Discover the Hidden Gems and Irresistible Charm of the French Quarter in Pondicherry: What to See, Eat and Do When There (2019)

Popularly regarded as the French Riviera of India, the French quarters is located on the Coramandel coastline along the Bay of Bengal. A walk down the French quarters will teleport you back to 18th century with maze-like criss-cross lanes, vibrant colourful buildings and vivid wall art; a true testament to colonial French heritage and architecture.

As the name suggests, White Town was home to the French population back in the day during their occupation of this seaside town, whereas Black Town was confined to the Indian population. This French connection colliding with Indian values add a unique characteristic to Pondicherry. While Pondicherry as a whole covers the coastal areas of about 500 square meters, A round around French Quarters can be covered in a total of 30 minutes on a bicycle.

Located 150 kilometres from Chennai and 300 kilometres from Bangalore, Pondicherry is accessible by road and rail.

Amongst the many things White Town has to offer, here is a quick guide to the most sought after attractions --

A showcase of French heritage through magnificent French-Indo art.

Aura Café, a sea-facing gallery on the Promenade, offers an exquisite collection of Shri Aurobindo Ashram in Auroville. It also serves food and hosts events.

Tasmai, located on Advocate Chinna Thambi Street, is a visual art treat offering insights on contemporary art and culture. It is popularly known to connect Pondicherry culture with the world

Kalinka Art Gallery on St. Lauren Street displays contemporary art of Indian and International artists. Tourists often find this place charming.

Aurodhan Art Gallery displays tribal and folk art, contemporary art and also promotes music, yoga, dance and literature. Head to Francois Martin Street for a wholesome experience on culture and art.

A quaint villa where Sri Aurobindo and the Mother once lived, is now converted as their final resting place. Their samadi placed on the courtyard under lush green trees is always decorated with beautiful flowers. This part of this Ashram is a no-talking zone. People from all over the world come here to pay their respects and mediate. If you are on a soul searching journey in White Town, this is the place to visit. Children below age 3 are not allowed inside.

French quarters is a hub to shopping spots like Cane Lab Design, La Maison Rose, Casablanca, Janaki, Cluny Embroidery Centre, Kalki, Living Art Lifestyles and Yaka Home Design. They offer a wide range of uniquely designed architecture, home decor and Indo-French art. If you are backpacking with a limited budget then steer clear of these shopping hubs as they might fall really heavy on your pockets but they offer great inspiration on creative design.

The Promenade forms the crown of these French Quarters. A long stretch of rocky beach on one side, bustling cafes and heritage sites on the other, the Promenade is the most famous tourist spot in the French quarters. Vehicles are not allowed on this road post 7 PM which gives a lot of space for people to walk about and enjoy the sunset away from traffic and noise. As you walk down the Promenade, you will find the French War Memorial, Greco Roman architecture Notre Dame Agnes Lady of Angels Church built by Napoleon III in 1855, the French Consulate, the pier, and the huge Gandhi Statue at the centre. Though entry to the pier is restricted, it offers a picturesque sight.

Dumas Street is widely considered as the most scenic street of White Town. If you are visiting White Town between May and December, Dumas Street is covered with Bougainvillea flowers on both sides of the road. Bright pink flowers against the backdrop of yellow French buildings look straight out of a painting, no matter which side you look. The famous 17th century French Dumas heritage guesthouse is located here. Known as the oldest heritage villa in the French Quarters, Dumas guesthouse attracts travellers from all over the world.

Located at the centre of White Town, near the Raj Bhavan (Governor’s residence), is the Bharati Park. It offers a place of solace in the midst of the French Quarters. If you start your day walking around White Town, make your last stop at Bharati Park. Well maintained, lush green and quiet, Bharati Park offers you respite from the heat and humidity. Aayi Mandapam sits at the heart of the Park that dates back to 19th century. Children can play in the pond whereas adults can find a spot under the trees to spread out picnic mats. The park is open to the public from 6 am to 9 pm on all days.

One main attraction to staying in the White Town is the opportunity to stay in French boutique hotels and home stays. If you plan your trip well in advance, you might be lucky to get great offers at some incredible stay options. Here is a beginners list to get started while looking for comfortable and neat accommodation

With almost 120 options on Airbnb alone, you will be spoilt for choice. A majority of houses on Airbnb are a beautiful combination of French-Tamil aesthetics. An entire villa, or a room in a villa, or a private apartment, overlooking the sea or overlooking the French Quarters, you name it and you will find it on Airbnb. Prices range from Rs. 700 a night for a room to Rs. 5000 plus for an entire place. Make sure you book in advance during the holiday season, else they disappear in the blink of an eye.

If you're looking to stay amidst authentic French residence, then White Town has a lot to offer. Here is a list of quintessential French hotels.

Keep an eye out for posters and flyers at every café and tourist hotspot for incredibly unique and fun events round the year. You can also challenge yourself for a fun treasure hunt and find the graffiti artist Tona’s work in nooks and corners of Pondicherry.