If you are a history enthusiast, you must definitely visit the French War Memorial built in 1937, dedicated to the martyrs of World War I. Located near the beach, the memorial serves as the venue for Bastille Day celebrations on July 14 every year.

Serenity Beach is a well-known beach in Pondicherry. You can spend your time leisurely on the beach while relaxing to the meditative sound of waves crashing. This beach is also quite popular among surfers who come here to catch the waves.

Ousteri Lake is a beautiful artificial lake built a century ago, and is one of Asia’s important wetlands. Covering an area of 390 hectares, this massive lake is the largest catchment area for fresh water in Pondicherry. Over 40 species of migratory birds such as the Open-bill Stork, Golden Oriole and Painted Stork among others migrate to this lake every year. Timings: 9.00 AM – 5.00 PM, all days of the week. Activities: You can indulge in bird watching on a boat ride and enjoy taking photographs with your loved ones against the backdrop of the picturesque lake.

The historical Botanical Gardens is truly a nature lover’s delight. Constructed in the early 19th century by French colonists, the gardens house over 1500 species of plants covering an area of 22 hectares. The common flora seen here are the several different species of roses, along with bright orchids and jasmines. Kids would absolutely enjoy the fascinating train ride inside the Children’s Park.

This is one of the most famous places in Pondicherry and a must-visit for solace seekers. Founded in 1968, Auroville is a universal town where people from any country can live together in peace and harmony, irrespective of their caste, creed, religion and status. In the middle of the town, there is a temple called ‘Matrimandir’ which symbolizes the universal Mother.

If you love boating, Chunnambar Boathouse is a must-visit. It is also known as “Plage Paradiso” and is located where Chunnambar River meets the Bay of Bengal. You can enjoy a relaxing sunbath here, while admiring the unmitigated beauty of the place.

The serene and exotic Auro Beach or Auroville Beach in the “City of Dawn” is a major part of the ashram. Thousands of locals and tourists visit this beach every day to enjoy different activities and relax in a serene environment.

If you are keen to learn more about the history of South India, Arikamedu is a must-visit. This archaeological site was built in the 19th-century and it once served as an important trading place in Pondicherry. Intensive studies and several excavations at the site confirm trade connections with the Roman Empire during the supremacy of Augustus Caesar.

This ancient temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha is quite popular in Pondicherry. It is spread over an area of 8000 sq. ft and has a spectacular gold-plated kodikambam. The outside wall of the temple with different forms of Lord Ganesha is unmissable. The shrine also has a golden vimana that enhances its architectural beauty. Location: White Town Timings: 5:45 AM to 12:30 PM and 4:00 PM to 9:30 PM

The church is one of the most sacred religious places in Pondicherry. It was established in 1908 by the French missionaries and boasts excellent Gothic architecture. When you visit the church, remember to check the stained glass panels depicting events related to the life of Lord Jesus Christ. Location: South Boulevard Mass Timings: 5:30 AM, 12:30 AM, 6:00 PM from Monday to Saturday 5:30 AM, 7:30 AM, 12:00 PM, 5:00 PM, 6:15 PM on Sunday

The statue was built in 1870 in the honour of Dupleix, a French Governor who ruled Pondicherry till 1754. It is made of granite and is positioned at the end of Rock Beach. If you are interested in the history of the French colonial rule over Pondicherry, this statue is a must-visit. Location: Goubert Avenue Timings: 24 hours Pondicherry is an idyllic tourist haven and a quiet and peaceful retreat away from the bustling lifestyle of cities. Besides, the numerous historical landmarks and natural attractions that can be visited in a day or two, await you. From various water sports adventures around the tranquil beaches to the town’s colonial heritage, vacationers can keep themselves entertained throughout and make the most of their holiday.