Things to do in Puducherry

Puducherry, one of the union territories of the Republic of India, was once a French colony. Situated on the south-eastern coast of India, Puducherry is a treat to your eyes.

It is here that the great revolutionary, philosopher and nationalist- Aurobindo Ghosh – took to spirituality. His followers, mostly from Bengal moved to this serene place. And hence, we find a number of Bengali speaking people in the region. The lifestyle of the people of this beautiful territory is an amalgamation of the French, Tamil and Bengali culture.

If you are planning to visit a new destination that can help you rejuvenate and de-stress, then Puducherry must certainly be on the top of the list.

Here’s taking a look at the top 5 things you must do when in Puducherry:

Visit Aurobindo Ashram and Auroville

Start your day by paying a visit to the serene Ashram of Sri Aurobindo. The Ashram adorned with beautiful flowers will help you rediscover yourself. You will witness the melody of silence as devotees meditate with utmost devotion. The sweet fragrance of the incense sticks will mesmerize you. In the library, one can find inspirational books in various Indian and European languages.

Later in the day, you can head to Auroville, a township around 12 kilometers from Puducherry. The Matrimandir is one of the most celebrated attractions. One can obtain more information about the Mantrimandir from the Information Desk at the Visitors Centre in Auroville. The Matrimandir, is not a tourist spot. You may visit it, if you wish to meditate.

Take a cycle rickshaw ride

Puducherry has all what metropolitan cities don’t. The simple yet comfortable lifestyle will leave you asking for more. Hire a cycle rickshaw and visit every nook and corner. This will help you get familiar with the region. And by doing so, you may come across things that weren’t in your “to-do-list”.

Promenade Beach

The promenade offers a long stretch of rocky beach view where one can sit for hours and enjoy the vast expanse of the ocean and the horizon. The iconic statute of Mahatma Gandhi and the pillar sculptures can be found here.

Plan a date with other iconic places

The Old Lighthouse, Aayi Mandapam, the Botanical Garden are some of the must-visit places in Puducherry. Don’t miss them.

Meet the infinite waves

After you shop and satiate your taste buds, unwind by sitting on the rocky beach to experience the freshness of the breeze from the sea. The never-ending waves and the music that generates as they kiss the shores, will leave you enchanted.   

(Pic courtesy: Thinkstock Photos)