Pondicherry
 Pondicherry, not to let out a big secret, is nestled on the Eastern seaboard of India. Even now a relatively peaceful town as far as tourist movement goes, Pondicherry is an enchanting and fascinating place. Whether you are looking for a romantic rendezvous or a fun filled resort vacation, Pondicherry can accommodate all of your gateway desires. Helios-worshippers can find miles of sun-kissed beaches while the sun-weary can indulge themselves at incredible restaurants and treat themselves to unique shopping experiences.
Accommodation at Pondicherry:
Anandha Inn,
Hotel Annamalai International,
Pondicherry Ashok,
St James Court,
Soorya International
Weather and Best Time to Visit:
Pondicherry has a hot and humid climate with temperatures ranging
between 26 and 38°C.
The best season to visit would be from September to March.
Prime
Attractions at Pondicherry
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.
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 Paris-born painter musician who became 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.
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, armouries, carvings and many other things of historical interest.
Chunnambar Resort - Water Sports Centre: Known for its virgin beaches and backwaters, Chunnambar has a Water Sports Centre which offers exciting boating experiences. It is also a great tourist spot.
Botanical Garden: Established by C.S. Perrotet in 1826, it preserves a large variety of exotic species of plants from all over India and abroad.
Villiayanur: Sri Gokilambal Thirukameswarar Temple, 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 metres 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 diary 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 panels which depict the entire life of Jesus Christ.
Anglo-French Textile Mills: Established 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 tourists who go on guided tours. The acclaimed fabrics and products of this mill make ideal mementoes and gifts.
Access to Pondicherry
Air:
The Chennai airport is 135 kms from Pondicherry and flights connect to
major cities in India and directly to destinations in Europe, Asian,
Middle East and the US.Rail: the nearest rail junction is Villupuram.
Rail: Pondicherry is connected by rail to Villupuram (36 kms),
which connects to Chennai and Madurai/Trivandrum. The trains to and from
Pondy are slow and few.
Road:
The best choice for getting to Pondy from Chennai (150 km) and Bangalore
(320 km) is by taxi or bus.
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