The ideal starting point for your Pondicherry trip is the Promenade Beach, which is also known as Rocky Beach. The beach is a popular destination among tourists and locals alike. Along the beach, you will find the famous Mahatma Gandhi statue, French War Memorial, and the heritage town hall. The beach exudes a charming and tranquil atmosphere, where you can enjoy a leisurely walk and watch the beautiful sunrise.
One of the most popular places to visit in Pondicherry is the Sri Aurobindo Ashram. Founded in the early 20th century by Sri Aurobindo Ghose and his spiritual collaborator, Mirra Alfassa, the ashram is a hub of spirituality, yoga, and meditation. The ashram’s library is open to visitors, and it also has a small bookstore that sells books on spirituality and yoga. Be sure to maintain silence and decorum during your visit to the ashram.
Le Dupleix is an iconic French restaurant that was once a governor's residence. The restaurant serves an array of delicious French and Indian delicacies in a colonial-era ambiance. Try the signature dish Ratatouille, which is worth giving a try. It will cost around INR 1500 for two people, making it a perfect budget-friendly option for your lunch.
The Pondicherry Museum showcases exotic glimpses of the history and rich cultural heritage of Pondicherry. The museum has a unique collection of sculptures, handicrafts, arms, and weapons. It also has a French gallery which exhibits an extraordinary collection of artefacts from the colonial days. Famous author R.K. Narayan once resided in the adjacent building, which is now the R.K. Narayan Museum.
Auroville is an experimental township on the outskirts of Pondicherry, founded in 1968 by Mirra Alfassa. It is a unique, autonomous, and self-sustainable community living according to the principles of harmony, equality, and human unity. Visit the Matrimandir, the Auroville Visitor Center or participate in a variety of workshops and activities. Don't forget to at least enrol for a guided meditation session at the Matrimandir before your visit.
End your day by shopping for souvenirs. Nehru Street, which is famed for the Indian and French goods sold here, is the perfect place to buy gifts for your loved ones. The narrow street is lined with several shops, including trendy boutiques, leather shops, cafes, and bars.
You can save time and money by prioritizing the places of interest, depending on your preferences. You can also take a taxi or hire a bicycle to explore the French Quarter of Pondicherry. Plan your Pondicherry visit during pleasant weather between October and March to enjoy the best of Pondicherry.