Why You Should Visit Pondicherry This Diwali

The bright hued walls of Pondicherry, adorably refereed to Pondy by most, are a sight to watch. Rich history of French past lingers in every alley of the small town. Be prepared to encounter with surprise elements in your every step. Situated by the eastern coast, Pondy is the capital city of Union territory of Puducherry. This town is as beautiful as it may get. For a traveler, the more you explore, the richer you discover.

As a first timer I secured a stay with Le Pondy Resort, s fantastic property by the beach. Here the blue of the pool merges seamlessly with the blue of the sea at close vicinity.

I appreciate a pleasant stay, especially for beach vacation for the private beaches are a plus. Also a day’s frolic makes me all geared up to explore the city at night! Le Pondy Resort serves a sumptuous breakfast spread. Post that, I started to explore Pondicherry. Following are my two cents to know the old city well.

The Sea – If you are travelling from the East Coast Road, you will have a serene drive as the Bay of Bengal rides with you simultaneously. Mahabalipuram is on the way. Do take a stroll on the Promenade beach in the morning. The exquisite sunset also marvels a lot number of tourists here.

The Islands – Wake up early and queue up for a visit to the beach especially the Paradise beach, one of the finest beach in the country with powder white sands all around.

The Food – French, Indian, Italian, Mexican and especially French, you name it and you get it! Such is the beauty of Pondy’s food scene. There are multiple cafes specializing in sea food as well as baking stuff. I am completely in awe with the shrimp fries and squid I ate in the town, from a small eatery. Heaven in my mouth!

Auroville – The Sri Aurobindo Ashram, situated on rue de la Marine, is of great importance as an ashram in India. Sri Aurobindo, the renowned Freedom Fighter and spiritual philosopher founded Auroville (City of Dawn). The universal town is an abode to men and women of all countries, living in peace and harmony.

Historical Importance – The promenade has a lot of statues of Indian personalities, for example, Gandhi statue, Nehru Statue etc. The town also houses multiple heritage buildings and monuments like the Children’s Park & Dupleix Statue, , Le Café, French War Memorial, 19th Century Light House, Bharathi Park, Governors Palace, Romain Rolland Library, Legislative Assembly, Pondicherry Museum and the French Institute of Pondicherry at Saint-Louis Street.

The City – Pondy is a beautiful city. The city skyline is dotted with beautiful yellow hued walls and sans any annoying sky scrapers. The azure sea creates a mesmerizing backdrop by the back. A walk through the road is especially rewarding for locals are friendly and hospitable, always ready to welcome you with a warm smile.

Night Markets – Do head out for one of the many flea markets on the road and experience the quirks of street shopping. They sell amazing souvenirs as well as silver trinkets. In lucky, you may also reward yourself with an expensive but old trench coat!

With all these exciting places to see and experiences to cherish, Pondy sky is especially lit up during Diwali or the December holidays. The restaurants will conjure up the best of the resources, the road are smooth and for a long drive, there is no dearth of beautiful sunshine on the coast, a short boat ride will take you to the nearby islands. In all, Pondy will remain as an endearing holiday in your memory forever.