6 must do things when in Pondicherry

Pondicherry, one of the few erstwhile colonies of French in India, is today one of the most popular destinations in South India. Located in the Coromandel Coast facing the Bay of Bengal, this tiny Union Territory is renowned for its unique mix of heritage, spirituality and natural beauty.

Beach-Promenade

We tell you the 6 must do things when in Pondicherry:-

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Heritage Walk in the Pondicherry Town

The architecture and town planning of Pondicherry is distinct as this territory was under the French rule for nearly 281 years. A remarkable degree of French influence in Pondicherry exists to this date. Pondicherry was designed based on the French (originally Dutch) grid pattern and features neat sectors and perpendicular streets. The town is divided into two sections: the French Quarter (Ville Blanche or ‘White town’) and the Indian quarter (Ville Noire or ‘Black Town’). A heritage walk in both the French and Indian quarters of the town makes for a wonderful experience.

Heritage-Walk-Pondichery

Visit Sri Aurobindo Ashram

Pondicherry is the spiritual home of Sri Aurobindo and his spiritual partner, The Mother. Both their personalities and work continue to greatly influence this town and its people.  The Aurobindo Ashram is located in the French quarters of the town and it’s a must visit. The eternal Samadhi of both Sri Aurobindo and Mother are lie here.

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Sri-Aurobindo-Ashram

Experience Promenade Road & Beach

The Promenade Road and Beach and the main hub of the entire town and from morning till evening, it makes for a delightful experience. While in the morning, all fitness enthusiasts can be seen walking up and down the road, in the evening, people from all walks of life converge here to spend some quality time. The Promenade beach is a beautiful beach and the calm waters of the Bay of Bengal crashing against the rocks makes for a fantastic visual experience.

Promenade-Road-to-Beach

Go all out shopping

Pondicherry is a shopper’s paradise. There are so many indigenous brands and shops selling variety of things. From clothes to accessories to crockery to bags, one is spoilt for choice!!!

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Shopping-in-Pondicherry

Indulge in Eating experiences

Pondicherry boasts of a superb Creole cuisine thanks to its French heritage. There are many restaurants, cafes and patisseries dotting the town, which make for an amazing gastronomic experience. When in  Pondicherry, take your time out to visit the market and French quarters, where you will discover many cafes and restaurants and any one of them can turn out be a lifelong favorite.

Health-Eating-Pondicherry

Visit Auroville

Auroville, the spiritual city established by The Mother is a must visit when in Pondicherry. It makes for an spiritually uplifting experience and completes the visit to this wonderful destination.

Matru-Mandir-Auroville

So, now that we have told you what all to do when in Pondicherry, what are you waiting for??Pack your bags and head off!!

Best Place for Winter Sun Destination in India

Being a tropical country spread over a large area, India has the advantage of diverse weather conditions and it is always a good season to travel somewhere in India.

For many European and North American travellers looking to escape the often cold winter back home, the sandy coastal stretches of Southern India beckon. While Northern India shivers through the months of December and January, the southern states offer pleasant weather to bask in; the sun is at its brightest and perfect for those who like a good dose of it.

Here are some great places to head for some guaranteed sunshine this winter:

Goa

The smallest state of India needs little introduction to travellers. More than 80 kms of coast to boast about, this is India’s premier destination to catch some sun. The destination well equipped to warmly receive incoming travellers so there are plenty of places to stay and eat. During the winter months from October to March, the beaches are dotted with sunning travellers under bright umbrellas. 

GOA

Varkala 

An unexpected destination amidst the more traditional ones that Kerala has to offer, Varkala lies close to the capital city of Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum). The sandy white beach below a large drop from a high cliff, makes for a dramatic setting. Becoming increasingly popular with travellers over the last few years combine your dosage of sun with some fresh juices from the shacks on the cliff. A fantastic beach destination that can easily be combined with a few days in the iconic Keralan backwaters.

Varkala Beach in Kerala

Pondicherry 

This French colony of Tamil Nadu is a quaint little town with cobble stone streets and convenient proximity to the sea. While you can hop on a bicycle and explore the town on a sunny day, it is also a perfect getaway with quiet isolated sandy stretches of beach for sunbathing. Pondicherry is a much loved destination among the travellers who venture here to discover its idyllic colonial houses and aesthetically beautiful restaurants as well. 

Pondicherry Beach

Rajasthan

While the nights might be cold, the warm sun during the day offers perfect temperatures for exploring the many historical sights or glittering palaces of India’s desert state Rajasthan. Old havelis and well manicured gardens are great to sprawl in and catch up on a good book while planning an action packed itinerary with plenty of history and shopping to take in. Don’t miss the awe inspiring sights of Jaipur, Pushkar, Udaipur and Jodhpur.

Handcraft seller in Rajasthan