Pondicherry
A quaint seaside French promenade on Indian ECR
Provence, Copenhagen, Cinque Terre? Is this what crosses your mind while looking at the picture?
Now, let me take you on a vivid journey of yet another French fairy tale!
This quaint little French esplanade runs along the Bay of Bengal on the Indian East Coast Region or the ECR, as we Indians fondly call it, is the immaculate town of Pondicherry or Puducherry(call it however you like).
I lost my heart to this place forever, such are the charms of this serene beauty.
The Town located 93 miles south of Chennai, barely a 3-hour drive, is well connected by Road, Rail, and Air to all the major metro cities.
Rendezvous, Romanticizing, and More
During my early days in Chennai, a city which I heartily adore, It so happened on one long weekend, we friends decided to take a quick drive to Pondy, a slang for Pondicherry, our maiden visit to the town.
We started our ride early morning at 5 and reached Pondicherry at 8' AM. En route, we made a short stopover at Mahabalipuram, a UNESCO world heritage site, famous for its shore temple and rock-cut caves, sculptures, and monuments from the great Pallava dynasty of the 8th century India.
This is a famous shore temple of Mahabalipuram. Other places of interest include the lighthouse, the butter ball, Maritime Heritage Museum, the Panch Rathas, and the beach. If you are traveling to Pondicherry, do make a pitstop at Mahabalipuram and explore a little.
After a good leisurely hour of our pitstop, we started our onward journey. A few miles later, a dreamy little town greets us. We arrived at our destination and checked into a sea-facing boutique heritage hotel (one of the best I have seen).
After taking a quick power nap, now all rejuvenated and recharged, we dress up and begin the tour of the city.
I was mesmerized at how this former French colony is a perfect amalgamation of the traditional Indian sensibilities and French architecture, making it a dreamy escape that offers the best of both worlds.
The streets of the French Quarter of Pondicherry, also known as White Town, are dotted with charming mustard-yellow colonial structures with bougainvillea laden walls. These are interspersed with cosy cafes and chic boutiques that offer delectable French cuisine and beverages. Simply strolling down these streets, can give the traveler an insight into the fairy tale charm of Pondicherry.
Top Sights in Pondicherry;
- White Town, Promenade Beach
With heritage buildings, a large number of French cafes, well-defined seating, amazing sea views, and beautiful cafes such as the Le Cafe, the White Town Promenade is one of the most visited places in Pondicherry. Hidden behind its French exterior are influences of Indian and local Tamil cultures as well, evident in the handicrafts markets and street food.
2. Matrimandir, Auroville
The Matrimandir (Sanskrit for Temple of The Mother) is an edifice of spiritual significance for practitioners of Integral yoga, in the center of Auroville established by The Mother of the Sri Aurobindo Ashram. It is called the soul of the city and is situated in a large open space called Peace. Matrimandir does not belong to any particular religion or section. People from all walks of life and ethnicity are regular visitors to this place.
3. Auroville Bakery and Boulangerie
Alcohol is prohibited in Auroville, hence it attracts a different crowd from the one in Pondicherry. This and a burgeoning offbeat tourism scene has given rise to a number of great cafes, bakeries, and restaurants in the area that are known for their gourmet menus, locally-sourced food, and variety of cuisines. Of particular note is the famous Auroville Bakery & Boulangerie, which sources all its ingredients locally and has a beautiful garden seating area.
4. Paradise Beach
The beach can only be reached via a five-minute ferry ride from the boathouse. Paradise Beach is not only bigger than other beaches in Pondy, but also one of the emptiest and cleanest beaches in the Union Territory.
5. Immaculate Conception Cathedral, White Town
The Immaculate Conception Cathedral in Pondicherry’s White Town is one of the oldest and grandest churches in the region. It’s history goes back to the 18th century. The present cathedral is the last of four churches built on this ground since 1699 and is an architectural landmark in Pondicherry. The cathedral was visited by Mother Teresa, and it holds an important annual feast known as the Feast of the Immaculate Conception of Blessed Virgin Mary, on 8th December.
6. Hidesign Factory Outlet
For those of you who love leather handbags and accessories, this is an ideal place to buy goods since its the manufacturing hub of the brand and you can avail products at such low costs.
Culmination of Thoughts
Pondicherry fares better in comparison to other beach towns in India and elsewhere across the world, given its striking old-world charm and new-age vibes juxtaposed.
For those looking for a peaceful weekend getaway, a change of scene from the regular loud Goa vibes can count upon this town to be a saving grace. Opulent yet peaceful, the best of both worlds.
Come explore the boulevards and rues of the Pondicherry that will ultimately take you down to the gorgeous seaside promenade.
Topped with authentic French bakeries, bohemian stores and cobble-stoned paths that are delightful for a leisurely stroll or bicycle ride, Pondicherry has a lot to offer. So head on down to this dream town of the Indian Coast and chug a few beers (at the Union Territory prices; bid adieu to state taxes) or just read a book in one of the quaint cafes. A delight for your senses!
Thank you for reading!
Author’s Note: This story is published in Cutting Chai, a new publication created by Salman Hasan and Priyadarshi Ranjan, PhD aimed at showcasing diverse colors of India.
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