Pondicherry is a favourite among all tourists and travellers. Since it was ruled by the French for about three hundred years, you will surely find some of its influence prevailing here. It has some of the best architecture, galleries, lakes, ponds and gardens you shall ever witness. The picturesque landscapes, lush green lands and sparkling waters are some of its specialities. In case you are planning a trip to South India, you must come to Pondicherry. Your vacation here will be wonderful. In case you are looking for a tour guide, we have listed some suggestions.
Beautiful Pondicherry Tourist Places To Visit:
Pondicherry is one of the most famous tourist destinations for tourists. This article prepared a list of 15 tremendous tourist places to visit in Pondicherry for your tour planning.
1. French Fort Louis:
The French Fort Louis of Pondicherry is an important monument and a prime tourist attraction. It was one of the earliest establishments made by the French when they first settled in India. It has huge underground chambers where ammunition, guns and arms were stored. It was built in the year 1709 and must be visited once.
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2. Aayi Mandapam:
Aayi Mandapam is a wonderful government park located very near Pondicherry. It was built in the sixteenth century and is a major attraction today. It was constructed in the Greco-Roman architecture style and holds great historical significance.
3. Lakes And Gardens:
Pondicherry is best known for its most wonderful destinations such as lakes and gardens. To name some, we can think of the Botanical Garden, The Bharathi Park, Chunnambar Backwater and Keezhoor. These backwater lakes are some of the most gorgeous sites you shall ever see in Pondicherry. They are popular picnic spots and have quite a number of visitors daily.
4. Aurobindo Ashram:
The Aurobindo Ashram was established by Sir Aurobindo Ghosh who had spent quite a number of years in Pondicherry. It is visited by thousands of devotees every year and is a well known tourist attraction today. It is a famous pilgrimage center and is also a place where you will find peace and relaxation.
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5. 19th Century Light House:
The 19th Century Light House is situated at the Red Hills in Gorimedu near Pondicherry. This place is five kilometers away from the western part of the city and has been visited by several tourists frequently. It is a major attraction of Pondicherry and must be visited once.
6. Ariyankuppam Archaeological Site:
The Ariyankuppam Archaeological Site is equal to paradise for all tourists and travelers. Here many important and ancient Roman artifacts were found which included wine glasses and sauce jars. Several pieces of Indian and Mediterranean pottery were also discovered after thorough excavation. This is one of the most famous tourist places to visit in Pondicherry.
7. French War Memorial:
The French War Memorial is a wonderful establishment located in Pondicherry. It is a salute to all those valiant soldiers who fought fearlessly on the battlefield and gave sacrificed their lives for the country. It stands as a strong reflection of the French culture and looks very majestic and magnificent from a distance.
8. Government Park:
Government Park in Pondicherry is one of the best parks in Pondicherry, a typical green garden in the union territory. It looks spectacular and is a great place for those who are looking for a time of peace and tranquility. The ambience and the lovely atmosphere will surely make you fall in love with this place. This park is one of the best and beautiful Pondicherry tourist places to visit for sightseeing.
9. Statue Of Joan Of Arc:
The statue of Joan of Arc is situated in the Union Territory of Pondicherry. It is a historical statue and has been constructed using pristine marble. It is surrounded by a beautiful looking garden and stands as a tribute to the great Joan of Arc who had shown immense strength and courage on the battlefield. She was a true martyr and has been an inspiration to many.
10. Auroville:
One of the best places to visit in Pondicherry is Auroville. It is a very peaceful and beautiful place with full of greenery. People from all over the world come to see the place and enjoy its beauty. A wonderful place to enjoy the vision of Sri Aurobindo and mother. About 1-2 kilometers is Matrimandir viewing point. For the Matrimandir, the golden structure is at its best and gives a wonderful sight and is an amazing and charming place set in the midst of the garden.
11. Raj Niwas:
Raj Niwas is the official residence of the Lieutenant Governor of Pondicherry. The blend of French and Indian style architecture is amazingly appreciable. Generally, it is not open to the public except on certain national holidays. Its location is near the beach which gives it an amazing view and the wonderful garden in the front adds to the beauty of the place. There is also a park near to this place called Bharathi Park which is also an awesome place to spend time.
Read: Old Temples in Pondicherry
12. Villianur:
It is a beautiful tourist place near Pondicherry just about 20 minutes away from the main city of Pondicherry. The best point of attraction at this place is the church. Historical temples like that lord Siva and Vishnu are also present. This place has an old Sri Gokilambal Thirukameswar Temple, which is built in an appreciable architectural style. An annual car festival is held at this place which attracts a lot of tourists to visit Villianur. This place is also known for its other tourist sites like St. Lourdes Church, Ezhai Mariamman Temple, Swami Ram Temple, and Varadaraja Perumal Temple etc. Also it is a popular picnic spot as it is situated near to the main town of Pondicherry.
13. Pondicherry Beach:
This beach is one of the most famous beaches in Pondicherry, a best places to see. It is very popular and is the perfect place for enjoying cool breeze and relax. There are lots of cafeterias, resorts, and restaurants near the beach for the visitors. This place is also good for sunbathing, practicing yoga, playing beach volleyball and other fun activities. This place is best for fun loving people and for those who are close to nature and cherish the scenic beauty of the place. It is an adorable and lovely place to visit and should be visited at least once if you head to Pondicherry.
14. Pondicherry Museum:
This beautiful museum is situated in Bharathi Park and is famous for its unique collection of sculptures. It is a must one time visit Pondicherry tourist place. A huge gallery with archaeological findings dating back to the Arikamedu Roman times is present, and decorated statues are also displayed. The gallery also houses various artifacts belonging to Cholas and Pallavas of Pondicherry and Karaikal. It also has several bronze statues of gods and goddesses along with handicrafts, art work and temple lamps. They also have a wide collection of snail shells brought from the beach. One must visit this museum for sure to cherish the amazing ancient things and know the beauty of antiques.
15. Chunnambar Boat House:
Chunnambar is the most popular boating venue which is famous for its backwater and lush green environment around it. This place attracts a lot of tourists who enjoy boating at the Boat House near the Chunnambar River. This place is best suited for fun loving people and photo fanatics. This beautiful place offers various activities with speed boats, motor boats, jet skies etc. without being heavy on your pockets. You can enjoy good quality time and explore the place with minimum expenditure. It is also a good picnic spot and evening times are the best ones to enjoy boating.
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These were the 15 best tourist places to see in Pondicherry. As an avid traveler, you must visit Pondicherry and enjoy its amazing tourist spots. You will be amazed with the construction, the natural beauty and the charm of the place.
