Pondicherry Tourism: Tour Packages & Vacation Holiday Deals

Take a break from the hustle and bustle of modern life and get engrossed in the calmness and serenity of the beaches of Pondicherry. The Pondicherry tour packages take you to a spiritualistic mood when you visit the world famous Aurbindo Ashram and Auroville and you can be blessed with a lot of peace and goodness. And if you are looking for some lively activity and fun, what better way than attending the various fairs and festivals that are organized frequently. And if you still haven’t had enough, you could go shopping in this shopper’s paradise. This is Pondicherry for you. Pondicherry tourism is so dynamic that it has something to offer for everyone. 

Pondicherry tours highlight the trip to the serene beaches in and around Pondicherry. The town is also home to a lot of heritage buildings and monuments.

Having been the capital of French colonies in India, the town is drenched with the French culture. This makes it more attractive and Pondicherry packages are incomplete without the French heritage destinations. 

Pondicherry attractions include a visit to the various beaches, the other attractions of the Pondicherry tour packages are The Ashram, the Arikamedu site, the fairs and festivals, monuments, the churches, temples and mosques. Pondicherry is also considered as the centre for Yoga and Meditation in South India. Pondicherry package tours can also include Yoga courses to suit the various tourists and makes it very attractive. The Department of Tourism of Pondicherry organizes the annual French Food festival also called the Gourmet which is another attraction for the tourists. The Botanical Gardens of Pondicherry is extremely famous and is home to a lot of unusual specimens of plants. Welcome to this diversity of Pondicherry and have a memorable holiday that you would cherish for your life.

The most famous getaway from Chennai is Pondicherry which is at distance of less than three hours from this metro. It’s a great idea to just get away for Pondicherry holidays any time of the year as here you could find some of the most unique and exotic of tourist destinations that you could think of. Pondicherry vacations are truly delightful as you could visit such exotic destinations like the Ashram, The Auroville, the various French Heritage sites, innumerable art galleries, the Botanical Garden and not to miss –the beaches. There are several prominent beaches in A Pondicherry which you could explore during your Pondicherry holidays. These include the Serenity Beach, the Promenade Beach ,

Paradiso Beach, The Chunnamber beach and resort and the Auroville Beach to name a few. 

Sri Aurobindo Ashram

     The Sri Aurobindo Ashram located on rue de la Marine, is one of the most well known and wealthiest ashrams in India, with devotees from India and all over the world flocking to it for spiritual salvation. Its spiritual tenets represent a synthesis of yoga and modern science. It is open to the public daily between 08-1200 hrs and 1400-1800 hrs. Children below 3 years of age are not allowed into the ashram and photography is allowed only with permission of the ashram authorities.      The Ashram was set up in 1926 by Sri Aurobindo Ghose, one of India’s greatest philosopher-poets, who originally came to Pondy to escape persecution by the British. It was after arriving in puducherry, that he was drawn into the spiritual realm and discovered the power of yoga. His philosophy deeply rooted in yoga and his writings inspired a number of followers.      One of them was a Parisian mystic, painter and musician called Mirra Alfassa, who was so inspired by his philosophy that she stayed on in puducherry and was instrumental in establishment of the ashram. After Aurobindo’s death in 1950, the running of the Ashram was entrusted to his chief disciple and companion, Mirra Alfassa, (also known as ‘The Mother’). The idea of Auroville or the “City of Down” was conceived by ‘The Mother’. She died in 1973 at the age of 93.      The ashram’s influence can be felt in most of puducherry. The main ashram building is where the mortal remains of Aurobindo and the Mother are kept. Their ‘Samadhi’ or mausoleum, which is generally surrounded by supplicating devotees, is

in the central courtyard under a frangipani tree and is covered daily with flowers.      Some of the ashram’s facilities like the Library and the Main Building (during collective meditation) can be accessed, only after obtaining a gate pass from the Bureau Central or some of the Ashram Guest Houses.For more information, please contact:Bureau Central, Cottage ComplexSri Aurobindo Ashram3 Ranga Pillai St., puducherry 605001Tel.: +91-413-2339648

  Auroville

     Auroville - or the ‘City of Dawn ’ - was conceived as a place of research into the ideal of human unity by the Mother, the spiritual collaborator of Sri Aurobindo. The idea is to build a futuristic city where people of goodwill can live together in peace and progressive harmony, above all creeds, all politics and all nationalities. Auroville came into existence in 1968. Its Charter says, “To live in Auroville one must be a willing servitor of the Divine Consciousness”, and describes it as “belonging to nobody in particular, but to humanity as a whole”; as a place “of constant progress”; and as “a bridge between the past and the future.”      Located around 8 kms north-west of Puducherry, Auroville was designed by the French architect Roger Anger. Around 2,000 people live there in settlements with names likeGrace, Fraternity, Fertile, Certitude and Transformation. Nearly two-thirds of the residents are non-Indians.      Architecturally speaking the buildings are a combination of modern western and traditional Indian elements, set in a rural landscape of deep red earth and widespread forestation, with narrow earth roads linking the settlements. The residents are involved in agriculture, administration, commerce and handicrafts, alternative technology, education, healthcare and development projects, the latter including AuroRE Systems, an international award winning unit involved in solar photovoltaic and thermal systems.      The central Matrimandir, which is not a temple but a place for individual silent concentration, is set in an area of 62 acres at the centre of the emerging township, and is seen as “a symbol of the Divine’s answer to man’s aspiration for perfection. Union with the Divine manifesting in a progressive human unity.”      During the inauguration ceremony of Auroville on 28th February 1968 , soil from 124 countries was placed in a lotus-shaped urn and mixed to symbolize universal oneness. This urn is today sited at the centre of an Amphitheatre in the Matrimandir Gardens . The Matrimandir’s 12-sided white marble Inner Chamber has a 70 cms diameter optical-quality glass

globe at its centre, onto which a shaft of sunlight is focused by way of a roof-mounted heliostat. The light falling on the globe acts as a focal aid to concentration.      The Auroville Visitors Centre (Ph: 0413 – 2622239) is located near Bharat Nivas, the Indian national pavilion in Auroville’s International Zone, and is open from 0930 to 1730 hrs every day. This Centre has a permanent exhibition on the history and philosophy of the project, an Information Service offering books, brochures and leaflets on various aspects of Auroville, three boutiques, a bookshop, and a cafeteria providing refreshments and international cuisine. Introductory videos on the township and the Matrimandir can be seen at the Centre by request. 

For more information see the Auroville website www.auroville.org or visit:

La Boutique d’ Auroville,38 J.Nehru Street,PuducherryPhone: 0413 – 2337264 

Beaching in puducherry

     Any trip to puducherry would be incomplete without a visit to its beaches. Though it’s hot and muggy through most of the year, puducherry has four main beaches which are fairly popular with tourists and locals alike. As opposed to the rest of India, the beaches here are relatively clean and not as crowded.

  Most of the beaches are a little away from the town except for small stretch of sand behind Seagulls restaurant on Goubert Avenue. However this stretch is not as popular because of its lack of accessibility and security.  Promenade :

      The 1.5 km long promenade running along the beach is the pride of puducherry. There one can relax or take a stroll at any time of the day. On the sea front are several land marks. The War memorial cold and dispassionate throbbing the memory of last dreams, the statue of Joan of Arc blazing an inspiration, the heritage town hall, the statue of Mahatma Gandhi standing tall, Dupleix statue, old light house, the remains of the old pier, the old customs house, speak the splendor of the by gone era. The well furnished tourist information centre is situated in esthetically heritage building facing the sea to cater to the need of visiting tourists.  Paradise Beach :

     Located 8 kms. from the town, along the Cuddalore Main Road this beach can be accessed from the Chunnambar Resort. Flanked by a quiet flowing creek on one side, the beach can only be accessed by boat   Serenity beach :

 This beach is a ten minutes drive to the north of the town. This virgin beach, with its serene surroundings is an ideal place to laze away your day.  Auroville Beach :      The Auroville Beach as the name indicates is close to Auroville. It is right off the ECR, opposite the road leading to Auroville. Located around 12 kms from the main puducherry town, its shallow waters and small waves make it an ideal place of swimming. It is a fairly popular destination on weekends. On weekdays it is relatively less crowded.

Temples in puducherry

     Though the temples in puducherry are not as well known as their more famous counterparts in towns like Tanjavur or Chidambaram, they are charming in their own unique way, with some of them even dating back to the 10th Century AD Chola period.  Manakula Vinayagar Koil

     This temple is more than 300 years old and is dedicated to Ganesha. It has a golden spire and walls portraying forty different forms of Ganesha. The temple also has a smaller shrine dedicated to Lord Murugan, who is Ganesha’s younger brother. Over 5000 devotees flock to this site everyday. The temple compound also plays host to ‘Lakshmi’, the temple elephant, who uses her trunk to dispense blessings and to collect coins from the devotees.  Varadaraja Perumal Temple      Located on M.G.Road, this is believed to be the oldest temple in town, dating back to 600 AD. The temple built in the typical Dravidian style, complete with brightly coloured ‘gopuram’ and sculpted pillars, is probably the oldest standing structure in puducherry. This temple is dedicated to Vishnu. Legend has it, that the temple was originally built for the idols of Rama, Sita, Lakshman and Hanuman, which were brought to the present site by fishermen, from the sea. The main deity here is Venkatachalapathy (Vishnu). Right behind that is a separate shrine for Narashima (who is also an avatar of Vishnu).  Vedhapureeswarar Temple      This temple also known as the Eashwaran koil, is located on M.G.Road and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It has colourful ‘gopuram’, adorned by the statues of gods and goddesses, like most temples in South India.  Kanniga Parameswari Temple      This temple, dedicated to the godess Shakti is unique as it seems to be strongly influenced by the French architectural style. Located on M.G.Road, it has an unusual blend of both Tamil and French architecture. With its arched walls, ionic columns, stained glass windows and even some angel decorations, it is reminiscent of a French building. However, the inner ceiling supported by the more traditional granite pillars and the sanctum sanctoram, which has a typical Tamil design, highlights the more traditional Tamil features.  Kamatchiamman Temple      Located on Bharathi Street, this temple is different from most other South Indian temples by virtue of its lack of colour and ornamentation. Its starkness is what makes it stand out from the rest. This dark rust coloured temple is dedicated to Durga, the goddess of war.  Sri Gokilambal Thirukameshwara Temple      This is located in a small town called ‘Villianur’, 11 kms. from puducherry. The main shrine housing the ‘Shivlinga’ and the

shrines dedicated to the Devi and Murugan date back to the 12th century Chola period. This temple has a little bit of French heritage attached to it, though not in its architecture, but in some of its traditions. The annual Temple Car Festival which is held in the months of May and June, involves the pulling of a 15 metre tall chariot through the streets by a large crowd of devotees.      During French colonial rule, the Governor of puducherry used to join this very procession and actively participate in the drawing of the chariot through the streets. This tradition lives on with the present Lieutenant Governor of puducherry participating in the festival now.                                              

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 Churches In puducherry  Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus      Located on Subbayah Salai, this white and brown neo-gothic church is one of Pondy’s finest Catholicchurches. It was built by French missionaries in the 1700’s in a contrasting Neo-Gothic manner, with towers flanking a central gable and stained glass windows on the side. The church has an imposing entrance and the beautiful stained glass panels depict incidents from Jesus Christ’s life. Further along the southern boulevard is the cemetery which has some interesting tombs with ornate marble decorations.  Church of the Capuchins      Located on rue Dumas, this is one of the first churches to be built in puducherry. Even though it was one of the very few buildings that partially survived the destruction of the town in 1761, it is a mere shadow of its past glory, except for its rather interesting gable. Today, it houses an orphanage.  Notre Dame de’ 

     Located on Mission Street, this cathedral, which bears a strong resemblance to a church in France, was built in 1791 in the place of a former church. The imposing façade presents paired Doric columns below and ionic above. In front of the church is a statue of Our Lady with the infant Jesus in her arms. The interior design consists of eight barrel vaults and a central dome pierced with eight circular openings.  The Notre Dame des Anges      The Church of our Lady of the Angels on rue Romain Rolland was built in 1852 in the Greek Roman architectural style. Its

façade, flanked by two unadorned square towers, faces east towards the ocean. The interior is roofed by a barrel vault, witha great dome rising over the crossing. The pastel peach and lime colours give it a very serene appearance.       This church is also famous for its rare oil painting of Our Lady of the Assumption, which was a gift from the French emperor, Napoleon III. The cemetery next to the church has the tomb of Marquis de Bussy (dated 1785), who was one of Dupleix’s most enterprising followers.   

 Church of the Assumption      Located at Nellitoppu, on the western outskirts of the city, this church was built in 1851. The main entrance has an image of Our Lady and on the left towers is the statue of St. George in the act of slaying a yall-like monster. Inside the church you will find some of the finest glided altarpieces including a Crucifix surrounded by flying angels. The Church of Our Lady of Lourdes      This interesting located at Villianur, a small town 11 km. from puducherry. It was erected in 1876 is modeled on that of the Basilica in France. The statue of Notre Dame was donated by the French Government a year later. A curious feature here is the Church tank, which is usually common in all the Hindu temples. We can only speculate as to the purpose of the tank. Was it an attempt to assimilate the local customs or was it built out of necessity. The ritual bathing of devotees at the tank here, a long standing tradition, is one of the highlights during the festival honouring the Madonna held in June.  Church of Our Lady of Good Health      The church is located at Ariyankuppam, a tiny village 4 km south of puducherry. The church makes for an interesting cycling expedition off the beaten track. The church founded in 1690 was subsequently rebuilt several times. The interior has rounded arches carrying a vault over the central aisle. A freestanding Crucifix is displayed upon the altar and brightly painted wooden images are set on shelves in the side walls.      Besides these imposing structures there are various smaller churches and shrines in puducherry which have their devout followers, like The Church of Francis Assist, which was built in 1843, the shrine of St. Anthony in the French Quarter, The Saint John Church and the Seventh Day Adventist Church. 

BEACH ROAD

     No visit to puducherry is complete without a walk along beach road. Friday, Saturday and Sunday and holiday evening are busiest. The Police close both end of the road for vehicular traffic. Beach road has little of architectural interest, but oceans of simple charm and officially called Goubert Avenue.        

Children’s Park & Dupleix Statue

   It is a seaside park with a statue of a Dupleix. Marquis Joseph Francois Dupleix was an integral part of puducherry’s colonial past. He was the governor of puducherry between 1742 and 1754. The 2.88 m tall statue of Dupleix stands at the southern end of the park. Even though Dupleix left puducherry in 1754, French recognition of his contribution came only in 1870, with the commissioning of two statues-one in puducherry and the other in France.

       The Mairie

   Located on Goubert Avenue, this charming white building,

facing the sea almost transports you to France. Use your imagination a little and you could very well be on a French sea side resort. Today it houses the offices of the puducherry Municipality.

Le Café

     It was once the port office when the railway ran along Beach Road from the South Boulevard to the old 240 meters iron pier. A cyclone in 1952 largely destroyed the pier whose remains can still be seen poking out of the water.

 

       Gandhi Statue 

   This is a highlight of puducherry. A four-meter statue of Mahatma Gandhi is surrounded by eight magnificent granite pillars, which were supposedly brought from Gingee, a fort some 70 Kms. from puducherry.

French War Memorial

 The French War Memorial on Goubert Avenue is solemn reminder of those brave soldiers who laid down their lives, for their country during the First World War. Every year on the 14th July (Bastille Day) the memorial is beautifully illuminated and homage is paid to those brave martyrs.

       Nehru Statue

     Located across the street from the imposing Gandhi statue, the statue is also flanked by four pillars from Gingee. The space in front plays host to various cultural, musical and commercial activities through the year.

19th Century Light House

     This light house was used for the first time on July 1st 1836 and continued to be used upto the year 1979. This now- abandoned lighthouse stands on the edge of the sea.

       French Consulate 

     French Consulate General is the only diplomatic mission in town. This colonial building has changed over the years, and yet manages to retain some of its original 18th Century charm. The consulate is open to French citizens.

Around Bharathi Park

  The park located in the heart of puducherry, is one of the most beautiful public spots in puducherry, with its lush green surroundings and shady trees providing succour from the harsh puducherry sun to many a weary soul. At any time of the day you will always find a smattering of people including locals. Besides the beautiful Aayi Mandapam in the centre of the park, there are a number of smaller surprises that greet you as you walk around in the park, like the exquisitely carved granite pillars and stone carvings of various gods and yallis. The park is also surrounded by interesting heritage buildings like.

       Aayi Mandapam

   This gleaming white monument built during the time of Napoleon III, Emperor of the France. The monument commemorates both the provision of water to the French city during his reign and the good deed of a lady some 300 years before.

Raj Niwas     The Government House (Raj Niwas) is a harmonious blend of French and Indian style of architecture. Once the location of the Hotel de la Compagnie (the French trading company that ruled in puducherry from its first settlement in 1674 until the French government took over in 1769) and later played host to Dupleix. It is now the Lieutenant Governor’s residence. It is not open to the general public except on certain national holidays like Republic Day on 26th January, when it is adorned with lights and looks rater impressive. One can however get a glimpse of the grandeur within, through the tall imposing gates, which are guarded by red ‘kepi’ adorning police guards.

       Romain Rolland Library     The Romain Rolland library was established in 1872 and has a rich collection of more than 3,00,000 volumes in both French and English. It also boasts of a mobile library service which has a collection of more than 8000 books. These books are taken to nearby villages by bus, in order to make the books more accessible to the common man. The library also houses some rare editions of books. The reference section on the second floor is open to the general public.

UCO Bank     The UCO Bank, which dates from 1916 when it was La Banque de l’ Indochine, preserves for those who wish to change money there a gentle reminder of the complexity of the British ledger system, dead in London but alive and well in Pondy.

Legislative Assembly     It was established in 1962 in what was formerly a private house.

Cercle de puducherry     It is a private club, established for senior French notables in 1899. The activities of its 400 members can be glimpsed through its gate and high, open windows.

Ashram Dining Room     Ashram Dining Room has prepared the food for Ashramites and their guests since 1934. It sits on land once occupied by Governor Dumas in 1735. Even after many reconstructions, it reflects its architectural heritage. Have a look when the gate is open at meal times. 

       

 

puducherry Museum     puducherry Museum is open from 1000-1700 hrs on all days but Monday and public holidays. It is located in the former residence of the French Administrator building. The Museum is well worth seeing as a fine example of a grand two-storey residence as well as for most of its exhibits. The museum has a collection of rare bronzes and stone sculptures from the Pallava and Chola dynasties and artifacts excavated from Arikamedu, including remnants of Greek and Roman jars, 200 year old beads made from glass and precious stones and even objects from the Tsung period in China. The museum also has a Geology room, a shell and fossil room and a collection of handicrafts, coins, church relics and French furniture. Also on display is Dupleix’s bed.

The Church of Our Lady of the Angels at Dumas Street  (Notre Dame des Anges)

     Built in 1855, this is the Greek Roman architectural style. Its façade, flanked by two unadorned square towers faces east towards the ocean. The interior is roofed by a barrel vault, with a great dome rising over the crossing. The pastel peach and lime colours give it a very serene appearance. This church is also famous for its rare oil painting of Our Lady of the Assumption, which was a gift from the French emperor, Napoleon III. The church has old pews (seating) made of cane, Indian stained glass that filters sunlit patterns of colour into the interior.

The Statue of Joan of Arc at Dumas Street      Another example of the French influence in puducherry is a marble statue of the heroic French damsel Joan d’Arc, which is located in front of the Church of Our Lady of the Angles. The statue is placed in the middle of a garden.

The French Institute of the Far East at Dumas Street (L’Ecole Francaise d’Extreme Orient)

     This is an internationally renowned research institute. This institute has two impressive and handsome buildings almost diagonal to each other at the corner of Dumas Street and is known for its research in the field of Indology, history and archaeology. Get prior permission to visit.

Hotel de l’Orient at Romain Rolland Street     Built in 1809, was once the Directorate of Education and is now a hotel-restaurant-gift shop into which you might expressing your interest in its retrofitted charm even if you aren’t a guest.

Hotel Lagrenee de Meziere at Romain Rolland Street  (Saint Joseph de Cluny)     Built in 1774 and once a private house, this classic colonial building was donated to the religious order of Saint Joseph de Cluny some 150 years ago. Today it houses a workshop which produces the most beautiful embroidery.

Curio Centre at Romain Rolland Street     A leading shop for antique furniture and curios. The remarkable dimension of the interior rooms, which interconnect directly with each other are notable.

Alliance Francaise at Suffren Street     This very public and busy place houses a cultural and information centre, a school for the teaching of the French language and a library.

Saint Anthony’s Shrine at Suffren Street

     This is the most interesting of several small shrines in Pondy. This is one Christian place of worship where footwear is removed before entering.

Public Works Department at Bussy Street     This classic colonial Government building is notable for entrance gate, compound wall, balcony with ironwork and brackets and high arched windows.

Lycee Francais at Victor Simonel Street     It established in 1826, this institute still imparts education to hundreds of Pondicherrians in French. Special permission is required to visit this colonial place, with its well preserved shady courtyard, columns and balconies. It also has an interesting collection of old photographs of colonial puducherry and collection of very rare coins of the French East Indian Company.

Sri Aurobindo Ashram at Marine Street     The Samadhi is located in the Ashram where Sri Aurobindo and the Mother worked for many years. Visitors are allowed between 08.00 – 12.00 and 14.00 – 16.00 every day.

Sri Aurobindo International Centre of Educaiton at Marine Street     It is notable for its entrance gate with courtyard, arched windows and parapet.

Le Foyer du Soldat at Law De Lauriston Street     This is the legion hall for retired soldiers from puducherry, who waged wars on behalf of France in Europe and the colonies. The building is interesting, with a dash of colour added to it in the form of the ‘tricouleur’ (red, white, and blue flag) fluttering in the wind.

French Institute at Saint-Louis Street     The classical colonial building is a research institute in Indian Civilization, history and society in ecology, in environment and development in South and Southeast Asia. The Centre of Indology focuses on Indian languages as a central part of India’s cultural heritage. They are preserving lot of palm leaf manuscripts. The building is notable for its entrance gate with pediment, arched staircases, arcades, windows.

Ananda Ranga Pillai House     The single most famous house of the Tamil-French style was built in 1735 across the street Ananda Rangapillai by the chief Dubash of Dupleix the Governor of puducherry. Its architecture represents an unusual fusion of French and Indian styles. This once lavishly furnished house offered fascinating glimpses into a bygone era and vanished lifestyle. However, today it has fallen upon hard times and retains very little of its former. Special permission is required to visit the mansion.

STREETSCAPE

     The Vysial Street between Mission Street and M.G.Road has the remaining core of Hindu Tamil houses maintaining the earliest fusion with European style. Some of the houses in this traditional neighbourhood of rich merchants are 250 years old. It has the feature of ‘thinnai’ (a flat-ceiling platform built into the façade and supported by large wooden columns), ‘mutram’ (a central open courtyard surrounded by a colonnaded roofed space) and ‘thalvaram’ (a tiled roof extending from the sloping roof to posts or pillars at the curb, sheltered people from intense rain or shine.

     19th Century pale-green and blue-trimmed houses with thick walls in Franco-Tamil-Muslim style can be seen in L’Ancien Hopital (Milad) Street and Cazy Street.

The puducherry Museum     The puducherry Museum is located on Saint Louis street and is open on all days except Mondays and national holidays between 1000-1700 hrs. The museum is located in the former Law Building. The museum has a collection of rare bronzes and stone

sculptures from the Pallava and Chola dynasties and artifacts excavated from Arikamedu (an ancient port just 7 kms. from city that had trade links with the Roman empires).      The Foyer and Courtyard have various stone statues and a fossilized tree trunk.      On the ground floor, the major attraction is the central space with 3 curious transport mechanisms - a coach, a palanquin (sedan chair) and a pousse-pousse (an earlier version of the rickshaw) which required two attendants, one to steer and one to push.      The bronze gallery displays the images of gods and goddesses together with a wide collection of temple lamps; used across different dynasties down the centuries.      Pre-Christian relics which you will find here, such as remnants of Greek and Roman jars, pieces from the Tsung Periods in China and beads made from glass and precious stones were dug out from the Arikamedu site, just south of puducherry.      The museum also has a Geology room, a shell and fossil room and a collection of handicrafts, coins, church relics and French furniture. Ananda Ranga Pillai Museum      Ananda Ranga Pillai was the celebrated dubash of Dupleix, the governor of puducherry while it flourished under the French glory. Pillai's compilation of diaries serve as a storehouse of information on the 18th century French India.      His mansion, completed sometime in 1738, is one of the oldest surviving buildings on the west side - then known as "natives' quarters".Its architecture represents a curious mix of French and Indian styles.    Bharathi Memorial Museum      Subramanya Bharathi (1882-1921), Bharathiyar to all, was a Tamil poet-patriot who arrived in puducherry in 1908 a fugitive from British India. The Free French air brought the best in Bharathi and some of his finest patriotic and romantic compositions were born here. Bharathi's home also known as Bharathi Musuem, on No. 20, Eswaran Dharamaraja Koil Street, is almost a place of pilgrimage today for the Tamil people.   Bharathidasan Museum 

     The Bharathidasan Museum, on No. 95 Perumal Koil Street, is the formerhouse of the renowned puducherry born poet and playwright - Bharathidasan (1891-1960) (meaning "Disciple of Bharathi"). Bharathidasan's poems compare with Bharathi's in literary achievement and poetic fervour. He also wrote scripts for films on issues such as Dravidian culture and the rights of women.  

  Children’s Museum      A small museum located next to the Botanical Gardens, it has a good collection of snail shells from the puducherry region.  Jawahar Toy Museum      Located next to the old lighthouse on Goubert Avenue, the museum is open on all days except Monday. This rater unusual museum has a collection of over 120 dolls, each one dressed in costumes from different Indian states. Also on display is a little ‘fairyland’ with a tiny Ganesha watching over all the proceedings.

Botanical Gardens

     The Botanical Gardens are located south of the New Bus Stand.The gate leading to the garden is reminiscent of French architecture and it stands out from its immediate surroundings because it is smack in the middle of the old Tamil town. The Botanical Gardens were laid out in 1826 in the ornate French style, with pruned trees, beautiful flower beds and gravel lined paths and fountains. The French introduced many exotic plants from all over the world, many of which thrived. With over 1500 species of plants, this could actually qualify as one of the best botanical gardens in South India.

      The gardens also have a musical fountain which is active over the weekends, with two shows in the evening. Check for timings and the frequency of the shows as they may change depending on the season.  Bharathi Park      The Government Park or Bharati Park is in the green centre of the French Town and its lush trees provide ample relieve from the scorching sun on a hot summer day. With children playing in ponds, on their hill or in the traffic park, grown-ups sitting or lying on granite benches, families on a picnic and occassional sit-ins of striking citizens, the park is the most appreciated public area in town. Strolling under the cool trees is as dynamic as it gets. Unless people rush to the spot when an occassional movie is being shot.      The Aayi Mandapam has become the unmistakable centre from which four lanes divide the Park in four almost equal parts. The area is dotted with ancient sculptures and not so ancient statues. Around it stand a number of stately buildings:      The Raj Nivas - The residence of the Lt. Governor, formerly the Palace of the French Governor of puducherry.      The Museum - situated opposite the Raj Nivas on St Louis Street, houses an interesting collection of excavated artifacts from Roman Times and heritage from the French Period.      Towards the east, hidden behind a thick wall and huge trees lies the former French bandstand on which the French Army Band used to play.

On the southern side are the puducherry Art Gallery, Hotel Qualithe and the Chamber of Commerce, all built with a street front in colonial style. The UCO bank is surrounded by its own garden premises. A mighty stair invites you to the interior of a traditional bank.      Past the General Hospital on the western side are the Legislative Assembly and the Cercle de Pondichéry.      Turning back towards the Raj Nivas on the left is beautiful Villa Aroumé, which houses the Ashram Dining Room.  Keezhoor      There is a huge banyan tree near the village here. The canopy of the 400 year old tree covers a few acres at the very least. Kizhoor a border village is situated at a distance of nearly 28 kms from puducherry. It is a historic place in the sense that it is here only in the year 1954. Voting took place for the merger of puducherry with the Indian Union. As part of the celebrations of 50th Anniversary of De-facto puducherry, a permanent Exhibition of paintings relating to the merger of puducherry was opened at the Kizhoor Monument. 

Top  Chunnambar Backwater 

     Chunnambar is situated 8 kms from puducherry, along the Cuddalore Main Road. This tropical paradise is flanked by a quiet-flowing creek on one side. You can sail downstream to the sands and pitch up a cozy seaside tent for yourself. Overnighting within the tree-houses on the backwater banks provides a relishing experience of the great outdoors.

     The beach at Chunnambar also known as Plage Paradiso, is located near the mouth of the backwater. The sand is pristine and the water, clean. It's and ideal place for sun bathing and beach sports.

     A short, pleasant cruise into the sea from here could reward you with the memorable sight of playful dolphins in natural habitat, horsing around.

     Chunnambar Beach and Backwater Resort, a PTTDC enterprise, has boating, backwater boat tours, trekking and picnics on Paradise Beach for friends and families.

The resort offers various kinds of rental boats (speed, motor, sail, rowed paddled and peddalled) in addition to beach volleyball and other beach sports.

     Seagulls the multicuisine restaurant cum bar is a stone's throw from the backwater. It specialises in Chinese and Tandoori food. The restaurant too has a view of the backwaters. It is an ideal setting for a theme party or an offbeat get-together. It also serves food in the huts just outside the restaurant. You can also order a picnic lunch to the beach and you shall be served there in style. 

     Here accommodation is available on the three tree top houses that offer you the bliss of ecotourism. You can either read a novel, paint, listen to music, meditate or even stay overnight, all on the top of a tree!      'Sunrise Panorama' (a two storey tree top house) gives you an unrestricted view of the backwater up to its mouth. 'Palm house' on the other hand overlooks the artificial pond and the park. 'Nest bird' is the perfect abode for the adventure loving folks, it has a rope ladder that leads to a small balcony. All in a tree house!

  For more information contact PTDC: Tourism Information Centre 40 Goubert Avenue,  puducherry 605001, India.  Telephone:             0413 - 2339497      ,  Fax: 0413 - 2330532 Or Chunnambar Backwater Resort,  Cuddalore Road, Chunnambar, puducherry. Tel:             0413 - 2356816      Arikamedu, the ancient Roman trade centre is 4 Kms. south of puducherry on the right bank of Ariyankuppam river. It has a long history that dates back to the second century B.C. The port town was inhabited by Romans, Cholas and French who left their mark on this wonderful place. The Roman treasure trail and Arikamedu river cruise take you down the History lane. An unforgettable experience that you wouldn't want to miss.

ARIKAMEDU 200 B.C -200 A.D.

     Arikamedu a fishing colony was used as a port for trade with the Romans and Greco-Romans. An ancient Chola coin dating back to 1 B.C. suggests involvement of Cholas in various port related activities. Some names on seals that were found here have been mentioned in the Sangam literature as well. Besides maritime commerce there seems to be evidence of inland trade with other 'megalithic' sites like Kaveripattinam, Alagankulam, Musiri and Suttukeni along river valley routes. Jouveau-Dubreail identified Arikamedu as Poduke in the Periplus Maris Erythraei. Later the site was divided into two sectors northern and southern as they were perceived to have been inhabited by different ethnic groups. It is also known as 'Yavanas' in Tamil literature. 

THE ANCIENT TRADE     Wine seems to have been a major import as traces of Amphora jars suggest.'Yavanas' and wine have been mentioned in the same breath in Tamil literature- "having increased the joy by giving to the girls of shining bangles, who every day have taken in hands, vessels beautified by gold, to drink the cool, fragrant wine brought by the Yavanas in beautiful bowls". Besides wine Garum sauce and Olive oil were also imported.

 

     The exports must have included textile, beads, semiprecious gems, glass and shell bangles as wastage at the manufacturing site suggest. Even today if one looks carefully, after about of heavy rains, one can find beads on the bank of the river.

 

     The Romans must have used the Red Sea to come to India as traces of beads have been found in Alexandria and other Red Sea ports.

 

ARIKAMEDU IN MEDIEVAL TIMES

     Formerly it was considered that Arikamedu was abandoned after 200 A.D. but fragments of Amphoras and a copper coin of Constantine I minted between 306-324 A.D. suggest that Arikamedu was occupied from 300 A.D. to 700 A.D. There is also considerable evidence to suggest that the site was occupied during medieval Chola times . Finds of Chola coins, Chinese Celadon pottery and other East Asian glazed ceramics suggest occupation of the site and some involvement in the Medieval East-West maritime trade as well. Some pottery found here are very similar to the eleventh century pottery of Gangaikondacholapuram Decorated spouts of water jars and clay lamps of the medieval period are also present.

     Two perpendicular walls were accidently laid open and it was suggested that the bricks of this wall and that found in Gangaikondacholapuram are similar, though one cannot be sure. Therefore it is not possible to place the walls in any specific time period yet. 

ARIKAMEDU IN MODERN TIMES     Between 1771-73 Monsieur Pigneau de Behaine, designated Bishop of Adran, built a seminary and residence on the eastern part of the mount for the Jesuit missionaries driven out of Siam . It was abandoned in 1783. The remaining walls of the seminary clearly indicate the use of mixed style of bricks, some of them, probably pilfered from ancient structures. The mission house has been the point of reference for all excavators viz. Wheeler, Casal and Vimala Begely and co. There doesn't seem to be evidence of any other structure belonging to this French period. There are a few fragments of decorative ceramic tiles and reliefs, pieces of pottery and glass in the puducherry Museum.

ARIKAMEDU TODAY

     Except for the perpendicular walls and mission house there is not much that can be seen on the surface as the excavated trenches have been filled up. Coconut and Mango trees are there in abundance. Its almost like they are intent upon reminding one to step out of the time machine into the realm of reality. The plantations take your breath away. The mangoes hanging from the lower branches feel like the forbidden fruit and the orchard itself truns into the garden of Eden.

     To experience the aura of Arikamedu you'll have to do more than read this brochure. You have ot go there. Let History seep into your bones. 

 

  

       

Keezhoor

   There is a huge banyan tree near the village here. The canopy of the 400 year old tree covers a few acres at the very least. This is one of the oldest banyan tree in the whole of South India. Kezhoor is just off the road to Villianur.

Marakanam

     As per Roman records, this coastal town had been a major port in the 1st Century AD. Kelveli tank near here is an important winter refuge for thousands of migratory birds.

 

 Mandagapattu

   Mandagapattu is home to a 7th Century Cave Temple, which is most probably one of the earliest Pallava shrines discovered in the area. Mandagapattu is located 60 Kms. north-west of puducherry. 2 Kms east of the road leading to Gingee. This 7th Century Cave Temple is comparable to those at Mamallapuram and Trichy.

Gingee

     For those for an ‘off the beaten track’ experience, Gingee is the ideal place. Located around 68 Kms. from puducherry. Gingee is home to a huge fort complex (stands tall on the 800 ft hill), spread over three hills with the ruins of a place, a temple, a mosque, a granary, an auditorium, stables and even a harem among other structures. Start off early in the morning as the heat will become unbearable once the sun is up. Take stocks of food and enough drinking water.

       Singavaram

   Singavaram is about 4 km from Gingee. The temple of Lord Ranganatha, is on top of the hill. This 7th Century Cave Temple is a good specimen of South Indian type of rock-cut-shrine. The idol of Lord Ranganatha in a reclining posture, measures 24 ft in length, it is said to be bigger than the idol in Srirangam

Thalavanur

    Located about 16 km from Gingee. Thalavanur is home to the Shatru Malleswaralayam rock cut temple. This temple was built by the Pallava King. This is a fine example of temple architecture built without the use of conventional materials.

  

       Thiruvannamalai

   102 Kms. from puducherry, Thiruvannamalai is celebrated for the Arunachala Temple. One of the largest temples in South India, built between the 16th and 17th centuries by the

Vijayanagara kings. The main deity here is Siva. The tallest of the gopuram here is over 66 m in height. The 1000 pillared hall and the gopuram have some excellent carvings. Ramana Maharshi Ashram is one of the South India’s most sought after spiritual centers and it is the home of samathi of Sri Ramana Maharishi.

Panamalai

     Located around 75 km west of puducherry on the road from Villupuram to Vettavalam, this village is home to the Talagrishvara Temple. This 8th century shrine belonging to the Pallava period was built entirely out of red granite.

  

      

Vedanthangal     Vedanthangal is 105 km from puducherry just off the NH to Chennai. Vedanthangal is a bird sanctuary. The sanctuary attracts numerous water fowls and provides their main nesting site. The best season to visit is from November to February. The sanctuary is open from 0600 – 1800 hrs.

Chidambaram          Just 58 kms from puducherry. This is one of the most important temple towns in Tamil Nadu. The Nataraja Temple is famous for its sculptures and massive structure. The Annamalai University here specializes in Tamil Studies and Carnatic music.

 

       Pichavaram          Pichavaram is located 15 km east of Chidambaram. Pichavaram on the mouth of the three rivers is a cluster of over 50 tiny islands amidst hundred of canals in the mangrove forest. Row boats are available on hire. Take a guide along as it easy to get lost in the maze of tunnel like cannals.

Gangaikondacholapuram          This historically significant town is 88 km from puducherry. This town is home for magnificent ‘Brihadeeshwara temple’ (like the temple in Tanjavur).

 

       Poompuhar        This small village on the mouth of the river Kaveri was one of the major port of the Cholas. Poompuhar has a decent beach.

Tharangambadi      Tharangambadi is a coastal town 24 km south of Chidambaram. Interestingly this sleepy little town was an important Danish settlement. The remarkably intact Danesh Fort, which overlooks the sea was built in 1620.

 

       Karaikal          In and around Karaikal there are many tourist important places, and holy Shiva and Vaishnava temples are situated which are all recorded in the holy books of Nayanmars and Alwars.Many places of interest are in the Karaikal region in the view of tourist and pilgrim.    See More  

Nagapattinam          Located around 170 km from puducherry this fishing town was a former Chola Port and a major centre for Buddhism and it served as emporium for textiles and spices. 

 

      Nagore          176 Km from puducherry, this coastal town is world famous for the tomb of the Muslim Saint Hazrat Miya.

Velankanni          184 km from puducherry, Velankanni, is a very popular Roman Catholic pilgrimage centre and is home to the imposing Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health.

 

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Excursions from Puducherry

Puducherry, which was till recently kwon as Pondicherry, is a famous tourist destination located on the west coast of southern India. It was a French colony till 1962, and still reflects French influence in almost all aspects of the city. The French have left many legacies and relics behind. These have become some of the major tourist attractions of the

place. In addition, the memories of Sri Aurobindo, a greatly admired freedom fighter and a spiritual leader linger in the city, which makes it a favored destination among his admirers. Besides the tourist attractions within the town, there are many interesting places that can be experienced by organizing excursions from Puducherry. 

The Excursions from Puducherry will take you to some wonderful tourist spots. The following are the major tourist destinations near Puducherry covered by these excursions. 

Chidambaram: Located about 58 kilometers from the town of Puducherry, Chidambaram is a famous temple town greatly revered by the local folk and pilgrims. The chief deity and attraction of Chidambaram is Nataraja, the dancing form of Lord Shiva. The temple complex is dedicated to the art of dancing, as the details of natya shastra, an ancient text on dancing in India, are engraved on one of the gates. Magnificent sculptures depicting the different poses of Bharatnatyam, a form of classical Indian dance adorn the interiors of this temple. The ancient temple is undoubtedly one of the most popular tourist spots that can be visited by embarking on excursions from Puducherry. During Shivaratri, a famous occasion in India marked by offering prayers to lord Shiva, this temple becomes the venue of a renowned dance festival. Poompuhar:This is a beautiful spot located about 40 kilometers from Chidambaram. This used to be one of the largest ports in ancient times. Poompuhar is also known as the place where two famous works of ancient Tamil literature, namely, Silapathikaram and Manimekalai were composed. A splendid art gallery located here strives to present the ancient ambience of the region by resorting to 2nd century décor. For those with an interest in history and literature of South India, Poompuhar is an attractive destination that can be visited during tours of Puducherry. 

Thiruvannamalai: This is yet another temple town that can be visited as part of excursions from Puducherry. It is situated about 107 kilometers from Puducherry and is famous for the Arunachaleshwara Temple, which holds special importance as one of the most prominent Shaivite temples in South India. The ashrama of Sri Ramanna Maharshi, a famous and respected saint, is also among the places to visit here. 

Auroville:Auroville is also called the city of dawn. This city is still being built. Work on it started in 1968 under the guidance of

Sri Ma, the companion of Sri Aurobindo, the great spiritual leader and freedom fighter. The city is a unique venture. It strives to be a model city where people from all communities from around the world will forget their differences and live in harmony as part of the same community. At present the city spreads over 50 square kilometers and is inhabited by about 1700 people, though the capacity is of 50000 people. A circular cover of green surrounds Auroville. The center of the township is marked by the Matri Mandir (temple of the Mother). It serves as the spiritual center of the town. The chief feature of the structure is a 30 meter high globe. The town of Auroville is divided into industrial, residential, cultural, and international zones. Two areas are marked as Green area and Peace area. Auroville is one of the highlights of tourism in Puducherry.

There are some other interesting tourist destinations which are located close to Puducherry. Arikamedu is a famous spot where ancient sites have been excavated and many interesting artifacts have been found. The Chunnambar beach is also a favored destination among tourists and offers excellent recreational opportunities. 

Touristplacesinindia.com provides online information about the excursions from Puducherry, and information about the other tourist places in India.