Top Tours & Activities in Pondicherry

Embark on a captivating journey with our "Best of Pondicherry: A Private Sightseeing Tour" starting at 9:00 AM. Begin your day at the serene Sri Aurobindo Ashram, delving into its spiritual history. Next, explore the charming White Town, a French Quarter, with visits to the Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the Old Lighthouse. After a delightful lunch break, proceed to Auroville, discovering the Matrimandir and its unique philosophy. Continue to the Pondicherry Museum, showcasing the region's rich heritage, and unwind at Bharathi Park's serene surroundings. Conclude your day at the scenic Promenade Beach, offering a perfect setting for a leisurely stroll and sunset views of the Bay of Bengal. At 6:00 PM, your enriching journey through Pondicherry concludes as you return to your hotel or preferred location.

This 1.5-hour Mehendi art class helps you to learn the basic of the ephemeral henna tattoos. During the class, you will be taught how to make the paste, draw extremely fine lines and sophisticated designs.

This private tour takes you to Mahabalipuram famous for its rock cut temples dating back to the 7th century along a lovely sea shore. This tour is available to be done in a private car. We will spend the day exploring this World Heritage Site of Mahabalipuram which used to serve as a sea port in ancient times. The highlights include masterpieces like the Five Chariots which are rock cut monolith temples, Arjuna's Penance the giant open air rock relief, the gravity defying Krishna's butterball and the Shore temple which is the last remaining of the 7 Pagodas mentioned by Marco Polo. This package includes pick and drop, private car, lunch, and a professional guide.

Pondicherry Tour (09:00 AM – 08:00 PM) Vehicle will be reported as per your convenient place in Pondicherry city, later Start from your hotel/Adresses in one of our finely maintained cars. Driven by the English speaking Chauffeurs, will guarantee you an excellent trip in India. Our wide range of fleet can cater to the diversified kinds of clientele, assuring a hassle free and comfortable travel. full day city tour as per the below itinerary also you can add or skip places as per your convenient with in the Pondicherry city limit after completion of tour you will be dropped as your convenient with in Pondicherry city limit Hotel/Adresses.   

Puducherry arts and craft is a delightful experience and we are very fortunate that even today our rich art and craft culture is preserved in the Murungapakkam Village. Experience the famous art and craft of Puducherry by walking around the houses and small joint of Puducherry village, explore the rich art, closely observe the off beat museum, shops, galleries showcasing handicrafts etc.

You don't just get to know practical instructions to drap a saree. But you would be given insights on the history of the saree, different draping styles, how certain draping style is linked to a particular class of society, some styling is specific to geographical location, and stories of accessories too. At the end of the session, you will be able to tie the saree all by yourself and carry yourself with grace and confidence. We also offer welcome drinks such as warm black tea cool buttermilk or refreshing lime juice depending on your choice. You would get to choose accessories to match your saree. A saree manual will be emailed for future reference. A wide variety of sarees is available for you to select and practice, and most importantly to take some amazing pictures.

Experience the charm of Pondicherry, where French elegance meets Tamil tradition on a guided full-day tour. Explore the city’s highlights, including the peaceful Sri Aurobindo Ashram, the fascinating Pondicherry Museum, and the Sacred Heart Basilica, a Gothic church adorned with beautiful stained-glass windows. Wander through the picturesque French Quarter, filled with pastel-colored buildings, cozy cafés, and artistic corners that reflect the city’s colonial heritage. Savor a flavorful lunch at a local café and taste Pondicherry’s signature French-Indian fusion dishes. Visit Auroville, a unique township promoting peace and unity, and marvel at the golden Matrimandir before relaxing with a leisurely walk along the scenic Promenade Beach. • Full-day Pondicherry tour with an English-speaking guide • Visit the city’s top attractions showcasing its vibrant culture and rich history • Enjoy convenient hotel pick-up and drop-off within Pondicherry city

You may enter the center of Chola history at Gangaikonda Cholapuram, a world heritage site and where the great monarch Rajendra Chola I constructed his capital and topped it with the majestic Brihadisvara Temple. You can see the exquisite carvings, the majestic towering vimana, and the revered Chola Ganga Tank, which is said to have been dedicated using water from the Ganga itself, at Gangaikonda Cholapuram. The temple, where legend, devotion, and history come together to tell the tale of an empire that once spanned seas, is more than simply a monument; it is a living testament to the Cholas' strength, creativity, and vision.

Experience the cultural richness of Tamil Nadu on a private day tour from Pondicherry to the historic towns of Mahabalipuram and Kanchipuram. Explore ancient rock-cut temples, majestic stone carvings, and vibrant local traditions. Witness the architectural brilliance of Mahabalipuram's UNESCO World Heritage sites and immerse yourself in Kanchipuram’s spiritual legacy, including a visit to a traditional silk weaving unit. This curated journey offers a deep dive into South India's spiritual and artistic heritage.

Kolam is a traditional art originated in South India. It is a tradition for women to practice it every morning by putting ephemeral patterns on the front door. It is a way to meditate and also to invite Goddess and prosperity to their home. In this 1.5-hour class, you will not only learn how to make kolam, but also get some insight about Indian culture. Both children over 6 years old and adults are welcome to experience this unique culture of India!

Walk in the French Quarters is a charming way to absorb the city's rich colonial history and cultural blend. The neighbourhood is renowned for its stunning colonial buildings, showcasing a mix of French, Baroque, Rococo, Neoclassical, and Indian architectural styles. Street cafes, landmarks and a beach are the other highlights.

Come and discover the taste of Indian cuisine! Learn how to prepare a traditional South Indian lunch with a variety of rice, a main gravy (veggie, fish or chicken), some side dishes and a dessert. We offer mainly 30 different recipes and you can chose the ones you like or the ones you have never heard of. We have a wide range of vegetarian and vegan items, too. Book this class and share this wonderful experience with you family and friends!

Explore Pondicherry's rich culture and heritage in a full day tour. The tour is organised by Five Senses Tours, a company recognised by the ministry of tourism. The highlights include a visit to Aurobindo Ashram, which is dedicated to Sri Aurobindo Ghosh the philosopher and revolutionary, French heritage walk followed by lunch, the lovely esplanade beside the Bay of Bengal, visit to a unique handmade paper factory and Auroville the global village. This tour is organized by Five Senses Tours, a private limited company recognized by the Ministry of Tourism and a member of the Indian Association of Tour Operators (IATO). The tour has been designed to support local livelihoods by way of employment of local guides, and supporting local businesses in line with the mission of the company to ensure travel dollars stay where they are spent.

Experience the Beauty of Pondicherry explored in a Day City Tour with some interesting explanations by the Organizer about the Sites. Suggesting good dine & wines in the city, have a leisure shopping on the roadside handicrafts shops, clothing and eatables. Enjoy the sizzling Water rides on the backwater of Pondicherry and spend sometime in the Clean Beach Dunes of "Paradise Island"

Enjoy Pondicherry the best way ever with a morning cycle ride all over the city. In a safe way, Cycle around French, Muslim and Tamil quarters of Pondicherry city on a vintage-style bicycle during this early morning 2-hour guided tour. Explore quiet city before people starts their activities. Discover little alleys, beautiful buildings, perfect places to make nice shoots, all you need to see in Pondicherry.

Puducherry arts and craft is a delightful experience and we are very fortunate that even today our rich art and craft culture is preserved in the Murungapakkam Village. Experience the famous art and craft of Puducherry by walking around the houses and small joint of Puducherry village, explore the rich art, closely observe the off beat museum, shops, galleries showcasing handicrafts etc.

Pondicherry, or Puducherry as it is now called, remained under French rule until 1954. Even today, French influence is visible everywhere. On this walking tour explore the French quarter of the town and discover the French influence in its houses, official buildings and the Church of Notre Dame. Walk around the town at a leisurely pace and listen to the commentary of your guide as you go past important landmarks. Highlights: • French Quarter landmarks like the Church of Notre Dame • The Government House, an elegant palace with a blend of Indian and European architectural styles • Commentary from your guide

Pondicherry (also known as Puducherry) used to be a French colonial settlement in 1954, but now is an union territory of India. There is a strong French influence in the city, especially in the old quarters, with Rues and Boulevards lined with Mediterranean style houses and bakeries, although the city remains very much Indian. Explore this beautiful little city with our experienced and professional guide, comfortably in an air-conditioned vehicle.

Pondicherry's true essence can be found not in its landmarks but in its vibrant markets. Immerse yourself in the energy of the city as you explore the lively bazaars on our 'Magical Pondicherry Markets Tour.' Witness the famous street markets, where you'll find a myriad of offerings, from flowers, fruits, and vegetables to spices, textiles, jewelry, and everyday essentials, all while discovering the rich history of the city

This walk is very different because when we go on any tour, we are exploring and experiencing places and things that are outside, but on this tour we will be taking a journey inwards and you will explore the very life within, it could be a life changing experience if you decide to take it in the right perspective. Connect the dots of spirituality, religion and science to make sense and go beyond the framework of logic, an experience designed to elevate your spiritual journey.

You get to choose what you want to learn. It could be Indian Classical Dance like Bharatanatyam or Mohiniyattam. Or you want to try some Indian Free Style like Indian Cinematic Dances like Tamil Kuthu or Bollywood Dance. Takeaways: Choices of Dance Forms is available. If you do not prefer to dance, you could watch some enthralling performances ( Only for watching shows, free of cost for children below 7 years). You will learn some great dance stories, history, and about the costumes and accessories of the dance forms. You get to a choreography for a dance, record it, and have your own mini performance at our place. Welcome drink is provided - A warm cup of black tea cooking buttermilk or refreshing lime juice.

If you are running short on time or just come down to explore tourist destinations in and around city, full day city tour is the best option. We have picked up all the spilled pieces together and created a beautiful garland of it in our Trails of Pondicherry tour, an unmatched heritage experience with awesome stories to understand a city's existence, culture and lifestyle.

Experience the popular gateway Mahabalipuram’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites near to Chennai, known for its picturesque beauty, carved temples and rock-cut caves, heritage and culture on this guided day trip to Chennai's most perennial favorite gateway.

On this day excursion from Pondicherry, visit the largest Shiva temple in the world. The temple is situated in the town of Thiruvannamalai, about 60 miles from Pondicherry. After a tour of the temple, visit the nearby Ashram (monastery) of the Saint and Philosopher, Sri Ramana Maharshi, who lived here until his death in 1950. Highlights • Drive through the South Indian countryside  • Visit to Arunachaleswarar Temple, the largest Shiva temple in the world • Visit to Sri Ramana Maharshi Ashram

What is actually Kolam? Why it is so significant in Indian House Hold? Why do one take this painstaking act of drawing on public roads every single day, not just on some occasion? You will get all these questions answered in the workshop. Take aways: 1. Learn different patterns of Kolam and hands-on training on each style. 2. A Kolam kit to take home for practice - includes a design template and a range of colored Kolam powder. 3. Kolam powder preparation will be taught. 4. A manual will be emailed later. 5. Welcome drink - A warm cup of black tea or cooling butter milk or refreshing lime juice.

Pondicherry, now officially known as Puducherry, was the largest French colony in India. French influence is visible in all the streets and buildings and the French language is widely spoken to date. This influence is so strong that Pondicherry is often referred to as ‘The French Riviera of the East’. Enjoy the stunning shoreline of Pondicherry as you drive to your hosts’ residence for a cooking class of authentic Pondicherry cuisine- a fusion of French and Tamil cuisine. Highlights: • Welcome drink • Introduction to Pondicherry cuisine • Cooking class with an English speaking instructor • Lunch or dinner

An exclusive tour for all the romantics of the world! Together with the professional local guide, you will visit the most romantic places in the city. A perfect getaway spot for lovers? For seekers of spirituality and romance, Pondicherry is known for the location of Auroville, attracting thousands of lovers to explore this beautiful city. These places in Pondicherry are known for preserving the remnants of French heritage with Indian culture and offering a jolly good time. You will feel spellbound in a charming atmosphere. What is considered as one of the best places to have a date in the city? Where can you make lovely photos? You will be surprised how many historical love stories are hidden in the streets, buildings, parks of the city. From heartbreaking and tragic, to the hilarious or spicy ones. This tour is especially recommended in the Saint Valentine period!

Pondicherry otherwise called Puducherry or Pondi is home to the most flawless shorelines in India. This tour offers a cooking class at a local home in Pondicherry. Prepare a South Indian meal with your hosts and then enjoy it with them. It is a unique experience where you also get to interact with your hosts and learn more about the culture of Pondicherry. Highlights: • A typical home in Pondicherry • A traditional South Indian meal • Interaction with your hosts

This guided bicycle tour discovers Pondicherry’s different neighborhoods. It is a two-hour long excursion through the various quarters of this town marked by French colonial influences. Explore the French, Muslim and Tamil quarters of Pondicherry during the early morning hours. Highlights: • French Quarter • Barathi Park and Government Park. • Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus • Botanical gardens, and Old Town

On this day trip from Pondicherry, explore the wide expanse of mangrove forests in the village of Pichavaram. Take a boat ride through the mangroves and discover several of the 200 species of birds that call it home. Next visit a 10th century Hindu temple in the neighbouring town of Chidambaram. The temple is dedicated to God Nataraja, the dancing incarnation of God Shiva. Highlights : • Boat ride through the  Mangrove Forests of Pichavaram • Over 200 species of birds • Visit to the world famous Nataraja Temple at Chidambaram

Together with the professional guide, you will visit the most charming places in the city. You will have a chance to explore the city, while hearing fascinating facts and legends. Have you ever heard that places in Pondicherry are known for preserving the remnants of French heritage with Indian culture? And offering a jolly good time to tourists? From its beaches to historical monuments and from its temples to churches, Pondicherry is an interesting tourist destination in India. You will be surprised how many stories are hidden in the streets, buildings and corners of Pondicherry. Your charming guide will tell you what is special and unique about living in this city. Perfect for those who are visiting the city for the first time and want to get the most of it!

Anita’s paternal grandmother lived in Indochina during the French colonization for 40 years. There she learned to cook French, Vietnamese and Cambodian food. Later she came to Pondicherry and with Portuguese and Tamil influence, she enjoyed cooking various fusion dishes, that Anita’s mother, Pushpa, learned and today cooks and shares with people who are interested in trying the cuisine of Pondicherry - very unique with its influence from Vietnamese, Creole, French and Portuguese cuisine. In your 2-hour cooking class, learn 3 dishes from scratch. • Private cooking lesson in a local's home in Pondicherry • Learn how to cook Pondicherry's Créole cuisine, a unique fusion of French and Tamil traditions • Sample a variety of local dishes that you may not find in restaurants • Learn about the history, architecture of Pondicherry, its people, culinary traditions and cuisine If you choose the market tour option, visit a neighborhood market, to buy fresh ingredients for your cooking class.

Embark on a fascinating journey from Pondicherry to explore the mystical beauty of Pichavaram Mangrove Forest and the spiritual charm of Nataraja Temple in Chidambaram. Begin your day with a scenic drive to Pichavaram, where you'll witness the breathtaking sight of the second-largest mangrove forest in the world. Glide through the maze of waterways on a boat cruise, surrounded by lush greenery and abundant wildlife. After the mangrove adventure, head to Chidambaram to visit the ancient Nataraja Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva in his form as the cosmic dancer. Marvel at the intricate sculptures and architecture of this sacred site, and immerse yourself in the spiritual aura of the temple. Conclude your day with a delicious lunch, savoring local flavors before returning to Pondicherry, enriched by a day of natural and cultural exploration.

Unleash your creativity in a hands-on pottery workshop at SITA Cultural Center, where the simplicity of clay meets artistic expression. Guided by a professional instructor, this immersive experience introduces you to the fundamentals of pottery, from understanding clay's texture to mastering hand-building and wheel techniques. You'll appreciate the meditative rhythm as you shape your masterpiece, connecting with the earth in a relaxing atmosphere suited for all skill levels. Leave with a unique handmade pottery piece, a personal reminder of your creative journey.

On this six-hour tour explore the major sights of the former French colony of Pondicherry and visit the unique township of Auroville. Pondicherry, or Puducherry as it is now called, remained under French rule until 1954. Even today, French influence is visible everywhere. Auroville is an experimental township that was founded in 1968 and is today home to people of several nationalities. Highlights: • French quarter • Statue of Mahatma Gandhi • Bharati Park • Matrimandir - Auroville • Sri Aurobindo Ashram

Embark on a spiritual journey with the Sri Arunachaleswara Temple tour from Pondicherry. Your day begins with a visit to the ancient Arunachaleswara Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, known for its grand architecture and spiritual significance. Explore the sacred Arunachala Mountain, believed to be a form of Lord Shiva himself, and experience its tranquil aura. En route, visit the Sri Ramana Ashram, a spiritual center founded by the renowned sage Ramana Maharshi, and the Virupaksha Cave, where Ramana Maharshi meditated for several years. Enjoy the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off, ensuring a comfortable and hassle-free experience.

This self-guided audio tour takes you through Pondicherry's unique French colonial heritage in Tamil Nadu, unlike most Indian cities with British roots. Starting at the Marquis Dupleix Statue in White Town, you'll stroll along Promenade Beach and deeper into this quaint and colorful former French colony. Discover significant buildings including the rare baroque Immaculate Conception Cathedral, the vibrant Hindu temple Arulmigu Manakula Vinayagar Devasthanam, and the French Consulate's colonial mansion. Learn about Joseph Francois Dupleix who transformed this fishing village and hear stories about great figures like Dr. Ambedkar and Nehru. Walk through both White Town's colonial charm and Black Town's lively temples and colorful markets, ending at bustling Goubert Market where you can explore amazing local food and coffee shops.

On this six-hour tour explore the major sights of the former French colony of Pondicherry and visit the unique township of Auroville. Pondicherry, or Puducherry as it is now called, remained under French rule until 1954. Even today, French influence is visible everywhere. Situated at a distance of 7 miles from Pondicherry is Auroville, an experimental township that was founded in 1968 and is today home to people of several nationalities. Highlights: • French quarter • Statue of Mahatma Gandhi • Bharati Park • Matrimandir • Sri Aurobindo Ashram

On this day excursion from Pondicherry, visit the largest Shiva temple in the world. The temple is situated in the town of Thiruvannamalai, about 60 miles from Pondicherry. After a tour of the temple, visit the nearby Ashram (monastery) of the Saint and Philosopher, Sri Ramana Maharshi, who lived here until his death in 1950. Highlights • Drive through the South Indian countryside  • Visit to Arunachaleswarar Temple, the largest Shiva temple in the world • Visit to Sri Ramana Maharshi Ashram

Experience the best of Pondicherry in a single day. Visit the peaceful Auroville, enjoy a guided cycling tour through beautiful villages, relax at Rock Beach, and end your day with a traditional South Indian dinner and cultural activities at a local home. This tour offers a perfect mix of spirituality, adventure, and cultural immersion.

This private tour takes you to Mahabalipuram, famous for its rock-cut temples dating back to the 7th century, along a lovely seashore. The company is recognized by the Ministry of Tourism and is a winner of the Outlook Responsible Tourism Award. We will spend the day exploring this World Heritage Site of Mahabalipuram, which used to serve as a seaport in ancient times. The highlights include masterpieces like the Five Chariots, which are rock-cut monolith temples; Arjuna's Penance, the giant open-air rock relief; the gravity-defying Krishna's butterball; and the Shore Temple, which is the last remaining of the 7 Pagodas mentioned by Marco Polo.

Enjoy a full-day private tour from Pondicherry to Tranquebar, exploring ancient temples, spiritual centres, colonial forts, and peaceful beaches. This journey gives you a glimpse into Tamil Nadu’s rich culture and coastal beauty.