6 Things To Do in Pondicherry for a Fantabulous Weekend
Instagram reels giving you FOMO?? Well then, this is the sign to forget those reels and experience the ‘real’ by melting into the alluring charm of Pondicherry.
Pondicherry (Puducherry) is a union territory located on the south-eastern coast of India. It is often referred to as the French capital of India and is known for its heritage buildings, clean beaches, and amazing food. The best thing about Pondicherry is that you can cover all the major landmarks in three days.
Now let me walk you through the things that you should try out if you are planning a relaxing weekend at Pondicherry.
1. Spark the Explorer in you
#Paradise Beach
True to its name, this place is indeed a true paradise. To reach the tiny island, you have to take a ferry across the backwaters. The beach is pristinely clear and it’s better to visit the island in the afternoon to avoid sunburn. Once you get rejuvenated from the boat ride, it’s time to head back to town to stop for some time at the Botanical Garden. Spread over some 22 acres, the garden comprises 1,500 species of flora from across the world. The major attraction is the Toy Train and Musical Fountain Show during the weekends.
#Rock Beach or Gandhi Beach is the most popular beach in Pondicherry. This is one place that looks mesmerizing both in the morning time and evening. The evening is the best time to visit the beach to immerse yourself in the carnival vibe of the place and stroll leisurely along the Promenade watching the happy faces and waves splashing on the rocks. The most famous tourist landmarks on Rock Beach (Promenade Beach) are the beautiful statue of Joan of Arc, the historic War Memorial, the statue of Dupleix, the old lighthouse, the statue of Mahatma Gandhi, and the old port pier. All these monuments speak volumes about the grandeur of this place.
2. Heritage walks through White Town
White Town is the part of Pondicherry that is still carrying the remnants of French glory. The best way to enjoy the White Town is by foot. It is the most Instagram-worthy place in Pondicherry with its beautiful houses in shades of yellow,grey and blue and amazing cafes to chill.
If you are a history buff, then you should check out the Pondicherry Museum near Bharathi Park. Here you can see sculptures from different eras, Artwork, and beautiful handicrafts. Don’t forget to spend some quality time at Bharati Park after the museum visit.
3. Capture the aura of simple living at Auroville
A trip to Pondicherry is incomplete without visiting Auroville. Auroville was conceived as a universal township where people from across the world, could live and work together in harmony and peace.
The main attraction of Auroville is the Matrimandir. The Matrimandir (Temple of the Mother), is a large golden sphere symbolizing the new consciousness. It’s a surreal experience to meditate in the inner chamber (Do register in advance to get access) of Matrimandir.
4. Explore your Spiritual side
Pondicherry is home to numerous churches and temples. Aurobindo Ashram is a must-visit for those seeking a spiritual retreat. Manakula Vinayagar Temple is just adjacent to the ashram. The ancient temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha is known for its elephant blessings.
Another place to visit is the Immaculate Conception Cathedral located on Mission Street. The 300-year-old church is an architectural marvel and it radiates peace and harmony.
5. Shopping Paradise
Pondicherry is the best place for street shopping. You can buy amazing products with good bargaining skills. If street shopping is not your thing, then head over to Casablanca to shop for souvenirs, apparel, handmade products, and other stuff.
6. Gastronomic joy ride
Pondicherry is a haven for food lovers. What I like about Pondicherry is the amazing variety of milk sweets that you can find in the sweet shops here. If you have sweet tooth like me, then you should try the Kulfi varieties from Lallu sweets situated on Nehru Street.
There are a lot of shops to savor the local cuisines and If you want a taste of Italian, then head straight to Gelateria Montecatini Terme to try out their different gelato.
Final Thoughts
Pondicherry still retains the charm of the colonial British and French presence, not just in the buildings, but also in the culture.
Your Pondy trip will be incomplete without visiting the Tsunami Memorial temple. You won’t find many articles on Google as this gem remains unfamiliar among the tourist crowd.
The Sri Karaneswar Nataraja temple Pondicherry is also called Pyramid temple as it is is built in the shape of a Pyramid after the Great Pyramid of Egypt.
The best time to visit Pondicherry is from October to March as the weather is quite pleasurable.
So are you going to make Pondy’cherry’ the top cherry🍒 on your 2022 bucket list??😊
