by If you want to visit in Pondicherry and confused where to go, then this article is for you. In this article, You can get all the good information about Famous Places In Pondicherry.
About Pondicherry
Pondicherry is a gorgeous coastal city in the South India. Pondicherry is one of the most popular tourist spots in India and its attractions are numerous. It is one of those places you can be in and out of in a matter of hours but leave with a lifetime worth of memories.The city has a highly educated population. Pondicherry is an ideal place to relax. It has a warm, friendly atmosphere and is a wonderful place to spend your holidays. It consists a mixture of French and Indian culture, with lots to offer for both tourists and residents.
Here Is The List Of 17 Most Famous Places In Pondicherry
1) Arikamedu
Arikamedu is Pondicherry’s top attraction. It was the seaport of the Puducherry Naval Base and it is a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site today. The ancient town is attracting tourists from all over the world. The Arikamedu is near the present-day Pondicherry, about 5 km from the center. The site is well preserved and protected, although little excavations have been done so far.The site has a large Buddhist stupa in the center with smaller stupas surrounding it. There are ruins of mud houses and streets that can be viewed in the site today (picture).
2) The Pondicherry Museum
Located on the Promenade de la Marina, this museum was established in 1857 and has exhibits of archaeological artifacts and historical items. There is also a collection of old coins, fossils and epigraphs with several hundred lithographs depicting local life. There is also a replica of the first motor car made in India and another room devoted to Tamil literature. It is quite an interesting place to visit with its mix of artifacts from ancient times to more recent times as well as religious artifacts.
3) The Aurobindo Ashram
This is a place for spiritual people in Pondicherry who want to seclude themselves from the rest of the world. The Aurobindo Ashram was established by the philosopher Sri Aurobindo on 31 December 1926. It serves as a spiritual community where its residents follow yoga, meditation, discipline and self-realization. The ashram is located towards the back of Promenade Road near Nehru Street and it is open to public only on Sundays.
4) The Gandhi Statue
The statue of Mahatma Gandhi was installed by the French government in 1947 near the Sri Aurobindo Ashram and it shows Gandhi standing in meditation posture with a small spinning wheel in his hand. The statue was moved to its current location at the Esplanade along the Promenade Road in 1957 after being placed there temporarily for five years. It was sculpted by the famous French sculptor Alfred Jarry. There is also a small museum located close by which exhibits photos and quotes of Gandhi in its visitors’ book.
5) Chunnambar Boathouse
Chunnambar Boathouse is an experience well worth the drive to Pondicherry. This place is located on the shores of Nagapattinam, and it offers a different kind of peace and tranquillity. Visitors can enjoy a scenic sunset while they sit by one of the ponds or head to the restaurant for some fresh seafood. The more adventurous might want to try out some of the thrilling boat rides that are offered here. This place is quite popular among local students who come here to enjoy the cool breeze and drink in the view of the water.
6) Ousteri Lake
Ousteri Lake is a natural lake in Pondicherry. It is a popular tourist destination for the locals. The lake has a beautiful shape and it’s surrounded by lush green trees all around. Tickets are sold to enter, but the place is worth visiting because of all the things you can do there like, Art Gallery, Food Resort, and Barbeque Area. You can find many animals near the lake too like turtles and fish. The lake is also a popular picnic spot and it’s one of the best spots to spend a lovely day at.
7) The Botanical Gardens of Pondicherry
The Botanical Gardens of Pondicherry Located near the bridge connecting Pondicherry with neighbouring Puducherry, the Botanical Gardens are a peaceful oasis in the bustling city. It is one of the favorite local places to visit and not only because of its beautiful scenery overlooking a large beach and sea-side park, but also because it overlooks various parks and beaches as well. There are different zones in the park such as the jungle area, medicinal plants and also an orchidarium. There is a large variety of plants and trees to see here as well as an outdoor theater serving mostly cultural programs. Visit this place on a sunny day to enjoy the fresh sea breeze and have a picnic!
8) Jawahar Toy Museum
Jawahar Toy Museum is one of the most entertaining places to visit in Pondicherry. If you are looking for new experiences and engaging activities, this is the place for you. It is an interactive museum designed to open up children’s minds in a whole new way! It was founded by Mrs. Sarojini Naidoo and the collection of toys is her contribution to the city. The museum takes visitors on a journey through the world of children, with interactive activities that allow them to appreciate each and every piece in a unique way.
9) Eglise de Notre Dame des Anges
Eglise de Notre Dame des Anges is a Roman Catholic church located in the French Quarter of Pondicherry, India. Constructed by the French during their colonial rule in India, Apart from being a great attraction for sightseeing, this church is also known for its architecture and French stained glass windows. Being the city’s oldest church, it has held prominence as a tourist place to visit in Pondicherry. The church is located across from the Town Hall and near the Minstry of Tourism and Culture. Standing on a small hill, it is one of the most prominent landmarks in Pondicherry.
10) Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus
Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus is one of the oldest churches in Pondicherry. It is located on an island near the sea, and is a must visit during your time in India. The church has been restored multiple times over the years and features stained glass windows from Europe and Asia. The church is also the burial site for Francis Xavier, one of the earliest missionaries to India.
11) French War Memorial
French War Memorial is an eye catching monument and One of the most visited destinations in Pondicherry, French War Memorial is built in memory of the French soldiers who fought during the First World War and died defending their motherland. The memorial is a tribute to the courage and selflessness that made Pondicherry a French colony for about 3 centuries. This monument was erected to remember their bravery and sacrifice.
12) Manakula Vinayagar Temple
Manakula Vinayagar Temple is a Hindu temple and monument in Pondicherry, India. It is one of the temples in India that is dedicated to Lord Ganesha, who is called here by the Tamil name Vinayaka. It was built during the period when French East India Company assumed control over Pondicherry. The temple is located on the road to backside of the General Post Office and is open to public.
13) Auroville
Auroville is a unique city in Pondicherry that is built on a futuristic model of living and community. Auroville has been 30 years old and it’s plans are to continue expanding with more self-sufficient communities. . The city is designed according to the principles of “poverty and making,” as dictated by Aurobindo Ghosh, who wished for his vision to come alive through architecture and lifestyle. This city was built so that people from around the world can share their culture, ideas, and make their contributions to this unique city
14) Old Lighthouse
Located in Pondicherry, Old Lighthouse is only a 15-minute drive from downtown. This place provides great views of colonial architecture and great picnic spots. Old Lighthouse was the first lighthouse constructed in India in 1788, and it has now been converted into a museum dedicated to the history of India’s first lighthouse.
Beaches – Famous Places In Pondicherry
15) Paradise Beach
Paradise Beach is the most visited beach in Pondicherry. It is a famed sandy shore surrounded by a serene lagoon. The powder-soft white sand and clear waters attract many tourists all year round, but the beach gets particularly crowded during high seasons such as the summer holiday season or weekends. Another popular attraction is the fish feeding nearby. There are some rest rooms and cafés along the beach. Paradise Beach hosts a number of water sports activities such as kitesurfing, windsurfing and jet skiing. Visitors can also enjoy horse riding and camel rides.
16) Auroville Beach
Auroville Beach is a great place to visit in Pondicherry, India, if you want to relax by the beach and get away from the urban hustle. The white sand beach is great for swimming a lot of people besides locals can enjoy this spot as it is one of the few good beaches in the area. If you are looking for something fun to do in Pondicherry, a beach holiday is always a great idea.
Auroville Beach Resort (France) which is right next to Auroville Yoga Hall is an excellent choice as it offers comfortable rooms with sea view and free breakfast.
17) Rock Beach
Rock Beach is an amazing place to visit for anyone who wants to see a beautiful sunset as well as sunrise on the beach. The sunset views here are second to none, where the colors on the horizon will amaze you. The rock formations are truly amazing and will keep you occupied for hours. The view from the lighthouse is amazing because of the sea as well as marine life. You will find many small fish in the water, which can be intriguing for amateur fishermen. For nature enthusiasts and beach lovers, Rock Beach is a must visit destination when you come to Pondicherry.
From Writer
This article is just meant as an introduction to Pondicherry, and there are many Famous Places In Pondicherry. that you can see during your trip. Hope you like this article and share with your loved ones and If you have wanderlust and live to explore, there’s a lot to get excited about in this blog. you can read about places on Travel Tricky
