The French Quarter of Pondicherry is also known as White Town and is a must-visit for anyone who enjoys historic architecture, street art, and quaint cafes. Walkthrough the streets lined with tall, brightly painted houses with bougainvillea hanging from their balconies. Visit Notre Dame des Angels, a 300-year-old Catholic church, which is one of Pondicherry's oldest landmarks. Then, head to the French War Memorial, a beautiful and solemn reminder of the city's colonial past. Finally, take a stroll by the Promenade beach and admire the views of the Bay of Bengal.
Auroville is a unique intentional community nestled in the Tamil Nadu countryside, just outside Pondicherry. The Matrimandir, with its distinctive golden dome, is the central attraction of Auroville and a peaceful place to meditate. Visitors can take guided tours but need to book in advance. Afterward, you can explore the quaint boutiques and handicraft stores selling handmade pottery, clothes, and jewelry. Children will enjoy the Auroville Botanical Gardens which boasts a wide range of plants and herbs.
The Pondicherry Museum is home to a collection of artifacts and exhibits that showcase Pondicherry's rich cultural and historical heritage. Visitors can view sculptures from the Pallava and Chola dynasties, and an extensive collection of bronze statues. There are also exhibitions on French colonialism and the Indo-French history of Pondicherry. Don't miss the contemporary art exhibits featuring Pondicherry's many local artists.
Paradise Beach is undoubtedly one of the best beaches in the Pondicherry region. It is a secluded, pristine beach with clear blue waters and golden sand. Get some sun, spend time bonding with your family, and enjoy various beach activities. The beach sells snacks, and drinks; you can also rent beach umbrellas, chairs, and beach toys. No matter your age, Paradise Beach is undoubtedly a delight for everyone.
If you have more time in Pondicherry, make sure to explore the Sri Aurobindo Ashram where the philosopher and guru Sri Aurobindo lived. The ashram also has a library of books and texts on spiritualism, mysticism, and philosophy. If you're interested in history, head to the Pondicherry lighthouse for breathtaking views of the city, or visit the Bharathi park for some open green space. For foodies, Pondicherry has many restaurants and cafes that serve a mix of French, South Indian, and continental cuisines.Serve your palate with some of the best seafood delicacies like fish fry, grilled prawns, squid, crab masala and more. You can also spend an evening shopping at the Sunday market at Goubert Avenue for souvenirs like handmade fragrances and oils, pottery items, and wall-hangings.