Three things- Pondicherry
There are few places which call to you both for their
inherent peace and chaos. Pondicherry is definitely one of those, known for
its beaches spiritual retreats the city draws you in. Parts of the Union
territory lie on east and west coast of India, while west is the better known brother. The best way around Pondicherry is to grab a cycle or a motorbike both
easily available for travelers. Mobility achieved you can decide to head out north
and visit Auroville, Alamparai fort or Mahabalipuram; or turn to the south to
Cuddalore to sample the Coromandel coast
of India.
1. Get Spiritual
Pondicherry is the seat of Aurobindo Ashram, establish by
Sri Aurobindo in 1926. The ashram lends a calm aura to the François Martin
Street (Rue de François Martin). Visiting hours of the ashram are 8-12 in the
morning and 2-6 in the evening.
Auroville is the
extension of the thought and ideologies of the
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Visitor Center at Auroville |
Visitor’s centre is the gateway to Auroville. A visit to
matrimandir is quite difficult and passes need to be obtained beforehand.
Visiting the outskirts of the garden of peace which serves at the viewing point
for the Matrimandir requires a free pass issued by the management at the
visitor centre. Visitors are given an insight into basis of the ashram and the
city through a video presentation.
2. Relax
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Alamparai Beach |
Pondicherry once boasted beautiful beaches but severe
erosion has reduced them to rocky beaches. The promenade still is a place you
would not want to miss while in Pondicherry. Dotted with small carts serving
local snacks a walk along the promenade is a perfect way to see the diversity that
is the soul of Pondicherry.
Alamparai to the north of Pondicherry is a beautiful beach
which can be reached by public or private transport. The drive is around an
hour and a half and will take you along the salt pans of Tamilnadu. The beach
in itself is quiet except for some locals fishing.
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Local Snack at Promenade in Pondicherry |
South of Pondicherry is the silver beach which just an
hour’s drive away. It is a beautiful beach, which is a fast growing favourite
of the tourists and locals alike.
If running is your meditation, run around the promenade in
the morning. Find a rock to catch your breath while you soak in the rising sun
with the Bay of Bengal. Auroville also has its own marathon in February.
3. Eat and Drink
Pondicherry offers a wide range of cuisines from north
Indian to south Indian and from French to Italian. Expecting an authentic dish
is a bit too much but you can be assured to get something that is close enough
and delicious. There are quite a few places which have made a name for
themselves. It is easy to locate a pizzeria or pasta place by asking the
locals.
If you are a vegetarian fear not there are quite a few options available from the bandi idli breakfast to hotel surguru which serves delicious thalis. If sea food is what you want take a walk along Bharathi street or Mission street and you would end up in one of the many good places. Pattuma restaurant on Bharathi street was where we had the best parothas ever and some really delicious prawns.
If you are a vegetarian fear not there are quite a few options available from the bandi idli breakfast to hotel surguru which serves delicious thalis. If sea food is what you want take a walk along Bharathi street or Mission street and you would end up in one of the many good places. Pattuma restaurant on Bharathi street was where we had the best parothas ever and some really delicious prawns.
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Pizza at Hot Pizzeria in Auroville |
Coffee is a staple and you can try a cup at Le Cafe after and early morning walk along the promenade the way we did.
Almost everybody agrees that drinking is the best part about visiting this laid back city. Taxes are low and beer is real cheap. You will find a few local brands along with the more established ones at unbelievable prices. It’s just an excuse to have a party.
Have you been to Pondicherry?
Almost everybody agrees that drinking is the best part about visiting this laid back city. Taxes are low and beer is real cheap. You will find a few local brands along with the more established ones at unbelievable prices. It’s just an excuse to have a party.
Have you been to Pondicherry?
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