Wandering through the French Quarters of Puducherry

  1. Day 1: Aire de Service Kodandapani
    51 mins (30.5 km) from Chennai International Airport

    After a long journey, start your trip by making a pit stop at the quaint and serene Aire de Service Kodandapani. This serene location makes for an excellent photo-op, offering breathtaking views of the lush greenery and hills. Relax for a while and sip hot tea while overlooking the majestic mountain range in the distance. Stretch your legs and take a short walk in the gardens.

  2. Day 1: Shri Aurobindo Ashram
    12 mins (3.4 km) from Aire de Service Kodandapani

    Head over to the Shri Aurobindo Ashram, founded in the year 1926 by Shri Aurobindo Ghose, a famous philosopher, poet, and spiritual leader. Take a glimpse into the lives of the monks and nuns who follow the teachings of Aurobindo and the Mother. The serene ambiance and the lush green campus will leave you calm and invigorated. Visit the museum on the ground floor of the ashram and check out the books about philosophy, spirituality, and other related topics along with photographs that showcase the life and teachings of Sri Aurobindo and The Mother.

  3. Day 1: The Promenade Beach
    20 mins (2.2 km) from Shri Aurobindo Ashram

    End your day with a pleasant walk besides the Bay Of Bengal at Promenade Beach. Be awestruck by the beauty of the rocky shoreline and the scenic view of the ocean. Soak in the history of the French Quarters and the beauty of the colonial buildings situated nearby. Enjoy the light show in the evening and indulge in some street food from the vendors lining the promenade.

  4. Day 2: Puducherry Museum
    9 mins (2.3 km) from Promenade Beach

    The Puducherry Museum is a treasure-trove for history buffs. The exhibits showcase the heritage of the Puducherry, with antiquities from the Chola, Pallava, and Vijayanagara periods. Marvel at the stone sculptures, temple carvings, and artifacts from the colonial era. The museum has a photo gallery featuring iconic buildings, events, and famous personalities which will well give you a glimpse of the town's past.

  5. Day 2: Paradise Beach
    21 mins (8.6 km) from Puducherry Museum

    End your journey with a visit to the Paradise Beach. The scenic beach is perfect for a quick swim in the saltwater, or just soaking your feet in the soft white sand while talking a short walk under the palm trees. The tranquil ambiance of the beach makes for an excellent spot for an evening picnic. Enjoy the magnificent sunset here before heading back home.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Aire de Service Kodandapani (30 mins, Free)
  • Shri Aurobindo Ashram (1 hour, Free)
  • The Promenade Beach (2 hours, Free)
  • Puducherry Museum (1 hour, 150 INR)
  • Paradise Beach (2 hours, Free)

  • Total Estimated Costs: 150 INR

Useful Tips

For those with extra time, exploring the Arikamedu Archaeological Site is a fascinating choice. Nature lovers can contemplate the beauty of the Ousteri Wetland and Bird Sanctuary and the Botanical Garden. Foodies should try the famous Crepes at the many street stalls scattered throughout the French Quarters, and shopping enthusiasts can find unique souvenirs at the Sunday Bazaar held near the South Boulevard.Check out the schedules for the Light and Sound Show at Promenade Beach to caught the free public show. 

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