Pondicherry is one of the choicest holiday destinations for those seeking a break from the monotonous city life. With its mix of modern heritage and spiritual culture, this beautiful town is a unique experience. The chief attraction of Pondicherry is its historical background, which will make you journey back in time. The city outshines with a melange of Indian and French colonial heritage which makes it stand out.
The locals of this city are multi-national and multi-ethnic, and can be spotted in beautiful traditional clothes with men wearing pants and shirts, and women dressed in saris, long skirts and blouses. Music and Dance form an integral part of Pondicherry’s culture. Popular dance forms like Yakshgana, Kathak, Kuchipudi, Chau, Mohininattam, etc. are among the popular dance forms here.
Pondicherry boasts of various attractions where every nook and corner oozes serenity. One of the major attractions is the Botanical Garden featuring six stunning fountains, a large aquarium with ornamental fish, dancing fountain, among others. The garden is home to around 1500 species of plants, which makes it a treat for the nature lovers. Visit the Ousteri Lake to witness a perfect sunset. Spread over an area of 390 hectares, this lake is recognised as one of Asia's important wetlands by the International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources.
Scuba diving is one of the most popular sports in Pondicherry. Travellers visiting the beaches can also partake in other activities like boating, jet skiing, canoeing, kayaking and backwater sailing to eye the unearthly beauty of the underwater world.
Pondicherry is also home to various religious sites that attract devotees from all over the country. The Manakkula Vinayakar Temple is the favourite among the visitors. It is an ancient holy place adorned with forty incarnations of Lord Ganesha carved on the stone walls.
Thirunallur Temple is another known temple of the city devoted to Lord Saneeswaran (Saturn). Sri Gokilambal Thriukameswara Temple is also a prominent spiritual hub famous for hosting Brahmostavam, a popular ten day long festival celebrated with the appearance of the full moon.
The best time to visit Pondicherry is between October and February. October turns the city in a beautiful heaven. December and January are also perfect to explore the charms of Pondicherry. May and June are the hottest months and thus, must be avoided.
By Air - The closest airport to reach Pondicherry is at Chennai from where travellers can take a 3-4 hours taxi ride.
By Train - The city is also connected with Chennai, Trichy and Villupuram via rail.
By Road - Also, travellers looking for bus ride can find numerous direct bus links.