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Someone has rightly said that a little bit of France can still be experienced somewhere in India, and that little place is called Pondicherry. With the endless stretch of beaches and the tree-lined boulevards, the buildings of colonial heritage and the white-hued memorials, this Indian union territory would leave you spell-bound with its rich French connection.
The best way to experience the beauty of the countless monuments and virgin beaches that Pondy offers is by hopping on a hired bike or scooter and driving your way through the streets of this enchanting place. You can also make halts at the various restaurants and eating joints to relish the taste of authentic French cuisine as well as mouthwatering seafood.
That said; one has to do more than just reading to experience the aura of Pondicherry in the best possible way. Given below are some great places that should be visited in here that would definitely excite the traveler in you and get you moving to Pondicherry, the French Riviera of the East.
Located in Pondicherry, the capital city of Pondicherry, Raj Niwas is the official residence of the Lieutenant Governor of the territory. This vintage building was constructed in the year 1733 and depicts a classic blend of French and Indian architecture. The monolithic Pillar and the water monument add to the architectural splendor of the niwas. The gardens of this colonial residence are adorned with lush greenery and several fountains. It is open for public viewing every day except for the national holidays.
The Pondicherry Botanical Garden was established in the year 1826 near Pondicherrys new bus stand. The six stunning fountains including the dancing fountain, the mesmerizing childrens train, Japanese rocks and the large aquarium with innumerable fishes would be the best place to visit as soon as you enter Pondicherry. It also houses as many as 1500 species of different types of exotic flora that would sway you off with their natural and colorful beauty.
Pondicherry is known for its varied beaches; one of these well-known beaches is the Promenade Beach. Also famous as the Pondicherry Beach, Promenade is the best place for a lively stroll in the pleasant weather of the area. This 1.5 km long stretch of rocky beach has many landmarks on its sea front like the war memorial, Mahatma Gandhis Statue, Joan of Arcs Statue, Dupleixs Statue and the Light house. You can also treat your taste buds at the various cafes and restaurants that line this beach area.
Built during the 16th century during the period of Napoleon III, the Park Monument or the Aayi Mandapam is an iconic structure painted in pure white hue. Localites say that Aayi, a famous courtesan, built this water reservoir after destroying her own house. The green gardens add to the beauty of the structure which reflects the stunning Greco-Roman architecture. A visit to this place is must to capture great pictures with this Park Monument in the backdrop.
If you wish to spend some quite time with your family or friends, then Bharati Government Park is your destination. It is known to be one of the greenest spots in Pondicherry and attracts local families as well as youth for spending quality time. One of the key reasons for such popularity is the Aayi Mandapam that stands centrally in this park.
Located around 8 km from Pondicherry, Chunnambar is the stunning backwater location in this area that offers amazing views as well as vacationing options. The white sand beaches in Chunnambar would not only awe your senses but also be the perfect location to set up a tent and stay overnight in the lap of nature. You can enjoy boating in this area at just Rs 30 for two-seater boats and Rs 50 for four-seater boats.
Paying homage to the soldiers of the First World War, the French War Memorial was erected in Pondicherry in the year 1971. It is located in the Goubert Avenue and gets illuminated every year on 14th July on the occasion of Bastille Day i.e., French National Day. It is open from 10 am to 5 pm every day for public visiting.
Auroville is a small universal township where men and women of various countries, beliefs and culture can come and live together in peace and harmony. It was founded by Mirra Alfassa, popularly known as The Mother, in the year 1968 to home the people of various nationalities together in brotherly love and peace. The Matrimandir, which is lotus shaped and covered with golden discs should not be missed while you make a visit to this tranquil and serene place. If you wish to indulge in meditation sessions then youll have to make prior bookings for that.
Manakula Vinayagar Temple is the humble abode of Bhavaneshar Ganapathy, who is said to be the remover of obstacles. This temple is magnanimously spread over an area of 7913 sq. ft. and 18 ft. high kodikambam is the major architectural attraction of this temple. The walls are intricately carved to reflect the scenes of Hindu mythology and make use of golden vimanam and a golden kavasam to enhance the architectural beauty. Visit this temple to have a look at the stunning golden chariot that is made using 7.5 kilograms of gold and is the seat for the main idol of Lord Ganesha.
Showcasing the sculptures of the various dynasties, the Pondicherry Museum is a must visit place in the white city of Pondicherry. The archeological findings like terracotta figures, burial urns, glass beads and shards of Arretine and Roulletted ware from the surrounding environment add to its rich collection. You can also see the printing press from the year 1820 along with many books and journals published in that time here. Bronze sculptures of god and goddess, specimens of Chola and Pallava art, old weapons etc everything can be viewed here just at the cost of Rs 15 per head.
Sri Aurobindo Ashram is the most popular spot in Pondicherry. Being the Samadhi of Sri Aurobindo and The Mother, this ashram is flocked with visitors from across the globe. If you wish to awaken your senses and offer rest to the wandering mind, then this place is a must-visit. One cannot hear any giggles or commotion in the precincts of this ashram. The library and the craft center should also be visited when you take a stroll around this ashram.
Arikamedu is the last trace left of the Roman style architecture that came up in India when it shared trade relations with Rome. It is 4 km away from Pondicherry on the right bank of Ariyankuppam River. The perpendicular walls and the mission house are all that remained of the archeologically rich city today. But a visit to this place would definitely awe your senses with the green mango orchards that are planted here by the government to keep the place naturally rich.
The house of the great Tamil poet Kanakasubburatnam, Bharathidasan has today been transformed into a memorial to protect their works and contributions to literature. The Tamil poet was popularly known as Bharathidasan and wrote scripts for films as well. The also wrote for the womens rights and was a follower of the Dravidian culture. Visit this place to have a look at the protected works of this great Tamil socio-political writer.
The men and women of Auroville, a universal city, strive hard to keep the rich Tamil culture alive in the hearts of the people. One can interact with the artisans, witness the rustic life of South Indian people, explore the village ecological habitats and learn special activities related to the cultural heritage of Tamil Nadu. Visit this place to participate in the village festivals and enjoy traditional cuisines that are served here in authentic village style.
Pondicherry with its amazing blend of Indo-French architecture would awe your senses and take you closer to the bygone era. Whether you want to seek composure from the crowd of the city or want to chill with your friends at the amazing beaches, Pondicherry is sure to serve all your whims.
