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Just a stone's throw away - Pondicherry |
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If you feel like a long drive, for a respite
from hectic life then head for Pondicherry Just a stone's throw
away from Chennai.
With only lengthy roads to contend with and practically no speed
breakers, (except for the occasional cattle, which hasn't decided
to cross the road), the drive on the ECR road is truly a pleasurable
experience. It gives you the feel of driving on the race track,
where the grip and stability of the car can be tested to its fullest.
You can get into the overdrive almost throughout the journey.
The night drive is a treat to the eyes, with reflectors aglow aligned
in the middle of the road
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and on either side
of it, seeming to lead the way. Enjoy the scenic beauty during
the day, of the unending
stretch of sea while you drive. |
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There are plenty of sight- seeing spots to visit, once you get there.
The various inns and hotels provide a variety of Indian and European
fare. The climate is generally mild but sometimes it can get very
hot during the day.
So, leave everything behind, pack a haversack and just get going.
Since fuel is cheaper there, it would be prudent to fill up your
tank on your way back.
Well, the drive definitely serves its purpose. You will feel truly
refreshed and rejuvenated, before you are back to the grind.
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About Pondicherry
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This union territory was once a French colony and the influence
is distinctly visible. Years of French rule has definitely left
its impact. Some of the streets still retain their French names
and the language is still widely spoken. The major attractions are
the Auroville and Aurobindo Ashram where people flock from all over
the world to experience the synthesis of yoga and modern science.
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Places
to see |
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Visit Auroville, an ideal
township devoted to an experiment in human unity. |
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A Visit to Sri Aurobindo
Ashram is a must. Founded by Sri Aurobindo, the Ashram has
brought international reputation to this town. |
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The peace quiet and the
orderliness of the place have a calming effect. |
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Close to the Ashram is located
Auroshika, for its high-quality, non-toxic, incense sticks,
scented candles and hand made |
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paper products. |
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If you are keen to watch
traditional clay potters at work, make a trip to New Nagar
where the craftsmen create Wonders. |
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The Manakular Vinayaka Temple
at the heart of the city and very close to the Ashram, is
very famous. |
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Botanical Gardens off West
Boulevard have some exotic and rare varieties of plants.
There is also an aquarium here with |
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some species of fish. |
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The Museum has on display
some fine antiques and objects of art. |
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Enjoy a cruise on the Chunnambar
Backwater. You might catch a glimpse
of a dolphin if you are lucky. |
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Watch the ocean waves
lashing on the shores at Gandhi Salai. A statue of
Mahatma Gandhi, 13 ft height stands on the |
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beachfront. |
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Fact File |
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Location |
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Location
on the Coromandel Coast facing the Bay of Bengal, south
of Mammallapuram |
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Distances |
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The
well connected road network makes it easily reachable. The
National Highway No. 45 traverses the whole of
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Pondicherry. |
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142 km South of Chennai; and 58 kms from Mammallapuram. |
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Distance
from Bangalore is 320 km |
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DYK : The
Union Territory has a coastline of 45 kms. |
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