What is it that comes to mind first when someone mentions Pondicherry? Yellow and white houses, the Matrimandir? Well, Pondicherry, or Puducherry as it is called these days, is much more than just these. Read on to know what the must-dos are when you are here!
Tour the Auroville Market
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The experimental township of Auroville is, without doubt, a crowd-puller. While the market has far fewer shops and stalls than most common markets, it is pretty well known for its handicrafts and traditional merchandise made and marketed by the locals themselves. If you’re one of those who believe in sustainable living, check out the very popular hemp bags and products, which could act as an easy alternative to your regular plastic or leather bags.
Take a Ferry To and From Chunnamber Boat House
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One of the best ways to experience Pondicherry’s pristine scenic beauty is to take the ferry from Chunnamber Boat House, located at the entrance of the Chunnamber Creek, which offers boating and other leisure services. While the boat house is best known for being the sole access point to Paradise Beach, it also has options for a number of great activities such as backwater boating.
Take a walk on Paradise Beach
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Probably one of the most beautiful beaches in Pondicherry, Paradise Beach is not only bigger than most other beaches in Pondy, it is also one of the emptiest and cleanest beaches in the Union Territory. The best part about this beach is that there’s no motorway to reach it; you can get there only by a five-minute ferry ride from the boathouse. Sit back, relax and unwind here.
Check Out the Ruins of Arikamedu
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Located just about seven kilometres from the centre of Pondicherry is the ancient settlement of Arikamedu. Ruins of the settlement have been a subject of intensive studies, and several excavations at the site have revealed trade links to the Roman Empire during the reign of Augustus Caesar. The fact that this place is mentioned in the famous 1st century map of Periplus of the Erythraen Sea speaks volumes for its importance.
Visit the Pondicherry Museum
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While its identity is deeply rooted in its French heritage, the actual history of the region goes back nearly 2,000 years, when ports and settlements such as Arikamedu served as a point of contact with the Roman Empire. That being said, the Pondicherry Museum houses rare artefacts from the Pallava and Chola Dynasty, and also a wealth of exhibits relating to French rule in Pondicherry.