A Weekend Escape to Pondicherry

Saturday, September 30: Exploring French Quarters

Begin your journey by immersing yourself in the enchanting French Quarters of Pondicherry. In the morning, take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque Promenade Beach, enjoying the serene atmosphere and colonial architecture. Afterward, visit the Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, a beautiful church known for its Gothic architecture and vibrant stained glass windows. In the afternoon, indulge in a delicious French-inspired lunch at one of the charming cafes in the area. Spend the afternoon exploring the vibrant streets of White Town, admiring the colorful buildings and quaint boutiques. As the evening sets in, witness the mesmerizing sunset at Rock Beach and enjoy a delightful dinner at a rooftop restaurant overlooking the sea.

• Promenade Beach: Free, 2 hours
• Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus: Free, 1 hour
• White Town: Free, 3 hours
• Rock Beach: Free, 1 hour
• Rooftop Restaurant: INR 800, 2 hours

Restaurants

• Start your day with a scrumptious breakfast at Café Des Arts, a cozy cafe nestled in the French Quarters. Indulge in their freshly baked croissants and aromatic coffee. Average cost for a meal is about INR 300 per person.
• For a delightful lunch, head to La Maison Rose, a charming restaurant known for its authentic French cuisine. Try their signature Ratatouille or Quiche Lorraine for a taste of France. Average cost for a meal is about INR 800 per person.
• End your day with a memorable dinner at Le Club, a rooftop restaurant with panoramic views of the Bay of Bengal. Enjoy their delectable seafood dishes and flavorful cocktails. Average cost for a meal is about INR 1500 per person.

Sunday, October 1: A Glimpse of Spiritual Tranquility

Embark on a spiritual journey to Auroville, a unique township near Pondicherry. In the morning, visit the Matrimandir, a stunning golden dome and a symbol of peace and unity. Marvel at its architectural brilliance and spend some time meditating in its tranquil surroundings. Afterward, explore the serene Auroville Beach and indulge in a peaceful picnic by the shore. In the afternoon, visit the Sri Aurobindo Ashram, founded by Sri Aurobindo and known for its spiritual teachings. Immerse yourself in the serene atmosphere and spend time in silent contemplation. As the evening approaches, head back to Pondicherry and enjoy a delightful seafood dinner at one of the local restaurants.

• Matrimandir: Free, 2 hours
• Auroville Beach: Free, 2 hours
• Sri Aurobindo Ashram: Free, 2 hours
• Seafood Dinner: INR 1000, 2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Pondicherry, make sure to visit the charming Serenity Beach, located a few kilometers away from the main city. It offers a serene and less crowded beach experience, perfect for relaxation and sunbathing. Another hidden gem is the Bharathi Park, a lush green space with beautiful gardens, fountains, and a statue of Mahatma Gandhi. Locals also love to spend time at the Pondicherry Botanical Garden, a peaceful oasis with exotic plants and a toy train for children. Don't miss out on trying the famous French delicacies at Baker Street and Le Cafe, popular among locals and tourists alike.

For checking hotel and flight prices in Pondicherry, you can click here.