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It has been seat of learning and Vedic culture since ancient times and was
also the home of the great Hindu sage Agastya. Pondicherry mystic spirit found a
great resurrection in the twentieth century with the establishment of Aurobindo
Ashram.
Although Pondicherry has many yoga learning centers, there are two yoga institutes
which are world renowned - the Aurobindo ashram and the international Center for
yoga Education & Research (popularly known as the Ananda Ashram).
PLACES TO VISIT
With a coastline of 32 kms, well-Planned French Boulevard town, palm- fringed beaches,
resorts, backwaters, water sports Centre, fishing villages, harbour, the pier, the
famous Aurobindo Ashram, the international city of Auroville, world-renowned yoga
centers and other attractions, Pondicherry is the ideal place to spend your holidays
with your family.
Shri Aurobindo Ashram
Shri Aurobindo, the great seer, poet and prophet of the twentieth century, made
Pondicherry his home from 1910 till his death in 1950. His vision and ideals continue
to draw People from all over the world.
Auroville
Located 10 kms north of Pondicherry town, Auroville is envisioned as a universal
town, where people from different nationalities, faiths and beliefs, can live in
peace and harmony. The construction of this 'universal town' was started in 1968
under the guidance of the mother, a paries- Born painter-musician who become sri
Aurobindo's disciple and close companion from 1924 till his death in 1950. The development
of this Utopia is still in progress. Several countries have offered to set up permanent
pavilions, reflecting the culture and ethos of their countries.
Pondicherry Museum
On display are the findings of Arikamedu , the chola bronzes and sculptures, glimpses
Of French heritage, specimens of modern and traditional handicraft, paintings, armoires,
carvings and many other things of historical interest.
Chunnambar Resort
Water Sports Centre Known for its virgin beaches and backwaters, chunnaamber has
water sports Centre which offers exciting boating experiences. It is also great
tourist place.
Botanical Garden
Established by C.S perrotet in 1826, it preserves a large Varity of exotic species
of plants from all over India and abroad.
Villaiayanur
Sri Gokilambal Thirukameswarar tamale, architecturally the finest in pondicherry,
is located 9.5 kms away. During may- June, a ten - day annual festival (Brahmothsavam)
is held here which attracts hundreds of devotees. The temple car rising to a height
of 15.25 meters is profusely decorated, pulled out from its usual position and taken
on a procession around the town. It is an awe - inspiring sight.
Mansion of Ananda
Rangapillai Built in 1773, this mansion is a fine specimen of indo - French architecture.
Ananda Rangapillai was the courtier of Joseph francois dupleix , the governor. The
dairy which Rangapillai maintained between 1736 - 60 is a book of great value as
a source of information on the history of Pondicherry and the French in India. ·
Eglise de Sacre Coeur De Jesus Dedicated to the sacred heart of Jesus, this church
is noted for its Gothic architecture and stained glass planes, which depict the
entire life of Jesus Christ.
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