A walk down history

During the French Revolution in the year 1793 the British “East India Company” took control of the region and returned to the French “East India Company” in 1814. However, when the British “East India Company” gained control of the whole of India in the late 1850s, they allowed the French “East India Company” to retain their settlements at Pondicherry, Mahe, Yanam, Karaikal and Chandronagor. In 1947, the independence of India gave impetus for the union of France’s Indian possessions with former British India and an agreement between the French Government and the Indian Government in 1948 stipulated that the inhabitants of France’s Indian possessions would choose their political future. On a de facto basis, the bureaucracy had been united with India on 1 November 1954, and the de jure union of French India with the Indian Union took place in the year 1963. In the process, Chandronagor opted to be merged with the State of West Bengal, and Pondicherry, along with Karaikal, Mahe and Yanam, was constituted as a Union Territory in the Indian Union.

Stroll along cobblestone paths and yellow houses

Puducherry, as a tourist destination, offers a multi-cultural experience. Amongst the many attractions that this charming town boasts of, the most outstanding is the French Colony, also called the White Town. Flaunting cobblestone streets and yellow houses, this old French residential area retains its old world charm, picturesqueness and also the architecture of the old French quarters. The historic building housing the French consulate also stands tall, literally, in this area. Over the years, and while keeping up with the growing tourist population of the place, most of these got converted into heritage hotels, restaurants, quirky cafes and art galleries. Clean Streets, well-paved pathways, lined-up Victorian-era lamp posts, and yellow walls laden with vibrant Bougainvilleas lend this old French settlement a charm that takes tourists back in time. The houses, restaurants and streets also retain their old French names, giving the place a unique touch. So, if you take a heritage walk through the streets of this area, you will read names like Rue Dumas, Rue Romain Rolland, Rue Suffren and Rue La Bourbonnais.

A touch of spirituality

Another major highlight of Puducherry is Sri Aurobindo Ashram, a spiritual community founded in 1926 by Sri Aurobindo and the Mother (Miraa Alfassa). The Ashram is a centre of yoga and meditation and has gained popularity in recent years, attracting tourists from all over the world who are keen to have a spiritual experience. The famous experimental centre, Auroville, is located nearby. It houses 'Matri Mandir' (Sanskrit for Temple of the Mother). Made in spherical style, it is an edifice of spiritual importance for practitioners of Integral Yoga and draws visitors from all classes.

Mesmerising sunsets on pristine beaches

Apart from the rich history and spiritual centres, Puducherry has some of the most amazing beaches. Promenade Beach, with its long waterfront promenade, and Paradise Beach are some of the more noticeable ones. There is a lot of evening activity, and tourists come here for leisurely evening strolls and amazing sunsets.

Delight your tastebuds

No visit can be complete without savouring Puducherry Franco-Tamil culinary offerings. From freshly baked Pizzas and croissants to typical South Indian Dosa and a variety of seafood, Puducherry is a food lover's delight. On the side, you may even be left amazed by the multilingual French staff running these restaurants, greeting you in Hindi, English, French, and Tamil.

In conclusion, Puducherry is a destination that offers a unique blend of history, culture, spirituality, and natural beauty. Whether you're taking a stroll through the well-maintained streets of the French Colony, meditating in the serene surroundings of the Sri Aurobindo Ashram, or soaking up the sun on its pristine beaches, you're sure to be captivated by the charm and allure of this enchanting town.