A French Affair: Southern India’s Riviera?

Picture this: cobbled streets, walls with articulate doors, cafes with curb-side seating, crisp air from the beach nearby, old churches in the vicinity, and a 19th century mansion with a white and grey façade — enter and there’s a lush serenity that feels unmatched. Yes, we are talking about Villa Shanti — the quiet escape in Pondicherry’s White Town.

Exuding a colonial-style elegance with antique furniture, four-poster beds, chettinad-influenced tiling, walk-around bathrooms and murals to take you back in time. With just 15 rooms, you know you have your privacy and some crowd when you want it. The stone flooring, wooden stairways and a quiet bar and restaurant add a vintage character to the hotel — discreet, yet inviting, and comforting.

Each room category comes with its own style and story to narrate. Restored furniture, contemporary accents, antiques and artefacts adorn the rooms with an intricate blend of excellent tiles.

The restaurant is all set to amaze its guests with excellent French and European dishes — with a simple ambiance; courtyard, tea lights, trees, large planters — a light, spacious and airy venue to set your soul on fire. Sit at the bar, with their variety of wines and cocktails, or choose a table for an elaborate meal with Italian, French or North Indian dishes. Pro tip? Head on for a meal. You’re sure to enjoy a basket of their fresh baguette slices with the dip of the day — not one to miss!

And on a morning where you do not want to venture out, The Little Big Shop is here to cure your shopping blues — collect some souvenirs, handicrafts or a little something for yourself!

Walk a few steps out of the by-lane and you have the glorious white town — free to explore, take a cycle-rickshaw tour or simply laze around in a café, shop for some apparel or some gelato! Here are our top 7 things to do in Pondicherry on your next visit:

1. A visit to Auroville is a must — with its variety of handicraft workshops, an excellent café for baked products and the Matr Mandir — a charming attraction in the area.
2. Tour the White Town — Cycle Rickshaws, The Samadhi & The Mother, Churches, Monuments along the Promenade, and excellent boutiques to keep your wallets occupied!
3. The beaches of Pondicherry — laze and gaze at the water endlessly!
4. Make sure to visit Maison Perumal for a meal — authentic cuisine and an inviting atmosphere!
5. Book a visit to the Mason & Co Chocolate Factory — learn everything from bean-to-bar chocolate making from this boutique chocolate brand run by a charming couple!
6. Hire a cycle and explore all of Pondicherry with a popsicle in one hand, and your bike in the other! There is no better way to explore this quaint town!
7. Allaince Francaise — if not for the learning, the Café de Flore, on the grounds, is the prettiest one in town — al fresco, mango coloured walls and twirly wrought iron furniture!

The next time you visit Pondicherry, make sure to enjoy your stay at the Villa Shanti, because how else are you going to find paradise on Earth? Beaches, vintage, quaint — Pondicherry is truly a wonder of South India!