A Day in Pondy: Exploring the French Heritage

  1. 8:30AM: Breakfast at Baker Street
    20 minutes (7.7 km) from the railway station

    Start off your day with delicious baked treats, sandwiches, and coffee. Baker Street is popular for its freshly baked bread, cakes, and pies. The place has a cozy ambiance which makes it perfect for a breakfast stop.

  2. 10:00AM: Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus
    10 minutes (2.5 km) from Baker Street

    The Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus is a magnificent Neo-Gothic church built in the 20th century. It's a great place to spend some time collecting oneself and soaking in some peace amidst the stunning stained-glass windows.

  3. 11:30AM: Aroma Gardens
    25 minutes (7.3 km) from the Basilica

    Set amidst lush greenery, Aroma Gardens is a serene spot perfect for a picnic or some quiet time enjoying the nature. The garden is home to various species of tropical and sub-tropical plants and trees.

  4. 12:30PM: Lunch at Café des arts
    15 minutes (5.2 km) from Aroma Gardens

    Café des arts is a hidden gem in the French Quarter of Pondicherry. The café has a vibrant ambiance and a menu that includes French cuisine and Indian-style savories. One must try the heavenly Croissant sandwiches and French Toast here.

  5. 2:00PM: Pondicherry Museum
    5 minutes (1.6 km) from Café des arts

    The Pondicherry Museum is a window into the rich past of the former French colony. The museum has an impressive collection of sculptures, bronzes, paintings, and other artifacts dated back to the Chola and Pallava period.

  6. 3:30PM: Promenade Beach
    5 minutes (1.5 km) from Pondicherry Museum

    The Promenade Beach is a bustling place with a lively atmosphere and gorgeous views. Stroll along the beach, soak in the sea breeze, and watch the fishermen's boats dotting the horizon.

  7. 5:00PM: Manakula Vinayagar Temple
    10 minutes (2.1 km) from Promenade Beach

    The Manakula Vinayagar Temple is one of the most popular Hindu temples in Pondicherry. The temple is home to a stunning brass idol of Lord Ganesha, and the temple surroundings often have colourful local festivities in progress.

  8. 6:30PM: Botanical Garden
    15 minutes (4.2 km) from Manakula Vinayagar Temple

    The Botanical Garden is another serene spot in the French Quarter of Pondicherry. The garden is home to over 1500 species of plants and trees, including rare species such as Cycads, Baobabs, and Abutilons. Take a stroll around the gardens and unwind amidst nature.

Time and Costs Estimates:

  • Baker Street (30 minutes, INR 150)
  • Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus (60 minutes, free entry)
  • Aroma Gardens (60 minutes, INR 20)
  • Café des arts (90 minutes, INR 500)
  • Pondicherry Museum (90 minutes, INR 10)
  • Promenade Beach (90 minutes, free entry)
  • Manakula Vinayagar Temple (60 minutes, free entry)
  • Botanical Garden (60 minutes, INR 20)

  • Total Estimated Costs: INR 700

Useful Tips:

Pondicherry is a small place, and all destinations are easily accessible. The best way to explore the city is on cycle or by foot. Don't forget to carry comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and a camera. For travellers with additional time on hand, Auroville and Paradise Beach are some must-visit spots in the city. If you have lesser time, you can skip some destinations and explore the city at a more leisurely pace.

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