Pondicherry: A perfect blend of French and Tamil Cultures

I had the privilege of visiting Pondicherry last December. During my stay here, one thing that instantly caught my attention was how beautifully two strong yet completely unique cultures have come together under the sky.

White Town known for its charming French colonial architecture, holds some mesmerizing French villas, picturesque streets and cafes. With beautifully painted pastel buildings, massively spread tree trails, occasionally peeping sun rays, and clean streets, Pondicherry easily satisfies a travelers soul. In our 3 days stay here, my heart was set on those beautifully bloomed bougainvilleas who were vibing at a different vibe all together. While in the french quarter never forget to satisfy your taste buds in a range of quirky cafes. Housing the best French Cafes in India, Pondicherry is a foodie's paradise if you are someone who loves to try out new gourmet cuisines from around the world. For the spiritual and religious seekers the Aurobindo Ashram and the Manakula temple serves their best.

Heritage town popularly known as the Tamil quarter houses grand mansions and brightly painted traditional houses. Lively multicultural colony with old tamil buildings, honking autorickshaws, buzzing streets and local markets gives an essence of a tradional Tamil livelihood. If you are a fan of South Indian delicacy this is the place for you. Aromas of steaming idlis and filter coffee hits you instantly. Street vendors selling flowers, fruits and aromatics can be spotted everywhere. These streets are much more crowded unlike the french colony displaying a sense of day to day hustle.

Exploring new people, places, cultures and cuisines teaches you so much in abundance. I had two main take aways from this travel experience. Firstly, cleanliness. From what I have heard, a group of women sanitary workers clean the whole white town every night making it ready for the tourists next day. In a country which is considered unsafe for women, night life have a different meaning for them. Secondly, bicycles as a means of transportation. In an era of affortable 2 wheelers/4 wheelers, you can spot so many women and elderly people strolling around happily on their bicycles. I was stunned to see people in their 70's riding cycles flawlessly.

If you are looking for a short weekend getaway or even a laid back holiday this union territory is definitely an option to consider. With clean beaches, lip-smacking cafes, water activities, temples and picturesque villas this place has it all. Do not forget Pondy to add to(and tick off) your travel bucket list soon.