The Top Things to Do and See in Pondicherry, India

If water sports at the beach are not enough, you can hit the backwaters of the Chunnambar River. The Chunnambar Boat House, situated along the Cuddalore Main Road, offers boat rides along its namesake river. Boating through the serene backwaters is an ethereal experience, complete with stunning views of the verdant beauty and exotic birds in the area. Both pedal and motor boats are available.

Pondy boasts impressive water clarity and a wide range of marine life, which makes it one of the best locations in the country for scuba diving. Plunging to depths of five to 40 metres, the diving sites in the city are perfect for both novices and pros. Divers can come face-to-face with some of the finest sea creatures, including sea snakes, corals, moray eels, triggerfish, manta rays, lionfish, angelfish, parrotfish, kingfish and other aquatic creatures.

The best diving sites in Pondy include Aravind’s Wall, 4 Corners, The Hole, Coral Shark Reef and Temple Reef, with the best organizer being the Temple Adventures, a five-star rated PADI Center. Diving will cost around INR 6000 ($93.96) – INR 9000 ($140.94) per head, which includes two dives in a day.

One of the best spots in Pondy to enjoy the soothing sunset is Ousteri Lake, a man-made lake characterized by mudflats and marshy lands. In addition, the lake is populated with a wide variety of residential and migratory birds, which makes it a paradise for bird lovers. Keep your eyes peeled for golden orioles, egrets, white ibises, openbill storks, greater flamingos and white-breasted water hens.

Established in 1926 by Sri Aurobindo (a renowned spiritual guru) and a French woman, called ‘the Mother’, Sri Aurobindo Ashram is a must-visit for those seeking a spiritual retreat. Retreats here involve different meditation sessions and yoga practices that will transcend you into a state of peace.

One of the most noteworthy museums in Pondy is the Pondicherry Museum, which houses plenty of historical and cultural treasures, ranging from antiquity to the present day. In each of the different rooms, you’ll find an incredible collection of unique and rare stone sculptures and bronzes that belong to the age-old Chola and Pallava dynasties, Pre-Christian relics and artifacts from the Arikamedu Roman settlements and Roman empires, who once lived in the city. There is also a fossil room, a geology room, handicrafts, French furniture and other artifacts.

Architecture and horticulture buffs must definitely visit the Botanical Garden, built in an ornate French style and housing stunning flower beds, pruned trees, fountains, toy train rides, an aquarium and a Japanese rock structure. Covering some 22 acres, the garden comprises 1,500 plant species from across the world. Another highlight is the musical fountain show held every weekend – times vary depending on the season.

Built in 1971, the French War Memorial is a tribute to the brave soldiers who sacrificed their lives in World War I. Every year, on July 14, an annual remembrance is organized to honour the Bravehearts. It is one of the most impressive war memorials in the country.

Located about nine miles from Pondy lies the ‘City of Dawn’, Auroville. It’s a universal town where people from across the world, irrespective of caste, creed, culture or country, live and work together in harmony and peace. This township is the perfect example of ‘unity in diversity’. The town is divided into several zones and the major ones include the Peace Zone, the International Zone and the Residential Zone. The highlight of the Peace Zone is the Matrimandir, where devotees meditate; the Residential Zone is where you can stay among the Aurovillians and the International Zone is comprised of community halls where several events are held on a regular basis. Just spend a day here and soak up the local atmosphere!