Heritage Walk through the French Quarter
Duration: All days of the week
Mornings and afternoons, 2-3hrs
This is a walk through Pondicherry’s historic French quarter. In 1694, the French East India Company set up a trading post in Pondicherry, which became their most important possession in India. The culture, cuisine and architecture of France, combined with local influences, are even today visible in the French quarter. The only real way to soak in the charm of this historic district is on foot.
The walk begins with a visit to Sri Aurobindo Ashram, a peaceful place that was home to the renowned spiritual reformer Sri Aurobindo Ghose (1872 - 1950). From here we’ll walk through the pleasant streets of the French quarter, past handsome houses in sunny colours, and stately government buildings like Raj Nivas and the Pondicherry Legislative Assembly. We’ll walk through the leafy environs of Bharathi Park, dotted with statues and sculptures. The Park forms the nucleus around which the French town developed.
Our walk continues past popular cultural institutions, quiet memorials and imposing houses of worship like the Eglise de Notre Dame des Agnes (Notre Dame Church). We’ll also walk through the breezy seaside Promenade, seeing interesting monuments on the way.
The tour ends with a stop for refreshments at Hotel de l’Orient, an 18th century mansion that’s now a sensitively restored heritage hotel.
Optional: During the tour you can visit the Pondicherry Museum if you’re interested. Similarly, you can also visit the Manakula Vinayagar Temple to receive a blessing from the temple elephant (if she is there). Please tell the guide at the beginning of the walk if you are interested in visiting these places.
Start point: Ashram Post Office (near Sri Aurobindo Ashram), at the junction of Marine Street and St. Francois Martin Street
End point: Hotel de l’Orient
Start time: 9:00 AM and 3:00 PM
Cost:
- INR 750 per person for 7-10 persons
- INR 1000 per person for 5-6 persons
- INR 1500 per person for 3-4 persons
- INR 2000 per person for 2 persons
- INR 3800 for a solo traveller
Includes:
Knowledgeable guide and all taxes.
Excludes:
Refreshments, tips, entrances.
Tour notes:
Please wear sensible shoes for walking and ensure that you have adequate sun protection. The Aurobindo Ashram requires you to maintain silence and remove your shoes (socks are permitted).
How to book:
Prior reservation is mandatory. Email deepa@magictoursofindia.com or WhatsApp wa.me/+919867707414.