Pondicherry, also known as 'Pondi' and now officially called Puducherry, is known for its pristine beaches, reminiscent of French colonial rule and culture. Located perfectly on the Coromandel shoreline, the Union Territory of Puducherry, was ruled by the French for more than three centuries and today it symbolises the living memory of the French culture in India.

Puducherry is nestled in the southern region of India between lush greens and the Bay of Bengal and is enriched with architectural marvel, cultural wealth, handicrafts and pottery. Majority of Pondicherrians speak Tamil, Telugu, or Malayalam, but there is also a community of people who still speak French. Puducherry is known for its wide variety of cuisines ranging from South Indian delicacies like idli and dosa to seafood like fried fish, prawn bajji and parota. French influence can be seen to some extent in the local food.

Best time to visit:

Puducherry is hot and humid throughout the year. The best time for visiting the place is from October to March.

Top five places to see:

Aurobindo Ashram – The Aurobindo Ashram, founded in 1920, is the residence where Sri Aurobindo and revered Mother Mira Alfassa, popularly known as 'Maa', spent the most part of their life. This place attracts many thousands of people each year.

Auroville City – A real example of community living, Auroville is conceived as a ‘Universal Town’. This is a place were people with different nationalities, beliefs and culture live together in harmony.

Pondicherry Museum – The Pondicherry Museum houses some of the best collections of sculptures. This museum has an excellent gallery with sculptures and has the remains of archaeological findings from the Arikamedu Roman settlement.

Arikamedu – Excavation in the early periods brought out the bustling Indo–Roman trade centre in Puducherry named Arikamedhu. Several excavations carried out at this place have brought to light the remnants of Roman trade, wine jars and ancient Roman coins.

French War Memorial – The stylish French War Memorial is a monument for those soldiers who lost their lives in the First World War. Annual commemoration is celebrated every year on 14th July during which the memorial gets illuminated beautifully.