48 Hours in Pondicherry
Pondy is a popular weekend getaway destination from Chennai and is easy to navigate on foot or by bicycle.
Day 1:
9:00 AM - Start your day by visiting the Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health. It is located in the heart of the city and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Puducherry. The church is known for its beautiful architecture and serene atmosphere.
11:00 AM - After exploring the Basilica, head towards the Botanical Garden. It is located just 2 km away from the church and can be easily reached by taxi or auto-rickshaw. The garden is spread over an area of 22 acres and is home to a wide variety of plants and trees.
1:00 PM - Take a break for lunch at one of the many restaurants near the Botanical Garden. You can try some local delicacies like dosa, idli, vada, and sambar.
2:00 PM - After lunch, continue exploring the Botanical Garden. You can take a leisurely stroll through the garden and enjoy the beautiful scenery. There are also several ponds and fountains in the garden that add to its charm.
4:00 PM - Wrap up your visit to the Botanical Garden and head back to your hotel. You can spend the rest of the evening relaxing and exploring the local markets and shops.
Day 2:
9:00 AM - Start your day by visiting Arulmigu Manakula Vinayagar Devasthanam. It is a famous Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha. You can witness the beautiful architecture and seek blessings from the deity.
10:30 AM - Next, head to Sri Aurobindo Ashram which is located just 2 km away from the temple. This ashram was founded by Sri Aurobindo and his spiritual collaborator, The Mother. You can explore the ashram, meditate and learn about their teachings.
12:30 PM - After exploring the ashram, you can have lunch at any of the nearby restaurants that serve authentic South Indian cuisine.
2:00 PM - Post-lunch, head to Rock Beach which is just 1.5 km away from the ashram. It is a popular tourist spot where you can enjoy the scenic beauty of the Bay of Bengal and take a stroll along the promenade.
4:00 PM - Spend some time at the beach and then head back to your hotel for some rest.
6:00 PM - In the evening, you can explore the local markets and shop for souvenirs or try some street food.
8:00 PM - End your day with a delicious dinner at any of the nearby restaurants that serve French cuisine. This day plan will help you cover all the major attractions in Puducherry and make the most of your trip.