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Pondicherry
Often referred to as the French Riviera of the East, Pondicherry is an ideal setting for l'amour with its beautiful beaches and the Chunnamar backwaters.
You can start by exploring the French Quarter or Ville Blanche. The French connection is quite apparent in many street names and colonial style villas. Walk along the promenade, have a coffee by a seaside cafe and a meal at Rendezvous.
• Airfare for Rs 599 and less!
A visit to Pondicherry's Auroville and Aurobindo Ashram cannot be missed. The other draw is the handmade paper factory. Check the timings before you set out though.
Auroville is located a few kilometres away from town and has been described as a new age metropolis conceived as an alternative exercise in ecological and spiritual living. It was founded by Mirra Alfassa, known as The Mother, a disciple of Sri Aurobindo.
Shopping, of course, has to be on your must-do list when in Pondicherry. Look out for locally produced stuff like incense sticks, handmade paper and fancy candles. There are quite a few boutiques in the nooks and corners that you can explore.
How to get there
The closest airport is at Chennai, 150 km away.
The closest railhead is Villupuram (36 kms).
Where to stay
Plenty of lodging options are available like Hotel De L'Orient, Le Dupleix and Anandha Inn.
The ashram guest houses are decent but basic and have rather strict rules. For details, check out Pondicherry Hotels and Puducherry Tourism.
Text and photographs: Anita Bora
Also read: Devbagh: An idyllic island getaway
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