The Aurobindo Ashram is a spiritual community founded by Sri Aurobindo and his disciple, the Mother. The Ashram is the heart of Puducherry's cultural heritage and is renowned for its serene atmosphere and spiritual practices. Take a guided tour to witness the daily life of the Ashram, visit the Shrines, Library and Handmade Paper Factory. Don't forget to explore the local handicrafts and buy some souvenirs.
Manakula Vinayagar Temple is one of the most famous and ancient temples in Puducherry dedicated to the elephant-headed Lord Ganesha. Explore and marvel at the temple's intricate carvings, architecture, and the 40-feet high temple tower. Visitors can also partake in a ritualistic elephant blessing ceremony or feed the temple's resident elephants with peanuts.
The Goubert Market is a bustling marketplace filled with souvenirs, fresh produce, and street food. Try some traditional Tamil cuisine like Idli, Vadai, and Dosai. Bargain with local vendors for some of the best deals on handicrafts, spices, and Ayurvedic soaps.
The Pondicherry Museum is a treasure trove of the region's rich history, culture, and art. Visitors can explore the exhibits on Geology, Pre-History, Sculpture, and Archaeology showcasing pieces from Pandya and Chola dynasties. The museum also displays a wide range of French colonial artifacts, including rare, handcrafted furniture, Chinaware, and musical instruments.
The Chunnambar Backwaters is a scenic getaway from city life and is also known as the Plage Paradiso. Visitors can take a boat ride through the canals, click photographs of rare birds at the bird sanctuary, or relax at the sandy beach, soak in the sun. Don't miss the Moonlight Boat Ride with a specially prepared candlelit dinner, a memorable experience.
If you have more time, explore the Puducherry Promenade Beach, Paradise Beach, and the Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. You can also take a day trip to nearby Auroville, a spiritual community with a unique atmosphere and visit the Matrimandir. If you have less time, prioritize Aurobindo Ashram and Chunnambar Backwaters for a complete experience of Puducherry.