12 Places to Visit & Things to do for a Relaxing Holiday in Pondicherry

There is nothing more fun than to plan a relaxing getaway in the French capital of India, Pondicherry. This holiday destination exudes the vibe of a European seaport town dotted with French-inspired architecture, golden sand beaches, authentic bakeries, and ancient churches.

Get excited to explore the natural surroundings coupled with a rich cultural heritage during your visit to Pondicherry. Here is our curated list of things to do for a memorable vacation in Pondicherry:

1. Morning walk at the Promenade Beach

Go for a morning walk or jog along the Promenade Beach while basking in stunning sunrise views. Get your DSLR and capture some memorable sunrise photos during your morning walk by the beach. To wake up to views of the sea, book a stay at budget hotels in Pondicherry by the Promenade beach.

2. Romantic boat ride around the Paradise Beach Island

Explore Paradise Beach Island in the Chunnambar River, surrounded by lush green greenery. If you are looking for a spot to chill out and relax, check out Paradise Beach Island. Spend a laid-back afternoon sunbathing and reading a book under the multicoloured sunshades. Hire a boat for sailing across the backwaters while basking in majestic sunset views on the backdrop. Plan a picnic lunch to savour by the beach or camp overnight in treehouses along the shores of backwaters. Are you wondering where to find safe accommodation in budget hotels in Pondicherry? Reserve a room in Oyo hotels that are adhering to all WHO guidelines to ensure a safe stay for all their guests during the pandemic.

3. Get certified for Scuba Diving

If you are in the mood for some adventure, take a scuba diving course for beginners and pros. Get a PADI certification course in Scuba Diving to start exploring the vibrant underwater world in Pondicherry. As you dive in the deep waters, check out the coral reefs and exotic marine life like lionfish, grouper, bannerfish, kingfish, moray eels, parrotfish, angelfish, and manta rays. Ensure that you are accompanied by divemasters and instructors during diving sessions as a beginner. For the ultimate adventure photoshoots, get a GoPro underwater camera to shoot the colourful corals and fish.

4. Go surfing at the Serenity Beach

For a relaxing weekend getaway, head to Serenity Beach that features white-sand beaches, rough waves, and beach shacks. Surrounded by palm trees, this picturesque beach offers the perfect spot for surfing and sunbathing. For a scrumptious bite of delicious seafood, head to the beachside food stalls by the local fisherman. For a thrilling experience, take a surfing lesson while soaring up the whimsical waves of the deep blue sea.

Also, are you wondering where to find safe accommodation in budget hotels in Pondicherry? Reserve a room in Oyo hotels that are adhering to all WHO guidelines to ensure a safe stay for all their guests during the pandemic. 

5. French Breakfast at Cafe Des Art

Get started with your day with a delicious breakfast at Cafe Des Art after a morning jog at the beach. Savour French breakfast treats like freshly baked croissants with a cappuccino, baguette sandwiches, Croque Madam sandwich, crepes, tartines, and much more! To satiate your sweet tooth cravings, indulge in a decadent Chocolat Fondant.

Location of this French cafe: 10 Suffren Street, Pondicherry

Cuisine: French & Continental

6. Chettinad cuisine at Appachi Chettinad

No trip to Pondicherry is complete without savouring some authentic Chettinad cuisine. Order mouth-watering dishes from an elaborate menu offering Chettinad cuisine in Pondicherry. Enjoy a tasty and filling lunch at this restaurant with dishes like Dum Briyani, Sura Puttu, and Nethili Podi Varuval

Location of Appachi Chettinad restaurant: 9 Rangapillai Street, MG Road

Cuisine: Chettinad and Seafood

7. Explore the local markets

After a scrumptious lunch, take a stroll in the local markets of Pondicherry. Shop for souvenirs, essential oils, handmade paper, handicrafts, metal artifacts, and silk sarees. Check out the curio shop, Geethanjali to shop for wooden chests, paintings, and furniture. Another local shop to explore is La Boutique d’Auroville for trinkets, garments, scarves, wooden trays, and handmade cards.

8. Prayer service at St. John’s Church

This ancient church has a legacy of two hundred years which is a popular sightseeing spot in Pondicherry. Take your time to bask in the fascinating interiors featuring stained glass work windows and colossal pillars. Bask in the bliss while attending a morning prayer service on Sunday at St. John’s Church in Pondicherry.

9. Heritage walk tour around White Town

The best way to explore the White Town is on a rental bicycle or by foot. As French culture is predominant in this region, you will find French-style cafes and bistros all across White Town. Take a stroll around Pondy that features cafes, bistros, boutiques, architecture, bustling markets, and much more! To know more about the history and culture of Pondicherry, talk with the locals to discover the rich cultural heritage of this region.

10. Windsurfing at Mahabalipuram Beach

Another picturesque beach that you cannot miss out on while visiting Pondicherry. As you marvel at the sight of the waves hitting the rocks, capture some memorable photographs. To enjoy fresh seafood, head to the local fisherman shacks by the beach. For some adventure activities, go scuba diving and windsurfing.

11. Enjoy Water Sports at Karaikal Beach

A great beach to enjoy some relaxing time and adventure sports with your family in Pondicherry. Book a beachside hotel and dine at the local cafes and restaurants around the Karaikal beach. Enjoy water a wide range of water sports like swimming, canoeing, kayaking, and boating. If you are looking for some peace and tranquility, read a book by the shore or bask in the surrounding natural beauty.

12. Explore the stunning scenery at Veerampattinam Beach

This serene beach in Pondicherry attracts photographers and adventure seekers. As one of the longest beaches in South India, you will enjoy walking along the sandy shoreline of this beach as the soft waves wash your feet. Explore the quaint fishing hamlets covered in lush greenery and do not forget to take some Instagram-worthy photos.

From adventurous water sports to basking in tranquil beaches to exploring the colonial heritage, Pondicherry is the idyllic spot to plan your next holiday. Pack your bags, book the hotels, and hop on a flight to embark on an unforgettable holiday in Pondicherry.