Pondicherry is a small town near Tamil Nadu but happens to be the biggest crowd-puller when it comes to tourism. This small Union Territory of India is a pristine French colony with enchanting villas that spellbind tourists with their architecture and is also referred to as the French Capital of India.
Situated along the Bay of Bengal, Pondicherry is lined with gorgeous beaches. It is officially known as Puducherry and locally referred to as Pondy. It is a harmonious amalgamation of Tamil, French, and English cultures, absorbing the beauty and values of each of them.
The age-old culture and architecture of the town offer a masterpiece to be explored. A popular destination among backpackers, Pondicherry is a quaint location with numerous hidden gems to be explored slowly over months.
Pondicherry has all the elements for your dream vacation. Sun-kissed beaches, unearthly ashrams, elaborate museums, plush family parks, and chic clubs offer you an experience of a lifetime. You can enjoy staying in luxurious resorts or splurging through the night.
Among the popular activities in Pondicherry are water sports to get your adrenaline gushing, gorging on delectable local food, and shopping for bohemian stuff. Here is the list of the places, which you should not miss while traveling to Pondicherry.
Top Places to Visit in Pondicherry
01. Paradise Beach Puducherry
Located in Chunnambar, Paradise Beach is an isolated beach ranked as one of the best tourist destinations in Pondicherry. Locally referred to as ‘Plage Paradiso’, this breathtakingly beautiful golden sand beach has a tranquil atmosphere. The crystal-clear water and tropical vibe allow you to enjoy a relaxing day with your family and friends.
You must take an exciting ferry ride from the city to reach the beach. The route is flanked by thick mangrove forests which make your trip to the beach a refreshing journey. A haven for nature lovers, Paradise Beach is a treat for bird watchers as it is home to a wide variety of rare and beautiful species of birds.
The best time to visit this popular weekend getaway from Pondicherry is November to March. Adventure lovers can also enjoy water sports such as Canoeing, Kayaking, Swimming, and Jet Skiing at the beach. There are a few surfing schools in the area where you can rent the required equipment.
02. Sri Aurobindo Ashram Puducherry
Located towards the eastern part of the city, Sri Aurobindo Ashram is among the famous tourist places of Pondicherry. Founded by Sri Aurobindo Ghose in 1926, the ashram is dedicated to his vision of leading a simple and healthy life. The spiritual atmosphere of the Ashram and soul-soothing silence make it a perfect place to meditate.
You can visit this ashram with your family to relax your body and mind from the stress of routine life. The simplicity of the building and its beautiful interiors are refreshing for the eyes. Sri Aurobindo Ashram is a treat for people curious about life and diverse cultures.
Dance, singing, drama, and other events are regularly organized by the community members at the Ashram. You can learn about the Ashram, Sri Aurobindo, his vision, and the Mother at the theatre where their history and vision are telecasted regularly. The Ashram’s courtyard houses the Samadhi of Sri Aurobindo and the Mother, which is adorned with fresh flowers each day.
03. Auroville Puducherry
Located in Viluppuram district, Auroville is a unique township built on the concept of a ‘Universal Town’. It was founded in 1968 by Mirra Alfassa – a disciple of Sri Aurobindo. The town was conceived by her with a notion to allow humanity to prosper beyond the boundaries of gender, religion, and politics. This experimental town is home to people from around 195 nationalities from across the globe.
Auroville is a popular destination near Pondicherry for those in search of tranquility. The main attraction of Auroville is the beautiful structure of Matrimandir, fondly referred to as the ‘soul of the city’. It is located in the center of the town, surrounded by lush green grasslands and forests. The pleasant weather and amiable residents make your trip to Auroville worthwhile.
Auroville is popular among tourists visiting Pondicherry as the town offers world-class wellness and spiritual services. You can practice meditation, learn yoga, enjoy Ayurvedic beauty treatments, and take physiotherapy sessions to rejuvenate your mind and body. A stroll along the Auro Beach is a refreshing experience in itself. You can easily make friends around the place while you spend time at the quaint cafés in the town.
04. Arikamedu Puducherry
Located on the banks of the Ariyankuppam River, Arikamedu is a famous Indo-Roman archaeological site. It is among the well-known tourist places near Pondicherry. Inhabited by Romans, French, and Cholas centuries ago, the town was once a popular trade center of the region.
Excavation of the site was started in 1940 and since then interesting details have been unearthed. The site has been acquired by the Archaeological Survey of India for its cultural importance as the only surviving place with remnants of Roman existence in India during 300 BC - 1800 AD.
Valuable artifacts and relics excavated from the site are preserved in the Pondicherry Museum. They give visitors an insight into the history and culture of Arikamedu. The staggering ruins lure history buffs and photographers. A walk along the trails takes you back to the opulent era of trade and exchange in the 1st century BC.
05. Seaside Promenade Puducherry
Seaside Promenade has a shoreline concealed by black rocks. It is commonly known as Rock Beach or Promenade Beach. This scenic waterfront offers a stunning view of the Bay of Bengal. The colonial vibe of the beach adds to its serenity, making it one of the most popular beaches in Pondicherry.
The 1.5 km long shoreline is flanked by the War Memorial, Dupleix Park, colonial buildings, and quirky cafés. There is no traffic on this seaside road and visitors use it freely for basking in the sun or for indulging in beach sports like volleyball.
A stroll along the beach rejuvenates the senses as the weather is pleasant during most parts of the day. You can enjoy watching the mesmerizing hues of the sun setting over the Bay of Bengal with your loved ones.
The cafés along the beach serve delicious street food relished by locals and tourists alike. Local vendors also sell handicrafts and other souvenir items. Promenade beach also offers water sports like sailing and yachting for thrill-seekers.
06. Serenity Beach Puducherry
As indicated by its name, Serenity beach is the most serene beach located in the coastal town of Pondicherry. It is just twenty minutes away from the northern part of the city. The beach is famous for its golden sands and gushing blue waves.
Serenity beach offers an astounding view of the Bay of Bengal. Early morning is the best time to soak in the beauty of the beach while watching the sunrise. You can relax and rejuvenate at the beach on all weekdays till 6:00 PM. You can indulge in the surfing activities organized at the beach for an adrenaline rush. Treat your taste buds to the exotic fish dishes served at the food stalls near the beach.
Watching the scenic beauty of the glistening shoreline lined with fishing boats as you walk on the deck to the waters will have a calming effect on your mind. Serenity beach is ideal for surfing, which makes it the most frequented tourist attraction of Pondicherry. Surfing equipment can be rented at the local surfing school if you plan to ride the waves.
07. Chunnambar Boat House Puducherry
Visiting the backwaters is the best experience while in Southern India. Chunnambar is a small village located 7 kilometers from Pondicherry. The hamlet is blessed with natural grandeur and is popular among tourists for the Chunnambar boathouse. It is among the most visited tourist places in Pondicherry as it offers the perfect tropical vacation experience.
You can choose to laze at the beach or relish an exquisite houseboat experience. Besides motor boating in the mighty Bay of Bengal, you can also indulge in beach sports. The spot is ideal for a relaxing day with family and friends. To add adventure to your trip, you can try night camping at the seafront.
For a luxe experience, rent a houseboat and drift away to the paddy fields and across reservoirs with blooming water lilies. Get a view of the rustic village life while pedal boating in the backwaters. You may catch a glimpse of fishermen catching fish and locals harvesting coconuts from dense grooves. The exotic seafood at Seagull- the popular multi-cuisine restaurant in the area is a must-try in Chunnambar.
08. Botanical Garden Puducherry
Spread across a massive area of 22 acres, Botanical Garden is a major tourist attraction in Pondicherry. The lush green garden was established in 1826 and has been a major landmark of the city since then. C. S. Perrotet, a French colonist, played a monumental role in setting up the garden. He added a wide variety of exotic plants to the garden.
The Botanical Garden boasts of around 1500 species of plants from across the world. It is a great place to learn about plants and their importance in routine life. It is open on all days from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
The garden is a perfect picnic spot in Pondicherry where you can spend time with your family and friends in the lap of nature. Well-manicured lawns, vibrant flower beds, and a musical fountain attract locals and tourists alike.
Other attractions of the park are its French-style entrance gate, the children’s toy train, an aquarium, and Japanese rock. The annual ‘Flower Festival’ organized at the garden attracts visitors from across the country.
09. Old Lighthouse Puducherry
Constructed in 1836, the Old Lighthouse is a remarkable piece of architecture. Located on Beach Road, it is a prominent landmark of Pondicherry. The 29-meter tall structure stands on a rectangular platform. It was built by the renowned French engineer L. Guerre and had three openings- a staircase, a doorway for the watchman, and a shop.
A new lighthouse was constructed in 1970 at the Kirapalaiyam Village when the old one went out of order. Built to guide the ships in the sea across the Red Hills, it is not operational now but still holds a special place due to its aesthetic appeal. This engineering marvel has stood the test of time and now serves as a museum.
Cultural events and music fests are organized at the spot to entertain visitors. Tourists and photographers can visit the lighthouse from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM on all days. You enjoy the magnificent view of the Sea and the gorgeous sunset with your family and friends.
10. Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus Puducherry
Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus is an elegant architectural marvel set up by the French. It is one of the 21 Basilicas in India and thus the most famous sightseeing places of Pondicherry. Renowned for its Gothic architecture, the Basilica lures visitors throughout the year.
Set up as a church in 1908, it was elevated to the status of a Basilica in 2011. Located in MG Road Area of Puducherry, the grand edifice is decorated with stained glass panels. The Basilica houses life-size glass paintings of the 28 saints of the Church and other paintings that depict the life of Jesus.
You can visit the Basilica to offer prayers to the almighty and witness the exquisite interiors etched with Biblical phrases. Grand celebrations are organized on the occasions of New Year, Christmas, and Easter each year.
11. Raj Niwas Puducherry
A popular landmark of the history of Pondicherry, Raj Niwas was formerly known as Le Palais gu Gouvemeur. Founded by Dumas as the Governor’s palace in 1735, it was completed and unveiled by Dupleix. Built on the ruins of a French hotel - Hotel de la Compagnie, the building had been trampled several times.
The grand monument we see today as Raj Nivas was built when the new town was reconstructed in only three days. Although the building is not open for public access, its grandeur regularly attracts tourists.
The rectangular single-storied building is an Indo-French architectural marvel set amidst lush gardens. Its appearance is a fine blend of traditional and contemporary. Being the residence of Lieutenant Governor of Pondicherry, Raj Niwas provides accommodation for the state guests and personal guests of the Governor.
12. Jawahar Toy Museum Puducherry
Situated close to Goubert Avenue, the Jawahar toy museum offers a delightful experience for kids of all ages. The museum features around 140 dolls, dressed up in vibrant colors and styles. The dolls have been collected over time from various states and some are dressed up in the traditional dress of the region.
The wide variety of dolls symbolizes unity in diversity. Kids can learn about the culture and outfits of the various Indian States at the museum. Dolls are also arranged in a fairytale setup, including a puppet of Lord Ganesha.
13. French War Memorial Puducherry
A historical attraction in Pondicherry, the French War Memorial is located at Goubert Avenue. The memorial was built to honor the brave soldiers who sacrificed their lives during World War I. It was erected in 1937 and inaugurated by Governor Crocicchia in 1938. You can visit the memorial between 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM on all days of the week.
It is illuminated every year on 14th July, which is Bastille Day (French National Day). The memorial is flooded with people who pay their homage to the brave soldiers who fought for them. Beyond the architectural beauty of the monument, every brick tells a tale of the bravery of the unsung heroes of the war.
14. Sri Manakula Vinayagar Temple Puducherry
Built around 500 years ago, the Sri Manakula Vinayagar Temple is one of the oldest Hindu Temples in Pondicherry. Manakulam translates to “Sand Pond'' in Tamil and refers to the pond surrounded by sand on which the temple was once constructed.
The temple is dedicated to Bhavaneshwar Ganapathy (Ganesha) and it enshrines a grand idol of the Lord. The idol is called Vellakkaran Pillai. Built over an area of around 7913 square feet, the temple has marvelous architecture. The elegant Mandapam, Raja Gopuram, and Praharam are typical features of the traditional Dravidian style of architecture of the temple.
Its interiors are adorned with paintings of Lord Ganesha depicting various events of Hindu Mythology, and the exteriors are crafted with stucco figurines. The idol rests on a golden chariot which weighs around 7.5 kilograms.
Each year during Vijayadashami, a procession of the Lord is taken around the city on this chariot. The celebration is known as Manakula Vinayagar Koil and is attended by thousands of devotees. Ganesh Chaturthi is also celebrated with much fanfare at the temple.
15. Chidambaram Puducherry
Located around 58 kilometers from Pondicherry, Chidambaram is a prominent temple town in South India. It is a popular Hindu pilgrimage with several historic shrines and buildings of religious importance.
The Nataraja temple in Chidambaram is an architectural masterpiece dedicated to Lord Nataraja- the God of Dance, an incarnation of Lord Shiva. The temple holds much significance for the Natya Shastra of India. It is adorned by 108 beautiful sculptures showcasing Bharatanatyam poses.
The ancient temple was built by the rulers of the Chola dynasty. It is among one of Panchabootha Sthalas in India. Another unique aspect of the temple is the rare representation of Lord Shiva by an idol in place of the customary Lingam. The excellent workmanship of artisans from Pallava, Vijayanagara, Chola, Pandya, and Chera dynasties has contributed to the architectural excellence of the temple.
The beauty and grandeur of the temple increases manifold on Maha Shivratri- a prominent festival celebrated each year during February-March.
16. Bharathi Park Puducherry
Locally popular as the Government Park, Bharathi Park is located in the heart of the old colonial town. It is a famous picnic spot in Pondicherry, frequently visited by locals and tourists. The park boasts of well-maintained lush green lawns, a thick canopy to offer relief from the scorching sun, glittering flower beds, serene ponds, and a children’s play area. The landscape offers a calm vibe, relieving visitors of their stress.
You can visit the park from 6:30 AM to 8:30 PM. The Aayi Mandapam or the park monument built in Greco-Roman architecture is an important attraction of the park. Located in the middle of the park, it is the most preferred spot to click pictures and capture the beauty of the surroundings.
17. Immaculate Conception Cathedral Puducherry
The Immaculate Conception Church is a beautiful 300-year-old church and among the oldest tourist places in Pondicherry. Built in the year 1791, it is the only structure that survived the ruthless British invasion of the city. It has an interesting history as it stands on the ruins of many churches which couldn’t pass the test of time or were demolished intentionally.
Constructed in Portuguese style, the imposing façade and calm atmosphere of the Church attracts visitors throughout the year. This beautiful place of worship is also known as ‘Samba Kovil’ or ‘Eglise de Notre Dame de la Conception Immaculee Church’. It is the residence of the Bishop in Pondicherry. 8th December is celebrated as The Fest of the Church.
18. White Town Puducherry
White Town is a beachside tourist spot in Pondicherry. Located in the heart of the city, it is the area where French families resided. The area is still inspired by its French connections and is strewn with villas, quarters, eateries, and monuments. Some houses have been converted into heritage hotels, restaurants, cafés, and art galleries.
The area is well planned with similar houses colored in shades of yellow and lined with lush trees. Most streets are named in French and their names are amazing tongue twisters. There are several picturesque spots in White Town including Old Court Complex, Joan of Arc Park, Sri Aurobindo Ashram, and Pondicherry Museum.
It is flanked by elegant shops that sell personalized goodies and quaint cafés offering authentic French dishes. A walking tour of White town takes you back in time while the nostalgia of the Franco-Tamil culture still lingers in the air.
19. Sri Karaneswara Nataraja Temple Puducherry
Sri Karneshwara temple is one of the most unusual and uniquely designed temples in the world. Built-in the shape of a pyramid, this temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is built in place of a temple built by Dr. Karan Singh, Chairman of the Auroville Foundation in 2000.
The former structure was destroyed by Tsunami in 2004. Later, Dr. Singh commissioned the new structure based on the concept of The Great Pyramid of Egypt. The geometrical architecture of this new temple maximizes its energy.
The presiding deity is Lord Shiva as Nataraja, the god of dance. This temple is a very popular tourist destination in Pondicherry located at the Gangaiamman Koi Street at the Pudukuppam beach. The temple can be visited from 6:00 AM to 12 PM and 4:00 PM to 9:00 pm during all months of the year. However, visiting the temple during February and March has its own charm.
20. Goubert Market Puducherry
Located at Goubert Avenue alongside the French Quarters, Goubert Market is the best place for shopping in Pondicherry. Open through the week from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM, this marketplace is brimming with activity all day long. The jubilant vendors and the cacophony of colors and smells add vibrance to the place.
It is the best spot to experience the soul of Pondicherry and see the daily life of people. The market has different sections for selling fish, vegetables, meat, and flowers. Laid along winding streets, this bustling market is the lifeline of Pondicherry.
Commonly referred to as the Grand Bazar, it is the perfect place to buy handmade sculptures, leather goods, woven baskets, and jewelry made by local artisans. This market is also popular among photographers, as it is the perfect place to capture lively real-life interactions among vendors and customers.
21. Sri Gokilambal Thirukameswarar Temple Puducherry
Sri Gokilambal Thirukameshwar Temple, also known as the Villianur temple, is a popular Hindu pilgrimage in Pondicherry. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple houses the deity in the form of Thirukameswar Linga.
The shrine dates back to the 12th century and was built by the ruler of the Chola Dynasty. According to folklore, the king of the Chola Dynasty suffered from Leprosy and was cured upon worshipping Lord Shiva. He then commissioned the construction of Sri Gokilambal Thirukameswarar Temple in honor of Lord Shiva.
Built-in typical Dravidian style architecture, the temple is embellished with carvings and ornamented pillars. Brahmotsavam is a popular festival celebrated at the temple in May and June. It is an annual Temple Car Festival, during which people pull a 50 feet tall chariot of the deity through the streets of the town. Devotees believe that pulling the chariot makes the Lord happy, and he fulfills their wishes.
22. Ousteri Wetland and National Park Puducherry
Situated in Osudu Village, Ousteri Wetland and National Park is the most popular freshwater lake in Pondicherry. The wetland is located around a man-made water body known as the Ousteri Lake, locally referred to as Osudu Lake. It is ranked by the International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (IUCN), among the most important wetlands of Asia.
The 500-year-old lake was constructed by the rulers of the Vijayanagara dynasty. Spread over a massive land of 390 hectares, the area preserves a wide variety of aboriginal flora and fauna.
This wetland is famous among nature lovers for wildlife spotting and bird watching. It is also a great place for nature photography. You can enjoy a boat ride in the pristine lake while soaking in the astounding beauty of the lush surroundings.
It is open for visitors from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM throughout the year, while October to March is the best time to visit the Ousteri Lake to enjoy its natural beauty in its full glory.
23. Veerampattinam Beach Puducherry
Veerampattinam Beach is one of the popular beaches of Pondicherry. It lies around 7 kilometers from the city in the Veerampattinam village, on the way to Cuddalore. Being a part of the largest coastal village of the union territory, it is the cleanest and longest beach in Pondicherry. You can easily reach the beach by public buses plying from the city.
During monsoons, the beach turns into a tropical paradise with lush greenery adding to its beauty. The beach welcomes tourists from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM throughout the year. You can take a dip in the emerald water or laze at the beach and spend your day rejuvenating in the tranquil atmosphere.
There are dedicated spots along the beach where you can watch fishermen catch fish and interact with locals. The popular Temple Car Festival is organized at the beach each year. It is a sight to behold if you happen to visit the village in August.
24. Meeran Mosque Puducherry
Meeran Mosque is a prominent Muslim pilgrimage site in Pondicherry. It was constructed almost 350 years ago by the Nawabs of Arcot and is the second oldest mosque in the region. The architecture of this marvelous monument is a fusion of Islamic and Gothic styles. Locally known as Meerapalli, it is among the most visited religious places of the union territory.
Located at the Yanam Vegadasala Pillai Street, it has a serene ambiance as prayers are regularly held at the premises. You can visit the mosque to admire the age-old architecture, though it is not open for prayers to believers of faiths other than Islam.
Famous for its architecture, the massive dome of Meerapalli is supported by four pillars. The elegance of the imposing façade of the mosque is enhanced by the Brown Kallasa placed over the minaret. The monument houses the resting grave of its builder, the divine Suubhi Errai Perrier Mullah. The spiritual aura of the mosque has a calming effect on visitors.
25. Ganesh Garden Puducherry
Ganesh Garden is situated in Ramarajda Street and is among the offbeat tourist attractions of Pondicherry. It is a little botanical garden managed by a very friendly French couple who are plant lovers. Perfect for nature lovers, the garden is a refreshing spot located in the heart of the union territory. The well-groomed garden is a part of the Ganesh Towers residential building complex.
Surrounded by flowering plants and medicinal shrubs, you are bound to have a great time amidst the lush greenery of the garden. You can choose to get great gardening tips from the caretakers or just relax and soak in the beauty of the greenery around you. The park remains open from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM and 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM on most days, however, as it is a private park you must check for fluctuations in timings before visiting.
26. Kanniga Parameswari Temple Puducherry
Dedicated to Goddess Shakti, Kanniga Parameswari Temple is the most revered Hindu pilgrimage destination in Pondicherry. The unique architecture of this temple lures tourists from across the world. It represents the finest blend of Dravidian and European architecture.
The traditional Tamil architecture of the sanctum rests on monolithic pillars inspired by French architecture. Celestial creatures and stained glass panes inspired by European culture adorn the walls of the temples. The granite pillars are embellished with motifs to enhance the magnificence of the architecture.
Located on the M.G. Road, the temple is thronged by devotees throughout the year. Navratri, Pongal, and Deepavali are the main festivals celebrated on the temple premises. Hindu marriages can also be conducted within the temple.
27. Cluny Embroidery Centre Puducherry
Run by a local convent, the Cluny Embroidery Centre was started in 1829 to help underprivileged women. It operates from an 18th-century heritage bungalow donated by a French woman. Catholic nuns give orphaned girls and underprivileged women training and means to make a living for themselves. The house has a tradition of helping illiterate and underprivileged women by making them self-sufficient.
The white-pillared portico of the house opens into a room full of workstations, with ladies working tirelessly on beautiful pieces of home linen and other embroidered fabrics. The center has built a reputation of being a prominent tourist destination of Pondicherry.
You can buy unique pieces of embroidered and crocheted tablecloths, napkins, bedspreads, pillowcases, cushion covers, and wall hangings. Each piece is handcrafted with care and makes a perfect souvenir from your trip to the Union Territory. The funds raised are used for the betterment of these hardworking ladies and their families.
Other Prominent Sightseeing Places in Pondicherry
Pondicherry is fondly referred to as the ‘France of East’ owing to the influence of its earliest inhabitants. It ranks among the top ten locations on every wanderer’s bucket list. The sleepy town is perfect for an activity-packed tropical holiday.
Temple Reef, Coral Shark Reef, Arvind's Wall, 4 Corners, and The Hole are prominent Scuba Diving sites around Pondicherry where you can explore its kaleidoscopic underwater world. The calm waters of Karaikal Beach offer simple water activities such as kayaking and canoeing. It is an enthralling experience for beginners and kids interested in watersports.
You can also explore Pondicherry on a bike and discover prominent sightseeing places like the Government Museum, Dupleix Park, and Panchavati Anjaneya. A Heritage Walk around the union territory will take you to the vintage era as you discover hidden gems such as the Ecole Francaise d’Extreme-Orient (EFEO), which is an institute devoted to Asian Studies. It includes a walk through the centuries-old French colonies along the trail and shops at the Indian Square and French Square.
Travel to the Pre-Christian era at the museums around Pondicherry and witness the varied collection of exhibits from the past. Pondicherry Museum, Bharathi Memorial Museum, and Ananda Ranga Pillai Museum are worth visiting to retrace the history of the city.
Pondicherry is a shopper’s paradise with handmade artifacts, handicrafts, fabrics, and home décor available at reasonable prices across the city. Remember to stop at Casablanca, Romain Rolland Street, Saram China Market, Serenity Beach Bazaar, Nehru Street, and Goubert Market to pick the best local stuff.
Visit Yoganjali Natyalayam to calm your mind and destress your body with meditation and Yoga. Wrap up your day with a relaxing Kerala massage offered by trained masseuses at therapy clinics like Elysium Day Spa, Le Green Day Spa, Royal Mantra Spa & Salon. The city becomes livelier as the sun goes down, as there are multiple party venues across the city.
You can join a beach party or walk into the chic clubs to enjoy the nightlife in Pondicherry. There are numerous bars and pubs around the city that serve expensive wines, fine scotch, craft beer, and cocktails. The city offers multiple options to enjoy your evening including live music, rooftop view, sea view, and bonfires as you sip the beverage of your choice.
Pondicherry is home to the best cafés in the country. They offer a quiet place to unwind and reflect after a day of exploring the city. You can choose your peaceful zone from laid-back beachfront cafés, open-air breezy eateries, rustic forest-themed food joints to chic garden lounges. Each food joint has a striking décor and is set up amidst fascinating surroundings which offer a groovy vibe.
You can enjoy French delicacies like Croissants, Apple Tart, Coffee Macchiato, Cheesecakes, Waffles, Banana Nutella Crepes, Ratatouille, Croque Provencal, and Hot Chocolate. Quintessential South Indian dishes and quick bites like Dosa, Idli, Vada, Masala Chai, and Uthappam are available at most restaurants. You can also gorge on exotic Seafood prepared in authentic South-Indian style.
Pondicherry offers its visitors the best of both worlds. The city has an old-world charm of the French era and a swanky modern vibe. While it has a horde of pristine locations tucked away in every corner, it also offers the best of modish party scenes. The diverse experiences, architectural marvels, and natural abundance make it a traveler’s paradise.
The entire city is strewn with photogenic spots and monuments. From Ashram buildings to high-end resorts and from nature reserves to serene beaches, photographers can capture innumerable memories of the town. The little city boasts of tourist attractions and activities suitable for all types of travelers and it is best explored over a relaxing long vacation.
