India’s Pondicherry or Puducherry was a French colonial settlement until 1954, but today it is a Union Territory town with beautiful beaches, colonial-style buildings and plenty of leftovers from the French colonial era. Pondicherry was under the control of French until 1954, this is when it became a charming French town/village. One such place in Pondicherry is the White Town Pondicherry where most of the French people loved to settle. It was basically a place reserved for the French to live. From houses to churches, schools to colleges, everything was built here as this place was pretty special to them. As you explore Pondicherry and the minute you step into the cobbled lanes and see bright yellow walls with bougainvillea hanging from the balconies, you know that you are in White Town, the amazing French Quarter of Pondicherry.
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Architecture Details Of White Town Pondicherry
White Town is a very well planned area with traditionally styled houses that have French style balconies, grilled doors, high ceilings and romantic arched windows to die for. An Indo – French style of architecture was used in the constructions of these buildings. The cobbled lanes have blue street signs written in French on either side of the road. Walking through these streets gives a feel of walking literally through a quaint town in France. Its breathtaking colonial construction is a living testimony to the city’s colonial heritage. There are many French families still living here, the unoccupied houses have been converted into boutique hotels, cafes, restaurants and art galleries.
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Things To Do In And Around White Town
Because of the vibrancy and many things here, White Town is the top attraction for tourists coming to Pondicherry. Listed below are some of the top things to do while here.
Explore The Place On Foot Or Bike
A walking tour or going on a bike ride are the best ways to see all of White Town Pondicherry. There are many guided as well as unguided walking tours to experience the vibrant culture of Pondicherry. You can either book them online or at the counter. For people who don’t want to sweat it out, rent a motorbike as they are very cheap and provide the best experience.
Admire The Colonial Style Architecture
The difference in architecture at White Town from the rest of Pondicherry is clearly noticeable because of its remarkable French charm. Its bright yellow and pastel colored buildings with hanging balconies looks straight out of a Hollywood movie. The huge compounds, majestic doors and grand walls are all inspired from the European classical style of architecture.
Get Holy At The Churches & Cathedrals
The different Churches and Cathedrals at the French Quarter are an integral part of the town. Its beautiful walls and huge glass windows will take you back in time. The churches here have daily prayer services and choir performances on specific days. If you are at the right place at the right time make sure to watch the choir group perform as it is truly mesmerizing.
Catch A Sunset At Promenade Beach
Promenade beach also called as the Rock beach is a very clean and well-maintained beach, a little away from White Town. It’s a great place to watch the sun go down and to purchase stuff from the flea markets on the beach. The beach’s amazing environment is best to spend some relaxing time and unwind after a hectic day of touring.
Treat Yourself To Some French Cuisine
Most of the French buildings in White Town Pondicherry have been converted into cafes and restaurants. So there is no shortage of places to try authentic French food here. You can see people enjoying food from everywhere: streets, rooftops, balconies, shaded patios. Places like Cafe des Arts, Le Dupleix, Rendezvous cafe, Les Saveurs and Le Club serve some high quality and yummy food.
Visit The Theaters, Art Galleries, Parks And Botanical Garden
There are many theaters and art galleries to explore, but the Kalinka Art Gallery located on the St. Laurent Street in White Town is a must visit. The many artworks, photographs and paintings of both Indian and international artists displayed here are worth a look. The 22 acres of Botanical Garden is no less, one can see about 1500 species of exotic plant species from all across the globe here.
Shopping For Souvenirs
The streets of Pondicherry have not just traditional French goods but also contemporary local crafts that you can take back home as gifts for your loved ones. From fabrics to food items, handicrafts to home decors, you can possibly find everything that you want. A visit to the local markets will transport you to another world for sure.
Walking Tour Guide Of White Town Pondicherry
The best way to see and explore each lane and streets of White Town Pondicherry is by going on a walking tour. Here’s a step-by-step guide that covers White Town’s history, culture, architecture, and cuisine, all in a day.
06:00am to 07:00am – Start your day by watching a sunrise at Promenade Beach.
07:00am to 08:00am – Visit iconic landmarks like Gandhi Statue and French War Memorial.
08:15am to 09:00am – Meditate and enjoy nature at the Sri Aurobindo Ashram.
09:15am to 10:00am – Stop for Breakfast at one of the French Cafés for croissants and coffee.
10:15am to 11:00am – Admire the Indo-French Architecture by walking through the streets of White Town.
11:15am to 12:00pm – Visit nearby attractions like Bharathi Park, Government Square and Old Lighthouse.
12:15pm to 01:00pm – Learn about the history of Pondicherry at the Pondicherry Museum.
01:15pm to 02:30pm – Break for lunch at Villa Shanti for some mouthwatering Indo-French cuisine.
02:45pm to 03:15pm – After lunch visit Immaculate Conception Cathedral, one of the oldest churches in Pondicherry.
03:30pm to 04:30pm – Go shopping for souvenirs and local products at Mission Street and Nehru Street.
04:45pm to 05:15pm – Take a coffee break at any of the local French Cafés.
05:30pm to 06:15pm – Head to Rock Beach to catch a beautiful sunset.
07:00pm to 08:30pm – Enjoy a relaxed dinner by the sea listening to the sound of waves and taking in the cool breeze.
Places To Visit Near White Town Pondicherry
Once you are done seeing and experiencing all that White Town has to offer, check out the nearby attractions that are as fun and interesting as the French Town itself.
Sri Aurobindo Ashram
At a short distance of 0.5 km from the French Colony in Pondicherry is the famous Sri Aurobindo Ashram which is a great place for meditation and reflection. People come here to spend time with themselves by meditating in its serene aura. This ashram is the best heritage property in the city and definitely needs to be on the top places to visit list.
Auroville
A little away from White Town is an experimental township called Auroville where people from all over the world come and live as one. As of today 2800 people coming from 195 different nations are the official residents of this township. 23 people from different Indian states too are residents of this place. Auroville is the first and only such place where principles of peace and human unity are experimented with.
French War Memorial
This must visit spot just 0.4 km away from the Pondicherry white town is a French War Memorial dedicated to soldiers who sacrificed their lives for France during the 1914–1918 war. The place is well maintained with a beautiful garden where you can take some good clicks.
Bharathi Park
Again at a short distance of 0.4 km from the French white town Pondicherry is this well-maintained park which is surrounded by thick green trees. People can relax, walk, unwind or even have a picnic at the park. There are numerous artificial water fountains and ponds to explore inside the park.
Promenade Beach
At a walkable distance from French colony Pondicherry is the most picturesque beach in Pondicherry, the Promenade Beach. Its exotic landscapes and the many activities like volleyball, skating and yoga by the beach side is what draws tourists to this place. A perfect place for nature lovers and photographers alike.
10 Handy Tips To Consider While Visiting White Town Pondicherry
Do take a look at the below mentioned points before your visit. It is sure to make your experience truly delightful.
Check Weather Details
Summers are very hot in Pondicherry, hence plan your visit during the winter months. Book all outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoons as the midday heat can be very intense here.
Keep Yourself Hydrated
Pondicherry is best explored by foot and to keep up with the heat of Pondicherry make sure to carry enough drinking water. Use of caps and sunglasses can also protect one from the harsh sunlight.
Respect Local Customs
Though White Town has a lot of French influence, do not forget the fact that it is still a part of Indian culture. Make sure to follow all rules while visiting religious places.
Dress Appropriately
As the weather is hot and humid, light and breathable clothing will be a good choice. And do not forget to carry a good pair of comfortable shoes as this trip will have a lot of exploring to do by foot.
Mind The Siesta
White Town has a lot of cafés and restaurants that offer a fusion of French and Indian cuisine. However as per the French tradition of a siesta, these cafes and restaurants will be closed in the afternoon between 1:00pm and 3:00pm. So check before you venture out during the noon time.
Do Not Litter
White Town is a place which is always clean. So keeping that in mind, make sure to dispose of trash in the provided bins. If you don’t find any around, carry the waste back with you.
Carry Enough Of Cash
Though credit and debit cards are accepted everywhere, there may be a few small shops that accept only cash payments.
Explore Beyond White Town
After you are done exploring White Town, consider exploring outside of the French Colony for a more complete experience. There are many places in and around the colony that are worth a visit.
Ask For Permission Before Taking Pics
As every nook and corner of White Town is very beautiful, there are many options to try our photographic skills. Make sure to take permission before photographing people or their property. Everyone is expected to follow photography etiquette to avoid unpleasant situations.
Self-Care
White Town is generally very safe for all, however do not attract people’s attention unnecessarily by venturing out in the night alone or by carrying expensive stuff with you.
Where To Stay In White Town
There are many hotels, homestays and restaurants in white town Pondicherry that cater to all the needs of travelers. From Luxury Stays to Budget Stays, Heritage Stays to Airbnb Options, White Town has accommodation options for various budgets. Listed below are some great options to try during your visit:
Luxury Stays: La Villa, Palais de Mahe, The Promenade
Mid-Range Hôtels: Le Dupleix, Hotel de Petit, Villa Shanti
Budget Stays: La Maison Radha, A La Villa Creole, Auro Resort Guest House
Heritage Stays: Maison Perumal, Le Château
Boutique Homestays: The Richmond
Also Read: Best Time To Visit Pondicherry
With White Town Pondicherry being like a dream, no one can get enough of this quaint French Colony. Hope with our blog you can plan a great trip to White Town someday to taste a piece of France in our own country. If there are any more recommendations to add to this guide, do let us know by commenting below.
FAQs
Pondicherry being a coastal place, the weather is hot and humid throughout the year. However the winter months between October to March is the ideal time to visit as the overall weather is cooler compared to the other months. It makes for a perfect condition for all outdoor visits and activities.
Yes, White Town, French Quarter and the French Colony are all the same.
Pondicherry French Colony is famous for its colonial style architecture, unique blend of cultures, café culture, art galleries, boutiques, Heritage Hotels with seaside views and laid-back atmosphere.
Generally vehicles are allowed but during New Year’s Eve the place is declared a vehicle free zone to allow the celebrations to continue without any obstacles.
Yes, Pondicherry is entirely safe for female travelers.
