Guided tour of the French Quarter

Walk around the French Quarter with your guide and learn about this unique part of Pondicherry and how the French legacy is still preserved.

Area

Tamil Nadu

Type

Art & Architecture

History

Grade

Standard

Who

Adults

Duration

1-2 Hours

Starting in the morning you will walk around the stunning yellow buildings marked with white outlines which narrate the story of this once colonial town. It served as the capital of French territories in India until 1954 and attracts tourists to view the charm of Pondicherry. During you walk you will have the opportunity to visit Notre Dame Des Anges which is the replica of the Basilica at Lourdes in Southern France. This is one of the most popular and important Churches of Pondicherry. The church was founded in 1686 and served as a Parish Church until 1729. Visiting Notre Dame Des Anges during the mass prayers is a beautiful experience.

You will also have the opportunity to visit the Sri Aurobindo Ashram Founded by Sri Aurobindo and Mirra Alfassa (The Mother) in 1926 and Pondicherry Museum which has masterpieces dating back to the Pallava and the Chola Dynasty. In this government owned museum there is a broader category of artifacts other than antiques. The museum is a repository of art, culture, heritage and history. Puducherry Museum is open all days (except Mondays and public holidays) from 10 AM to 1 PM and 2 PM to 5 PM daily. Finally you will visit the Arulmigu Manakula Vinayagar Temple which is not only a religious site in Pondicherry but is also a famed tourist attraction. Dedicated to Lord Ganesha, this temple consists of a mesmerizing idol of one of the 16 forms of the Lord called Bhuvaneshar Ganapathy or Manakula Vinayagar. It is believed that the temple dates back to the time even before the French colonists made Pondicherry their settlement.

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From Temples to Tropics: Tamil Nadu & The Andaman Islands

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Recommended Hotels Nearby

A selection of luxury hotel options in the area, handpicked and recommended by our travel specialists.

The Gateway Hotel Pasumalai, Madurai

The Gateway Hotel Pasumalai, Madurai is set in 62 acres and gives you an opportunity to relax in peaceful gardens away from city life.

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The Trident Chennai

The Trident Chennai is conveniently located close to the airport, and 10 minutes from Chennai. Set amongst five acres of lush, tropical gardens, the elegant hotel caters offers 167 rooms, business facilities, bar, restaurants, gymnasium and spa.

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Rajakkad Estate

Rajakkad Estate is a beautiful and cosy retreat hidden in the hills of Tamil Nadu, offering a traveller their own secret hideout and surrounding area to explore. Enjoy yoga, walking trails or simply relax in the gardens.

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Palais de Mahe

The Palais de Mahe is located in the old French quarter of Pondicherry in India, just 50 metres the from seafront. It is a colonial style boutique hotel with just 18 rooms and is an elegant and charming option for those on a tour through Tamil Nadu.

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Svatma

Svatma is a luxury heritage hotel in a quiet lane in Tanjore, Tamil Nadu and raises the bar for hotels in this area. Surrounded by beautifully landscaped grounds, Svatma has been lovingly designed and restored as a testament to Tamilan art and culture.

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Visalam

Located between Trichy and Madurai in the heart of the Chettinad community, Visalam is a lovingly restored mansion and an ideal stop over during an off the beaten track tour of Tamil Nadu. The 15 heritage rooms are elegant ensuring a peaceful stay.

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La Villa

La Villa is a luxury boutique hotel located in the town of Pondicherry in Tamil Nadu, India and is a beautifully restored historic 19th century French Manor House. With just six fantastic suites, La Villa is a triumph of design and thoughtful restoration.

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The Leela Palace Chennai

With its sea-facing location, The Leela Palace Chennai brings opulence and modern comforts to Chennai. Close to the business district in the heart of the city, here relax at the spa by ESPA, the exclusive Club Lounge or one of the six dining options.

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More Experiences in This Area

Discover more things to do in the area and chat to our specialists about crafting these experiences into your tailor-made holiday.

City Tour Of Madurai

After an early breakfast head out to enjoy a tour of Madurai, one of the oldest cities in India and the second largest city in Tamil Nadu.

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