Start your Pondicherry trip at the iconic 1.5 km long Promenade Beach, which is a popular spot for a morning or evening walk. Enjoy the sea breeze and the view of the Bay of Bengal. You can also find the iconic statue of Mahatma Gandhi and the French War Memorial at this location.
The Sri Aurobindo Ashram was founded by Sri Aurobindo and his spiritual collaborator, known as The Mother. The ashram is a spiritual community that offers yoga, meditation, and self-realization classes. This must-visit ashram has a serene environment and a library with an extensive collection of books.
The Immaculate Conception Cathedral is one of the oldest and famous landmarks in Pondicherry. Built-in 1791, the church has a unique architecture that blends Gothic and Islamic styles. It's a perfect place to appreciate the history and the culture of the region.
Arikamedu is an ancient port that dates back to the 2nd century BC. The site has a great historical significance as it was a major trading center for beads, gems, and textiles. The place has an excellent museum that showcases the artifacts and history of the region.
The Botanical Garden is a peaceful garden nestled in the heart of Pondicherry. It has a collection of more than 1500 species of plants and trees, including an ancient banyan tree. The garden has several attractions like a musical fountain, aquarium, and children's train.
If you have more time, you can visit the famous Paradise Beach, which is a 20 minutes (8 km) drive from the Botanical Garden. You can also go for a French architecture walk to explore the charming streets and buildings. If you have less time, you can skip the Immaculate Conception Cathedral and spend more time at the other locations. Make sure to check the opening and closing times of the attractions to avoid any inconvenience.