Pondicherry is distinctly divided into two. One side of the local canal ‘Pondicherry’ still retains much of its French flavour. This part of the sometime capital of French India is the setting for Aurobindo Ashram, the roads are called Rue and the local Bazaar is on St. Laurent Street. It is one of the last sites of a certain European genteelness that most of India has lost. On the other side of the canal, you’ll find ‘Puducherry’, a small time South Indian town where the flavours aren’t basil and thyme but curry leaves and roasting rai seeds.

The Land of Yoga and spirituality If you are tired of the rat race that today's world has become and are in search of inner peace, harmony and spirituality, then Pondicherry is the place to come to. It has been seat of learning and Vedic culture since ancient times and was also the home of the great Hindu sage Agastya. Pondicherry mystic spirit found a great resurrection in the twentieth century with the establishment of Aurobindo Ashram.

Prime Attractions of Pondicherry

» Auroville
Located 10 kms north of Pondicherry town, Auroville is envisioned as a universal town, where people from different nationalities, faiths and beliefs, can live in peace and harmony.

The construction of this 'universal town' was started in 1968 under the guidance of the mother, a paries- Born painter-musician who become sri Aurobindo's disciple and close companion from 1924 till his death in 1950.

The development of this Utopia is still in progress. Several countries have offered to set up permanent pavilions, reflecting the culture and ethos of their countries

» The French Heritage
Shri Aurobindo Ashram Shri Aurobindo, the great seer, poet and prophet of the twentieth century, made Pondicherry his home from 1910 till his death in 1950. His vision and ideals continue to draw People from all over the world.

» Pondicherry Museum
On display are the findings of Arikamedu , the chola bronzes and sculptures, glimpses Of French heritage, specimens of modern and traditional handicraft, paintings, armoires, carvings and many other things of historical interest.

» Chunnambar Resort
Water Sports Centre Known for its virgin beaches and backwaters, chunnaamber has water sports Centre which offers exciting boating experiences. It is also great tourist place.

» Botanical Garden
Established by C.S perrotet in 1826, it preserves a large Varity of exotic species of plants from all over India and abroad.

» Villaiayanur
Sri Gokilambal Thirukameswarar tamale, architecturally the finest in pondicherry, is located 9.5 kms away. During may- June, a ten - day annual festival (Brahmothsavam) is held here which attracts hundreds of devotees. The temple car rising to a height of 15.25 meters is profusely decorated, pulled out from its usual position and taken on a procession around the town. It is an awe - inspiring sight.

» Mansion of Ananda
Rangapillai Built in 1773, this mansion is a fine specimen of indo - French architecture. Ananda Rangapillai was the courtier of Joseph francois dupleix , the governor. The dairy which Rangapillai maintained between 1736 - 60 is a book of great value as a source of information on the history of Pondicherry and the French in India.

» Eglise de Sacre Coeur De Jesus
Dedicated to the sacred heart of Jesus, this church is noted for its Gothic architecture and stained glass planes, which depict the entire life of Jesus Christ.

» Angol - french Textile mills
Establishment over a century ago, a visit to the Anglo - French Textile mills is an education in itself. The mill gives a ten percent rebate on purchases made by tourist who go on guided Tours. The acclaimed fabrics and products of this mill make ideal mementos and gifts.

Pondicherry Beaches

The beach-comber and the sun-worshipper have miles of nirvana in Pondicherry. The waters are cool and soothing. The sands clear and sparkling. In splendid seclusion. Quite often, your only company is a lone seagull. Or a sandpiper. Many resorts, cottages, cafes and bars command an excellent view of the sea.

» Serenity Beach
A ten-minute drive to the north of the town brings you to these virgin sands. The ambience is well-captured in its name. You can touch the calm. Ideal for a quick dip, a touch of the sun and a cool reprieve in the shade.

» Serenity Beach
Plage Paradiso (Paradise Beach).

» Plage Paradiso (Paradise Beach)
At Chunnambar, 8 kms from the town, along Cuddalore Main Road, lies this stretch of tropical paradise. Flanked h a quiet-flowing creek on one side. In fact, you can sail downstream to the sands and pitch up a cozy seaside tent for yourself. Overnighting within the tree-houses on the backwater banks provides a relishing experience of the great outdoors. A short, pleasant cruise into the sea from here could reward you with the memorable sight of playful dolphins in natural habitat, horsing around.

» Karaikal Beach
Sunrise-watchers can catch their magnificent view over the bay, with the pretty Arasalar river reaching out to the sea. Alternatively, you can canoe or kayak in picture-book surroundings. Have a round of beach volley ball. Or, armed with the angling gear, you can reel in a surprise.

» Mahe Beach
Twenty two kms south of Kannur, on the northern strip of coastal Kerala lies this bewitching beach strip. From Calicut, you will find this 75 kms north of the town, bordered by a luxuriant crop of tall palm. And dotted with numerous fishing hamlets.

» Yanam River Cruise
Yanam, in coastal Andhra Pradesh, provides a different route to exhilaration. As you enjoy a sunset cruise down the spectacular Goringa Godavari river which winds through rich mangrove forests.

How to get there

» Air
The nearest major airport is at Chennai, 162 km away. Vayudoot Air service has regular flights from Chennai to Pondicherry.

» Rail
Trains ply regularly from Chennai to Pondicherry.

» Road
State Government buses as well as private buses, and taxis ply regularly from Chennai to Pondicherry.