Things to do in Pondicherry

Also known as the Plage Paradiso, Paradise Beach 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, and is one of the most exciting things to do in Pondicherry.

Chunambar 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 know as Paradise Beach, situated near the mouth of the backwater. One of the delightful things to do in Pondicherry is to embark on a cruise and dolphin-spotting adventure at the Chunnambar Boat House. Offering a serene escape along the backwaters, this experience allows visitors to witness the charm of Pondicherry's coastal beauty while enjoying the thrill of spotting playful dolphins in their natural habitat. 

One of the most exciting and picturesque things to do in Pondicherry is to tour the beautiful territory on traditional vintage bicycles. You can also go for guided tours around the stunning French Quarters, charming mustard streets, colonial villas and vibrant Tamil settlements. Besides a very picturesque view of the lovely alleys and narrow lanes, you can also marvel at the gorgeous architecture of the French colonial settlements.

One thing that you must definitely witness while on a trip to Pondicherry is the very mesmerising sunrise. The lovely beaches, or the gorgeous colonies, or even the promenades, are all amazing locations to experience a wonderful orange sun rise above the horizon. This is one of the top things to do in Pondicherry and is sure to stay with you for a long long time.

Embarking on the thrilling experience of scuba diving is undoubtedly one of the most exhilarating things to do in Pondicherry. Beneath the turquoise waters of the Bay of Bengal, adventurers can discover a vibrant marine world teeming with colorful coral reefs and fascinating sea life. The underwater exploration not only offers an adrenaline rush but also provides a unique perspective on Pondicherry's coastal beauty, making scuba diving an unforgettable activity for those seeking adventure in this coastal haven.

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 or just while taking a walk. Whether you're visiting during the sunny day or the starry night, the Seaside Promenade is equally feel good.

With a unique, peaceful coastal beauty to it, Pondicherry is quickly becoming every beach lovers' favourite hideout. Among the several other things to do in Pondicherry, this one tops the list. A number of water sports options along its white sandy beaches are another reason for travellers to love Pondy, as it is lovingly known.

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. Visiting the ancient town is one of the most essential things to do in Pondicherry. 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 whole wide world.

A national park rich in flora and fauna, Ousteri Wetland and National Park lay 10 km from Pondicherry town on the Pondicherry-Villuppuram road. Spread across an area of 3 sq kms, the place basically lies on the border of Pondicherry and Tamil Nadu. One can spot diverse variety of aqua-fauna and avi-fauna here. Apart from that, several distinct species of plants and trees call this place their home that also attracts a large number of migratory birds. Among the top things to do in Pondicherry, this one tops the charts.

Conceived as the 'Universal Town', the Auroville Ashram is an experimental township - the idea is to create a city where people from across the world of all cultures and traditions come and live together in peace. Founded in 1926 by Sri Aurobindo and a disciple of Shri Aurobindo, French Lady known as 'Maa' or 'The Mother', the Aurobindo Ashram is a place where you can relax and calm your inner being. Visiting the Ashram should definitely be on your list of top 'things to do in Pondicherry'. 

Located at a distance of 10 kms, on the outskirts on Puducherry in Kottakuppam, Serenity Beach is one of the most amazing beaches and visiting here is one of the top things to do in Pondicherry. 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.

Pondicherry Beach is also known as the Promenade Beach. It is a famous stretch of beachfront that extends from War Memorial to the Dupleix Park on the Goubert Ave, in the city of Puducherry, India. It stretches up to 1.2 kilometres along the Bay of Bengal and is the most popular stretch of road in Pondicherry. The beach is often crowded with groups of people playing volleyball, jogging, walking, skating, yoga and swimming, especially during the evenings. You definitely have to visit this promenade as it is one of the most surreal things to do in Pondicherry. 

One of the most revered religious spot by Muslims; Meeran Mosque was built about three hundred and fifty years ago. In fact, it serves as the oldest mosque in Pondicherry with a distinct type of architecture. Established by the Arcod Nawabs in Gothic Islamic style, there are four pillars supporting the dome of the structure. The beauty of the shrine is further enhanced by the placement of Bronze Kallasa on the front facing minaret.

One of the most sacred and religious places of Pondicherry, the Church of Sacred Heart of Jesus is situated 2.5 km away from the Pondicherry Bus Station on the south boulevard of the town. One of the 21 Basilicas in India and the only one in Pondicherry, this church was set up by the French missionaries in 1908 which was given the status of the Basilica in 2011. One of the most beautiful Catholic Churches of Pondicherry, the Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus beautifully showcases the Gothic architecture.

French War Memorial is a stylish structure located in the Goubert Avenue and is dedicated to the soldiers who lost their lives in the First World War. On 14th of July every year, an annual commemoration ceremony is held here during which the monument is beautifully illuminated. This memorial offers a pleasant experience to all visitors.

A popular tourist attraction of Pondicherry, Botanical Garden was established by C.S. Perrotet in the year 1862. The garden is home to several exotic varieties of rare plants as well as an aquarium. This wide range of plants has been collected from various parts of India and around the globe. There might be several exciting things to do in Pondicherry but this one is tops the charts when it comes to gorgeous scenery and bounteous nature.

Located in the Bharathi Park, Pondicherry Museum houses a fantastic collection of sculptures. It has the remains of the archeological findings from the Arikamedu Roman settlement. Bronze sculptures of god and goddess, a wide gathering of temple lamps, handicrafts and art are also kept here. Some specimens of Chola and Pallava art from Pondicherry and Karaikal are displayed in the sculpture gallery. A visit to the museum is one of the most amazing things to do in Pondicherry.

Immaculate Conception Cathedral or Eglise de Notre Dame de la Conception Immaculee Church is a beautiful place of worship established in year 1686. Dedicated to St. Peters, it is a church of Capuchins and was first served as a small chapel situated outside the government park. In fact, it was the only surviving structure during the British invasion who aimed at mass destruction of buildings and monuments. Here, the mass is performed at 5:15 am to 6:15 am from Monday to Saturday while on Sundays; it begins at 5:00 pm.

Embarking on a kids' day out at the Jawahar Toy Museum is one of the delightful things to do in Pondicherry. Located in the heart of the city, this museum is a haven for young minds, showcasing an extensive collection of toys from different cultures and eras. The interactive exhibits and playful atmosphere make it an engaging and educational destination, ensuring a memorable experience for children and families exploring Pondicherry.

When in Pondicherry, a must-do activity is to visit the ancient Sri Manakula Vinayagar Temple, adding a touch of spirituality to your list of things to do in Pondicherry. This historic temple, dedicated to Lord Ganesha, boasts a unique architectural charm and a rich cultural heritage. Embark on a journey through the vibrant streets of Pondicherry and explore the intricate sculptures and rituals at the Sri Manakula Vinayagar Temple, immersing yourself in the cultural tapestry of this charming coastal town.

The four-meter high statue of Mahatma Gandhi is surrounded by eight granite pillars, which were supposedly brought from Gingee, a fort some 70 km from Pondicherry. The statue is placed in the middle of a garden situated at Dumas Street and attracts tourists in large number. And if you around, visiting here should definitely be there on your list of things to do in Pondicherry.

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.

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.

One of the most exciting and picturesque things to do in Pondicherry is to tour the beautiful territory on traditional vintage bicycles. You can also go for guided tours around the stunning French Quarters, charming mustard streets, colonial villas and vibrant Tamil settlements. Besides a very picturesque view of the lovely alleys and narrow lanes, you can also marvel at the gorgeous architecture of the French colonial settlements.

Taking a walk through the White Town is a must for those seeking enchanting experiences in Pondicherry. This charming colonial quarter, characterized by its distinctive French architecture, offers a unique blend of heritage and tranquility. Amidst the vibrant colors and cobblestone streets, exploring the White Town stands out as one of the most delightful things to do in Pondicherry, providing a glimpse into the town's rich history and cultural tapestry.

Embarking on a shopping spree in Pondicherry is one of the quintessential things to do in this charming coastal town. The vibrant markets and boutique stores offer an array of unique finds, from exquisite handmade crafts to fashionable apparel. Roaming through the streets, exploring the diverse range of shops, and indulging in the distinct shopping experience adds a delightful dimension to your visit to Pondicherry.

Beach hopping is a delightful activity and one of the must-try things to do in Pondicherry, offering a unique blend of relaxation and coastal exploration. The town boasts a string of beautiful beaches such as Paradise Beach, Auroville Beach, and Promenade Beach, each with its own distinct charm. From serene shores to vibrant promenades, Pondicherry's beach hopping experience caters to every traveler seeking sun, sand, and the refreshing sea breeze.

Exploring Pondicherry's nightlife is among the enticing things to do in Pondicherry, offering a unique blend of coastal charm and vibrant energy. As the sun sets, the beachside promenade comes alive with a myriad of cafes, bars, and cultural events. Whether it's sipping on a refreshing drink by the sea or enjoying live music performances, experiencing Pondicherry's nightlife adds an enchanting dimension to the city's diverse offerings.

Renting a bike in Pondicherry is a popular choice for travelers seeking a convenient and adventurous way to explore this charming coastal town. It opens up a world of possibilities for things to do in Pondicherry, allowing visitors to effortlessly navigate through the vibrant streets, visit iconic landmarks like the French Quarter and Auroville, and soak in the laid-back atmosphere of the seaside promenade. With the wind in your hair, renting a bike provides the freedom to discover Pondicherry's unique blend of French and Indian cultures at your own pace.