Tamil Town Trail on Foot and Rickshaw
Duration: All days of the week
Mornings and afternoons, 2-3hrs
This is an exploration of Pondicherry’s Tamil quarter, on foot and by cycle rickshaw. We will see the district’s traditional homes, places of worship, and vibrant local markets.
Pondicherry started out as a small, sleepy fishing hamlet. The population began growing at the end of the 17th century, with the arrival of the Europeans. Over the years, the French straightened the streets and relocated the Tamils to the west of the Grand Canal. This Tamil quarter broadly divided itself into Hindu, Christian and Muslim areas – each of which developed around important places of worship. In this tour, we will walk through the Hindu and Christian parts, and take a cycle-rickshaw ride through the Muslim section.
The walk begins at Maison Perumal, an old Tamil house now converted into a heritage hotel. From here we’ll walk past a beautiful old temple to Vysial Street, where we’ll see many more intricate traditional houses made of wood, burnt bricks, terracotta and lime. We’ll see how the architecture of these houses continues to shape social life in Tamil Town.
From here, we'll walk towards the bazaar area, through potters’ street and goldsmiths’ street. We’ll visit the Grand Bazaar that sells fruits, vegetables, spices, pickles, grain, flowers, clothes and all sorts of other daily-need items. We’ll see the old jail (now converted to a parking lot!) and stop for coffee at a popular eatery. Our walk continues past fabric shops and general stores, to reach the gorgeous Immaculate Conception Cathedral.
After visiting the Cathedral, we’ll take a short cycle-rickshaw ride past the Qutbah mosque and residential streets of the Muslim section. Finally, the rickshaw will drop you off at the Sacred Heart Basilica, where the tour ends.
Start point: Maison Perumal
End point: Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus
Start time: 9:00 AM and 3:00 PM
Cost:
- INR 900 per person for 7-10 persons
- INR 1200 per person for 5-6 persons
- INR 1800 per person for 3-4 persons
- INR 2200 per person for 2 persons
- INR 4000 for a solo traveller
Includes:
Knowledgeable guide, autorickshaw ride and all taxes
Excludes: Refreshments, tips, entrances
Tour notes:
We may go into temples and churches, so please dress conservatively. This also helps in fitting in, in the markets and residential areas. Wear good shoes for walking and ensure adequate sun protection. Please ask permission if you are photographing people.
How to book:
Prior reservation is mandatory. Email deepa@magictoursofindia.com or WhatsApp wa.me/+919867707414.