Avenue area for local seafood and South Indian dishes. You can also check out the Pondy Bazaar for some shopping. If you have less time, skip the Puducherry Museum and spend more time at the French Quarter or the Promenade Beach.