Amazing Religious Sites in Pondicherry, India

Pondicherry is one of the Union Territories in India. Besides enjoying such a status, the land is a prominent tourist destination. A French colony during the pre-independent era, it is renowned for scenic beaches and antique colonial buildings. Amazing religious sites in Pondicherry attract tourists every day. Despite being a French colony for centuries, religious sites in Pondicherry include temples and mosques besides churches. Among these places, Karaikal holds the utmost prominence due to the numerous temples in the region. Karaikal is never missed when exploring religious sites in Pondicherry.

Eglise de Sacre Coeur de Jesus

A statue of Mother Mary with infant Jesus greets you as you enter the church premises. Vibrantly colorful and conspicuously large, the century-old French Gothic church was built in 1907. Showcasing the rich heritage of Pondicherry and the splendor of the French colonial era, the church is one of the popular religious sites in Pondicherry. The attractive exterior of the church features a bright white portico with exquisite stained-glass windows. Once you step inside the church, stained glass works that depict scenes from the Bible and the lives of saints arrest your attention. Intricate paintings on the ceiling, the statue of Joan of Arc, and a replica of Michelangelo’s sculpture Pieta are other attractions. The interior of the church is made all the more striking with statues of saints and the dome.

The Immaculate Conception Cathedral

Even before the current structure was built in 1791, the church did have a turbulent past. Nevertheless, the first part of the magnificent church was completed before additions were included subsequently. Bell tower, choir loft, and remodeled sanctuary were later additions. Considered one of the most beautiful churches in Pondicherry, it is an art connoisseur’s paradise. Splendid murals, paintings, stained glass works, and high ceilings are sure to amaze anyone. The main feast of the church is on December 8^th.

Kamatchiamman Temple

The temple is conspicuous for the unembellished structure and dark exterior wall which is not common among temples in the region. Believed to be built during the reign of Pallava kings in the 6^th century, the temple has a typical Tamil architectural style. Goddess Durga is worshipped here as the main deity. Despite lacking the sheen of splendor common to ancient temples, Kamatchiamman Temple draws visitors in good numbers. Rituals and prayers are conducted daily. On feast days the entire temple is stunningly decorated. Chithra Pournami Kinniratha Brahmotsavam is a 10-day feast here among others like Navratri, Pongal, and Deepavali.

Varadaraja Perumal Temple

Varadaraja Perumal Temple is one of the most visited religious sites in Pondicherry. Built by the Cholas in 1053, it is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Alongside, Goddess Lakshmi as Thayar is also worshiped here. Besides being one of the oldest temples in the region, it is also popular for its intricate Dravidian-style carvings and sculptures. Vibrant paintings and murals depict stories from Hindu mythology. The most unique feature of the temple is that it is the only temple in South India that has all the 108 forms of Lord Vishnu. Another key feature to note is the mirror room in the temple. The temple also houses idols of other deities. Feeding newborn babies with rice here is considered to be auspicious. Brahmotsavam, Vaikunta Ekadasi, Garuda savai are a few important occasions here.

Sri Manakula Vinayagar Temple

More than five centuries old, Sri Manakula Vinayagar Temple is dedicated to Lord Ganesha. One of the top highlights of the temple is the 18-foot tower. The golden Chariot which is the resting place of the idol of Lord Ganesha is a magnificent sight. The Dravidian-style architecture of the temple, embellished with murals and other relief works is an amazing sight for anyone. Among the hundreds of Ganesha idols in the temple, you can also find several idols of Sri Krishna, Murugan, Shiva, Parvati, and others. There is also a shrine dedicated to Lord Murugan within the temple complex. Brahmotsavam which happens during August-September and lasts for 24 days, is the main feast here. Then, there is the Golden Chariot run on Vijayadashami day.

Sri Aurobindo Ashram

Sri Aurobindo is one of the most famous names in the philosophical and spiritual realms of Indian history. The Ashram is a unique spiritual community founded by Sri Aurobindo and his spiritual collaborator, The Mother in 1926. Tourists flocking to have a relaxed time in Pondicherry never miss visiting the Ashram which is considered to be a tranquil nestling place. From a humble beginning with a few followers and bare minimum activities like reading, writing, and meditating, it has rapidly grown to be a community. Now, the complex includes a library, dining room, sports facility, nursing home, etc. As a visitor, you can just stroll and enjoy the serenity the place offers. How about spending a while in the library that has over 80,000 books? In addition, watch a movie on the Ashram, and visit the burial ground of Sri Aurobindo and the Mother.

Auroville

An experimental community, Auroville, was founded by Mirra Alfassa in 1968. It is considered as a ‘Universal Town’ where people from all over the world come together and live irrespective of any barrier. Matrimandir situated at the center of the township is a golden dome structure surrounded by eight petals representing different aspects of human nature. Surrounded by this structure one can see the cultural zone, peace zone, and residential zone. You can book a day trip or a longer stay to explore the township. Multi-cuisine restaurants in Auroville are famous among tourists.

Darga of Masthan Saheb Syed Dawood Buhari

An important and popular center for Muslims to gather and pray is the Darga of Masthan Saheb Syed Dawood Buhari. It is the tomb of Syed Dawood Buhari, a saint from Uzbekistan who died in the locality in 1829. Hence, the Darga is built in his memory and the Kandhuri festival is celebrated every year in November to commemorate his spiritual works. The Darga has a typical Islamic-style architectural edifice.