15 Awesome Things to Do in Pondicherry
Pondicherry, or Puducherry, is a captivating coastal town on the southeastern coast of India. This quaint town has a history different from the rest of India making it a unique beach destination with cultural significance.
While the rest of India was a colony of the British Empire, Pondicherry was under French colonial rule for almost three centuries. To this day, you can see the reminiscence of its colonial past in its culture, cuisine, and architecture.
With serene beaches to relax, meditation centres for spiritual seekers, colonial architectural marvels for history enthusiasts, great pubs for party animals, and exciting water sports for adventurers, there is something in Pondicherry for every tourist.
In this blog, I have compiled the most awesome 15 things to do in Pondicherry to help you plan your best Pondicherry trip.
What's In Here
Things to Do in Pondicherry
Visit Matrimandir in Auroville
A tour of Pondicherry is incomplete without a visit to Matrimandir, the historic “golden sphere” at Auroville that captures the essence of unity and world peace. Established by the French-Indian spiritual guru Mirra Alfassa (also known as The Mother), the sphere is the ultimate spot for spiritual awakening and meditation with an aura of its own.
Matrimandir houses soil from 72 countries from across the world and a crystal ball at the centre of its white marble interiors. The crystal reflects natural sunlight to create a unique spectrum inside the sphere. Inside, you are expected to maintain absolute silence while everyone meditates. Stepping into the inner sphere of Matrimandir is an unforgettable Pondicherry experience.
The Matrimandir complex includes an information centre that plays a video for its visitors about the history and evolution of Auroville and the establishment of Matrimandir. There is also a gift shop and a café, both promoting the spirit of sustainability in their own ways.
Entry to Matrimandir is free, making it one of the best free things to do in Pondicherry.
Experience the Vibrancy of Promenade Beach
Promenade Beach, also known as Rock Beach, is the most happening place in Pondicherry. Stretching for 1.5 kilometres along the eastern coast, this rocky beach is where good food, music, and cultural expression converge. Almost every month, Promenade Beach becomes the venue of a cultural event or an exhibition, inviting locals and tourists alike to experience the multi-coloured fabric of this quaint town.
The beach is also a perfect place for a relaxing stroll, especially during the early morning during sunrise when the beach is at its quietest, making it one of the best things to do in Pondicherry for the early risers! The promenade is well-maintained, with wide walking paths, benches, and street lamps, making it a great evening hangout spot as well.
While taking a stroll here, you can note some key landmarks like the statue of Mahatma Gandhi, the historic War Memorial, and the old lighthouse, each adding to the area’s historical and cultural significance. At night, the promenade comes alive with halogen lights, street hawkers, and people having a good time. You will find some of the best restaurants in Pondicherry by this beach.
Witness French Architecture in White Town
You cannot miss the colonial charm of White Town, a testament to the town’s historical ties with France that is still preserved in the pastel yellow walls and the large bay windows of its buildings. The streets here are named after important French historical figures of colonial Pondicherry. The colonial architecture, together with cobbled sidewalks, and vibrant bougainvillea make it the perfect frame for a stunning photograph.
Some of the notable buildings in the Franco-Tamil architectural style that you will find here include the French Consulate, Pondicherry Museum, and Raj Nivas, or the residence of the Pondicherry Governor. Many of the buildings here have been converted into chic boutiques, cosy cafes, and charming guesthouses, maintaining their historical charm while offering modern amenities.
You can explore Pondicherry’s White Town on foot, rental bicycles, or even cycle rickshaws, one of the best things to do in Pondicherry for slow travellers!
Find Peace at Aurobindo Ashram
If you are seeking inner peace, a visit to the Sri Aurobindo Ashram in Pondicherry is one of the best things to do in Pondicherry. Founded in 1926 by Sri Aurobindo and Mirra Alfassa, the ashram houses the samadhis (tombs) of both Sri Aurobindo and The Mother. Devotees and tourists visit Sri Aurobindo Ashram to pay homage to the two spiritual pioneers.
The ashram is the knowledge centre of Sri Aurobindo’s philosophies. You will also find here a photo museum and a bookstall with an extensive database of their lives and teachings. The Ashram also runs several non-profit organizations in the vicinity, promoting sustainability and local craftsmanship.
Volunteer at Auroville
Pondicherry is not a place you come and go. It’s a place you live and experience. A lot of tourists visit Pondicherry for some soul-searching, and volunteering at Auroville is one of the most immersive ways to achieve it.
The township of Auroville is home to people from over 50 nations. There are several accommodations offered by the township where you can stay for extended periods and participate in community living. Opportunities abound in areas such as organic farming, education, healthcare, arts and crafts, and community development projects.
Pay Homage at The War Memorial
The French War Memorial, located on Goubert Avenue along the Promenade Beach, is a tribute to the soldiers from French India who died in World War I. Erected in 1938, this elegant structure stands as a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made by these soldiers. The memorial is designed in a classical European style, with tall pillars and an inscription that honours the fallen heroes.
Every year on Bastille Day (July 14th), the memorial is beautifully illuminated, and a special ceremony is held to pay homage to the soldiers, making it one of the best things to do in Pondicherry during monsoons. This event attracts both locals and tourists, creating a sense of shared history and respect. Government dignitaries deliver special observances and lay flowers on the memorial to celebrate the fallen heroes.
Watch the Sunrise at Serenity Beach
Watching the sunrise at Serenity Beach is one of the best things to do in Pondicherry which captures the tranquil beauty of the coastal town. As dawn breaks, the sky transforms into a canvas of vibrant colours, with hues of pink, orange, and gold reflecting off the calm waters of the Bay of Bengal.
Early morning fishermen preparing their boats add a touch of local charm to the serene setting. This is a sight to behold!
You will find several low-budget and mid-range accommodations by this beach for the perfect beach vacation. Serenity Beach is also the best beach for surfing in Pondicherry.
Relish French Baked Delicacies
Pondicherry has a cosmopolitan culture. And it is best expressed in its food. You will find here restaurants with international cuisine by natives of those countries. But the best culinary experience here is undoubtedly French baked goodies.
Whether you are in White Town or Auroville, you will find many charming patisseries offering a mouth-watering selection of breads, pastries, and desserts. From freshly baked croissants and baguettes to decadent éclairs and tarts, the options are plentiful. Cafes like Baker Street, Auroville Bakery, and Café des Arts are popular spots from where you can savour these delights while enjoying a cosy ambience.
Enjoy Watersports at Paradise Beach
Paradise Beach, aptly named for its pristine beauty and tranquil environment, is a haven for water sports enthusiasts. Located about 12 kilometres from the town centre, you can reach this beach by taking a short boat ride from the Chunnambar Boat House.
Kayaking, jet skiing, and banana boat rides are popular watersports you can enjoy here. The shallow waters near the coastline make it a much safer beach for swimming as well, making it one of the best things to do in Pondicherry.
Visit the Famed Pondicherry Churches
Pondicherry’s churches are not only spiritual havens but also architectural gems that reflect the town’s rich colonial history. Of these, three churches in town make for the best things to do in Pondicherry.
The Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus is known for its Gothic Revival architecture. Located on the south boulevard, this church captivates you with stunning stained glass panels depicting events from the life of Christ and the saints.
The Immaculate Conception Cathedral is one of the oldest churches in Pondicherry, built by the French in the late 17th century, With a white exterior and high ceiling with arched niches, this church is an excellent example of French church architecture.
Eglise de Notre Dame des Anges is another French church in Pondicherry with architectural significance. Its location in White Town, with its pastel pink façade and Greco-Roman architecture, makes it the most visited church of tourist interest in Pondicherry.
Experience Night Life
Pondicherry is like a fantasy land with a calm and rustic vibe during the day and a vibrant vibe after sundown. The French Quarter, in particular, transforms into a lively hub with its charming cafes, bars, and restaurants that stay open late into the night.
For those looking to dance the night away, there are several clubs such as L’Aqua and Asian House. One of the reasons Pondicherry has such a dashing nightlife is the fact that being a Union Territory, alcohol here is tax-free!
Apart from that, several pubs and clubs offer social gatherings and cultural events at night, to further enhance the nightlife experience, making it one of the best things to do in Pondicherry.
Buy Souvenirs at the Boutique Stores
For the eco-conscious traveller, a souvenir to take back home from one of the town’s many boutique stores can be one of the best things to do in Pondicherry. These stores reflect the town’s commitment to sustainable living and its rich tradition of craftsmanship.
Here you can find a variety of handmade products including organic cotton clothing, natural skincare items, and handcrafted jewellery. Each item you will find in these stores is made with sustainability in mind, often using locally sourced materials and traditional techniques.
Some of the best boutique stores to get souvenir are Kalki, La Boutique d’Auroville, Casablanca, and Aura Experience.
Spot Street Art
Pondicherry is not just about its colonial heritage and serene beaches; it is also a canvas for vibrant street art and graffiti. As you explore the town, especially in areas like the White Town and the Promenade Beach, you’ll come across an array of colourful murals and graffiti that reflect the local culture, history, and contemporary social issues.
These artworks are the best expression of the ethos and vibe of this multi-cultural town, and also one of the best free things to do in Pondicherry.
Enjoy Spectacular Views from Pondicherry Lighthouse
Nothing can beat the aerial view that Pondicherry New Lighthouse offers you. Located about 2 kilometres from Promenade Beach, this lighthouse is open to visitors in the afternoon for the most spectacular panoramic view of the town by the beach.
For a photographer, this is one of the best things to do in Pondicherry as you can see the beach on one side and the backwaters on the other. During the colder months, the backwaters become a host to an array of migratory birds. If you are lucky, you can see their flight from up close from the top of the lighthouse.
Learn Open Water Diving
Scuba diving is one of the most thrilling underwater experiences and if you would like to pursue it with passion, Pondicherry has some great open-water diving learning centres. You can undertake anything from short hourly lessons to full-blown certified courses to become a divemaster at Pondicherry.
The underwater life at Pondicherry is under great threat right now and efforts are being made by conservationists to install artificial reefs along the Pondicherry coastline. If you are a diver already, you may note that Pondicherry is not the perfect underwater scenery, like scuba diving in Maldives.
But the diving schools here are run by expert instructors (some even PADI-certified) and you won’t be disappointed with the skills you learn, which you can then practice in other more pristine locations.
Things to Do in Pondicherry- FAQs
When is the best time to visit Pondicherry?
The best time to visit Pondicherry is from October to March, when the weather is cool and pleasant, making it suitable for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
How to reach Pondicherry?
Pondicherry can be reached by air via Chennai International Airport (about 150 km away), by train to Pondicherry Railway Station, or by road through well-connected highways from major cities like Chennai and Bangalore.
How many days are needed for a Pondicherry trip?
A 3 to 4-day trip is ideal to explore Pondicherry’s main attractions, enjoy its beaches, and experience its unique cultural and culinary offerings.
What is Pondicherry famous for?
Pondicherry is famous for its French colonial architecture, serene beaches, Auroville community, and a unique blend of French and Indian culture and cuisine.
