This city has undergone a huge renovation to become a tourist magnet

Puducherry (Puducherry)formerly Pondicherry, is not a typical Indian city. The city, which was ruled by French colonialists, stretches along the coast of southern India and boasts a unique Franco-French architecture that characterizes few other places in the country. This fact, together with its renewed seafront, makes the city one of the hidden treasures of South Asia.Orophilio Shabina, a resident of Puducherry who studied at the University of Newcastle in the UK, set out in 2009 on an operation to restore the beach of his hometown. The beach that once attracted tourists disappeared after the construction of a large port, but Shabina worked with the local government to restore the beach to residents and tourists. In the project, which cost NIS 28 million, 450,000 m3 of sand were brought to the beach on which the vacationers could sunbathe.

However, additional methods were used to restore the beach’s vitality. M.V. Ramana Murthy, director of the National Center for Coastal Research, which designed and implemented the ambitious project, told National Geographic: “We came up with two solutions to restore the original coastline. One solution was feeding sand from the harbor and the other is an artificial reef, of which so far 40 percent have been completed”.

Now, thanks to the restoration, next to the magnificent French Quarter that the city boasts, Puducherry has been listed as the second most recommended place to visit in 2025 according to the famous travel magazine Lonely Planet. Puducherry came second after the French city of Toulouse.

From French architecture to spiritual temples

The historical significance of Puducherry began in the 17th century when it became a French colonial settlement. The French influence is evident in its architecture, cuisine and lifestyle. Walking through the streets of the French Quarter, visitors are greeted by colonial-era buildings adorned with mustard-yellow facades, wrought-iron balconies and vibrant blue shutters. This area is perfect for walking tours, where you can stop at picturesque cafes and boutiques that infuse the atmosphere of a Mediterranean town.

The fusion of cultures is not only visual, it also resonates through the local cuisine. Puducherry’s culinary scene is a delightful fusion of French and Indian flavors. Traditional dishes such as “ratatoi” sit alongside local favorites such as “dosa” and “birani”. Visitors can feast on delectable pastries and fresh baguettes, alongside spicy seafood curries that reflect the area’s coastal heritage.

Puducherry is also known for its spiritual significance, especially in relation toOroville (Auroville), an experimental town founded in 1968. Auroville was established as a universal town where people of all nationalities were invited to live in harmony, transcending the boundaries of race, religion and culture. At the heart of Orville is the Matrimandir, a golden sphere that serves as a meditation center and spiritual symbol surrounded by peaceful gardens and invites visitors to stop, reflect and connect with their inner selves.

In addition to Ervil, Puducherry is home to several beautiful temples and churches. Manakula Vinayagar Temple, dedicated to Lord Ganesha, is a spectacular site with intricate carvings and a bustling atmosphere. In contrast, the Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, with its stunning Gothic architecture, offers a peaceful space for contemplation. These spiritual sites are steeped in local history and provide a glimpse into the religious diversity of the region.

A celebration of colors, sounds and tastes

Beyond its cultural and spiritual abundance, Puducherry is blessed with amazing natural landscapes. The coastline boasts picturesque beaches such as the Promenade Beach and Auro Beach, where visitors can relax under the sun or participate in water sports. Risers can enjoy a refreshing sunrise over the Bay of Bengal, while in the evenings these areas come alive with local musicians and artisans performing along the seafront.

For the more adventurous, Puducherry offers opportunities for kayaking and surfing, especially in the calm waters near Orville. The area’s lush vegetation and peaceful countryside are perfect for cycling and lake walks, including nearby Lake Ousteri, a haven for migratory birds.

The local lifestyle is equally captivating. The bustling markets, especially the Goubert market, are a feast for the senses, offering a multitude of colors, aromas and sounds. Here you can find fresh produce, spices and handmade art, providing a taste of the daily life of the local community. Festivals in Puducherry also reflect its diverse cultures, such as the annual Pongal festival, which features traditional music, dance and culinary delights, while Bastille Day (French Independence Day) celebrations honor the city’s French heritage with parades and fireworks.