Puducherry with Cherry (Blossom) on the Top!
Puducherry, with a surprising ease in its breeze and welcoming vibe, has a way of making you feel right at home. From the moment you step foot in this coastal town, you are embraced by its warm atmosphere, as if it has been waiting to welcome you back. With its unique blend of French colonial architecture, serene beaches, and spiritual retreats, Puducherry has long captured the hearts of travelers seeking a peaceful getaway. Join me on a captivating journey from Bangalore as we embark on a two-day exploration of this coastal town...
Day 0: Adventure in Bangalore
Before setting off to Puducherry with the family, the adventure kickstarted in Bangalore. As we set off in the morning, we were greeted by the sight of cherry blossoms lining our way, painting the surroundings in delicate shades of pink. This gift of nature filled my heart with joy and anticipation for the journey ahead. Moreover, the mesmerizing views of sunrise, and old music, set the stage for a beautiful experience.
The way led us to Skandagiri, a trek to scenic beauty and stunning views from its peak. The trail to Skandagiri begins at Papagni Mutt, just 3 kilometers away from Chikballapur, a town in Karnataka. The initial part of the trek is a flat walk through a well-defined path to the Forest Checkpost, followed by a gradual climb, which becomes steep, with dirt trails and rocky terrain in the final section. However, the natural beauty of the surroundings, with thick vegetation and a unique mix of rocks, boulders, and mud, keeps you going throughout the journey.
After the trek, we visited the Veerabhadra Temple, located in Lepakshi, known for its intricate carvings and architectural grandeur. It is a magnificent Hindu temple dedicated to Virabhadra, an incarnation of Lord Shiva known for his fierce form.
Constructed in the 16th century, the temple showcases the exquisite architectural style of the Vijayanagara Empire, with intricate carvings and paintings adorning almost every surface.The temple complex is divided into three main sections. The first is the Mukha Mantapa, also known as the Natya Mantapa or Ranga Mantapa, which serves as the assembly hall. This area is adorned with elaborate carvings depicting mythological scenes and divine beings. One of the most fascinating features Temple is the "hanging pillar." This pillar, slightly disjointed from its original position, with a small gap between its base and the ground. This architectural marvel left visitors like us intrigued for centuries, and it has become a symbolic attraction of the temple.
Day 1: Embracing the Essence of Puducherry
Our first day in Puducherry began with heading to the Park Guest House, first building at Goubert Avenue, Beach Road, which was our stay as well. The elegant and thoughtfully- designed architecture and tranquil surroundings added a homely and spiritual touch to our experience.
Our exploration continued to the iconic Rock Beach. The sound of waves, the soft sand beneath the feet, sunshine and the gentle sea breeze created a serene atmosphere that seemed to wash away all worries and making oneself comfortable in their own body and mind. We walked along the promenade, and soaked in the views of the Bay of Bengal. The sea shore moved in me something and inspired me to delve deeper into the meaning of life, and pen down some of my reflections in the form of 'The Shore Saga: A Letter to my Younger Self' (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sLhgAdgHzLI).
Further, after lunch we headed to the Ganesh Temple, where we acquainted ourselves with local spiritual beliefs and folktales. From there, we ventured to the renowned Sri Aurobindo Ashram, a center for spiritual seekers. The peaceful surroundings and the teachings of Sri Aurobindo provided solace and a space for inner reflection.
Our exploration of Puducherry would not have been complete without a visit to Auroville, an experimental township dedicated to human unity and spiritual harmony. We delved into the unique nature of this international community, understanding its ideology, charter, lifestyle and appreciating its architectural marvels, especially the design and thought behind Matrimandir which is the heart of Auroville. We also engaged in soulful conversations with its residents and locals to know more about meditative practices, sustainable initiatives and practices held close by the community. This was followed by the visit to famous Auroville beach.
In the evening, we wandered through the charming streets of White Town, marveling at the well-preserved French colonial architecture. It offered a glimpse into Puducherry's colonial past. The vibrant colors, cafes, lights and souvenir shops added to the its allure, creating a perfect blend of cultures and aesthetics.
Day 2: Coastal Beauty and Cultural Delights
On our second day, we embraced the coastal beauty of Puducherry. The sandy beach beckoned us, and we spent blissful moments by the shore, feeling the warm sand between our toes and the cool sea breeze on our faces. The beach offered the perfect place for relaxation and rejuvenation.
To add a touch of adventure to our day, we embarked on a cycling excursion, exploring the town and its neighborhoods. Pedaling through the streets, we witnessed the daily life of the locals and soaked in the town's unique charm.
Later in the afternoon, I got the opportunity to visit the serene Mangrove Forest, where we experienced its natural beauty on a peaceful boat ride through the greenery. The mangroves provided a uniquely serene respite, and we were left fascinated by the biodiversity and landscape that surrounded us.
Further, as we wandered through the French quarter, the colonial-style buildings and narrow streets transported us back in history. We explored the local sightseeing spots, each one a testament to Puducherry's historical and cultural heritage, and were intrigued by the fusion of French and Indian influences.
When it came to food, Puducherry offered a range of delights. We indulged in the famous local filter coffee, savored delectable South Indian delicacies at A2B, and treated ourselves to an array of flavors at Sur Guru. For a delightful fusion experience, we relished traditional appam, a local specialty and waffles by the beach, an unexpected but delightful combination.
Beautiful!! Your travelogue is so filled with colors of joy, beauty, adventure, history and spirituality. Keep traveling and keep writing.
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