French Quarter Architecture

Pocketed away just behind the seafront is a series of cobbled streets, white and mustard buildings in various states of romantic deshabille, and a slight sense of Gallic glory gone by, otherwise known as the French Quarter. A do-it-yourself heritage walk through this area could start at the French Consulate near the north end of Goubert Ave, the seafront promenade. Head south then turn inland to shady Bharathi Park , with the neoclassical governor's residence, Raj Nivas , facing its north side. Return to the seafront at the Gandhi Memorial , pass the Hôtel de Ville and then it's a matter of pottering south through what's known as the 'white town' - Dumas, Romain Rolland, Suffren and Labourdonnais Sts. Quite a lot of restoration has been going on down here: if you're interested in Pondy's history and architectural heritage check out INTACH Pondicherry . The Tourist Info Bureau also details heritage walks on its website.