Pondicherry is a former French colonial holding in India. Formerly one of 6 holdings along the Indian coastline, Pondicherry now identifies one city along the eastern coast of India within the state of Tamil Nadu. Here the French and Indian pasts combine to create a pastiche of colonial and native, European and Asian. The old French parts of town provide tourists with cobblestone streets lined with richly painted and often ivy-covered French stucco and stone buildings. The rest of town is equally quaint. The traditional Tamil style houses with prominent porches and wide open interiors great of village feel in a town made of brick and wood.

How to reach Pondicherry ??

Pondicherry is accessible by rail, road, and the air. Daily trains connect Pondicherry to Chennai, 160km to the north. Busses and taxis go many times a day to Chennai and pass through the historic town of Mahibalipuram. Busses are also available to and from Bangalore, 320kn away. No direct flights to Pondicherry exist, but Many flights in and out of Chennai fly many times each day.
Auto-rickshaws, taxis, and busses are available for travel with Pondicherry and nearby locals. Renting a bike and/or walking are the best way to get around. Remember, things go slow in Pondicherry.

Places to see in Pondicherry

The thing to see in Pondicherry is the city itself. The feel and pace of the city and life there are slow, relaxed, and open.
The city center is host to a beautiful public park, government buildings, and the Sri Aurobindo Ashram. There is a public library and the Pondicherry museum.
The Church of Our Lady is an excellent example of medieval architecture, and the Sacred Heart Church is gothic with beautiful stained glass.
Throughout the city are countless temples of intricate design including Sri Manakula Vinayagar Temple the boasts a Ganesh Statue made of white marble walls with gold tint and exquisite painting.

The sea front is rocky at most points in the city but there are swimming beaches.
Pondicherry abounds with cultural happenings. Music and dance performances occur nightly.
6km north of Pondicherry is the town of Auroville. Founded in the 1960’s as "a universal town”, Auroville has assembled artisans, scientists, educators, and scholars from the world over in various fields. Spread over hundreds of acres of forest land, Auroville is beautiful and eye-opening.

Cuisines to try in Pondicherry

Pondicherry is a culinary delight. French and international eateries abound in the old French part of town.
Try the local variety of South Indian cuisine. Appachi serves the traditional Chettinad cuisine of dosa, idly, appam, all over a banana leaf and eaten with the hand. It is some of the best food in India.

Remember that food and drink in Pondicherry are cheaper than elsewhere in India due to the lack of a sales tax. Pondicherry is one of the only smaller towns in India that has proper “bars” that do not serve food, only drink. These can be slightly sketchy establishments, but can give Western Backpackers a bit of a home-town bar feel.

Places to Shop in Pondicherry

As with food, shopping can be cheaper in Pondicherry with no sales tax. Some local artists have set up shops providing beautiful handicrafts and fine art for sale. Excellent books stores can be found around the town.

Unknown Fact about Pondicherry
Café Bindas is a great spot to chill and catch up with other travelers and locals. At 44, Rue Nidarajapaya, with rooftop seating it is ideal for Pondicherry’s weather. Below the café is a handicraft store and recital room/dance studio where travelers can take yoga classes, dance instruction, and hear musical recitals.

Article by John Huber

An Indian Backpacker