Pondicherry is perfect for a quick weekend beach sojourn. You can easily see everything the town has to offer in two days. Here are the places to check out in Pondi:
It is quite simply the essence of Pondicherry. It's a 1.2 km walk along the rocky coast of the eponymous beach. Flanked by the Bay of Bengal on one side and cafes on the other, its vibe is utterly French. There's also the French War Memorial and a lighthouse which is sadly no longer open for the public.
As you stroll along, the salty breeze will rustle your hair and tingle your skin, the aroma from the cafes will waft across and please both your olfactory system and gut.
It is also known as the Promenade.
Do check out Aura Cafe. It's a little gem where you can nibble gelato and muffins while gazing at the sea dreamily.
2. White Town:
Pretty. The word 'pretty' fits White Town perfectly. Colorful houses and old bungalows with elegant lamps splashing their yellow light on the streets. Signboards reading rue de la this and that are found on every corner.
White Town lends itself for quirky and vintage photography. It's got great restaurants and cafes and chocolate shops. You can also buy lights, candles, wind chimes and other decor items. There's also MG Road, if you're looking for apparel.
3. Paradise Beach
This beach is kinda an island. You can take a ferry to reach it. Now the ferry is really really nice- about fifteen minutes of cheerful bobbing along. You can also go by road which gives you more time to spend on the beach since you won't have to return by the ferry. The ferry generally allows you to spend only two hours on the beach.
The beach is neat with proper washrooms and places to change clothes. It offers plenty of water sports and activities such as horse riding.
There are a few restaurants on the beach and also along the walk to the ferry port.
4. Serenity Beach:
Not as adventurous as Paradise beach, but it is easily accessible. It's got a sunrise point too. Make sure you reach there early to grab a good vantage point as it gets pretty crowded.
5. Auroville:
It's a beautiful township located 15 km from Pondicherry city center. Founded by the Mother, it is inhabited by people from all cultures and walks of life. Do visit if you seek tranquility and peace.
6. Aurobindo Ashram:
It houses the samadhi of Sri Aurobindo and the Mother. It maintains silence all the time. You can take a quick walk around or meditate. The garden is beautiful. Phones and cameras are not allowed. You will also be required to remove your shoes.
Pondicherry is not much different from other South Indian towns. The french vibe is limited to White Town and Rock Beach, surrounded by Indian ubiquity all around. There's also the issue of eve-teasing and stalking. The place, however, is teeming with policemen, so its not a safety issue but still leaves a mark of bitterness.
Overall, Pondicherry is perhaps the most easily accessible beach from Bangalore and perfect for a quick dose of sea therapy.