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Pondicherry

A beautiful place just three-hour drive from Chennai – Pondicherry is known for its numerous majestic charms. The city has a rich melange of Indian and French colonial heritage. Visit here and get bombarded with some unseen cultures, rich heritage and serenity good enough to relax your mind and body.

One can find numerous places to visit in Pondicherry. Start your holiday by visiting the famous Botanical Garden luring visitors with its six stunning fountains and a giant   aquarium with ornamental fish. It also houses a cute children train that takes kids on a short ride. Exploring over 1500 species of plants planted here bestows seamless pleasure. The Promenade is another natural heaven to enjoy serene walks amidst nature. Here one can find small cafes and restaurants as well where you can relax with a beer in hand.

If you are one of those who love cherishing the sites of setting sun, then visit the Ousteri Lake. Sprawling over an area of 390 hectares, this lake has been declared as one of Asia's most important wetlands by the International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources. Those seeking some relaxation therapy along the beaches must visit Paradise Beach and Serenity Beach. Both these beaches are ideal havens to unwind and spend a day under the sun.

Wildlife devotees visiting Pondicherry never miss a chance to explore the Ousteri Wildlife Sanctuary housing over 160 species of birds apart from 60 species of butterflies and 25 species of fish. The sanctuary takes you close to the world of wild and lets you enjoy some moments of serenity. Pondicherry also has the seasonal Bahour Lake, a freshwater wetland. Here one can spot some beautiful birds chirping around happily.

Religion enthusiasts can visit the ancient Manakkula Vinayakar Temple, a holy place with forty incarnations of Ganesha carved on the stone walls. Thirunallur Temple is also a popular temple devoted to Lord Saneeswaran (Saturn). The temple hosts the very popular ten day long festival of Brahmostavam.