How to get to Pondicherry:
I traveled by flight from Goa to Chennai and then got an uber from Chennai Airport to Pondicherry which took about 3 hours. However, the daily buses from Chennai are a cheaper option. There is also an airport in Pondicherry but the flights were pretty expensive when I was traveling but you can always check depending on your dates.
Places to visit in Pondicherry:
1. White Town
The White Town in Pondicherry is also known as the French Quarter and will surely teleport you to the streets of France. From the architecture here to the names of the roads, everything will make you feel like you're in a French Town, literally. This has to be my favourite place in Pondicherry and I could spend hours walking around this town admiring the beautiful French colonial-era villas while exploring the innumerable quirky cafes around here. I'd suggest you book your stay in White Town as there are many heritage villas and boutique hotels where you can find great deals.
2. New Pondicherry Lighthouse
There are two lighthouses in Pondy, so make sure you visit the New Pondicherry Lighthouse. It's easy to find on google maps and it's located 10 mins away from White Town. The climb to the top is really worth it as you are greeted with a surreal panoramic view of the whole town. P.S. The Lighthouse is only open from 3 PM to 5 PM so plan your visit accordingly.
3. Our Lady Of Angels Church
Located in the White Town, this church has to be the prettiest church I've ever been to. The pastel hues and architecture of this church make it so unique. It is the fourth oldest church in Pondicherry and is believed to be modeled after the Notre Dame de Paris in Paris and the Basilica at Lourdes. This is the only church in Pondicherry that offers mass in three languages- French, Tamil & English. I luckily experienced French evening mass during my visit there. Make sure you stop by this church while exploring White Town.
4. Promenade beach
Walk along this popular stretch of beachfront overlooking the Bay of Bengal and watch the sunset with a gelato in your hand. You will find most of the locals walking on the Promenade in the evenings and early mornings. enjoying the ocean breeze. Vehicles are not allowed on this road and that enables you to have an uninterrupted peaceful stroll while admiring the endless sea.
5. Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus
Built in the 18th century by the French missionaries, this is another iconic church that you must add to your list of instagramable locations in Pondy! It's one of the 21 Basilicas present in India and its Gothic architecture will remind you of the cathedrals of Europe.
Cafes/Restaurants you can't miss in Pondicherry:
PY Café is the most insta worthy café in Pondicherry. With pastel themed colours and quotes on the wall to quirky interiors, what's not to love about this place! It's every pastel lovers dream and every corner of this café is instagrammable. The food is excellent too, they have some healthy options as well as indulgent ones. I personally loved the Beetroot tzatziki & hummus served with a savoury cake, the tzatziki was so refreshing and the hummus was perfect.
