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To see and do in Pondicherry

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Travel Guide » Asia » India » Pondicherry
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Pondicherry
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(Union Territory)


Indo-French Blend

Pondicherry, with its quaint French names, boulevards and grand villas was a French colony till not so long. There is a distinct French influence that is visible between the beach and the canal, which separates the Indian part of the town from the French side. Did you know? Even the policemen in Pondicherry wear red kepis and belts, reminiscent of the days when Pondicherry was a French colony.

The Aurobindo Ashram here attracts people from far corners of the globe. A haven of peace, the Ashram is not just for prayers and meditation. They even have a factory famous for its distinct handmade paper. Dreamed of Utopia? Then walk into Auroville, an offshoot of the Ashram is a place where people of different nationalities could live in peace and harmony and rise above the narrow confines of nationality, creed or race. Pondicherry is dotted with restaurants and cafes serving French cuisine and lovely seafood.
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To See & Do
Must See, Must Do
  • A trip to Auroville, the Utopian town built by idealists, is a must. Auroville is a shopper's delight too.
  • Spend a morning at the Aurobindo Ashram. The peace and quiet, the tranquil atmosphere, will recharge and refresh you.
  • Spend a lazy afternoon at Hotel Sea Gull, which overlooks the ocean. Gorge on seafood it is excellent.
  • Pick up your shopping bag scented candles, incense sticks, handmade paper and leather goods are some goodies.

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Beaches
  If by beach, you mean a sandy strip lashed by slow waves, you are in for a disappointment. But just to the north and south of the city are the lovely beaches Reppo, Quiet and Serenity, which truly live up to their names. Chunnambar, 8 km from Pondicherry, has a beach named Paradise. Do wet your feet here, or indulge and swim it.

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Gardens
  Botanical Garden The French established this in 1826. If you have an evening free, explore the take garden's floral treasures brought from different parts of the world. Botanists and curators have conducted numerous experiments here to discover what would survive and flourish in this climate. The park is open 6 am-6pm.

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Museums
  Pondicherry Museum Situated on Romain Roland Street, this museum has an interesting collection of a variety of exhibits, ranging from French furniture to bead making. Don't miss the French Governer Dupleix bed and the pousse pousse, the French version of the rickshaw. The museum is open 9 am-5 pm, Tuesday to Sunday. Other Attractions AurovilleRepresentatives from 121 countries attended the opening ceremony for Auroville in February 1968. The brainchild of The Mother and designed by the French architect Roger Anger, the township was built with a spirit of idealism that is evident even today. The huge Matri Mandir is the soul of Auroville, but is open to visitos only on Sundays, between 2.30-5.30 pm. But you can roam around the gardens, the amphitheatre, cafe, bookshop and most important Boutique d'Auroville. Auroville is 20 km from Ponicherry. There are frequent buses, but cabs will ferry you there and back.

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Religious Places
  Aurobindo Ashram Situated on the Rue de la Marine, this is where the Aurobindo Society conducts its various educational and cultural activities. The ashram was founded by Sri Aurobindo in 1926 and its philosophy represents a blend of yoga and modern science. The samadhis (tombs) of Sri Aurobindo and the Mother are situated here below a fragrant frangipani tree. The ashram is open daily and one can glimpse the rooms where Sri Aurobindo and the Mother meditated daily. Sri Aurbindo's samadhi is open daily between 11.30 am and 11.45 am, but make prior appointment by calling 2339648. Email: bureaucentral@sriaurobindoashram.org. Drowpathiamman Temple This famous temple's deity is fed meat and wine to give it strength to protect the temple. It is renowned for its 24-day Festival of Fire. Immaculate Conception Church Built in 1791, the church is a striking example of medieval Jesuit architecture. There is a stunning entrance, and on entering the church one is overcome by a sense of peace and quiet. Sacred Heart Church This is a classic Gothic structure with bright stained glass windows. Notre Dame de Anges Church This completes your church-hopping in Pondicherry. While indoors, do look at the spotless white walls. They are made with limestone and eggshells! Manakkula Vinayaka Temple This temple is dedicated to Lord Ganesha, one of the most popular Gods in the Hindu pantheon. The walls of the temple are decorated with lovely friezes of Ganesha in various manifestations.

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Festivals
  Masquerade (March/April) Brilliantly costumed and masked people dance down the streets to the music of trumpets and accordions. The French influence is touching, and the Masquerade, the popular mask festival speaks of that by gone era! Do check this out! Bastille Day On the Eve of Bastille Day, retired soldiers parade the streets in uniforms, singing the French and Indian national anthems. Festival of Fire This is a 24-day festival is conducted at the Drowpathiamman Temple. An image of the goddess is taken out in procession. Saffron-clad devotees walk on burning coals to prove their devotion and faith in the deity. International Yoga Festival (January) Yogis and yoginis from the world over assemble every year for this unique fest.
 
 
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