Pondicherry Sightseeing Plan

Sri Aurobindo Ashram

Sri Manakula Vinayagar Temple

War Memorial

Our Lady of Angels Catholic Church

The Sacred Heart Basilica

Auroville Visitor Centre

Matrimandir View Point

SVARAM Experience – Sound Garden

Auro Beach

Serenity Beach

Pondy Marina

White Town Area

Rock Beach / Promenade Beach

Paradise Beach

Eden Beach

Pondicherry Local Sightseeing Packages

Sedan Class

(Dzire, Etios or Equivalent)

(4 Seater / Sedan)

8 Hour Package ₹ 2,800/-

10 Hour Package ₹ 3,500/-

12 Hour Package ₹ 4,000/-

Included - AC 4 seater Cab, Driver, Fuel
Excluded - Toll, Entry Fees & Parking ( if any )

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SUV Comfort

(Ertiga or Equivalent)

(7 Seater / SUV)

8 Hour Package ₹ 3600/-

10 Hour Package ₹ 4500/-

12 Hour Package ₹ 5400/-

Included - AC 7 seater Cab, Driver, Fuel
Excluded - Toll, Entry Fees & Parking ( if any )

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Premium SUV

Toyota Innova – (7 Seater / SUV)

8 Hour Package ₹ 4000/-

10 Hour Package ₹ 5000/-

12 Hour Package ₹ 6000/-

Included - AC 7 seater Cab, Driver, Fuel
Excluded - Toll, Entry Fees & Parking ( if any )

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Luxury SUV

Toyota Innova Crysta – (7 Seater / SUV)

8 Hour Package ₹ 4400/-

10 Hour Package ₹ 5500/-

12 Hour Package ₹ 6600/-

Included - AC 7 seater Cab, Driver, Fuel
Excluded - Toll, Entry Fees & Parking ( if any )

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Tempo Traveller

Tempo / Force Traveller (12 Seater / LCV)

8 Hour Package ₹ 6800/-

10 Hour Package ₹ 8500/-

12 Hour Package ₹ 10200/-

Included - AC 7 seater Cab, Driver, Fuel
Excluded - Toll, Entry Fees & Parking ( if any )

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Force Urbania

Mini Bus 21 Seater / LCV

Price on Request

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Discover the French Riviera of the East

Pondicherry, also known as Puducherry, is a unique union territory on India’s eastern coast that was once a French colonial settlement. The French Quarter with its mustard-yellow colonial buildings, tree-lined boulevards, and French-style cafes will transport you to the Mediterranean.

The French influence is visible in the architecture, cuisine, and even the layout of the town with its distinctive grid pattern. Today, it stands as a beautiful fusion of French colonial charm and traditional South Indian culture.

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One Day Pondicherry Sightseeing Trip by Cab

The union territory of Pondicherry is a small city on the eastern coast of India. It is also referred to as Puducherry and Pondy. It is a mini-French city in South India and a popular tourist destination in India. Once colonized by the French East India Company, it adopted their culture which can be seen through its architecture to this day.

The city has a laid-back vibe to offer a relaxing break from the bustle and rush of the cosmopolitan lifestyle. From unwinding at the pristine beaches to practicing yoga, or cycling around the town there is much to explore on a one day Pondicherry Sightseeing Tour.

” If you are looking for a tranquil getaway with loved ones or to spend time by yourself, visiting Pondicherry will be a perfect choice. The serene beaches and pristine environment make it an ideal destination for a rejuvenating holiday.”

Booking a one day Pondicherry sightseeing tour by private cab allows you to explore the city stress-free. You can go around leisurely without worrying about local transport and spend as much time as you want to tour the region.

Tour Highlights - 2x2 Grid

Tour Highlights

9-10 Hours

Full-day Tour

Comprehensive Pondicherry local sightseeing experience covering all major attractions in one day.

Private Cab

Exclusive tour by private cab, not shared with others. Enjoy complete privacy and comfort.

Pickup & Drop

Convenient pickup and drop from your hotel or home anywhere in Pondicherry.

Customizable

Flexible itinerary based on your preferences. Add or skip places as per your choice.

What to Expect

We ensure you cover as many popular tourist attractions in Pondicherry as possible in a day. Our private cab will pick you up from your place of accommodation early in the morning.

Our day will begin with a visit to the Sri Aurobindo Ashram. Founded by Sri Aurobindo in 1926, the Ashram is popular among spiritual seekers. Next, we will head to the Manakula Vinayagar Temple. The ancient temple is dedicated to Lord Ganesha.

After offering prayers to the deity we will head to our next stop. You can dig into the history of the region at the Pondicherry Museum before we head to the Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Seek blessings of the almighty at the church and appreciate its stunning architecture.

Unwinding your mind and soul in the peaceful atmosphere of the church we will head to the next stop on our itinerary. The marvelous Bharathi Park is where you can spend quality time with your loved ones. Our next stop will be the pristine Paradise Beach. You can choose to indulge in water sports or relax by the beach.

Next, we will visit the French War Memorial to pay respect to the soldiers who sacrificed their lives during World War 1. We will wrap up our day with the stunning visuals of the sun setting over the Bay of Bengal at Rock Beach.

Tour Itinerary

Pickup from your Hotel in Pondicherry

Sri Aurobindo Ashram

⏱ 60 Minutes

Manakula Vinayagar Temple

⏱ 30 Minutes

Pondicherry Museum

⏱ 40 Minutes

Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus

⏱ 30 Minutes

Bharati Park

⏱ 40 Minutes

Paradise Beach

⏱ 60 Minutes

French War Memorial

⏱ 40 Minutes

Rock Beach (Sunset View)

⏱ 60 Minutes

Drop back at your Hotel

PLEASE NOTE: Guests can visit all the Pondicherry tourism places listed above or remove any of the places that they don’t want to visit. In order to include any other sightseeing place, guests can check with their cab provider while booking this tour.

Organized By
Pondy Tours and Cabs

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Package Inclusions

Pick & Drop (Hotel/Home)
Cab for Sightseeing
Driver Batta

Package Exclusions

Entry Ticket Fees
Meals (Breakfast/Lunch)
Lodging / Accommodation
Extra usage beyond time
Detours from route
Parking Charges
Toll-gate Charges

Places to Visit in Pondicherry in 1 Day

Sri Aurobindo Ashram

The founder of the Aurobindo Ashram, Sri Aurobindo Ghosh, established it with the aim of helping people attain inner peace and moksha. He laid its foundation on November 24, 1926, after retiring from politics. It is a spiritual haven renowned for its tranquil atmosphere.

The Ashram features an amazing structure, including a library and the main building (accessible via gate pass). It comprises four houses where The Mother and Sri Aurobindo lived during different periods of their lives.

★ Must See / Things to Do: Perform collective meditations, visit the Samadhi, view the exhibitions, and watch the ashram films.

🗹 Timings (General) : 4:30 AM – 11:00 PM

🗹 Visitors Entry : 8-12 PM & 2-4 PM

🗹 Entry Fee : Free

Manakula Vinayagar Temple

Situated behind the Raj Niwas, the ancient Manakula Vinayagar Temple is dedicated to Lord Ganesha and is estimated to have been established over five centuries ago. It stands as a magnificent example of South Indian architecture, showcasing the traditional Dravidian style with beautifully decorated friezes and stucco figurines.

The sanctum houses a grand idol of Vinayaka known as Vellakkaran Pillai. The temple is a major pilgrimage spot, especially vibrant during the 18th day of the Brahmotsavam festival and Vinayaka Chaturthi, which are celebrated here with great zest and fervor.

★ Must See / Things to Do: Offer prayers to the deity and marvel at the golden chariot and beautiful ceiling paintings.

🗹 Morning Timings 5:45 AM – 12:30 PM

🗹 Evening Timings 4:00 PM – 9:30 PM

🗹 Entry Fee Free

Pondicherry Museum

The Pondicherry Museum is a treasure trove for history buffs, exhibiting a wide range of artifacts that display the city’s rich cultural heritage. It houses significant finds excavated by the Archaeological Survey of India from the Arikamedu heritage site, establishing Pondicherry’s importance as a trade port for the Romans, Cholas, and French from the 1st Century BC.

Visitors can witness impressive bronze sculptures and stone carvings from the Pallava and Chola dynasties, alongside a wealth of memorabilia from the French colonial era. It is the perfect place to explore the vibrant past of the region.

★ Must See / Things to Do: Walk back into the era of French Colonialism and view the Arikamedu Roman artifacts.

🗹 Timings 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

🗹 Entry Fee (Adult) ₹ 10

🗹 Entry Fee (Child) ₹ 5

Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus

The Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus is a stunning Roman Catholic church built by French missionaries in 1908. It was granted official Basilica status in 2011 and is one of only 21 Basilicas in India. It stands as the largest church in Puducherry, showcasing exquisite Roman-Byzantine architecture.

Constructed in a unique Latin-rite cross shape (50m x 48m), the interior is supported by 24 grand columns engraved with biblical verses. The church is famous for its magnificent stained glass windows depicting the lives of 28 saints, making it visually distinct from other churches in South India.

★ Must See / Things to Do: Worship the almighty, admire the stained glass windows, and experience the peaceful ambiance.

🗹Timings 5:00 AM – 8:00 PM

🗹Architecture Roman-Byzantine

🗹 Entry Fee Free

Bharati Park

Bharati Park (also known as the Place du Gouvernement) is a lush green space in the heart of Pondicherry’s French Quarter, adding to the city’s old-world colonial charm. Surrounded by thick trees and government buildings like the Raj Nivas, it offers a relaxing atmosphere with manicured lawns and vibrant walkways.

At the center of the park stands the iconic Aayi Mandapam, a gleaming white monument built to honor a famous courtesan named Aayi. The park was renamed in the 1950s after the great Tamil poet, Subramania Bharati (often referred to as Bharathidasan in this context).

★ Must See / Things to Do: Unwind amidst the natural beauty, photograph the Aayi Mandapam, and enjoy a peaceful walk.

🗹 Timings : 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM

🗹 Location : White Town

🗹Entry Fee : Free

Paradise Beach

Paradise Beach (locally known as Plage Paradiso) is an idyllic escape and one of the most visited spots in Pondicherry. Access to this secluded beach is an adventure in itself—you take a scenic 30-minute ferry ride across the backwaters, winding through beautiful mangroves and offering great opportunities for birdwatching and photography

Once you arrive, you’ll find shacks serving fresh coconut water and snacks. While the water is rough and deep (making it less ideal for swimming), the beach is perfect for fishing and offers plenty of water sports options. You can rent fishing rods or simply relax on the pristine sands.

★ Must See / Things to Do: Indulge in photography, enjoy the ferry ride, and try out the water sports.

🗹 Timings 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

🗹 Access By Boat / Ferry Only

🗹 Entry Fee Free (Ferry Extra)

French War Memorial

Located in the heart of Goubert Avenue, the French War Memorial is a pristine white structure dedicated to the brave soldiers who lost their lives during World War I. Reconstructed in 1970, it stands as a solemn reminder of sacrifice amidst the bustling promenade.

Surrounded by plush green escapades and splendid gardens, the memorial offers a peaceful experience. It is particularly spectacular on July 14th (Bastille Day), when the monument is beautifully illuminated and hosts an annual ceremony attended by many to pay their respects.

★ Must See / Things to Do: Pay homage to the fallen soldiers and enjoy the greenery along the promenade.

🗹 Timings 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

🗹 Location Goubert Avenue (Rock Beach)

🗹 Entry Fee ₹ 10

Rock Beach

Rock Beach (also known as the Promenade Beach) is the heart of Pondicherry’s coastline, offering magnificent views of telluric sunsets over crystal clear waters. Extending from the War Memorial to Dupleix Park, this 1.2km stretch is lined with charming cafes, sea-facing restaurants, and vibrant street life.

The beach promenade is home to significant landmarks such as the Gandhi Statue, the Old Lighthouse, and the French War Memorial. It is the perfect place to end your day, feeling the cool sea breeze while enjoying a walk along the heritage townhall and the rocky shoreline.

★ Must See / Things to Do: Relax at a beachside cafe, take a sunset stroll, and visit the Gandhi Statue.

🗹 Timings Open 24 Hours
🗹 Vehicle Ban Evenings (Walking Only)
🗹 Entry Fee Free

Our Lady of Angels Catholic Church – Classic French-Style Church

Our Lady of Angels Catholic Church, also known as Église de Notre Dame des Anges, is one of the most elegant and historically significant churches in Pondicherry. Built in 1855 during French rule, the church reflects the city’s rich colonial heritage and deep-rooted Christian traditions. It is a peaceful place of worship, admired for its calm ambience and spiritual atmosphere.

The church showcases classic French architectural style, inspired by European basilicas, with graceful arches, tall columns, and a pastel-colored façade. Located in White Town near Promenade Beach, it remains an important religious center for the local Catholic community and a must-visit heritage landmark for tourists.

★ Must See / Things to Do: Attend Holy Mass, admire the French-style architecture, spend time in prayer and meditation, photograph the exterior, and explore nearby White Town attractions.

🗹 Timings (General) : Early Morning – Evening
🗹 Mass Timings : Morning & Evening (timings may vary on Sundays and feast days)
🗹 Entry Fee : Free

Auroville Visitor Centre

The Auroville Visitor Centre is the main entry point for visitors who wish to understand the vision, philosophy, and lifestyle of Auroville. Designed as an introduction space, the centre helps visitors learn about the universal township founded with the ideals of human unity, peace, and sustainable living.

The Visitor Centre houses informative exhibitions, audio-visual presentations, a peaceful viewing area, and a well-maintained campus surrounded by greenery. From here, visitors can get guidance on Auroville attractions, including the Matrimandir viewing point, community projects, and walking routes. It is an ideal starting place for first-time visitors.

★ Must See / Things to Do: Explore the exhibitions, watch introductory films about Auroville, visit the Matrimandir viewing point, relax in the landscaped surroundings, and learn about Auroville’s sustainable practices.

🗹 Timings (General) : 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM
🗹 Visitors Entry : Open on all days (timings may vary on public holidays)
🗹 Entry Fee : Free

Matrimandir View Point

🗹 Timings (General) : 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM
🗹 Visitors Entry : Open on all days (timings may vary on public holidays)
🗹 Entry Fee : Free

SVARAM Experience – Sound Garden (Optional)

The SVARAM Sound Garden is a distinctive outdoor extension of the SVARAM Experience, offering visitors an immersive journey into sound, rhythm, and nature. Set in a serene garden environment near Auroville, this space features large-scale, interactive musical instruments designed to be played intuitively by people of all ages—no musical training required.

The Sound Garden blends acoustic science, craftsmanship, and natural elements, allowing visitors to explore how sound vibrations interact with space, movement, and silence. It is both playful and meditative, making it an enriching optional add-on for those seeking a deeper sensory and mindful experience.

★ Must See / Things to Do: Play outdoor sound sculptures, experience collective sound exploration, enjoy meditative listening sessions, participate in guided sound walks, and relax in the natural garden setting.

🗹 Timings (General) : 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
🗹 Visitors Entry : Prior booking recommended (especially for guided sessions)
🗹 Entry Fee : Optional paid experience (charges may vary)

Auro Beach

Auro Beach is a calm and less-crowded beach located close to Auroville, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking peace, nature, and relaxation away from the busy city beaches. Known for its clean shoreline and tranquil ambience, Auro Beach is especially popular among early-morning walkers, yoga practitioners, and nature lovers.

The beach offers beautiful views of the Bay of Bengal, with soft sands and gentle waves. It is also a favored spot for watching sunrise, meditation, and quiet family time. Unlike commercial beaches, Auro Beach retains a raw and natural charm, perfect for unwinding and reconnecting with nature.

★ Must See / Things to Do: Watch the sunrise, take peaceful beach walks, practice yoga or meditation, relax by the shore, enjoy photography, and spend quality time with family or friends.

🗹 Timings (General) : Open all day
🗹 Best Visiting Time : Early morning & evening
🗹 Entry Fee : Free

Serenity Beach

Serenity Beach is one of the most scenic and peaceful beaches in Pondicherry, well known for its stunning sunrises and photographic beauty. Located close to Auroville, this beach attracts photographers, early-morning walkers, surfers, and travelers who enjoy calm coastal vibes.

The golden sand, fishing boats, rocky shoreline, and rhythmic waves create perfect compositions for nature and travel photography. Serenity Beach is less commercialized, offering a raw and authentic seaside experience. It is also a popular spot for surfing, making it a favorite among adventure seekers.

★ Must See / Things to Do: Watch the sunrise, capture beach photography, enjoy surfing activities, take peaceful walks, observe local fishermen, and relax by the sea.

🗹 Timings (General) : Open all day
🗹 Best Visiting Time : Early morning (sunrise) & evening
🗹 Entry Fee : Free

Pondy Marina

Pondy Marina is a modern waterfront attraction in Puducherry, developed as a scenic leisure and entertainment hub along the coastline. Designed as a family-friendly destination, Pondy Marina offers a refreshing blend of sea views, walking paths, food outlets, and recreational spaces, making it a popular evening hangout spot for both locals and tourists.

The marina comes alive during sunset and night hours with pleasant sea breeze, illuminated walkways, and vibrant activity. It is ideal for relaxed strolls, casual dining, photography, and spending quality time with friends and family in a calm coastal setting.

★ Must See / Things to Do: Enjoy seaside walks, watch the sunset, relax in seating areas, try food stalls and cafés, capture night photography, and spend leisure time with family and friends.

🗹 Timings (General) : 4:00 PM – 10:00 PM
🗹 Best Visiting Time : Evening & night
🗹 Entry Fee : Free

White Town Area

White Town is the most charming and visually distinctive part of Puducherry, famous for its French colonial architecture, colorful streets, heritage villas, and vibrant cafés. Also known as the French Quarter, this area beautifully reflects the city’s colonial past blended with modern lifestyle.

Lined with mustard-yellow, white, and pastel-colored buildings, White Town offers a European vibe with cobbled streets, bougainvillea-lined walls, and elegant balconies. It is home to popular cafés, boutique hotels, art galleries, and heritage landmarks, making it a favorite spot for walking tours, photography, and relaxed exploration.

★ Must See / Things to Do: Walk through French-style streets, visit heritage buildings, relax at cafés, enjoy street photography, explore art galleries, and experience the colonial ambience.

🗹 Timings (General) : Open all day
🗹 Best Visiting Time : Early morning & evening
🗹 Entry Fee : Free

Paradise Beach

Paradise Beach, also known as Chunnambar Beach, is one of the cleanest and most beautiful beaches in Puducherry. Famous for its soft white sand and crystal-clear surroundings, this beach can be reached only by boat from Chunnambar Boat House, making the journey itself a memorable experience.

Surrounded by lush greenery and calm backwaters on one side and the open sea on the other, Paradise Beach offers a peaceful escape from the city. The beach is well-maintained and ideal for families, couples, and nature lovers who want to relax in a serene coastal setting.

★ Must See / Things to Do: Enjoy a scenic boat ride, relax on white sandy shores, take beach walks, enjoy sea breeze, capture photography, and spend peaceful family time.

🗹 Timings (General) : 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
🗹 Access : Boat ride from Chunnambar Boat House
🗹 Entry Fee : Applicable (Boat charges & beach entry fee)

Eden Beach

Eden Beach is one of the cleanest and best-maintained beaches in Puducherry, proudly recognized with the Blue Flag certification, an international eco-label awarded for high standards of cleanliness, safety, and environmental management. Located at Chinna Veerampattinam, this beach is ideal for families and travelers seeking a safe and peaceful seaside experience.

Eden Beach features well-organized facilities including clean restrooms, changing rooms, lifeguard services, wheelchair access, and designated relaxation zones. The calm environment, soft sand, and scenic sea views make it perfect for leisure walks and quiet relaxation, though swimming may be restricted during rough sea conditions.

★ Must See / Things to Do: Relax on the clean shoreline, enjoy sea views, take peaceful walks, spend family time, capture photography, and experience an eco-friendly beach atmosphere.

🗹 Timings (General) : 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
🗹 Safety : Lifeguards on duty, swimming restrictions as per conditions
🗹 Entry Fee : Free

Things to Do in Pondicherry

Pondicherry wins hearts with its uniqueness and beauty. Ideal for a one day trip, the city offers much in terms of sightseeing, shopping, and food.

🛍️

What to Shop?

Pondicherry is a haven for shoppers looking for French aesthetics mixed with Indian tradition. You can spot the influence of French culture across the town.

Best Buys: Leather products, Satin, Corduroy, Linen, and Khadi textiles. Don't miss the aromatic perfumed candles, semi-precious stones, French antique furniture, and Tibetan handicrafts as perfect souvenirs.

🍽️

What to Eat?

Rooted in colonial culture, the city offers a wide variety of food ranging from French and Continental to South and North Indian cuisines.

Must-Try Dishes: Chicken Biryani, Multani Paneer Tikka, Minced Beef Patties, and Medu Vadas. For dessert, try the Pineapple Sheera or grab freshly baked baguettes and croissants from the delightful local bakeries.

📝 Terms & Conditions

Itinerary Adherence: Travelers are requested to follow the given itinerary for the 1 Day Pondicherry Local Sightseeing tour package.
Customization: Ideally, this package cannot be customized. However, if guests prefer a different set of places, they can check with the listed car rental companies for a custom quote.
Time Management: The time spent on each attraction must follow the schedule. In case of delays, the driver/company is not responsible for missed spots.
Closures: If a sightseeing place is closed on the tour day, it will not be covered. Please check for alternate options with the vendor before booking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is there any possibility to add/remove tourist places in this tour?

Ideally, no. However, you can check with the listed Pondicherry cab vendors before booking regarding any possibility to customize the tour. Additional charges might apply.

Q: Why book a private cab?

Booking a private cab ensures your trip is hassle-free, allowing you to spend time at your own convenience at each spot without worrying about transport schedules.

Cancellation Policy You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the day tour for a full refund.

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Pondy Tours & Cabs is your trusted travel partner in Pondicherry, offering complete tour solutions including cabs, rentals, stays, and curated experiences.

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No.33, , Sri Arabindo Street, Pondicherry - 605001

+91 8428857611

pondytours.in@gmail.com

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