Pondicherry, also known as Puducherry, is a captivating coastal city on the southeastern coast of India. It is renowned for its unique blend of French and Indian cultures, reflected in its architecture, cuisine, and overall ambience. With its charming colonial buildings, pristine beaches, and spiritual retreats, Pondicherry offers visitors a serene and culturally rich experience. It is also home to many unexplored gems. Here are the top offbeat places you shouldn't miss on your next trip to Pondicherry.
Arikamendu is an archaeological site situated around 7 kilometres away from the city of Pondicherry. The mixture of Indian and Roman architecture tells a story of the trade and cultural exchange that the region of Arikamendu was engaged in with the Roman empire during the earlier times. Arikamendu also served as a crucial trading port for the Romans. On entering the premises of Arikamendu, you will first be greeted by minarets that have survived the ravages of times, standing tall and looking majestic as always. If you like souvenirs, Arikamendu produces various products like textiles, beads, pottery items, etc., all made by the local artisans of the region.
While in Pondicherry, Ousteri Lake is a place you should definitely visit. The Ousteri Lake is home to a wide range of flora and fauna and is nothing short of a paradise for all nature lovers. Ousteri wetland is a significant wetland of Asia and also the largest fresh water catchment in entire Puducherry. If you want to relax and unwind, Ousteri Lake is the perfect escape. You can enjoy the walking trail around the lake while taking in its scenic beauty. You can also go boating in the lake.
The Auroville Bamboo Centre is a beautiful and serene estate that works religiously and dedicatedly towards promoting bamboo as a sustainable and eco-friendly resource. There is also a complex within the centre's premises where you can buy a wide range of bamboo products. The Auroville Bamboo Centre also allows visitors to learn more about bamboo production. It offers a walk through the bamboo forests, a workshop on how to make different kinds of bamboo products, etc.
Not widely known to the public, Serenity beach is a beautiful and serene beach that will immediately put you in a state of tranquillity. With the soothing sound of the sea, the slightly warm sand, and a delicious snack, the serene beach is a perfect place to relax and have a wonderful time alone or with your loved ones.
To reach Pondicherry by air, the nearest airport is Chennai International Airport, located approximately 135 kilometres away. You can hire a taxi or take a bus to Pondicherry, which takes around 3-4 hours, depending on the traffic.
If you prefer to travel by train, Pondicherry has a railway station connected to major cities like Chennai, Bangalore, and Kolkata. Several trains operate on these routes, making it a convenient and scenic option for reaching the city.
Pondicherry is well-connected by a network of national highways for those who prefer travelling by road. The East Coast Road (ECR) offers a picturesque drive along the coast, with breathtaking views of the Bay of Bengal. The Chennai-Pondicherry route via the ECR is particularly popular among travellers.
The best months to visit Pondicherry are from October to March when the weather is pleasant and ideal for exploring the city's attractions. During this period, the temperature remains moderate, making outdoor activities and sightseeing comfortable. However, it's important to note that Pondicherry can get crowded during holidays and weekends, so planning your visit accordingly is recommended for a more relaxed experience.
