Puducherry
Explore the beauty, culture, and attractions of Puducherry.
Top Attractions
2 Days in Puducherry for Budget Trip
Puducherry is a charming coastal town with a mix of French colonial vibes and Tamil culture. I love how easy it is to explore on foot or by bike, and how affordable it can be if you know where to go. The beaches, cafes, and laid-back atmosphere make it perfect for a short getaway without breaking the bank.
Trip Highlights
Best Time to Visit
Share Your Adventure
Spread the word about this amazing trip!
Day 1
Day 1 in Puducherry
Kick off your Puducherry adventure with its most iconic spots, from the serene Promenade Beach to the vibrant French Quarter, topped off with delicious local eats.
Activities
Morning stroll at Promenade Beach
Start your day with a peaceful walk along Promenade Beach, also known as Rock Beach. The boulevard is lined with colonial-era buildings, and the early morning light makes it perfect for photos. Don’t miss the Gandhi Statue and the old lighthouse.
- Carry water and wear comfortable shoes—the walk is about 1.5 km long.
- Look out for local vendors selling fresh coconut water.
Explore the French Quarter
Wander through the charming streets of White Town, Puducherry’s French Quarter. The pastel-colored colonial houses, quirky cafes, and bougainvillea-lined lanes feel like a slice of Europe. Stop by Rue Dumas for some great photo ops.
- Visit Aurobindo Ashram’s main building—it’s serene and worth a quick peek.
- Look for hidden street art and murals along the way.
Lunch at Surguru
Head to Surguru, a no-frills local favorite, for an authentic South Indian thali. Their meals are hearty, affordable, and packed with flavors—think crispy dosas, tangy sambar, and fluffy idlis. The filter coffee here is a must-try.
- Try their Chettinad-style meals if you like a bit of spice.
- It gets crowded during lunch, so arrive a little early.
Must Try Foods
Transportation
No destinations found for this itinerary
Day 2
Day 2 in Puducherry
Dive deeper into Puducherry's spiritual side and colonial charm, with visits to iconic ashrams, serene gardens, and a taste of local flavors.
Activities
Visit Aurobindo Ashram
Start your day at the peaceful Aurobindo Ashram, founded by Sri Aurobindo. The ashram is a quiet retreat with lush gardens and a meditation hall. Don’t miss the small museum showcasing the life of Sri Aurobindo and The Mother.
- Dress modestly as it’s a spiritual place
- Silence is appreciated in the meditation hall
Explore Auroville
Head to Auroville, the experimental township just 12 km from Puducherry. Visit the Matrimandir, a stunning golden sphere for meditation, and browse the local handicrafts at the Auroville Visitor Center. The vibe here is unlike anywhere else in India.
- Wear comfortable shoes as there’s some walking involved
- Try the organic food at Auroville’s cafes
Relax at Paradise Beach
Wrap up your day at Paradise Beach, a quieter alternative to Promenade Beach. Accessible by a short boat ride from Chunnambar Boat House, this spot is perfect for unwinding with soft sands and clear waters.
- Carry water and snacks as options are limited
- Weekdays are less crowded