Pondicherry Shopping

Pondicherry

Pondicherry (now Puducherry) is a fascinating blend of Indian and French heritage. Its history stretches from ancient Roman trade links to centuries of French colonial rule, which ended in 1954. Today, it’s a Union Territory that retains French architecture, culture, and cuisine alongside Tamil traditions. The city is also home to iconic temples, churches, beaches, and monuments.

It is about 150 kms from Chennai. One can reach there by trains, buses & taxis.

History of Pondicherry

• Ancient Period: Mentioned in the Periplus of the Erythraean Sea (1st century CE) as “Poduke,” a Roman trading post near Arikamedu.
• Medieval Era: Controlled by various South Indian dynasties, including the Cholas and Vijayanagara Empire.
• Colonial Powers: The Portuguese, Dutch, Danes, and English all occupied Pondicherry at different times before the French established dominance in 1674.
• French Rule: Pondicherry became the capital of French India. The French built the famous grid-pattern “White Town” with colonial villas, churches, and boulevards.
• Post-Independence: In 1954, Pondicherry was officially merged with India, but it retained its French cultural legacy

Best Spots to Visit in Pondicherry

• Arulmigu Manakula Vinayagar Devasthanam: A vibrant Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha, famous for its elephant blessings and ornate carvings.
• Sacred Heart Basilica: A Gothic-style Catholic church with stunning stained-glass panels depicting Biblical scenes.
• Bharathi Park Puducherry: A landscaped urban park with a Greco-Roman arch, fountains, and play areas.
• Mahatma Gandhi Statue: A bronze statue of Gandhi surrounded by granite pillars, located on Beach Road.
• Rock Beach: A popular seaside promenade, perfect for sunrise walks and evening relaxation.
• Rock Mountains – Picture Spot: A scenic viewpoint in White Town, ideal for photography.
• Serenity Beach: A quieter beach near Kottakuppam, known for surfing and peaceful vibes.
• Auroville, near Pondicherry, is an experimental township founded in 1968 by Mirra Alfassa (“The Mother”) and designed by architect Roger Anger. The Auroville township, which is about 10 kms away from the town. She was a great devotee of Sri AurobindoKnown as the “City of Dawn,” it was created to promote human unity, sustainable living, and spiritual growth. The centerpiece is the golden Matrimandir, a meditation space surrounded by peaceful gardens.

Your Exclusive and Interactive Pondicherry Shopping Guide

The French acquired Pondicherry in 1674 and held it until 1954. This town  was then incorporated into the Indian Union. It is a Union Territory.

The beaches, the Promenade, the old lighthouse, the old port house on the beach (now Le’ Cafe) the old customs House and the French quarters all add to the beauty and charm of this town. This is a quiet port city that still has the look and feel of a French town. Further, there is a distinct area called the French Quarters, right next to the beach. The Rue Roman Rolland, the Rue du Bazar Saint Laurent and the Rue Bussy are some of the streets in the French quarters.

The Tamil quarters section is a bit away from the coast .This area has retained its Tamil style architecture.

 Sri Aurobindo Ashram & Auroville

Pondicherry is also popular for the Sri Aurobindo Ashram, started by Sri Aurobindo. The ashram of Sri Aurobindo was founded by the eponymous guru and his follower, the Mother, in 1926. . As a tourist destination, it owes a lot to the Auroville township. Moreover, Auroville employs people from all over the world.

Pondicherry Shopping: Best Things To Buy

There is definitely more to the coastal city than just about relaxing and discovering inner peace. From clothing, designer wear dresses, export surplus, leather items, Kashmiri carpets to pottery and furniture. It definitely has everything to offer. The popular tourist destination boasts a number of handicraft shops too. There are exclusive shops for Kashmiri carpets and shawls that are popular with tourists. Moreover, products manufactured in Auroville town are considered among the finest in the entire country.

 Read our detailed write up on the markets & shops in Pondicherry.