The French capital of India, Pondicherry, is a place that provides tranquillity and holiness in the truest sense. The peaceful city draws tourists from all over the world to its French-inspired urban design. 

You shouldn’t need to scramble to find things to do in Pondicherry besides sightseeing because the little tourist destination has much to offer to make your vacation exciting. 

The range of experiences you may have here will surprise you. No matter who you go with or what you’re looking for, Pondicherry will never let the adventurer in you down!

How to reach Pondicherry?

By Air:

Pondicherry Airport (PNY) is the entry point for domestic travellers, while for foreigners, Chennai International Airport (MAA) is the nearest airport. You may opt for SpiceJet or IndiGo airlines from Pondicherry Airport as they are the majority available. Public transport is available to reach different parts of the city.

By Rail:

Pondicherry is well-connected to various cities across India via Puducherry Railway Station (PDY). It operates daily trains to Chennai, in addition to other short and long-distance trains to cities like New Delhi, Bangalore, Kolkata, Mumbai and Mangalore. Located just 4 km away from the city centre, the station offers easy connectivity to the rest of the city by bus, taxi or auto rickshaw.

Major train stations in Pondicherry: Puducherry (PDY), Karaikal (KIK)

By Road:

The city has a strong network of expressways and highways, owing to which travellers from nearby cities and states can easily reach here. East Coast Road (ECR), Grand Southern Trunk Road (GST) and National Highway 32 are some of the major thoroughfares passing through the city. For those who are planning to reach the city by bus, Pondicherry Bus Station serves as the main entrance.

Interstate bus terminal and major bus station of Pondicherry: New Bus Stand

15 Things to do in Pondicherry

Check out this list of places (with images) to get a wonderful experience in Pondicherry.

Scuba Diving in Pondicherry

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Anyone visiting Pondicherry should engage in the thrilling pastime of scuba diving. The Bay of Bengal’s flawless shoreline is home to crystal blue seas, ideal for scuba diving and exploring the fascinating underwater flora and animals. 

Tourist scuba diving is carried out by PADI-qualified divers who instruct you on the fundamentals and also assist you in having a mesmerising time and experiencing the untamed beauty below. One of the finest things to do in Pondicherry is scuba diving, which is ideal for both novice and expert divers and runs from 5m to 40m.

Depth: Up to 30 metres

Cost: Rs 5,200 onwards

Difficulty: Beginner – Advanced

Water Visibility: 20 – 30 metres depending upon the weather

Best Time to Visit: Any season except for monsoons

Water Body: Bay of Bengal

See also: Top 15 tourist places in Pondicherry

Ferry Ride to Paradise Beach

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Paradise Beach, sometimes referred to as the Plage Paradiso, is located near Chunnambar, close to Pondicherry town. This well-known beach, high in demand and decorated with golden sand that is constantly swayed by a cool sea wind. 

To ride a ferry over the backwaters is one of the most thrilling things to do in Pondicherry, to get to this somewhat remote beach. The ferry ride takes around 20 to 30 minutes.

How to Reach: Speed boats or small ferries carrying 40 or 80 passengers at a time can take you to this beach. You can take a taxi/auto to get to the pick point.

The trip is managed by the government agency only. Beware of agent frauds who would promise to take you privately. 

Beach Timings: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm

It is advisable to reach early at the pick point as it sometimes takes 1-2 hours to buy tickets. 

The ferry takes up to 25-30 minutes to take you to the beach.

Fare:

Rs. 200 per person for a round trip.

+ Rs. 10 for the beach entry fee

+ Rs. 20 for the still camera

+ Rs. 40 for the video camera

Houseboat Ride in Chunnambar Backwaters

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In Pondicherry, boating is among the most fun things, and there are several boating alternatives available. However, for the most incredible boating adventure, we heartily recommend Chunnambar backwaters, which guarantees you a cool and thrilling trip. 

You may choose between paddle boats, rowing boats, or motorboats at the Chunnambar boathouse and have a tour of the area while travelling on the tranquil blue waters, admiring its captivating beauty. 

Here, you may take a sunbath, unwind, or perhaps engage in some nature photography to save this wonderful location in your photos.

Timings: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm

Time Required: Would take around 2- 3 hours. 

Entry Fee: 

• Adults- Rs. 5
• Children (between 4 years and 8 years)- Rs. 3

Best Time: January to March and September and December.

How to Reach: Situated 7 km from Pondicherry, on the Cuddalore Main Road, you would find the houseboat rides. Auto or bus is easier for transportation here. 

Explore Arikamedu

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Arikamedu, an old Roman trading centre concealed from the eyes and ears of the commonest Tamil visitors, is located less than a half-hour drive from Pondicherry, a former French colonial settlement. 

One of the must-do activities in Pondicherry is a visit to the historic town. From the first century BC to the second century AD, this port town was inhabited by the Romans, the Cholas, and the French and served as a renowned nautical centre. The mother of all bead centres worldwide is said to be Arikamedu’s glass bead manufacturing facility.

Distance: 4km 

Timings: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm

Time Required: 2-3 hrs

Entry Fee: No entry fee

Best Time to Visit: October-March

How to Reach: The site might not be on the map routes of the travel agencies because it is not a frequently-visited place. So hire a car for this purpose separately if you want to. If the driver does not know the exact location, you can use GPS to guide him. It is only 4 kilometres from Pondicherry and will not take long, but locating the spot of the gate might be a task.

Auroville Ashram

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The Auroville Ashram, also known as the “Universal Town,” is an experimental township to build a place where people from all over the globe may come and coexist in harmony. 

The Aurobindo Ashram, established in 1926 by Sri Aurobindo and a follower of Shri Aurobindo, the French Lady is known as “Maa” or “The Mother,” is a place where you may unwind and soothe your spirit. 

The Ashram should unquestionably be on your list of the best things to do in Pondicherry. The Indian government sponsored the initiative, and UNESCO recognised it as “a project of importance to the future of mankind” in a resolution it adopted in 1966. In 1968, the town was formally established.

Best Time to Visit: November-March

How to Reach: It is 10 km from the city centre, suitable transportation is available. 

Upon arrival in Pondicherry, you can look for an auto-rickshaw ride or book a direct taxi from Ola/Uber to reach the Auroville township.

Timings: 9 am to 5 pm

Visit	Timings
Concentration in one of the Petal Meditation Rooms	9:30 am to 10:45 am
Concentration time in the Inner Chamber	9:35 am to 10:05 am
Information Desk at the Visitors Centre (Tuesdays are closed for booking)	9:00 am – 1:00 pm and 1:30 pm – 5:00 pm
Last entry allowed into the Inner Chamber	9:45 AM
Matrimandir timings for bookings	10:00 am to 11:00 am and 2:00 pm to 3:00 pm everyday, except Tuesdays.
Passes at the Visitors Centre	Monday to Saturday: 9:00 am – 4:00 pm & Sunday: 9:00 am – 1:00 pm only

Picnics by the Beach

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Every beach in Pondicherry is stunning in its unique manner, and they all offer you an exceptional experience. You may go to beaches like Auroville Beach, Mahe Beach, Paradis Beach, Promenade Beach, and others and organise a lovely lunch there. 

In reality, beach hopping allows you to visit many beaches in a single day, which is one of the fascinating activities in Pondicherry to fully appreciate each beach’s natural beauty and tranquillity. Eat some local specialities at nearby restaurants or stores, or stay in beach huts for a longer dosage of “Vitamin Sea.”

Visit the French War Memorial to pay respect

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The French War Memorial is a splendour building on Goubert Avenue that honours the First World War soldiers who sacrificed their lives fighting for their country.

An annual commemorative event is performed here on July 14th, and during it, the monument is exquisitely lit. All visitors will have a good experience at this monument.

Timings: 10 am to 5 pm

Entry Fee: Rs 10

Best Time to Visit: October-March

How to Reach: Book a cab to travel around Puducherry. You can also board ‘tuk-tuks’ or an auto rickshaw. 

Indulge in Pondicherry’s Delectable Street Food

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If you don’t sample the delicious meals here, your journey to Pondicherry will be incomplete. There are many places to dine in Pondicherry, which is a heaven for foodies. Everyone should taste the cuisine offered on the street carts and little eateries since it is so good and irresistible. 

In Pondicherry, you may savour the tangy, hot street cuisine to the fullest and get a flavorful explosion with every bite. Samosas, Pani Puri, Bonda, Masala Puri, Crab Masala Fry, and many more local cuisines are among the finest to try. Are you already feeling peckish? Grab a plate and fill it up!

Bird Watching at Ousteri Lake

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The most scenic and significant freshwater man-made lake in the Pondicherry region is Ousteri Lake, also known as Osudu Lake. The lake is made up of marshy plains and mudflats, and the International Union for Conservation of Nature & Natural Resources, or IUCN, has named it one of Asia’s major wetlands.

Due to its breathtaking sunset views, the lake in Pondicherry is one of the most beautiful places to visit. 

To witness the breathtaking splendour of the morning sun is one of the best things to do in Pondicherry. The wetlands and lake areas also have high biodiversity. As a result, both migratory and resident birds may be seen in the area. For birdwatchers and those who appreciate the outdoors, Ousteri Lake is heaven!

Timings: 9 am to 5 pm

Best Time to Visit: October -March

How to Reach: The lake is situated 10 km from the Pondicherry bus stand, and you can quickly reach it by hopping on a cab or a local rickshaw.

Fees: Ousteri Lake / Oussudu Lake Pondicherry Boat Ride Price

Type of Boat	Seating Capacity of the Boat	Trip Duration	Charges (in Rs)
Motor Boat	1 person (Adults)	Short Trip (15 Mins)	100
Motor Boat	1 person (Adults)	Long Trip (Half Hour)	180
Motor Boat	1 person (Children 5 to 10 yrs)	Short Trip (15 Mins)	60
Motor Boat	1 person (Children 5 to 10 yrs)	Long Trip (Half Hour)	100
Pedal Boat	2	Short Trip (Half Hour)	100
Pedal Boat	2	Long Trip (One Hour)	180
Pedal Boat	4	Short Trip (Half Hour)	180
Pedal Boat	4	Long Trip (One Hour)	360
Rowing Boat	2	Short Trip (Half Hour)	100
Rowing Boat	2	Long Trip (One Hour)	180
Kayak	1 (Adults)	Short Trip (Half Hour)	90
Kayak	1 (Adults)	Long Trip (One Hour)	180

Immaculate Conception Cathedral

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Eglise de Notre Dame de la Conception of the Immaculate Conception Cathedral is a beautiful house of worship. Immaculee Church was built in 1686. It is a Capuchin church dedicated to St. Peter that was formerly a little chapel outside the government park. 

In actuality, it was the lone surviving building during the British invasion, which had the wholesale destruction of structures and monuments as its goal. From Monday through Saturday, the mass is held here from 5:15 to 6:15 am, and on Sundays, it starts at 5:00 pm.

Timings: 7 am to 12 pm and 3:00 pm to 8:30 pm

Best Time to Visit: October-March

Goubert Avenue

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The Goubert Avenue beach road is the ideal place for some fun and unusual activities to do in Pondicherry with kids, such as strolling and leisurely wandering. Pondicherry is located on the coast. 

Even young couples running together may be seen on the avenue. Tourists may be seen swarming the seashore, especially around sunrise and sunset. This is among the top recreational activities in Pondicherry in December when the climate is at its most agreeable.

From 6:30 pm. to 7:30 am., vehicles are prohibited from moving along Pondicherry’s seashore to guarantee that tourists may roam about freely and without interruption.

Timings: 10 am to 10 pm

Best Time to Visit: October to March

Seek blessings at Pondicherry Churches

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Unquestionably, one of the best things to do in Pondicherry is to visit one of the magnificent cathedrals. Many churches are truly architectural marvels with interiors that are unmatched and feature Gothic, French, and other styles. 

Hallelujah Assembly of God Church, Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, Our Lady of Lourdes Shrine, Immaculate Conception Cathedral, St Andrew’s Church, Our Lady of Angels Church, and more places are among Pondicherry’s top churches. Each of these churches has distinctive patterns and building styles that are quite alluring.

Timings: 

• Monday to Saturday: 6 am to 6 pm 
• Sunday: 8 am – 6:30 pm

Best Time to Visit: October to March

How to reach: Located north from the city centre is The Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus , close to Pondicherry Train Station. Local transportation is most feasible to get around. 

Day of the Week Mass	Timings
Monday to Saturday Mass	5:30 am, 12:00 Noon & 6:00 pm
Sunday Mass	Morning: 5:30 am & 7:30 am Mass (Tamil), 8:45 am to 9:30 am Catechism (Tamil), Noon (Tamil) Evening: 4 pm to 5 pm Catechism (English), 5:15 pm Mass (English) & 6:15 pm Mass (Tamil)

Visit Ancient Sri Manakula Vinayagar Temple

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An ancient Ganesha temple with a history dating back nearly five centuries is known as Sri Manakula Vinayagar Temple. The sanctuary, which is located behind the Raj Niwas, is home to a large Vinayaka statue known as Vellakkaran Pillai.

Timings: 5:45 am – 12:30 pm; 4:00 pm – 9:30 pm

Best Time to Visit: October to March

Don’t Miss the Nightlife in Pondicherry

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Pondicherry’s vibrant and captivating nightlife is among the top things to do there. You may go out with your family or friends and spend the night at one of the many cafés, bars, or fine-dining restaurants while enjoying delectable cuisine and fantastic beverages. 

You may even get on the dance floor and dance till you’re exhausted or just take in the music, cuisine, and atmosphere. 

Some of the best party places in Pondicherry, where you can experience the nightlife at venues like Asat, Paradise Lounge, Zero House, Bamboo Bar, and others.

Pondicherry Lighthouse

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One of Pondicherry’s notable monuments is the Lighthouse. Pondy, the French Riviera of the East, boasts both a modern and an antique lighthouse. The latter serves as the location for presenting its guests with the most stunning bird’s eye perspective of the city, while the former has been closed to the public.

Timings: 9 am to 5 pm

Entry Fee: Rs 10

Best Time to Visit: November to February

How to reach: This lighthouse around Pondicherry is on the seafront, near the city centre. The lighthouse, as well as the beach, is popular among the local people and tourists. And it’s connected well to all parts of Pondicherry via road.

It is only a km away from the railway station and 3 km away from the main bus stand. And from the Pondicherry Airport, the lighthouse is 8 km away.

By bicycles/motorcycles – In Pondicherry, you can find bicycles and motorcycles for hire in many places. One-day hire or only a few hours at nominal rates is available.

By auto/cycle-rickshaws – Auto-rickshaws and cycle-rickshaws are also readily available all over Pondicherry. And it takes only a few minutes to Pondicherry Lighthouse from most areas of the city because of its proximity to the city centre.

By taxis/cabs – Taxis are the most comfortable medium to visit Pondicherry Lighthouse and other sites.

FAQs

Which activities are the most popular in Pondicherry?

The most popular activities in Pondicherry are a full-day sightseeing tour, scuba diving with snorkelling, paintball, fishing with the locals, a private midnight cruise with dinner, and a day at Auroville.

Is Pondicherry secure at night?

At night, Pondy is entirely secure. However, all shops, taverns, and restaurants close at 11:00 p.m. As a result, Pondy has no nightlife. If you're looking for anything with a similar nightlife to Goa, look elsewhere.

How do I get around Pondicherry?

Since Auroville and Paradise beach are some of the biggest attractions but are located outside of the main town, many people in Pondicherry prefer to rent their motorcycles and vehicles. Many taxis and shared cars may take you to and from the main promenade if you don't want to drive yourself.