A little slice of France in India- Pondicherry

With the presence of world famous Sri Aurobindo Ashram, Pondicherry is a home to some delightful beaches of the coromandel coast as well. October to February is the best time to explore the town. The charming French structures of Pondy is the visual treat to visitors. Here is a brief description of the place.

The French colony of Pondicherry is now a great attraction for travellers. The history of the place is recorded after the rule of Portuguese, Dutch, British and the French. Pondicherry is affectionately known as Pondy. The Union Territory of Pondicherry or Puducherry was 300 years under the French control. So, the marks of French are dominant over the place. It stands as the living monument of the French culture in India. The old Pondy still retains the French essence while the New Pondy is more South Indian. It is a charming blend of both the Indo-Western culture. There are enough places to visit in Pondicherry which charm its guests.

Sri Aurobindo Ashram and Auroville are the main marks of Pondy which brought international fame to this coastal town. Sri Aurobindo himself found the Ashram in 1926 and now it houses the samadhis of Sri Aurobindo and a French Lady called ' Mother'. Visitors throng to pay homage to the great soul at the Ashram premises. A very peaceful place, the Ashram is visited by a large number of spiritual seekers. Aurobindo Ashram is located in the eastern part of Pondy. The interconnected block of houses inside the Ashram is the place where Sri Aurobindo and the Mother lived most of their lives. In the courtyard, lies the samadhis, a white marble shrine under the shades of trees. Photography is not allowed inside the Ashram premises. The Ashram provides all its members with all the elements they need for a healthy life.

Auroville is known as the universal city. The town is based on the ideology of Sri Aurobindo and the Mother, the golden globe surrounded with tranquil greens provides a touch of harmony to the visitor's mind. 124 nations came forward for the initiative. The Matrimandir is the place for silent concentration. The introductory video inside the Matrimandir will enhance your knowledge of the place.

Pondy is not like other usual beach destinations but the stunning view and the not so crowded beaches are a good place to hangout. The street along the beach showcases the early monuments and structure of the past. Walking around the town or renting a bicycle are one of the best ways to explore this enchanting coastal town. The French inspired buildings are a delightful treat to eyes. Pondicherry Museum, Botanical Garden, one of the liveliest spot Promenade, Church of Sacred Heart of Jesus, Chunnaambar Boat House, Serenity Beach and Paradise Beach will fulfil your Pondy trip.

Most of the time travellers prefer to visit Pondicherry from Chennai. It takes 3 hours by road and it is a comfortable journey to Pondy. However, connecting flights are there from Delhi, Kolkata, Kochi and Mumbai to Pondicherry. Chennai is the nearest domestic and international airport which is well-connected to other parts of the country. You can check cheap air ticket for a budget travel. Taxis and cabs are available from the airport which will directly take you to Pondicherry. Frequent buses also ply from Chennai. Villupuram is the nearest railway station which is 35 km away. Trains from Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai and Trivandrum are available. Once you reach the station, taxis and cabs are easily available.

Sandeep is an experienced travel consultant, who enjoys travelling and loves to write about the destinations he has been to and shares his experience. He also writes about travel tips, world's best holiday destinations, best hotels in a destination,