PONDICHERRY TRIP PLAN
Sea breeze, French-era streets, temples and Auroville: an easy, unhurried plan for a long weekend.
GETTING THERE
Chennai airport is about 135 km away, roughly a two-and-a-half-hour drive. The coastal East Coast Road is the scenic way in.
DAY 1
The seafront road fills up in the evenings, when much of it is kept for walkers. Look for the Gandhi statue framed by old columns.
DAY 1
Walk past the old lighthouse, the Town Hall and other heritage buildings that line the beach road.
DAY 1
This white memorial on the beach road is a quiet reminder of Pondicherry's French past.
DAY 2
Spend the morning walking old lanes lined with colonial-era churches, convents and heritage villas.
DAY 2
Step inside this graceful church near the seafront. Dress modestly and keep your voice low during services.
DAY 2
This busy Ganesha temple in the old town has a richly carved, colourful tower. Expect crowds at prayer times.
DAY 3
The Matrimandir Viewing Point is free and open daily from 9 am to 5.30 pm. Collect your pass yourself at the Visitors Centre.
PLAN SMART
The Matrimandir Inner Chamber needs online booking days ahead. Paradise Beach is a boat ride from Chunnambar, 8 km south.