There’s always a place which beckons you again and again, with a certain charm which refuses to wear off even as the place ages with you. Some places never really leave an impression on you, while some stamp you for life. Guess, each one of us has a happy place that comforts us when we are down in the dumps, offers refuge to our broken hearts, rejuvenates us after a particularly unforgiving work week or just puts the zing back in our life.                                                 

The breezy Pondicherry or Puducherry, located on India’s Coromandel Coast, for me is that place. It has the easy going and unobtrusive feel of a multicultural retreat with the Aurobindo ashram, the community of Auroville (to the north), French colonial architecture, and a particularly benevolent, relaxing atmosphere.

It effortlessly juxtaposes a delightful mix of French history and architecture with the local flavour and milieu. Popularly known as the “The French Riviera of the East”, Puducherry is a perfect weekend getaway, nurturing and unhurried.

 A two-and-a-half hour drive down the scenic East Coast Road (ECR), brings us to Puducherry. And what a blessing it is! Lovely colonial hotels replete with old world charm, quaint lanes to get lost in, a brisk market place and the seaside promenade are picture postcard moments. But make sure to also savour the ocean breeze to invigorate  tired senses and pencil in a brisk walk along the beach. Just what the doctor ordered! Tuck into a sumptuous breakfast of local delicacies or go the French way with a continental spread. The choices are unlimited – street stalls, the ashram, local bakeries or the numerous hotels that dot Puducherry.

 Puducherry lives up to its tourism tagline “Give time a break!” The nooks and corners and bylanes undulate and hug quaint shops and boutiques which sell attractive knick knacks, interesting clothes, incense, candles, lamps, leather goods and jewellery. One of the biggest attractions is the Sunday flea market which lets you test your bargaining skills! Walk around the White Town, which houses the French style colonial buildings and courtyards, and the Black Town which is the present day marketplace cum residential area.

 Meander along the lanes and visit the Aurobindo Ashram, which is a big draw for people from all over. It is a restful place with the samadhis of Sri  Aurobindo and the Mother under the canopy of a tree. Tastefully decorated with flowers, the samadhis exude peace and subtly awaken your spirit.

 Auroville, a 30-minute ride from Puducherry, was set up by the Mother in 1968 as a community for world citizens living in harmony with nature. Plan a half-day trip to view the densely wooded commune, the Matrimandir and the solar kitchen. Tuck into a scrumptious lunch and follow it up with some eclectic shopping in the tastefully done up boutiques.

  Afternoons spell relaxation and a cool siesta, away from all the heat and din. Follow up the siesta with an invigorating massage.  Puducherry does offer other sight-seeing options, such as temples, various French Heritage sites, innumerable art galleries, the Botanical Garden and ofcourse, the beaches.

 Evenings can be enjoyed with some classy wine-and-dine options. A long, cool drink,  delectable food, and the matchless magic of the ocean can create memories to last a lifetime. As one bids a reluctant goodbye, Puducherry lures us into stopping by her shores again – to relive old memories and create new ones.