Miles away from France, Pondicherry is India’s own little French colony. Spectacular and silky soft beaches will take you to a experience of a lifetime. French influence could be seen all around the city in their street names, food and even everyday settings as well. The culture of Pondicherry is a beautiful medley of Indian with French.
We boarded Puducherry Express from Yesvantpur Jn Railway Station and reached Puducherry railway station the next morning, where we were welcomed by slight drizzle which had turned the weather quite pleasant. Since we had few hours before check-in, we decided to rent a bike and went for a quick ride. The magnificent White town provides a glimpse of the French colonial heritage.
Bread & Chocolate is a nice cafe with a wide spread for a foodie. The food menu is pretty finesse with some really delicious smoothie bowls, sandwiches and some fine organic beverages too! I'm definitely visiting this place again if I ever come down to Auroville again!
In the afternoon, we went to experience Auroville, it was a short 20-minute drive from Pondy. A universal township at its core has a golden meditation dome, Matri-mandir - Soul of the City, where had spent quality time in the little world of meditation. One could spent hours at this massive meditation center just sitting and focussing on one's inner self.
On our way back from Auroville, we stopped by Auroville Bakery & Restaurant (Boulangerie). They served very tasty muffins and cookies, Mushroom Omelette and Americano coffee are a must try. There are vegan options for croissants and more available in the bakery. Another interesting spot in Pondicherry is a delightful visit to the old lighthouse. For those fond of history and looking for places to try their hand on photography, its a must visit.
In the evening we decided to take a stroll down the Picturesque White town. The naturally formed rocky promenade with refreshing cool sea-breeze is perfect for long strolls and fun-filled gala time with your loved ones. There are several restaurants around this posh area offering a culinary feast. We decide to dine out at Le Café and it had delicious food. If you are looking for ice cream that will melt in your mouth, then try Gelateria Montecatini Terme aka GMT.
The next morning we took a boat from Chunnambar boat house and spent quite time by the paradise beach. The glistening water and palm trees is a perfect location for spending a holiday. The beach provides a refreshing and serene environment to relax along the silky fine grained sand and cooling water.
After coming back to our hotel, Palais de Mahe - CGH Earth, we took a relaxing dip in the turquoise water of the pool. I must say, the hotel interiors are very stylish giving a very cozy french feel. I loved the heritage vibe with all the antique furnitures.
For lunch, we headed to Cafe-des-Arts, an antique art-inspired cafe known for serving French cafe food. I found the cafe to be vibrant with chilled and relaxed ambience. It offers both indoor and outdoor seatings.
Prominent churches, The Basilica Of The Sacred Heart of Jesus, representing the oriental specimen of Gothic architecture and Eglise de Notre Dame des Anges, the church has a gorgeous white chapel and a statue of Mother Mary holding baby Jesus in her arms provide you with a spiritual experience.
Another interesting spot in Pondicherry is a delightful visit to old lighthouse, for those fond of history and looking for places to try their hand on photography.
After spending great two days at "The French Riviera of the East", we took a road trip from Puducherry to Chennai as we had a train to board from Chennai MAS to Bengaluru. East Coast Road(ECR) is one of the most popular driving routes providing a picturesque scenery.
Our trip to this wonderland, was a fantastic experience. If all you want is a quite time with your self then nothing better than Pondicherry. The clean streets, calm beaches, artistic places makes this mini France worth a visit.
Watch our Pondicherry experience here