PONDICHERRY TRIP PLAN

Pondicherry in 3 Days

Sea breeze, French-era streets, temples and Auroville: an easy, unhurried plan for a long weekend.

GETTING THERE

Reaching Pondicherry

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

Evening on the Promenade

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

Old Lighthouse and Seafront

Walk past the old lighthouse, the Town Hall and other heritage buildings that line the beach road.

DAY 1

The French War Memorial

This white memorial on the beach road is a quiet reminder of Pondicherry's French past.

DAY 2

Heritage Streets on Foot

Spend the morning walking old lanes lined with colonial-era churches, convents and heritage villas.

DAY 2

Inside Our Lady of Angels

Step inside this graceful church near the seafront. Dress modestly and keep your voice low during services.

DAY 2

Manakula Vinayagar Temple

This busy Ganesha temple in the old town has a richly carved, colourful tower. Expect crowds at prayer times.

DAY 3

Auroville and the Matrimandir

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

Book Ahead, Then Unwind

The Matrimandir Inner Chamber needs online booking days ahead. Paradise Beach is a boat ride from Chunnambar, 8 km south.