Ananda Ranga Pillai Mansion

Located on the Ranga Pillai Street, opposite the Grand Bazaar, Ananda Ranga Pillai is one of the most ancient heritage buildings of Pondicherry. Built in 1735, the house was named after the courtier Ananda Ranga Pillai, of the French Governor- Joseph Francois Dupleix. Also known as the Native Quarters, the privately occupied mansion is among the handful buildings known to have survived the British invasion. The mansion boasts of marvellous architecture which is a striking amalgamation of the Indian and Gothic styles.

However, as of now, only the ground floor is accessible to tourists which has been constructed in traditional Tamil style with elaborate courtyard and carved wooden pillars in Chettinad style. The spacious courtyard also house a magnificent statue of the namesake personality. Built in European style pattern with an open terrace and native French patterns, the first floor is personal and not open for tourists. The house is currently occupied by the descendents of Ananda Pillai and if you get lucky to find any of the housemate during your visit, you can also get a detailed tour of the place. Resonating with history and heritage, the manor is one of the most beautiful places in the city.