Pondicherry

Pondicherry is an ideal getaway if one wants to getaway from the maddening crowds and rush of the city. Pondicherry is also famous for the Aurobindo Ashram, an international institution that teaches the practice of yoga. This city has always been one of the calm and quiet in comparison to other Indian cities. Pondicherry still offers exquisite hand made papers and pottery also one can enjoy the French flavor that has captivated this town for a long while know. The earliest description of the city of Pondicherry can be traced back to 2nd century B.C.

Sri Aurobindo Ashram: Every place has its own distinguishing landmark which draws hordes of visitors for that place. Paris and Eiffel Tower, London and Big Ben, think Pondy and the first thing that strikes ur mind is the Aurobindo Ashram. Founded in 1926 by one of India's famous sons, Sri Aurobindo and the Mother. Its a unique spiritual concept revolving around offering work as a Divine offering. There are no rituals, no compulsory meditation, no practices. But it revolves around only one principle: One must surrender to the Divine principle and an opening to the Divine force.

Pondicherry Museum: Here you can find everything from from Pallava sculptures to a bed slept in by Dupleix, the colony's most famous governor.

Sacred Heart Church: There are several large churches and cathedrals around the town, including the striking brown and white sacred Heart Church on South Boulevard. Nearby are the peaceful, extensive Botanical Gardens, opened in 1740.

Bharathi and Bharathidasan Memorial Museums: The houses of two great Tamil poets have been converted into the museums

Auroville: While the Aurobindo Ashram is one of the reasons to see Pondicherry, there is another place that is a must see, Auroville the City of Dawn. Its a unique township never seen of its kind in India. It was an experiment for celebrating unity in diversity. It was founded on Feb 28,1968 when youth from 128 nations and Indian states met together and placed the earth from their native places in an urn, symbolic of international understanding.

Chidamabaram: Spread across 58 kms, Nataraja, the Lord of Dance, is believed to have performed his Cosmic Dance here. On the gateway of Chidamabaram, are carved 108 poses of the Classical dance form, Bharata Natyam.