Mustard-yellow mansions, bougainvillaea facades, ashrams that instil calm, museums that transport you to a different time, sandy feet and sun-kissed skin. If Pondicherry could be summed up in a phrase cloud, these would be in there, big and bright.
Sometimes, mere phrases are not enough to describe a place. I’ve heard some say that Pondicherry is hyped, and there isn’t much to do there except walk around the rues in the French Colony, and drink. That could not be further from the truth. I figured – let me not do the talking (or writing) this time to prove the naysayers wrong. So, here are photographs from across this charming coastal territory, converted into downloadable and printable postcards – for you to keep, and share with your family and friends.
Read: A guide to the best places to eat in Pondicherry
Postcards from Pondicherry
A lazy afternoon was spent at the lovely Coromandel Cafe – just me, my appetite, and the lovely interiors. I was both charmed and captivated by the muted yellows and greens of the Cafe – a palette that is soothing to eyes that have been out in the blazing sun for a bit too long.
The doors of almost every home in Pondicherry grabbed my attention. Not because they were beautifully handcrafted or gilded. They were plain, nondescript even. Yet, they bore wizened appearances of those who guard the secrets of persons who are but separated from us by just six degrees. What lies behind these doors? The answer will only be given to those who seek it.
A coastal territory is definitely home to many beaches, of which my favourite remains Kalapet Beach. A little away from the French Colony and other popular areas, this beach offers both stillness and serenity to those who seek them.
No trip to Pondicherry is complete without time spent at the renowned White Town. Remnants of French influence lie beyond the rues, jardins, and cafes; they can also be found in the mustard courtyard walls, statement doors, paved footpaths and heavily flowering bougainvillaea branches.
A traveller’s delight, Pondicherry has been and remains everyone’s preferred little South Indian getaway – whether they seek spiritual calm from its neighbour Auroville, cheap beers and French-themed cafes, scenic walks around the beaches or boulevard views – this gem in South India’s coastline is one that we’d be foolish to not experience at least once. I hope these postcards give you a peek into what Pondicherry offers, and to those who have previously visited, I hope they serve as pleasant reminders of your time there.
