Pondicherry or Puducherry, also known as Pondy, is one of the most beautiful coastal towns in India. It has got a mix of French colonial culture, colorful beaches, religious retreats and relaxed cafes and that is what makes this tiny Union Territory a magic. Pondicherry is that destination that makes your experience refreshing and inspiring, whether you want to spend time at a calming beach resort, explore the cultural aspects or a foodie heaven.

In case you have been longing to a coastal vacation which is international and yet very Indian, this Coromandal Coast city must be on your list. And the good news? On HappyEasyGo, it is now easier to plan your trip because of cheap flights and simply booking your flight. All you need is to take your flight ticket, pack your bags and be prepared to take a journey of a lifetime.

The best things to do in Pondicherry to make the coastal getaway perfect are the following:

Take a walk in the French Quarter

The French quarter also called White Town is the center stage of Pondicherry. Visualize mustard-yellow colonial houses, bougainvillea-covered walls and narrow lanes that will take you to an Asian town in Europe. It is as though you are walking in a living post card.

Highlights:

See the French War memorial and Joan of Arc.

Marvel at old buildings that are transformed into boutique hotels, galleries and cafes.

Take instagram-worthy photographs on color streets such as the Rue Romain Rolland.

Hack: Reserve your Flights early enough in advance so that you can secure yourself in one of these heritage stays as they sell out fast during peak seasons.

Relax at Promenade Beach

The visit to Pondicherry is not complete without morning or evening at Promenade Beach. The one and half kilometer walk is perfect to walk and watch waves crashing on one side and historic landmarks on the other.

Things to do:

Observe the sunrise together with local people and tourists.

Landmarks such as Mahatma Gandhi statue, Old Lighthouse and French War Memorial.

The beachfront is lively in the evenings due to food and cultural performances.

It is a location where the sea breath will blow all your concerns.

Visit Auroville – The City of Dawn

Only a few minutes away from the city is an experimental township called Auroville, which draws world peace and spiritual seekers. The Matrimandir, a golden spherical meditation hall, is at the heart of it and is shining in the sun.

Why visit?

Get a guided tour and get to know what Auroville is all about.

shop at organic markets and environmentally friendly boutiques.

Attend meditation classes or yoga retreats.

You are feeling like you need a slower rhythm, Auroville will give you an opportunity to reconnect with yourself.

Go Beach Hopping

Pondicherry is a lucky city and it has so many different beaches with different vibe.

Paradise Beach: It is an accessible bay that can be reached via a short boat ride, and is a good spot to enjoy soft sands and the lack of crowds.

The serenity beach: This is a popular beach among the surfers and those who prefer to have a relaxed atmosphere.

Rock Beach: The rocky shoreline with a colorful promenade is popular here.

Bring sunscreen, a good book and allow the seaside serenity to settle in. And of course, get your flight reservations done when the weather is at its best at the beach, and that is October through March.

Relish the Cafe Culture at Pondicherry

Pondicherry will spoil you in case you are a foodie. Every side street has its story to tell, starting with bakeries of French descent to weird rooftop cafes.

Must-try cafes:

Cafe des Arts to get the old times with Nutella crepes.

The only 24×7 seaside cafe is Le Cafe.

Baker Street to get fresh baguettes and croissants.

It is the type of city whose favorite thing to do is to sit and enjoy sipping a cappuccino, as the world passes by.

See the Sri Aurobindo Ashram

One of the most popular destinations in Pondicherry is this spiritual community created by Sri Aurobindo and The Mother. The ashram is famous due to its serene atmosphere and every year it embraces thousands of seekers.

Highlights:

Samadhi of Sri Aurobindo and The Mother, covered with flowers.

Meditation rooms where you can take a break and have deep breaths.

Book stores where you can get books on philosophy and spirituality.

It is peaceful even when you are not in a spiritual state.

Go Shopping for Souvenirs

Pondicherry boasts of handicrafts, fabrics and handmade products.

What to shop for:

hand made candles, incense and organic cosmetics of auroville.

Boutiques store cotton clothing and scarves.

Local leather and pottery.

Here, it is not a case of a souvenir or two when it comes to shopping, but a part of the creativity of Pondy that you can carry home.

Try Adventure Activities

Pondicherry is also exciting to thrill seekers. Scuba diving is gaining momentum in this area, due to the colorful marine life that is found off shore. Alternatively, you can go kayaking, paddle boarding, and surfing.

Pondicherry now even has diving schools where novices can learn to dive, so there is no need to fear it if you are new to the underwater adventure life.

Tour Pondicherry on Bike

Renting a bicycle is one of the most pleasant methods to immerse on the beauty of the town. Cycle tours will explore through heritage areas, Tamil districts and crowded market places. It is green and entertaining and an excellent way of connecting with other travellers.

Have fun at the Nightlife and Events

Although Pondicherry is peaceful and religious in the daytime, its nightlife possesses a colorful touch. Live music venues, beachside bars and shacks leave you with plenty of choices to rest. You may even be lucky to witness cultural festivals which enliven the town even more.

Final Thoughts

Pondicherry is not a place, it is an experience. Every moment spent here is meaningful, whether it is seeing the sunrise at the beach or drinking the French coffee in the small cafes, visiting the colonial streets or meditating at Auroville.

So the next time you are planning your next holiday, why not make it Pondicherry? Go to HappyEasyGo, book an inexpensive flight with an easy flight booking and get a flight ticket to the vacation of a lifetime.

It is a coastal vacation like none other.