It is a quaint little place and you can see everything there is to see in Pondicherry in one day. Even years after the French left it, Pondicherry has managed to retain its French influence with tree-lined avenues and Mediterranean style houses that lend it a curious non-Indian touch. From yoga and meditation to pottery or just sitting by the beach, there are numerous ways to unwind in Pondicherry.
TOP 8 PLACES TO VISIT
1.AUROBINDO ASHAM
Establish by Sri Aurobindo in 1926 when he decided to withdrawn from public view the Aurobindo Ashram is a popular landmark in Pondicherry today. The Ashram consists of a row of interconnected houses, including the buildings where Sri Aurobindo and The Mother lived and meditated. Their final resting place - a white marble shrine, is a place of reverence for many who follow their humble teachings.
2.AUROVILLE
Mirra Alfassa, aslo know as the Mother, founded Auroville in 1958. The place is a study of calm and is composed and is ideal for all nationalities to live in peace and progress in harmony. Around the area several workshops and therapies is also held to help people get over their personal demons and be at peace once again. Even for the casual visitor, Auroville is an enchanting place.
3.OLD LIGHTHOUSE
The lighthouse is one of Pondicherry’s most famous landmarks and was constructed in 1836. It is not operational today but still remains a very interesting attraction.
4.FRENCH WAR MEMORIAL
It is simple construction of four pillars erected in memory of all the French soldiers who lost their lives in World War I. It’s simplicity makes it majestic. Close by you is the Statue of Dupleix, installed in honour of Joseph Francois Dupleix, a Governor General of the French Establishment in India.
5.PONDICHERRY MUSEUM
The museum houses various relics and artefacts of the French, British and the Dutch while Pondicherry was under their control. Other archaeological findings from Arikamedu Roman settlement and sculptures is also on exhibit.
6.ARIKAMEDU
Arikamedu has been inhabited for the last 2000 years, but now only some perpendicular walls from that era exist as the rest has been destroyed over the centuries. Artefacts from Ancient Rome, including sculptures, glassware, lamps and gems, have been discovered and it is supporting the belief that it was used to be a port for trading between Rome and Tamil Nadu.
7.MOHANAM CULTURE CENTRE
The centre aims to revive local arts including folk dances, martial arts and theatre. The children and youngsters from the neighbouring villages are trained in these activities. It is one of the must see places in Pondicherry.
8.SVARAM
It is musical museum and research centre in Auroville for musicians and anybody with genuine interest in music. The Svaram waves series is a unique range of musical instruments based on Pythagorean studies, created to be used in sound healing. From raw tribal instruments to contemporary resonators, you have them all here!
OTHER PLACE TO SEE
- Ghandi Statue
- Botanical Garden
- Chunnambar Boat House
- Ousteri
- Promenade, Paradise, Auroville and Serentiy Beach
- Siruvanthadu
- Zuka Café
- Church of Our Lady of Angels
- Sacred Heart Church
- Dupleix Church
- Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus
- Immaculate Conception Church
- Eglise de Notre Dame des Anges
- Arulmigu Manakula Vinayagar Temple
- Intach Pondicherry
- Varadaraja Perumal Koil
- Raj Nivas
- Bharathi Park
One of the best ways to explore Pondicherry is by hiring a bicycle, motorcycle or gearless scooter. Other transport available is taxis or buses.
The best time to plan a vacation to Pondicherry is during winter months, from November till March.
NAPLES
