Planning A Trip To Pondicherry? Make Sure You Check These 10 Must Dos Off Your List

It can be hard to determine what to do and what not to do in this beautiful place with a plethora of activities. Well, fear not! We've got you covered, from water sports to sightseeing and heritage, this will be your ultimate guide when in Pondy. 

1. Try Adventurous Watersports

The numerous beaches make Pondy a fine place for water sports like Scuba Diving, Backwater Sailing, Kayaking, Surfing and Canoeing. Go ahead and let the adventure begin as you explore what the giant sea has in store for you. 

Places We Recommend | Paradise Beach & Karaikal Beach

2. Relax At The Beautiful Beaches 

Pondy is all about the beaches, beautiful sunsets and thrilling water sports. Extremely clean, well-maintained and naturally preserved, these beaches will surely have a calming effect on you! Not very crowded, they make for the perfect places to relax, soak in the crystal clear waters while you enjoy a surreal sunrise/sunset!

Beaches We Recommend | Paradise Beach & Rock Beach

3. Watch The Serene Sunrise

Well, this is the perfect way to begin your day! There’s nothing more beautiful and flawless than a sunrise and the solitude that comes along with it is priceless. Get up a bit early to enjoy this sight accompanied by the quietude of the beach. And don't forget to carry your cameras along!

Where To Go | Seaside Promenade, Serenity Beach & Rock Beach 

4. A Trip To The Seaside Promenade 

The Seaside Promenade is a hub in itself! With its little cafes and monuments and the rich flora and wonderful cliffs in the backdrop makes for a fun-filled evening! The streets are lined with Portuguese architecture and restaurants that will make your holiday blissful with their authentic local food and delicious drinks - cheers to that! 

Cafes We Recommend | The Lighthouse, Cafe Des Arts & The Indian Kaffe Express 

5. Embrace The Historical Past At These Museums

Picture Credits: Rajesh muthalraj

Pondicherry has a rich and unique history of its Portugal, Dutch and French rule. The amalgamation of these nations’ culture with the Indian culture is aptly depicted in its many glorious museums. So relive the ancient and modern history of Pondicherry at these beautiful museums and lose yourself in its stories.

Museums We Recommend | The Puducherry Museum in White Town, Jawahar Toy Museum in Goubert Ave & Visvesvaraya Industrial & Technological Museum on Kasturba Rd

6. Take A Walk Through The Botanical Garden

The exotic and visually appealing plants from all over the world, a dancing fountain and a huge aquarium make these gardens all the more interesting and fascinating. Lose yourself in the lap of nature and some skilful botany at this amazing spot. 

Location | Maraimalai Adigal Salai, Near Anna Statue, Orleanpet
Timings | 9 AM-6 PM Everyday

7. Get Spiritual At Sri Aurobindo Ashram

Steal some spiritual moments inside the quiet boundaries of this pristine ashram. Its contemporary architecture and a simple, neat environment make it ideal for a spiritual session of meditation and self-introspection. So reflect on your life or simply enjoy the surroundings at this divine place.

Location | No. 9, Near Junction of Manakula Vinayagar, Kovil Street and Marine Street, White Town, Marine Street

8. Roam Through The French Streets

Being once annexed by the French, Pondicherry has been bestowed with the precious gift of French architecture. Entering its streets is like looking through the window to a Parisian lane. Just take a walk through this part of town with French villas and let your artistic side be impressed.

9. Gorge On Delish Seafood

Pondi is the hub for some fantastic seafood. The food is deliciously fresh and articulately prepared by the local restaurants. The freshly caught lobsters and fish are cooked to perfection by the chefs and served with a variety of chilled cocktails and mocktails. Savour your yummy meals with a chilled beer while enjoying the views of the sea.

Places We Recommend | Theevu Plage on Serenity Beach, Le Club on Dumas St & Bay Of Buddha in White Town

10. Worship The Mighty Elephants At This Majestic Temple

Picture Credits: Sraban Pattnaik

Arulmigu Manakula Vinayagar Temple is home to majestic elephants who are believed to grant wishes to all its worshippers. This is a must-visit place due to its ornate carvings and magnificent architecture that will take your breath away.

Location | Manakula Vinayagar Koil Street, Opp Governor Office

This list is for y’all - adrenaline junkies, spiritual peace-seekers or good ol’ lovers of sightseeing!