Photograph showing bird's eye view of Pondicherry, with vista of buildings. Lighthouse and flagpost at far right and sea extreme right. The open ground and the monumental building called Aye Mandapam in centre background. Several large buildings in foregroud, with trees and gardens.

In an effort to strengthen diplomatic relations between the Indian rulers and the British Crown, Albert Edward, Prince of Wales, the eldest son of Queen Victoria, embarked on a tour of the Indian subcontinent in October 1875. The Prince visited 21 towns and cities across parts of modern-day India, Sri Lanka, Pakistan and Nepal, where he exchanged and received gifts from each ruler he met during his tour. The Prince returned to England in May 1876. As a result of the visit, six photographic albums were compiled of portraits, groups and views. Some of the photographs were commercial prints already available; others were specially taken to commemorate the tour.