Begin your Pondicherry journey from the city's Railway Station and grab a quick South Indian breakfast at the Maison Perumal Hotel (8:00 AM - 10:00 AM) with a beautiful outdoor garden setting. Start with a visit to the famous Sri Aurobindo Ashram (10:30 AM - 12:00 PM) and meditate in its peaceful premises. After this, head to the colourful Notre Dame Des Anges Church, a replica of the basilica in Lourdes, France. Enjoy the serene sea breeze and stunning architecture of the Promenade Beach (4:00 PM - 6:00 PM) right before watching the sunset from the Old Lighthouse.
Begin your day with the aromatic Goubert Market (7:00 AM - 10:00 AM), selling the freshest flowers, spices, and fruits. Have some French pastries and baked goodies at the Baker Street (10:30 AM - 12:00 PM) on Rue Suffren Street. Stroll along the peaceful Black Town enclaves of the Saint Gilles District (2:00 PM - 4:00 PM) before resting at Auroville (4:30 PM - 6:00 PM) – an experimental township focused on communal living and spiritual harmony.
Experience a little bit of heaven on earth by exploring Pondicherry's most stunning and peaceful natural spots. Chunnambar Boat House (9:00 AM - 10:30 AM) is the gateway for this experience, where you can take a boat ride to the beautiful Paradise Beach. Indulge in some traditional seafood delicacies at the famous The Lighthouse (12:00 PM - 1:30 PM) restaurant, overlooking Serenity Beach. End your vacation in Pondicherry with a visit to the picture-perfect Ousteri Lake (2:00 PM - 4:00 PM), perfect for birdwatching and boating.
If you have extra time, explore the peaceful Botanical Garden and the Aayi Mandapam on Day 1. Visit the Pondicherry Museum on Day 2 during its working hours. On Day 3, experience some offbeat activities like scuba diving or snorkelling in Serenity Beach. However, if you are short on time, avoid Ousteri Lake and start exploring from the Chunnambar Boat House. Late-night parties and alcohol are not allowed in public places. Also, try to learn some French phrases and words to befriend the locals and understand the French Magnifiqué influence on the city. Bon voyage!