Tourism is a cornerstone of Pondicherry's identity. Visitors are drawn to its dual heritage, spiritual centers, and coastal charm.
### Key Attractions - **White Town (French Quarter):** Famous for its grid-patterned streets, mustard-yellow colonial villas, bougainvillea-draped walls, and quaint boutiques. - **Sri Aurobindo Ashram:** Founded in 1926 by Sri Aurobindo and Mirra Alfassa (The Mother), this spiritual community attracts seekers from around the world. - **Auroville (City of Dawn):** Located just outside the city in Tamil Nadu, this experimental township is famous for the **Matrimandir**, a spectacular golden meditation dome. - **Pondicherry Museum:** Houses rare bronzes, stone sculptures from the Pallava and Chola dynasties, and artifacts from the French colonial era. - **Arikamedu:** An archaeological site that was once an ancient Roman trading center.