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Have you wanted to go to a place where time seems to stand still, and the natural beauty and purity of air enchant you? A place where French elegance meets Indian culture? If yes, then Pondicherry is the place you are looking for. Loving, known as Pondy, the former French colony exudes a unique charm with its perfect blend of colonial architecture, Tamil traditions, and spiritual sanctuaries.
In this blog, we tell you about some of the places you must visit and where you can go to the top sightseeing spots in Pondicherry and the nearby areas.
The city attracts a lot of travellers and tourists from far and wide and leaves them mesmerised. From strolling through its cobbled streets to enjoying freshly baked baguettes in its vibrant cafes, there is much to do in and around the coastal city.
At Pondicherry, you can walk through French architecture without going to France. Stroll through the French Quarters and return to witness the colonial era. The colonial-style buildings and bougainvillaea-draped facades have a charm of their own. The quaint streets and cafes add to the allure while creating an atmosphere of peace and comfort.
A short distance from the North of Pondicherry lies Auroville- a spiritual oasis. It is a township founded by Mirra Alfassa, who took inspiration from Sri Aurobindo’s spiritual teachings. People come here from all walks of life to live in harmony. Auroville accepts people from any nationality, religion, and creed. As a visitor, you can explore the tranquil ambience, meditate at the spiritual centre, and learn the principles of peace and unity.
Also called Rock Beach, Promenade Beach offers a scenic promenade along the shoreline. The cool sea breeze, the soothing sound of waves, and the majestic Mahatma Gandhi statue create a tranquil environment. You can take leisurely strolls or indulge in the various eateries and souvenir shops while having a perfect seaside day.
Marvel at the brilliant Gothic architecture or attend mass prayers at the Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, a significant religious landmark. With stunning glass windows, high arches, and embellished interiors, the monument exudes a sense of spiritual grandeur.
Besides going to visit the top sightseeing spots in Pondicherry, you can also let loose the shopaholic in you. From handicrafts to dresses and accessories, you have many shopping options. Visit the Aurobindo Ashram’s gift shop, and you can buy handcrafted incense sticks, scented candles, paper products, and clothing made by the ashram’s residents. Other nearby markets include Nehru Street and Mission Street. Here you can buy souvenirs, leather goods, and handicrafts that can become mementoes of the trip.
If you travel a short distance from the main town, you can have a refreshing backwater experience. At the Chunnambar Boat House, visitors can enjoy boat rides on the river. The ride takes you to a beautiful hidden gem, Paradise Beach. This beach’s unspoiled beauty of the golden sand lined with coconut trees makes it a mesmerising spot for picnics, beach games, sunbathing, and other water sports, such as kayaking.
To find peace in nature’s embrace, visit the Botanical Gardens in Pondicherry. Established in the 19th century, the gardens boast many exotic plants, flowers, and ancient trees. Nature lovers love this place for its lush greenery and the peaceful respite from bustling city life.
A short way from Pondicherry is Mahabalipuram’s ancient town, which is famous for its UNESCO world heritage-listed Shore Temples. These stunning temples were cut out from huge rocks that date back to the 7th century. The intricate carvings and remarkable architectural feats glimpse India’s rich cultural heritage.
Pondicherry is also a popular destination for adventure seekers. Almost all the beaches in this coastal town offer an amazing scuba diving experience. If you want to sneak a peek at life underwater and see some ancient shipwrecks, then try scuba diving at Serenity Beach.
Pondicherry is a place that feels like a European town. Enjoy the cobbled streets, freshly baked baguettes, and the city’s spiritual experience. But at the end of the day, you need equally comforting accommodation. OYO family hotels in Pondicherry provide all the essentials such as clean linens, comfy beds, hot water, air conditioning, etc.
You can choose super-affordable 3-star hotels in Pondicherry. OYO offers several categories for every traveller. You can discover OYO rooms, Flagship hotels at prime locations, or luxurious homestays or villas for more privacy. These include Super OYO Flagship Palacial Pondi, Super OYO Flagship Le Pondy Paradise, etc.
OYO’s cheap hotels in Pondicherry welcomes everyone from locals, families, couples, and groups to business travellers and solo travellers. With minimum documentation and hassle-free online booking, we offer you the service of well-trained staff who ensure that you have a memorable stay.
Now that you have read about the must-see places in and around Pondicherry, you should travel to this beloved coastal region to truly experience what makes this city unique and beautiful. Book OYO family hotels in Pondicherry for a pleasant, comfortable, and memorable stay.
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April 15, 2024 
