Top 25 things to do in Pondicherry
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011. Pichavaram Mangrove & Nataraja Temple from Pondicherry With Lunch
12 hoursFrom₹11,730/ personFree cancellationInstant confirmationEmbark on a fascinating journey from Pondicherry to explore the mystical beauty of Pichavaram Mangrove Forest and the spiritual charm of Nataraja Temple in Chidambaram. Begin your day with a scenic drive to Pichavaram, where you'll witness the breathtaking sight of the second-largest mangrove forest in the world. Glide through the maze of waterways on a boat cruise, surrounded by lush greenery and abundant wildlife. After the mangrove adventure, head to Chidambaram to visit the ancient Nataraja Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva in his form as the cosmic dancer. Marvel at the intricate sculptures and architecture of this sacred site, and immerse yourself in the spiritual aura of the temple. Conclude your day with a delicious lunch, savoring local flavors before returning to Pondicherry, enriched by a day of natural and cultural exploration.
022. Sri Arunachaleswara Temple Tour From Pondicherry
12 hoursFrom₹6,507/ personFree cancellationInstant confirmationEmbark on a spiritual journey with the Sri Arunachaleswara Temple tour from Pondicherry. Your day begins with a visit to the ancient Arunachaleswara Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, known for its grand architecture and spiritual significance. Explore the sacred Arunachala Mountain, believed to be a form of Lord Shiva himself, and experience its tranquil aura. En route, visit the Sri Ramana Ashram, a spiritual center founded by the renowned sage Ramana Maharshi, and the Virupaksha Cave, where Ramana Maharshi meditated for several years. Enjoy the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off, ensuring a comfortable and hassle-free experience.
033. 1-Hour Traditional Kolam Art class using Colored Flour with Guide
1.5 hoursFrom₹1,200/ personFree cancellationInstant confirmationWhat is actually Kolam? Why it is so significant in Indian House Hold? Why do one take this painstaking act of drawing on public roads every single day, not just on some occasion? You will get all these questions answered in the workshop. Take aways: 1. Learn different patterns of Kolam and hands-on training on each style. 2. A Kolam kit to take home for practice - includes a design template and a range of colored Kolam powder. 3. Kolam powder preparation will be taught. 4. A manual will be emailed later. 5. Welcome drink - A warm cup of black tea or cooling butter milk or refreshing lime juice.
044. The Best of Pondicherry: A Private Sightseeing Tour
5.0· 7 reviews6.1 hoursFrom₹5,637/ personFree cancellationEmbark on a captivating journey with our "Best of Pondicherry: A Private Sightseeing Tour" starting at 9:00 AM. Begin your day at the serene Sri Aurobindo Ashram, delving into its spiritual history. Next, explore the charming White Town, a French Quarter, with visits to the Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the Old Lighthouse. After a delightful lunch break, proceed to Auroville, discovering the Matrimandir and its unique philosophy. Continue to the Pondicherry Museum, showcasing the region's rich heritage, and unwind at Bharathi Park's serene surroundings. Conclude your day at the scenic Promenade Beach, offering a perfect setting for a leisurely stroll and sunset views of the Bay of Bengal. At 6:00 PM, your enriching journey through Pondicherry concludes as you return to your hotel or preferred location.
055. Arikamedu Tour from Pondicherry to an Ancient Indo-Roman Port
5.0· 4 reviews4 hoursFrom₹9,233/ personFree cancellationInstant confirmationDelve into the history of Arikamedu, one of South India’s key archaeological sites, on this private half-day tour from Pondicherry. Once a bustling Indo-Roman trading port, Arikamedu showcases remnants of ancient commerce, including workshops and warehouses along the Ariyankuppam river. This guided experience provides insight into the maritime trade that connected cultures from the 2nd century BCE to the 2nd century CE, highlighting the region's role in early globalization. Engage with the local community as the tour supports local guides and businesses, ensuring an enriching experience that respects the site’s heritage. - Half-day private guided tour of Arikamedu from Pondicherry - Explore archaeological remains of an ancient trading port - Includes pick-up and drop-off from your hotel in an air-conditioned vehicle - Focus on local culture and community involvement through guided insights
066. Mehendi Art Class in Pondicherry
5.0· 4 reviews1.5 hoursFrom₹1,122/ personFree cancellationThis 1.5-hour Mehendi art class helps you to learn the basic of the ephemeral henna tattoos. During the class, you will be taught how to make the paste, draw extremely fine lines and sophisticated designs.
077. Puducherry to Mahabalipuram Shore Temple Private Tour
5.0· 3 reviews8 hoursFrom₹9,719/ personFree cancellationInstant confirmationThis private tour takes you to Mahabalipuram famous for its rock cut temples dating back to the 7th century along a lovely sea shore. This tour is available to be done in a private car. We will spend the day exploring this World Heritage Site of Mahabalipuram which used to serve as a sea port in ancient times. The highlights include masterpieces like the Five Chariots which are rock cut monolith temples, Arjuna's Penance the giant open air rock relief, the gravity defying Krishna's butterball and the Shore temple which is the last remaining of the 7 Pagodas mentioned by Marco Polo. This package includes pick and drop, private car, lunch, and a professional guide.
088. Pichavaram Mangrove & Nataraja Temple Chidambaram from Pondicherry with lunch
5.0· 1 reviews8 hoursFrom₹24,396/ personFree cancellationInstant confirmationOn this day trip from Pondicherry, explore the wide expanse of mangrove forests in the village of Pichavaram. Take a boat ride through the mangroves and discover several of the 200 species of birds that call it home. Next visit a 10th century Hindu temple in the neighbouring town of Chidambaram. The temple is dedicated to God Nataraja, the dancing incarnation of God Shiva. Highlights : • Boat ride through the Mangrove Forests of Pichavaram • Over 200 species of birds • Visit to the world famous Nataraja Temple at Chidambaram
099. From Pondicherry: Day Tour to Mahabalipuram and Kanchipuram
5.0· 1 reviews12 hoursFrom₹12,076/ personFree cancellationInstant confirmationExperience the cultural richness of Tamil Nadu on a private day tour from Pondicherry to the historic towns of Mahabalipuram and Kanchipuram. Explore ancient rock-cut temples, majestic stone carvings, and vibrant local traditions. Witness the architectural brilliance of Mahabalipuram's UNESCO World Heritage sites and immerse yourself in Kanchipuram’s spiritual legacy, including a visit to a traditional silk weaving unit. This curated journey offers a deep dive into South India's spiritual and artistic heritage.
1010. Private tour of Mahabalipuram from Pondicherry with Guide
5.0· 1 reviews8 hoursFrom₹9,719/ personFree cancellationInstant confirmationThis private tour takes you to Mahabalipuram, famous for its rock-cut temples dating back to the 7th century, along a lovely seashore. The company is recognized by the Ministry of Tourism and is a winner of the Outlook Responsible Tourism Award. We will spend the day exploring this World Heritage Site of Mahabalipuram, which used to serve as a seaport in ancient times. The highlights include masterpieces like the Five Chariots, which are rock-cut monolith temples; Arjuna's Penance, the giant open-air rock relief; the gravity-defying Krishna's butterball; and the Shore Temple, which is the last remaining of the 7 Pagodas mentioned by Marco Polo.
1111. Pondicherry Art Trails (2 Hours Guided Walking Tours)
5.0· 1 reviews2 hoursFrom₹1,089/ personFree cancellationInstant confirmationPuducherry arts and craft is a delightful experience and we are very fortunate that even today our rich art and craft culture is preserved in the Murungapakkam Village. Experience the famous art and craft of Puducherry by walking around the houses and small joint of Puducherry village, explore the rich art, closely observe the off beat museum, shops, galleries showcasing handicrafts etc.
1212. French-Creole Cooking Class in Pondicherry with a Local Family
5.0· 1 reviews3 hoursFrom₹9,622/ personFree cancellationAnita’s paternal grandmother lived in Indochina during the French colonization for 40 years. There she learned to cook French, Vietnamese and Cambodian food. Later she came to Pondicherry and with Portuguese and Tamil influence, she enjoyed cooking various fusion dishes, that Anita’s mother, Pushpa, learned and today cooks and shares with people who are interested in trying the cuisine of Pondicherry - very unique with its influence from Vietnamese, Creole, French and Portuguese cuisine. In your 2-hour cooking class, learn 3 dishes from scratch. • Private cooking lesson in a local's home in Pondicherry • Learn how to cook Pondicherry's Créole cuisine, a unique fusion of French and Tamil traditions • Sample a variety of local dishes that you may not find in restaurants • Learn about the history, architecture of Pondicherry, its people, culinary traditions and cuisine If you choose the market tour option, visit a neighborhood market, to buy fresh ingredients for your cooking class.
1313. Promenade Through Pondicherry: A Self-Guided Audio Tour
5.0· 1 reviewsFrom₹582/ personFree cancellationInstant confirmationThis self-guided audio tour takes you through Pondicherry's unique French colonial heritage in Tamil Nadu, unlike most Indian cities with British roots. Starting at the Marquis Dupleix Statue in White Town, you'll stroll along Promenade Beach and deeper into this quaint and colorful former French colony. Discover significant buildings including the rare baroque Immaculate Conception Cathedral, the vibrant Hindu temple Arulmigu Manakula Vinayagar Devasthanam, and the French Consulate's colonial mansion. Learn about Joseph Francois Dupleix who transformed this fishing village and hear stories about great figures like Dr. Ambedkar and Nehru. Walk through both White Town's colonial charm and Black Town's lively temples and colorful markets, ending at bustling Goubert Market where you can explore amazing local food and coffee shops.
1414. 1-Hour Guided Saree and Veshti Workshop in Puducherry
5.0· 1 reviews1 hoursFrom₹1,400/ personFree cancellationInstant confirmationYou don't just get to know practical instructions to drap a saree. But you would be given insights on the history of the saree, different draping styles, how certain draping style is linked to a particular class of society, some styling is specific to geographical location, and stories of accessories too. At the end of the session, you will be able to tie the saree all by yourself and carry yourself with grace and confidence. We also offer welcome drinks such as warm black tea cool buttermilk or refreshing lime juice depending on your choice. You would get to choose accessories to match your saree. A saree manual will be emailed for future reference. A wide variety of sarees is available for you to select and practice, and most importantly to take some amazing pictures.
1515. Pondicherry Historical and Spiritual Full Day Guided Tour
5.0· 1 reviewsFrom₹8,541/ personFree cancellationInstant confirmationExperience the charm of Pondicherry, where French elegance meets Tamil tradition on a guided full-day tour. Explore the city’s highlights, including the peaceful Sri Aurobindo Ashram, the fascinating Pondicherry Museum, and the Sacred Heart Basilica, a Gothic church adorned with beautiful stained-glass windows. Wander through the picturesque French Quarter, filled with pastel-colored buildings, cozy cafés, and artistic corners that reflect the city’s colonial heritage. Savor a flavorful lunch at a local café and taste Pondicherry’s signature French-Indian fusion dishes. Visit Auroville, a unique township promoting peace and unity, and marvel at the golden Matrimandir before relaxing with a leisurely walk along the scenic Promenade Beach. • Full-day Pondicherry tour with an English-speaking guide • Visit the city’s top attractions showcasing its vibrant culture and rich history • Enjoy convenient hotel pick-up and drop-off within Pondicherry city
1616. Traditional Kolam Class in Pondicherry
4.9· 31 reviews1.5 hoursFrom₹935/ personFree cancellationKolam is a traditional art originated in South India. It is a tradition for women to practice it every morning by putting ephemeral patterns on the front door. It is a way to meditate and also to invite Goddess and prosperity to their home. In this 1.5-hour class, you will not only learn how to make kolam, but also get some insight about Indian culture. Both children over 6 years old and adults are welcome to experience this unique culture of India!
1717. Indian Cooking Class in Pondicherry
4.9· 69 reviews4 hoursFrom₹2,742/ personFree cancellationCome and discover the taste of Indian cuisine! Learn how to prepare a traditional South Indian lunch with a variety of rice, a main gravy (veggie, fish or chicken), some side dishes and a dessert. We offer mainly 30 different recipes and you can chose the ones you like or the ones you have never heard of. We have a wide range of vegetarian and vegan items, too. Book this class and share this wonderful experience with you family and friends!
1818. Pondicherry Heritage Walking Tour of French Quarters
4.9· 30 reviews2 hoursFrom₹2,527/ personFree cancellationInstant confirmationWalk in the French Quarters is a charming way to absorb the city's rich colonial history and cultural blend. The neighbourhood is renowned for its stunning colonial buildings, showcasing a mix of French, Baroque, Rococo, Neoclassical, and Indian architectural styles. Street cafes, landmarks and a beach are the other highlights.
1919. Full Day Guided Tour of Pondicherry with lunch and hotel pickup
4.8· 10 reviews8 hoursFrom₹11,177/ personFree cancellationInstant confirmationExplore Pondicherry's rich culture and heritage in a full day tour. The tour is organised by Five Senses Tours, a company recognised by the ministry of tourism. The highlights include a visit to Aurobindo Ashram, which is dedicated to Sri Aurobindo Ghosh the philosopher and revolutionary, French heritage walk followed by lunch, the lovely esplanade beside the Bay of Bengal, visit to a unique handmade paper factory and Auroville the global village. This tour is organized by Five Senses Tours, a private limited company recognized by the Ministry of Tourism and a member of the Indian Association of Tour Operators (IATO). The tour has been designed to support local livelihoods by way of employment of local guides, and supporting local businesses in line with the mission of the company to ensure travel dollars stay where they are spent.
2020. Guided City Tour in Pondicherry with complimentary refreshments
4.5· 37 reviewsFrom₹4,562/ personFree cancellationExperience the Beauty of Pondicherry explored in a Day City Tour with some interesting explanations by the Organizer about the Sites. Suggesting good dine & wines in the city, have a leisure shopping on the roadside handicrafts shops, clothing and eatables. Enjoy the sizzling Water rides on the backwater of Pondicherry and spend sometime in the Clean Beach Dunes of "Paradise Island"
2121. The Unique Pondicherry City Bike Tour
4.4· 60 reviews2 hoursFrom₹1,800/ personFree cancellationEnjoy Pondicherry the best way ever with a morning cycle ride all over the city. In a safe way, Cycle around French, Muslim and Tamil quarters of Pondicherry city on a vintage-style bicycle during this early morning 2-hour guided tour. Explore quiet city before people starts their activities. Discover little alleys, beautiful buildings, perfect places to make nice shoots, all you need to see in Pondicherry.
2222. Stroll Through The French Quarters Of Pondicherry
4.0· 1 reviews2 hoursFrom₹10,205/ personFree cancellationPondicherry, or Puducherry as it is now called, remained under French rule until 1954. Even today, French influence is visible everywhere. On this walking tour explore the French quarter of the town and discover the French influence in its houses, official buildings and the Church of Notre Dame. Walk around the town at a leisurely pace and listen to the commentary of your guide as you go past important landmarks. Highlights: • French Quarter landmarks like the Church of Notre Dame • The Government House, an elegant palace with a blend of Indian and European architectural styles • Commentary from your guide
2323. Heritage & Cultural Walking Tour of Pondicherry
3.7· 7 reviews2 hoursFrom₹1,200/ personFree cancellationInstant confirmationPuducherry arts and craft is a delightful experience and we are very fortunate that even today our rich art and craft culture is preserved in the Murungapakkam Village. Experience the famous art and craft of Puducherry by walking around the houses and small joint of Puducherry village, explore the rich art, closely observe the off beat museum, shops, galleries showcasing handicrafts etc.
2424. Spiritual Walk Tour Pondicherry
3.5· 2 reviews2 hoursFrom₹1,069/ personFree cancellationInstant confirmationThis walk is very different because when we go on any tour, we are exploring and experiencing places and things that are outside, but on this tour we will be taking a journey inwards and you will explore the very life within, it could be a life changing experience if you decide to take it in the right perspective. Connect the dots of spirituality, religion and science to make sense and go beyond the framework of logic, an experience designed to elevate your spiritual journey.
2525. Magical Pondicherry Markets Tour
3.4· 5 reviews2 hoursFrom₹1,069/ personFree cancellationInstant confirmationPondicherry's true essence can be found not in its landmarks but in its vibrant markets. Immerse yourself in the energy of the city as you explore the lively bazaars on our 'Magical Pondicherry Markets Tour.' Witness the famous street markets, where you'll find a myriad of offerings, from flowers, fruits, and vegetables to spices, textiles, jewelry, and everyday essentials, all while discovering the rich history of the city