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In this French colonial town many of the streets still have their Gallic names and elegant European-style buildings, and the police retain white uniforms with gendarme caps.
In the former Muslim quarters, the architecture is not dissimilar to New Orleans pre-2005 with high pavements, covered walkways and narrow balconies.
Auroville ashram
Just outside the city is one of the most famous ashrams in India, Auroville. Founded by the guru Sri Aurobindo at the beginning of the 20th century, his work was continued by his devoted follower and companion, a French woman known as The Mother.
The ashram attracts visitors from all over the world, some who decide to stay and participate in the ecological and educational programmes the centre promotes. Visitors are welcome and every afternoon you may view the giant crystal said to contain the soul of The Mother.
A half-day drive to either Chennai or Tanjore will take in some spectacular Hindu temples.
who's been there
Start planning your tailor-made trip to Pondicherry by contacting one of our India specialists
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01993 838 92501993 838 355
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Suggested itinerary featuring Pondicherry
This sample itinerary will give you an idea of what is possible when you travel in Pondicherry, and showcases routes we know work particularly well. Treat this as inspiration, because your trip will be created uniquely by one of our specialists.
Places near Pondicherry
- Mahabalipuram 54 miles away
- Tranquebar 63 miles away
- Kanchipuram 63 miles away
- Chennai 87 miles away
- Tanjore 93 miles away
- Trichy 110 miles away
- Chettinad 149 miles away
- Bangalore 168 miles away
- Madurai 182 miles away
- Ooty 216 miles away
- Mysore 218 miles away
- Munnar 228 miles away
- Palakkad 231 miles away
- Wayanad 240 miles away
- Thekkady & Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary 246 miles away
- Nagarhole National Park 251 miles away
- Kothamangalam 253 miles away
- Kerala 254 miles away
- Belur & Halebid 277 miles away
- Coorg 279 miles away
- Cochin 280 miles away
- The Backwaters 290 miles away
- Mararikulam 290 miles away
- Tellicherry 295 miles away
Photos of Pondicherry
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![Auroville, Tamil Nadu]()
Auroville, Tamil Nadu -
![Flower market, Pondicherry, India]()
Flower market, Pondicherry, India -
![Pondicherry, India]()
Pondicherry, India -
![French colony of Pondicherry]()
French colony of Pondicherry
Accommodation choices for Pondicherry
We've selected a range of accommodation options for when you visit Pondicherry. Our choices usually come recommended for their character, facilities and service or location. Our specialists always aim to suggest properties that match your preferences.
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![Maison Perumal, Pondicherry]()
Maison Perumal
Pondicherry
