A Day Exploring the Rich Heritage of Pondicherry

1. 9:00AM: Visit Promenade Beach
   10 minutes (1.2 km) from the city centre

   Promenade Beach or the Pondicherry Beach is a serene stretch of sand overlooking the Bay of Bengal. Take a morning stroll along the beach, enjoy the sea breeze while soaking in the fresh ocean air and catch a glimpse of the beautiful sunrise.

2. 10:00AM: Photograph the colourful houses at French Quarter
   6 minutes (1 km) from Promenade Beach

   Take a leisurely stroll and explore the French Quarter. The quarter is a unique blend of Tamil and French architecture that adorns brightly coloured villas and old-world-style mansions. Expect picturesque views, quaint cafes and dotted art galleries portraying the story of Pondicherry's heritage.

3. 12:00PM: Savour traditional French cuisine at Café des Arts
   7 minutes (1.1 km) from French Quarter

   This charming café in Pondicherry is a mix of traditional Indian and French cuisine. Be prepared to taste delicacies such as croissants, eggs benedict and fluffy omelettes. Soak in the laidback vibe in the courtyard filled with leafy trees, artworks and listen to some jazz music.

4. 2:00PM: Explore the famous Aurobindo Ashram
   10 minutes (1.4 km) from Café des Arts

   The ashram, founded by Sri Aurobindo and Mirra Alfassa, is a spiritual community that offers peace, meditation, and self-realisation. Take a guided tour of the Ashram after lunch to learn about the ashram’s history, philosophy and teachings of Sri Aurobindo and get inspired with his philosophy.

5. 3:30PM: Learn about French Colonization at The French Institute/Alliance Françoise
   15 minutes (2 km) from Aurobindo Ashram

   The French Institute/Alliance Francaise of Pondicherry is an institution where Tamil and French cultures thrive and cohabit. Visit this place for a cultural expedition with a rich history by delving into the French and Tamil cultures combined with language learning, courses, and cultural events.

6. 4:30PM: View the Magnificent Puducherry Lighthouse
   5 minutes (750 meters) from The French Institute/Alliance Françoise

   Built-in 1836, Puducherry Lighthouse is the oldest lighthouse of the East Coast of India. Climb atop the lighthouse tower for an uninterrupted 360-degree view of Pondicherry's beautiful coastline.

Time and Cost Estimates

• Promenade Beach: (1-2 hours, Free)
• French Quarter: (1-2 hours, Free)
• Café des Arts: (1-2 hours, INR 800-1200)
• Aurobindo Ashram: (1-2 hours, Free)
• The French Institute/Alliance Françoise: (1-2 hours, Free)
• Puducherry Lighthouse: (1 hour, Free)
Total Estimated Costs: (INR 800-1200)

Useful tips

For travellers who have limited time, it is recommended to skip The French Institute/Alliance Francaise or Puducherry Lighthouse for more time at the beach or French Quarter. In addition, be aware that the ashram has strict rules and a dress code to be followed while entering the premises. Wearing modest and comfortable clothes is always recommended. And finally, avoid travelling during the peak summer season (April to June) as it can get unbearably hot and humid.