Pondicherry, officially known as Puducherry, and commonly referred to as just Pondy, is one of the seven Union Territories of India. This former French colony is a perfect amalgamation of the traditional Indian sensibilities and French architecture, making it a dreamy escape that offers the best of both worlds. 

The streets of the French Quarter of Pondicherry, also known as White Town, are dotted with charming mustard-yellow colonial structures with bougainvillaea laden walls. These are interspersed with cosy cafes and chic boutiques that offer delectable French cuisine and beverages. Simply strolling down these streets, can give the traveller an insight into the fairytale charm of Pondicherry.

Come explore the boulevards and rues (the French word for streets) of the Pondicherry that will ultimately take you down to the gorgeous seaside promenade, where the Bay of Bengal playfully splashes the shores of the famous Rock beach.

Topped with authentic French bakeries, bohemian stores and cobble-stoned paths that are delightful for a leisurely stroll or bicycle ride, Pondicherry has a lot to offer. So head on down to this dream town of the Indian Coast and chug a few beers (at the Union Territory prices; bid adieu to state taxes) or just read a book in one of the quaint cafes.

Places to Visit

Paradise Beach

Paradise Beach, also known as Plage Paradiso, is situated in Chunnambar, close to Pondicherry town. Adorned with the golden sand, this famous and highly sought after beach is always swaying in a cold sea breeze. This is a little-isolated beach, and to reach here, you have to take a ferry across the backwaters, which takes around 20-30 minutes. The sand of the paradise beach is extraordinarily soft and grainy - and a walk along the entire beach is fantastic. 

Part of the fun in reaching the beach is the beautiful ferry from the boathouse - the backwaters on the way to the beach are green and have thick mangrove forests. Especially after the monsoons, the backwaters are fresh and green. You can spot a lot of birds while on the ride - and photography enthusiasts would relish the opportunity to get some great photos here. 

The currents in the water are high, so it is advisable to not go deep in the water. There are a few shacks along the main entrance to the beach, and you can get fresh coconut water and some simple snacks - don't expect any fancy street food though. Paradise beach is a great spot to reach early morning and get a view of the sunrise on the eastern coast. You can spend hours sitting on the beach and enjoying the waves. A variety of water sports facilities are available here as well - enthusiastic tourists can try a hand at fishing as fishing rods and nets are easily available for rent.

Aurobindo Ashram

Located in the White Town of Pondicherry, Aurobindo Ashram has been named after its creator- Sri Aurobindo Ghosh. The foundation of this ashram was laid on 24th November in the year 1926 when he was surrounded by his disciples all over after he retired from politics and settled in Pondicherry. This ashram was set up with the aim of helping people attain moksha and inner peace. Thousands of tourists from all over the country visit the ashram to experience and achieve spiritual knowledge. The ashram is by far one of the wealthiest ashrams in the world. Also, the ashram does not have any branches and solely exists in Pondicherry. 

The day this ashram was set up is known as the founding day of the ashram which has been described by Sri Aurobindo in his writings as "less created than grown around me as its centre". Mirra Alfassa who was one of Aurobindo's followers played a vital role in the establishment of the ashram. Soon after Sri Aurobindo Ghosh's death in 1950, she took care of the Aurobindo Ashram and was known as the 'Mother' of the ashram. At present, the Ashram has over five hundred devotees, five hundred students involved in the democratic progress school and thirteen hundred patients. All these people live in the Ashram's main building which comprises of a block of houses which are connected with each other. These houses are located nearby the ashram at walking distance. 

Some of the facilities offered by the Ashram including the library and the main building can be accessed only after receiving a gate pass from the Bureau Central or guest houses of the Ashram. In addition to this, the ashram also has a spiritual centre which consists of four houses which were inhabited by the Mother and Sri Aurobindo for different intervals of time. There exists a samadhi as well in the courtyard under the frangipani tree where the bodies of Mother and Sri Aurobindo were buried. People come to pay their respect every day by laying flowers on it.

Cafes In Pondicherry

Pondicherry or Pondy is renowned for its French architecture, churches, extravagantly clean and neat laid streets and beaches. It is also considered as 'Mini Goa" by some. This small Union Territory of India has been rechristened as Puducherry. Apart from being a great tourist spot, it is widely known for its cheap alcohol. However, if you are a connoisseur, then it is an excellent place for you to visit as it serves a wide variety of gourmet food. 

Housing the best French Cafes in India, Pondicherry is a foodie's paradise and is a great place for you to try out new gourmet cuisines from around the world. Here is a list of 10 best cafes in Pondicherry.

Auroville

Conceived as the 'Universal Town', Auroville is an experimental township where people from across the world of all cultures and traditions come and live together in peace. Located around 15 km from the city of Pondicherry, Auroville is located in Tamil Nadu and was founded in 1968 by Mirra Alfassa, a disciple of Aurobindo and fondly known as the 'Mother' of Sri Aurobindo Society. 

This universal township was inaugurated on 28 February 1968 with the agenda that it will be a place with people willing enough to make this a hub of uninterrupted education and progress, regardless of their caste, creed, nationality or race. People from 124 countries including Indians from 23 different states came together with some of their native soil brought from their homelands and deposited in a marble urn. 

Currently, over 2,800 people from over 195 different nationalities form the official residents of this township. The Aurovilleans as they call themselves live together on the principles of peace, harmony, sustainable living and 'divine consciousness' which was the philosophy of the Mother. Major forestation work was done by the early Aurovilleans which has made this erstwhile completely barren land into a huge patch of greenery. The project was supported by the Govt. of India, and UNESCO passed a resolution in 1966 commending this as "a project of importance to the future of humanity". 

Called the city of dawn, this place is the epitome of tranquility and proves as the perfect escape for the ones in search of peace. The best way to experience Auroville ashram is to actually just sit in one of the cafes, and talk to some of the residents here about their experience of living in the city - you would be surprised to find out how much the people living here love the concept and the life.

The architecture of the city is as interesting as the concept. The city is planned in a circle of radius 1.25kms, and the center of the city is the famous Matrimandir along with the gardens surrounding it. Just outside this are the industrial zone, the cultural zone, the peace zone, and the residential zone. Outside this, the entire city is surrounded by a "green belt" - this is supposed to act as a barrier against urban encroachment, a wildlife habitat, and sources of food/timber/etc. This entire area was created out of a wasteland, demonstrating the ability to conserve nature while developing a town. 

The main attraction here is the "Matrimandir" - you can watch an introductory video about the concept of the city, and sit here in silence to concentrate. With water pooling in from different sides, the sound of the water and cool breeze which always flows, provides a perfect atmosphere for meditation. The mandir is an architectural masterpiece with a 30m high globe with a lotus-shaped foundation urn. The entry is free of costs, and you can only buy the tickets in person at the venue, not online. The walk from the entry gates to the center takes around 10-12 minutes. 

Seaside Promenade

One of the things that does justice to Pondicherry's French Roots is its beautiful Seaside Promenade. The area is well maintained, clean and beautiful and you can actually feel foam spray on your face while sipping a cooler in one of the many cafes at the promenade. Whether you're visiting during the sunny day or the starry night, the Seaside Promenade is equally good.

Scuba Diving In Pondicherry

Packed with enchanting marine life, Pondicherry offers an amazing adventure of scuba diving off the country's East Coast.

A dive into the sea will let you explore the rich life comprising beautiful natural coral reefs and other exotic creatures such as manta rays, kingfish, sea snakes, lionfish, butterflies, crustaceans, moray eels and many more. Apart from that, if it is your lucky day you might even spot whale sharks, even sharks, dolphins and turtles. You also have an option of enjoying the dive at an artificial reef and experiencing the thrill of the activity making Pondicherry an irresistible diving destination.

Promenade Beach

Promenade Beach is a famous stretch of beachfront that extends for 1.2 km from War Memorial to the Dupleix Park on the Goubert Ave, in the city of Puducherry, India. The beach is often crowded with groups of people playing volleyball, jogging, walking, skating, yoga and swimming, especially during the evenings. This attractive beach is usually characterised by ocean sprays, waterscapes and waves of chatters.

The Promenade beach proves to be a wonderland for the tourists due to the presence of various significant landmarks nearby, namely the War Memorial, the statue of Joan of Arc, the heritage Town Hall, old lighthouse, the statue of Mahatma Gandhi, the remains of the old pier, Dupleix Statue and the old customs house.

One can spot rocks and boulders on this tranquil beach. It also hosts some of the most famous restaurants serving authentic traditional food and popular Le Cafe making it nothing less than a heaven for the seafood lovers. One can also spot a lot of hawkers near Promenade Beach, who sell local handicrafts and street food. The opposite side of the beach is occupied by the beautiful heritage building of the Tourist Information Center. Hence, all these features make Pondicherry Beach a massive hit among the travellers looking for some escape from the mundane and monotonous city life.

Serenity Beach

Located at a distance of 10 kms, on the outskirts on Puducherry in Kottakuppam, Serenity Beach gets its name from the Spa-Resort-Inn located at the spot with the same name. Originally, the beach was called Thanthirayan Kuppam Beach or plain Kottakuppam Beach. Boasting of supreme tranquility and sun-kissed sands, the beach is a gorgeous getaway from the city lapped by sparking waters of the scenic Bay of Bengal. The peaceful stretch is lined with a trail of rocks and dotted with sea-facing resorts ideal for honeymooners. Since the beach is isolated and little known by the locals, it provides an atmosphere of absolute ataraxy and quietude.

Serenity Beach is popular among fishermen and is lined with their boats and gears at all times. The big waves of the beach enable good surfing opportunities which are not available in the adjoining Auro Beach. A few surfing schools located in the vicinity, offer coaching for the same water sport. Besides, the peaceful sea-coast is ideal for romantic walks, for sunbathing, shallow swimming or just to rewind and relax and soak in the serene ambience.

Arikamedu

Situated within a half hour drive of the French colonial town of Pondicherry, Arikamedu is an ancient Roman trade centre hidden from the eyes and ears of the commonplace Tamil tourism. Its name has been taken from the Tamil word- 'Arikanmedu' which means 'eroding mount'. Very little is known about any Indo-Roman ties in the Before Christ era, but with the discovery and excavation of Arikamedu, extensive proofs were unearthed. This port town was occupied by the people of Rome, Cholas, and French serving as a very famous maritime centre from 1st century BC to 2nd century AD. The glass bead manufacturing factory of Arikamedu is called the mother of all bead centres in the entire world.

The first dig in Arikamedu took place in the 1940s, and since then these excavations are continuously being carried out. Out of these, the institution of Sir Mortimer Wheeler was the most encouraging. At present, the town does not have much to it other than the two perpendicular walls which were laid open and the French Jesuit Mission House which was constructed in the 18th century. More so, one can come across mango trees and coconut trees in this region. The site also comprises numerous amphorae having the mark of the Roman schools including VIBII, Camuri and IITA present there.

Chunnambar Boat House

Chunnambar is a quaint little hamlet located along Cuddalore Main Road, around 8 km from Pondicherry. This serene town is visited by tourists for its beach, which is known as Paradise Beach, situated near the mouth of the backwater. With pristine sand and crystallized water, it is a perfect place for one to spend a day out playing water sports and bathing in the sun. A short cruise is also organized for the visitors which gives them a fantastic overall view of the serene beauty of the waters. One can also spot dolphins playing around in the water making it a must-visit for the nature lovers.

People from near and far, from all over the world visit the place. It provides a serene environment away from the noise and fast-moving life of the city. One can self-introspect or spend a relaxing time at the beach alongside the waters. Chunnambar is surrounded by greenery all over. It offers a beautiful view. 

The stream of water alongside Chunnambar is a natural stream and is not very deep. There is a shelter provided which houses the bags and also offers some food and water bottles. Changing rooms are provided as well. It is a place which can be enjoyed and is worth visiting for every age group.

Must Try Food in Pondicherry

1. Villa Shanti

2. Rendezvous Cafe Restaurant

3. Escape In Multicuisine Sea View Restaurant

4. Cafe Xtasi

5. Surguru Spot Restaurant

6. Dilliwalla6

7. New Farm Fresh

8. La Villa

9. Puducherry Hotel Sri Kamatchi

10. Baker Street

How To Get Here

Located in South India, Pondicherry is very well connected to the rest of the country and most major cities in the world via a good air, rail and road network.

By Air

Pondicherry can be reached by air from the Puducherry Airport at Lawspet. Another option would be the Karaikal Airport.

Nearest Airport: Chennai Airport - 125 kms from Pondicherry 

By Road

A road trip to Pondicherry is a dream for every traveller because of the exotic scenery. However, there are various buses that connect Pondicherry to Chennai, Trichy, Bangalore, Coimbatore etc.

By Train

The Villupuram Railway Junction connects Pondicherry to the rest of India via rail.