4. Church of Our Lady of Good Health, Ariyankuppam:

If you see Pondicherry church photos, then this may seem to be the most beautiful church in Pondicherry. After the French came to Pondicherry in 1673, a church named “Our Lady of Conception” was built by the Armenians under the leadership of Bishop Adda Simon in Ariyankuppam in 1690. Around 1700, this church was given to the Carnatic Mission Jesuits. This church became a pilgrim center under the new name of “Our Lady of Health,” and for the past 270 years, the pilgrimage has been trendy among the Pondicherry people. The main highlight of the shrine is the altar inside the church.

Highlights:

• Church Days: Opens on all days of the week.
• Timings: Mass Timings – Weekdays – 6 a.m.; Thursday – 5.30 p.m., Saturday – 6 a.m. & 5.30 p.m.; Sunday – 7.30 a.m.
• Location: Madha Koil Street, Ariyankuppam, Pondicherry, 605007.
• How to Reach: Frequent buses are available
• Celebrations: The feast day is celebrated under the name of Mary’s birth on September 8. This celebration starts on August 29 and ends on September 8. There is a grand celebration of Christmas, Easter and New Year here.
• Other Attractions Near Church: New Church of our Lady of Lourdes, Pillayarkuppam Big Beach.

5. The Church of Lady of Lourdes, Villianur:

The first Chapel outside of France to be named after Our Lady of Lourdes is a famous shrine dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary, located in Pondicherry city of Villianur. The site is home to Our Lady of Lourdes’ six-foot-tall stone statue that has been there since 1877. Every August’s first Saturday brings thousands of followers to the most awaited event where Lourdes Church of France’s holy water is poured into the sacred pond in front of the Chapel. It is believed that the water of the pond can bring fortune and heal those who suffer.