12–13 hours
Guided in English
Instant confirmation
Private tour

Highlights

Embark on a full-day private guided tour and immerse yourself in the captivating history and culture of Puducherry (formerly Pondicherry). This Union Territory of India was a French colonial settlement until 1954, and still exudes its French charm with tree-lined streets, mustard-colored colonial villas, and chic boutiques in the French Quarters. Take a leisurely stroll along the scenic seaside promenade of the Bay of Bengal and marvel at the 4m-high Gandhi Memorial statue. Discover Auroville and Aurobindo Ashram, explore the French and Tamil Quarters, and visit the Pondicherry museum in Bharati Park. Your tour will last for 12-13 hours, with Puducherry being an approximate 4-hour drive from Chennai. Don't miss out on the opportunity to indulge in a local vegetarian lunch, which is included in your tour. Book your tour now and delve into the rich culture and history of this unique destination!

Inclusions

What's included

Bottled water in the car only
English speaking private local guide in Pondicherry for monument sightseeing
All applicable taxes and service charges
Private Air-conditioned vehicle. 1-2 guests in an air-conditioned sedan
Private Air-conditioned vehicle. 3-4 guests in an air-conditioned 5 seater vehicle
Entrance fees as per itinerary
Lunch in a local restaurant (vegetarian)
Hotel or airport pickup and drop

What's not

Personal expenses
Tips or gratuities
Anything not specified in inclusions
Permission for meditating inside Matri Mandir has to be taken in advance by guest themselves online.

Itinerary

Discover the unique and inspiring Auroville on your visit to Pondicherry! Auroville is a universal city dedicated to the ideal of human unity based on the vision of Sri Aurobindo and The Mother. Witness people of different religions and faiths living together harmoniously in this incredible community. Matri Mandir is a giant dome for meditation in Auroville. Guests can see it from outside on a day visit. Permission for meditating inside has to be taken one day in advance by guest themselves online. Timing: Monday to Saturday: 9.00 AM to 4.00 PM & Sunday 9.00 AM to 1.00 PM
1.5 h
Discover the inspiring story of Aurobindo Ashram, founded in 1926 under the guidance of the Mother, which has grown from a small group of two dozen disciples into a large and diverse community of almost 1600 members. The heart of the community is the Ashram main building, where people come for assistance from all around the world. Explore the libraries for study and the facilities for different cultural pursuits such as music, dance, theater, and arts. Regular members participate in physical education activities like sports, strength training, and swimming. Aurobindo Ashram is a hub of activity and a great place to immerse yourself in spiritual growth and personal development. Timing: 8.00 AM to 12.00 Noon & 12.00 PM to 6.00 PM
1 h
Discover the lush and picturesque Bharati Park, also known as Government Park, located in the heart of Pondicherry town. Marvel at the famous Aayi Mandapam monument that stands at the center of the park. This park is of great significance as it is surrounded by some of the most popular places in town, including Governor's Palace, Legislative Assembly, Government Hospital, Ashram Dining Room, the Circle de Pondicherry private club, and the beach resorts. Stroll through the greenery and admire the historic buildings that surround the park. Don't miss the chance to visit this must-see attraction and experience the beauty and charm of Pondicherry. Timing: 9.00 AM to 6.00 PM
45 minAdmission included
Experience the breathtaking seaside promenade that runs alongside the Bay of Bengal and enjoy a scenic drive past several statues, including the iconic 4m-high Gandhi Memorial. Don't miss this opportunity to soak up the stunning views of the ocean and take in the tranquil surroundings. Book your tour today and discover the beauty of Pondicherry's coastline.
Passes by
Experience the charm of France in India by taking a stroll through the French Quarters of Pondicherry. This area still retains its French heritage, from the French-named streets to the French-speaking locals and French-style villas. As a former French colony, Pondicherry was established as a trading center by the French East India Company, and the French influence can still be seen throughout the city. Explore the French Quarters to discover restaurants and cafes serving authentic French cuisine with menus in French, and see how both Indian and non-Indian residents hold French citizenship.
1 hAdmission included

Cancellation

All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.

Reviews

3.0

Ratings come from 1 reviews collected by our booking partner. They are travellers' own words, in the order they were written — never reordered to flatter the experience.

Know before you go

Pickup: Pickup is included for everyone.
Ticket type: Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Operated by: Holidays Forever India

Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Matri Mandir is a dome for meditation in Auroville. Guests can see it from outside. Permission for meditating has to be taken in advance by guest themselves online.

How it compares in Chennai

Its from-price is 18% above the median of the 74 day trips we list in Chennai.
It is longer than most of them.
By number of reviews it ranks 35 of 74.

About Chennai

Chennai is the capital of Tamil Nadu on the Bay of Bengal, a city of temples, classical music, a very long beach and a colonial fort.

Chennai, formerly Madras, grew from Fort St George, which the British East India Company built in 1644 on the Coromandel coast and which now houses the state government. The city is spread along the Bay of Bengal beside Marina Beach, one of the longest urban beaches in the world. San Thome Basilica stands near the shore, built over what is believed to be the tomb of St Thomas the Apostle.

Top-ranked sights in Chennai: Mahabalipuram (Mamallapuram), Fort St. George, Kapaleeshwarar Temple.

See all 321 experiences in Chennai