
THE SERENE PONDICHERRY
If serenity and peace is what you’re looking for, then Pondicherry is arguably the best holiday destination in India. Officially known as Puducherry and generally referred to as ‘Pondy’, it is a union territory located along the Bay of Bengal. Pondicherry needs no introduction! You will come across numerous blogs and articles appreciating the beauty of this beautiful weekend getaway destination. Pondicherry is known for its quiet beaches, French architecture, and an unmissable old world charm.
This beautiful union territory was once the capital of the French colonies in India. The town still has several French street names, colonial-era townhouses and villas, and French restaurants that take you back to that era. In one part of the town, the cobbled streets, French-style bougainvillea-draped houses show the French connection, whereas the other part is typically South Indian. Many tourists find this dual nature of the town startling. But, it simply adds to the charm.
The first thing that strikes visitors about Pondicherry is the peace and tranquility. Be it at the Aurobindo ashram, the old churches or the beaches, it is found everywhere.
This beautiful union territory was once the capital of the French colonies in India. The town still has several French street names, colonial-era townhouses and villas, and French restaurants that take you back to that era. In one part of the town, the cobbled streets, French-style bougainvillea-draped houses show the French connection, whereas the other part is typically South Indian. Many tourists find this dual nature of the town startling. But, it simply adds to the charm.
The first thing that strikes visitors about Pondicherry is the peace and tranquility. Be it at the Aurobindo ashram, the old churches or the beaches, it is found everywhere.
Places to Visit
Arguably, Pondicherry is best known as a meditation and yoga center of the South, thanks to the Aurobindo Ashram and Auroville. However, there are many other places that are a must-visit here, not forgetting the Promenade beach with the iconic statue of Mahatma Gandhi.
The Aurobindo Ashram

Auroville

Beaches

Chunnambar Beach and Backwater

Eating Out

One can find tiramisu, macaroons, eclairs, brioche, mille feuille, and also chettinad chicken, kadugu yerra (prawns curry), palpayasam, appams, and pongal here. Pondicherry has many pizzerias, with fresh wood-fired pizzas, bistros, and cafes. It is also intriguing to find many Asian flavors, Goan food, and Bengali cuisine in Pondicherry. The food culture of Pondicherry reflects a happy and exciting blend of not only French and Tamil cuisine, but also of its neighboring states such as Kerala, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh.
Pondicherry is a place to experience France, in its full glory, while being nearly 6,000 miles away from France. This is a place for you if you are a travel enthusiast, a foodie, a beach lover, or a spiritual seeker. This is also a place for you if you are a party animal or a heritage lover. In short, Pondicherry is a place for everyone!