On one fine winter day, basking under the mildest sun, I planned my escape. Sitting with the laptop, screening my options, keeping a reality check with my bank account, I was all set to have an adventure.
I narrowed it down to once, the French colony of India - Pondicherry. It was the perfect fit for my innocent needs - Living on India's coastline, practicing French and learning something new!
Deciding to end my year with a bang, there I was catching the local bus from Chennai Airport to Thiruvanmiyur to Pondicherry. Soon I was surrounded by the mesmerizing views on the East Coast Road.
After surpassing the most amazing road adventure, I found myself clueless at the busy bus station of Pondicherry. Fulfilling my tiny streak of adventure, I had left the decision of my new abode at bay.
Luckily, an auto driver aka tour guide set me up for an amazing room in the French Quarters/ White Town. It was a French Guest house at Rue La Bourdonnais
After accommodation was sorted, I checked out the most important next check box. Next was the start of my Surfing course with Kallialay School of Surf. A perfect blend learning and fun, and a must try in Pondicherry for exploring the water sports. You can book a session with them here : https://www.surfschoolindia.com/
Next followed, the best routine weeks - the perfect routine for the soul. Starting fresh to watch the sunrises at horizon every morning, then, the traditional scrumptious breakfast of idli vada. Flaring off on my cycle to Auroville, riding the waves post lunch and ending it by amazing sea food and great wines.
Surfing was a mystical adventure. There is no way of describing the feeling of catching your first wave after the numerous thrash downs! Kallilay School of Surf is run by the most experienced surfers in India and I personally found them and the beautiful Serenity Beach perfect teachers for beginners.
After my morning surfing lessons, mostly my days were spent in the magical Auroville. Auroville is recognized as the first and only internationally endorsed ongoing experiment in human unity and transformation of consciousness, also concerned with - and practically researching into - sustainable living and the future cultural, environmental, social and spiritual needs of mankind. I rested there with every intention of soaking in the bliss and transformation.
Last week by tangling and tingling the strings of a hammock (yes! there are classes for hammock making in Auroville), I untangled my monotonous routine. A month later, I departed this formidable city, keeping its magical laisse faire moments with me!
Places for a must visit while in Pondicherry
1. Lighthouse
2. Rue Promenade
3. Serenity Beach
4. Paradise Beach
5. Villa Shanti
6. Auroville Visitors Center
7. Matri Mandir
