Pondicherry is the capital city and the largest city of the Indian union territory of Puducherry. The city of Pondicherry is situated in Puducherry district of the union territory. It is affectionately known as Pondy, and has been officially known by the alternative name Puducherry in Tamil (New Town) since 2006
The history of the city of Pondicherry is recorded only after the arrival of Dutch, Portuguese, British and French colonialists. By contrast, nearby places such as Arikamedu, Ariyankuppam, Kakayanthoppe, Villianur and Bahur, The Cholas of Thanjavur held it from the 10th to 13th centuries, only to be replaced by the Pandya Kingdom in the 13th century.
The Vijayanagar Empire took control of almost all of the South of India in the 14th century and maintained control until 1638.. Five trading posts were established along the south Indian coast between 1668 and 1674. The town was separated by a canal into the French Quarter and the Indian Quarter.The French control remained until 1954 (de jure 1962), when it was incorporated into the Indian Union along with the rest of French India.
Pondicherry Beach is a paradise for all beach lovers and tourists. It is flanked by a flowing creek on one side and is also known for its tree houses, which are located on the backwaters. The beach is a budget one in South India as it is cheaper to access and accommodation in pondicherry is lesser when compared to other beaches and their resorts or hotels in the country.
This Pondicherry Botanical Garden is no different. Providing respite from the heat and hustle-bustle on main roads, this garden serves as one of the delightful places to visit in Pondicherry.it is a reminder of French architecture, providing an insight into how architecture in France developed and how colonization has had an impact on the development of Pondicherry. Built in 1826, the garden was initially laid out in ornate style and the botanical beauty houses around 1500 varieties of plants.
The Fort is declared as a National Monument in 1921. Apart from being a unique architectural feat it is one of the few forts in the State.
Auroville is the best place for those who seek to learn more about India and its spirituality. It was created to bring progressive harmony aims to transcend creed, culture, politics and nationalities. Visiting here is truly a unique experience.
This Hindu temple, located in Pondicherry is dedicated to Lord Ganesha. It is widely considered a popular pilgrimage site. The temple and its antiquity reminds one of how Indian culture and heritage didn’t wither away even after years of colonization. During Dupleix’s tenure, several attempts were made to destroy the temple, but Hindu populations always managed to protect it through protests and threat of Maratha invasion.
French War Memorial is a popular place of interest. Built on the Goubert Avenue or The Promenade, it serves as a reminder of those valiant soldiers who lost their lives during the World War-I from 1916 to 1919. The memorial, built in 1971, is reminiscent of the fact that war leaves fatalities behind and doesn’t answer any questions or offer any solutions. On the Bastille Day, i.e. 14th July every year, the memorial is illuminated in a beautiful manner, ensuring that locals and travellers can pay homage to courageous martyrs who laid down their lives.