5 Cycling Destinations and Tours in Pondicherry

Pondicherry, once the original headquarters of French in India, is a famous tourist destination. Besides exploring the French town and reminiscing about French culture, you have the opportunity to relax amidst serene beaches. You can explore the picturesque streets of this place, the tree-lined boulevards, the beautiful coastlines, and its tiny cafes by cycling.

Read this article to learn more about cycling in Pondicherry.

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List of Cycling Destinations in Pondicherry

Cycling in Pondicherry provides a thrilling experience to the tourist as it is well connected by roadways. Here are a few cycling destinations you can explore:

1. The Sacred Heart Basilica

This red church with beautiful stained glass windows is the largest in Pondicherry, designed in the Roman-Byzantine style. It is one of the 21 Basilicas in India and the only one in Pondicherry. Furthermore, French missionaries set up this church in 1908. However, it received the status of the Basilica in 2011. You can witness the astounding Gothic architecture and beautiful interiors of the Basilica.

Distance: 2.5 km
Route: Take NH32 and Maraimalai Adigal Salai to South Boulevard in Ambedkar Nagar. Then, continue on South Boulevard to reach this church.
Activities: Attend the mass or prayer service and festivals on special days.
Best Time: October to March

2. Arabic Quarter/ Muslim Quarter

This Quarter is a part of Black Town and consists of Crazy Street and Mullah Street, a perfect cycling spot in Pondicherry. Islamic architectural structures adorn the houses here. While riding, you can visit Meeran Mosque, Mullah Mohammed Mosque, and Jama Masjid.

Distance: NA
Route: Cycle through Crazy Street and Mullah Street to reach this quarter
Activities: Explore the beautiful houses, indulge in photography
Best Time: October to March

3. White Town/ French Quarter

White Town in Pondicherry represents the ancient French culture. It comprises French colonies with yellow, grey, and white walls and several French bakeries. In White Town, you can also visit Sri Aurobindo Ashram, a spiritual community.

Distance: 3.4 km
Route: Cycle via Kamaraj Salai and Jawaharlal Nehru Street
Activities: Visit Rue Dumas, Rue Suffren, Rue Romain Rolland, and Rue La Bourdonnais
Best Time: October to March

4. Fisherman Village

Kuruchikuppam, a fishing village, is another popular destination for cycling in Pondicherry. You can cycle through the shore and see many fishermen and fisherwomen returning after a fresh catch. Moreover, you can also encounter many residents feeding their poultry and drawing ‘rangolis’ or ‘kolam’ to decorate their homes.

Distance: 4 km
Route: Cycle via Kamaraj Salai Road and take Puducherry Road to reach this village
Activities: Tour the fisherman’s village and small industries there.
Best Time: October to March

5. Goubert Market

This is another cycling route in Pondicherry where you can explore the lively surroundings. The Goubert Market is a big farmers’ market in Pondicherry, which usually remains open on Sundays. You can buy fresh fruits, vegetables, and fish in this market. You can also buy ethnic garments, footwear, intricate jewellery, and bamboo products.

Distance: 2.6 km
Route: Cycle via Kamaraj Salai and Puducherry Road to reach this location
Activities: Buying locally produced flowers, spices, utensils, and photography
Best Time: October to March

By hopping on a bicycle, you can explore the Tamil, French, and Muslim neighbourhoods in the beautiful city of Pondicherry. Cycling in Pondicherry helps you cover more sights of this city in significantly less time. It allows you to explore colonial architecture, serene beaches, and beautiful public parks your way at a relaxed pace.

FAQs About Top Cycling Destinations in Pondicherry

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When is the best time for a bicycle tour in Pondicherry?

Early morning is considered the best time for a cycling tour in Pondicherry. It is because the sun is not very bright during that time and you can enjoy the cool breeze. The roads are also open during the early hours, allowing you to cycle smoothly.

What is the other name of White Town?

The White Town is also known as the French Quarter. This is because the French community predominantly occupied the place before India's Independence. This place consists of mainly yellow-white buildings, which are ideal for photography.

When is the best time for cycling in the Fisherman Village?

If you go cycling in the Fisherman Village in Pondicherry, then full moon nights are the best time to visit. However, before going for a ride, check whether there are restrictions. Try to communicate with the village locals to learn more about their culture.