2. Our Lady of Assumption Church, Nellithope:

The French built Assumption Church in 1841. It was initially built in 1752 for which Madame Dupleix laid the foundation. In the storm, the old Church was destroyed, and an entirely new church was constructed. The church believes in bringing together more and more people and is committed to providing a range of religious services. The church houses an exceptional collection of statues surrounded by French patterns of architecture. It is among the best in the Pondicherry church list.

Highlights:

• Church Days: Open all days
• Mass Timings: Monday to Friday – 6 am, Saturday – 6 a.m., 5.30 p.m., Sunday – 5 a.m., 7 a.m., 5.30 p.m.
• Location: The Parish Priest Assumption Church Street, Nellithope, Puducherry, 605005.
• How to Reach: Frequent commute options are available as it is located near the main bus stand.
• Celebrations: Feast day of the Parish- August 15. Every year, Novena to Mother Mary – from August 6 to August 14.
• Other Attractions Near Church: Promenade beach, Sri Aurobindo Ashram, Arulmigu Manakula Vinayagar Temple.

3. Basilica of Sacred Heart of Jesus, South Boulevard:

It is also known as Sacred Heart Church Pondicherry. Built-in 1908 by French missionaries, this church is one of the 21 basilicas in India. It is a famous pilgrimage for Roman Catholic Christians and considered one of the best churches in Pondicherry. The Basilica of the Sacred Heart, a structure that is 100 years old, represents gothic architecture. There are 28 glass paintings inside the Church that depict the life of Christ and the church’s saints. The church also has a large area on the outside.

Highlights:

• Church Days: Open all days
• Mass Timings: Monday To Saturday – 5.30 a.m., 12.00 p.m. & 6.00 p.m., Sunday – 5.30 a.m., 7.30 a.m., 5.15 p.m., and 6.15 p.m.
• Location: Door No, 132, South Boulevard, Near Railway Station, MG Road Area, Puducherry, 605001.
• How to Reach: It is a 2-minute walk from the railway station.
• Celebrations: Christmas Celebrations, New Year Mass during December 31.
• Other Attractions Near Church: Aquarium in Bal Bhavan, Rock Beach, Puducherry Beach, Botanical Garden.

[See Also: Beautiful Places to VIsit in Pondicherry with Friends]