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Stretching for miles with pristine golden sands, serene waves, and panoramic sunset views, there’s more to see in Pondicherry than just it. While you can definitely hire a tour guide and get a car for rent and experience the sightseeing, but the experience of availing a walking tours in Pondicherry is absolutely out of the world. It helps you get a closer look at the authentic Pondicherry lifestyle, which you would otherwise not be able to experience.
Unravel the hidden spots of Pondicherry as we give you 5 best places to go on walking tour and explore this quaint yellow-city on foot and marvel at the French architecture or spend time strolling the pristine beaches of Pondicherry. Have a look!
5 Best Places For Walking Tours In Pondicherry
Walking tours in Pondicherry is an absolutely recent affair and already gathered great popularity among the tourists. These walking tours are usually continued through the narrow lanes of Pondicherry and not through the main roads, and thus help the tourists to develop a different perspective of Pondicherry. Apart from the aesthetic element of the tour, it is quite budget-friendly too, and some are, in fact, free of cost and also give you a chance to interact with the locals.
- Paradise Beach
- Aurobindo Ashram
- Auroville
- Arikamedu
- Basilica Of The Sacred Heart Of Jesus
1. Paradise Beach
Replete with golden yellow sands and thick green mangrove forests, Paradise Beach is also quite famous by the name of Plage Paradiso. Unlike other beaches in Pondicherry, you can find ample scopes to indulge in some tranquility as it is not much populated. The tourists can also opt for adventurous water sports and enthusiastic activities.
Location: Manali Rd, Chinna Veerampattinam, Puducherry 605007
Timings: Early morning to evening
Attractions: Ferry ride, backwaters, bird watching, photography, water sports
Must Read: 42 Best Places To Visit In Pondicherry: India’s French Colony!
2. Aurobindo Ashram
Representing a spiritual community, the Ashram was built based on the life of Sri Aurobindo. The ashram was constructed to lead people to the path of spiritual fulfillment and help them untie their souls from worldly desires. The tourists who visit Pondicherry tend to pay a visit to the ashram to know about the life of the famous political leader and seek the peace of mind and enrichment of the soul.
Location: No. 9, Near Junction of Manakula Vinayagar, Kovil Street, Marine Street, White Town, Puducherry, 605002
Timings: 8 am–12 pm and 2–6 pm
Attractions: Meditation, Spiritual enrichment, gathering information
Suggested Read: 25 Restaurants In Pondicherry That Will Satiate All Gastronomic Cravings
3. Auroville
Auroville, one such town, which seems to have to live right out of fantasy island. A visit to the township will definitely shower you with peace, harmony, and ‘divine consciousness’. It is regarded as a hub of education and progress, and they aim to unite people and bring them together, regardless of their caste, creed, nationality, or race. You can delve into the tranquil ambiance of the place and discover the peace of mind.
Location: Auroville, Tamil Nadu
Timings: Mon. to Sat., 9.00 a.m. – 4.00 p.m. Sunday, 9.00 a.m. – 13.00 p.m.
Attractions: Architecture, meditation places, scriptures.
Suggested Read: Nightlife In Pondicherry: 5 Underrated Yet Super Cool Experiences To Try
4. Arikamedu
Possessing the ruins of the Roman period, Arikamedu stands as an iconic historical masterpiece. Several recent excavations have been carried out, and the results have played a major role in historical research. Whatever the site possesses right now belongs from the 18th century, and consists of towering brick pillars and a few columns, replicating the Roman architectural style and retaining a vintage ambiance.
Location: Arikamedu, Ariyankuppam, Puducherry
Timings: 10am to 4pm
Attractions: Excavation sites, remains of Roman architecture, and much more.
Suggested Read: 14 Adventure Sports In Pondicherry That Are Perfect For A Fun Getaway!
5. Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus
The Gothic-style replica deriving from the 18th century has made the Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus developed to be a major tourist attraction. Being a place of religious importance, it appeals both to the devotees as well as to a major number of tourists from all over the world. Back in the 18th century, the church was built by the French missionaries and was given the honor of a Basilica in the year 2011.
Location: Door No, 132, South Boulevard, Near Railway Station, MG Road Area, Puducherry, 605001
Timings: Mon-Sat : 5:30AM, 12:30PM, 6:00PM, Sun : 5:30AM, 7:30AM, 12:00PM, 5:00PM, 6:15PMFrench hints artwork, Gothic architecture, and much more.
Suggested Read: New Year Parties In Pondicherry: Welcome By Celebrating At These Splendid Venues
How To Reach Pondicherry
You can reach Pondicherry via road and rails. There is still no direct flight availability to Pondicherry from any city yet.
By Road: A road trip to Pondicherry is one of the fascinating options to avail because travelers can come across captivating scenic views.
By Train: You can avail trains to the Villupuram Railway Junction from the major cities to reach Pondicherry.
Suggested Read: Scuba Diving In Pondicherry: A Handy Guide To Experience This Adventurous Activity
Tips For Walking Tours In Pondicherry
- Carry your route map and a notebook to note certain information about the places you are visiting.
- Drink enough water and apply sunscreen to avoid the dehydration of the body and skin.
- Verify the services provided by the tour organizer to make sure about their authenticity.
- Do not carry extra baggage because it is a walking tour, and thus, you will not get any space to keep it anywhere.
- Make sure you wear comfortable clothes and shoes because you will have to walk for a long time.
Further Read: 40 Things To Do In Pondicherry For A Fulfilling Retreat
Exploring Pondicherry on foot has now become quite a popular trend, especially if you have already visited here before. Taking walking tours can add a bit of fun to your vacation in Pondicherry . Walking tours in Pondicherry is indeed one of the most enthralling things to do as it not only presents you with the aesthetic beauty of Pondicherry but also brings you across the people who belong from different communities altogether and weave a great travel story!
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Frequently Asked Questions For Walking Tours In Pondicherry
Can I book online walking tours in Pondicherry?
Yes, you can book online walking tours in Pondicherry. But not all of them accept the online modes of booking, so you can only make a booking at those who allow. Do I need any identification proof to participate in the walking tours?
Not all the organizers ask for identification proof, but you must carry your identification details to avoid any confusion in the future. What type of services can I avail during the walking tours?
You can avail of lunch and can get clicked by the organizers of the tour. You can also get to gather ample information from the guides regarding the attractions. How much do I need to pay for the walking tours in Pondicherry?
The cost of the walking tours depends on the organizers and the type of services they provide. Some even offer free walking tours in Pondicherry with no extra service provided. Will I get food along with the tour?
Not all the organizers include food along with the tour, but you can definitely find ample shops around to purchase meals.
Anjana is a writer, journalist, and a full-time wallflower. She holds a Master’s degree in Media and Mass Communication and firmly believes that travel blogging is nothing less than art. Combining her love for writing with her passion for globetrotting, she brings to you some amazing tips on traveling perfectly, be it any season of the year! In her spare time, she loves reading, listening to obscure indie bands, and writing poetry – all of this while being a crazy dog lady.
