On this six-hour tour explore the major sights of the former French colony of Pondicherry and visit the unique township of Auroville. Pondicherry, or Puducherry as it is now called, remained under French rule until 1954. Even today, French influence is visible everywhere. Situated at a distance of 7 miles from Pondicherry is Auroville, an experimental township that was founded in 1968 and is today home to people of several nationalities.
Highlights: • French quarter • Statue of Mahatma Gandhi • Bharati Park • Matrimandir • Sri Aurobindo Ashram
As you drive around you will notice the French influence in the facades of the mediterranean style houses, the local bakeries and the roads and avenues. French is still spoken by the locals although English is widely understood. Pondicherry is also referred to as the ‘French Riviera of the East’. Visit the old French quarter and note the contrast with the newly constructed parts of the city. Take in the sights of the long, rough shoreline from the beach promenade. Visit Bharati Park, the green centre of the city. Other major attractions are Government Park, the Botanical Gardens and the Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Go to Gandhi Mandappam which has the tallest statue of Mahatma Gandhi in the country.
People from over 50 nations of the world reside here and the architecture of the township reflects this universality. Visit Matrimandir, a golden flower shaped meditation centre and spend some time in silent contemplation. Auroville is not a destination but a way of life. Get an insight into the lifestyle of this community at the Sri Aurobindo ashram. After the end of the tour enjoy lunch at a local restaurant (beverage excluded). After lunch you will be driven back to your hotel.
We may pick up travelers from city center hotels / fixed point wiithin city limits. In case pick up is outside central points extra cost shall applicable subject to distance applicable.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Browse Pondicherry by category - skip-the-line tickets, walking tours, day trips, food experiences & more