Top Visiting Places in Pondicherry for tourists
Top Visiting Places in Pondicherry for tourists

Top Visiting Places in Pondicherry for tourists

Pondicherry is an idyllic tourist haven and a quiet and peaceful retreat away from the bustling lifestyle of cities. Besides, the numerous historical landmarks and natural attractions that can be visited in a day or two, await you. In this article, I will make you familiar with top visiting places in Pondicherry for tourists especially.

1. Paradise Beach

Top Visiting Places in Pondicherry for tourists

Paradise Beach is perhaps the most beautiful beach in Pondicherry. Located where the Chunnambar River meets the Bay of Bengal, the beach is inaccessible by road and can only be reached via a five-minute ferry ride from the boathouse. The beach is well equipped with lifeguards and despite its remoteness, there are a few restaurants and eateries. Paradise Beach is not only bigger than other beaches in Pondy, it is also one of the emptiest and cleanest beaches in the Union Territory.

2. Auroville

Top Visiting Places in Pondicherry for tourists

An important architectural landmark in the region surrounding Pondicherry, this golden meditation temple is located right in the middle of Auroville and acts as a de facto center of the entire town. While entry into the golf ball-shaped Matrimandir is open only to Aurovillians, visitors who register a day in advance can go to the viewing point near the structure.

3. Arikamedu

Arikamedu,

Visit Arikamedu, the only city with an archaeological record of Roman presence in India. Famous for manufacturing amazing bead jewelry, the glass beads site here was considered as the “mother of all bead centers” in the world. Know more about this lesser explored place of India.

4. Basilica of the Scared Heart of Jesus

Top Visiting Places in Pondicherry for tourists

Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, situated on the south boulevard of Pondicherry in Puducherry, India, is an oriental specimen of Gothic architecture. It contains rare stained glass panels depicting events from the life of Christ and saints of the Catholic Church.

5. Botanical Garden

Botanical Garden

The historical Botanical Gardens is truly a nature lover’s delight. Constructed in the early 19th century by French colonists, the gardens house over 1500 species of plants covering an area of 22 hectares. The common flora seen here are the several different species of roses, along with bright orchids and jasmines. Kids would absolutely enjoy the fascinating train ride inside the Children’s Park.

6. Pondicherry Lighthouse

Pondicherry lighthouse

The Lighthouse is one of the remarkable landmarks in Pondicherry. The French Riviera of the East, Pondy has two lighthouses, an old one and the new one. Where the former has been closed for public appearance the latter serves as the spot for giving its visitors the most amazing bird’s eye view of the city. 

7. Jawahar Toy Museum

Jawahar Toy Museum

An ideal place for kids, Jawahar Toy Museum is a well maintained place situated at the old light house building near Gandhi Maidan. The museum houses a wide range of dolls and toys collected from all over the country.

8. Raj Niwas

Raj Niwas

Raj Nivas, built during the 18th century is well-known as the ‘Palais du Government’. It is a harmonious blend of French and Indian architecture. It was once the location of the Hotel de la Compagnie and later played host to Dupleix.

The complex has an attractive water monument placed inside the middle of a well-maintained garden. Skillfully carved wooden pillars surround the courtyard and decorated stonework of European design support the first floor terrace. Two canons are exhibited on either side of the main gate.

It is now the Lieutenant Governor’s residence. Legislative Assembly of Pondicherry is also present within the confines of the Raj Niwas.

9. Immaculate Conception Cathedral

Top Visiting Places in Pondicherry for tourists

The Immaculate Conception Cathedral is one of the most defining landmarks of Puducherry. The architecture of the Cathedral can mesmerize any onlooker, the tranquil location will make anyone want to come back and the breathtaking interiors will coerce you to not step out.

10. The Statue of Dupleix

Top Visiting Places in Pondicherry for tourists

The statue was built in 1870 in the honour of Dupleix, a French Governor who ruled Pondicherry till 1754. It is made of granite and is positioned at the end of Rock Beach. If you are interested in the history of the French colonial rule over Pondicherry, this statue is a must-visit. 

  • Location: Goubert Avenue
  • Timings: 24 hours

Summary

From various water sports adventures place around the tranquil beaches to the town’s colonial heritage, vacationers can keep themselves entertained throughout and make the most of their holiday.

About the author

Shruti Goel

View all posts

1 Comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *