Start your architectural tour of Pondicherry with a visit to the Sri Aurobindo Ashram, founded in 1926. The ashram promotes yoga and spiritual practices and is a serene place to explore the Indo-French architecture of the buildings on its campus.
Stroll through the charming French Quarter, also known as White Town. This area was built during the French colonial era, and the architecture showcases a fusion of Tamil and French styles. Don't miss the Pondicherry Museum on Saint Louis Street, which offers a glimpse into the history of Pondicherry, its architecture and its people.
Arikamedu is an ancient port site that showcases pre-colonial architecture and urban planning. The excavations display evidence of Roman, Greek, and French architecture.
Your last stop is at Ousteri Lake, located on the outskirts of Pondicherry. Its architecture reflects the Tamil style and the lake attracts a variety of migratory birds, making it a great place for bird watching and photography.
If you have more time, you can explore more places such as the colorful markets of Pondicherry, Puducherry Beach, the Aayi Mandapam monument, and the Immaculate Conception Cathedral. If time is limited, you can skip Arikamedu or Ousteri Lake. Plan your visit before May, as the weather can be hot and humid after that month.