The 15th edition of Lonely Planet’s “Best in Travel” list has come out with the top 30 trending destinations you must visit. The travel guide not only spans across cities and countries, but also includes trending regions that need to be on every travel enthusiast’s bucket list. The criteria for picking these select locales include topicality, unique experiences, the ‘wow factor,’ and their ongoing commitment to sustainability, community, and diversity.
While Kazakhstan tops the list as the numero uno country, Toulouse bags the number one spot in the list of cities. However, the global guide has only one addition from India, the humble city of Puducherry (Pondicherry).
Lonely Planet described Puducherry as, “Located on the Bay of Bengal in South India, Puducherry (formerly Pondicherry) has attracted visitors with its Gallic architecture, reflecting its history as a French colony until 1954, as well as its temples and spiritual centers. Now the city is beckoning beachgoers, thanks to an ongoing effort to restore the sandy coastline.”
If you are planning a visit to this seaside town, besides taking a stroll through the historic White Town, boasting pastel buildings reminiscent of French colonies, don’t forget to check out these experiences that are bound to create lovely memories.
Matrimandir (Source: Wikimedia Commons)
Auroville and Matrimandir
Just north of Puducherry lies Auroville, a unique, universal township where residents from all over the globe live together in an experimental community. At its center, the golden-domed, golf ball-shaped Matrimandir stands as a symbol of peace. Visitors can make reservations to explore inside or enjoy the view from a nearby platform, which also features a marketplace with local crafts, incense, and handmade musical instruments.
Sri Aurobindo Ashram (Source: Wikimedia Commons)
Get Spiritual
Puducherry is renowned for its spiritual landmarks, most notably the Sri Aurobindo Ashram. Founded by Bengali philosopher Sri Aurobindo and his French collaborator Mirra Alfassa, the ashram draws curious visitors and spiritual seekers alike, offering guided tours and meditation sessions. Just a short walk away, the vibrant Manakula Vinayagar Temple is dedicated to Ganesh and showcases intricate, mythological scenes.
Pondicherry Police Museum (Source: Wikimedia Commons)
Explore the art scene
For art lovers, Puducherry offers an impressive collection of galleries and museums. Don’t miss the Puducherry Contemporary Art Gallery, which opened in 2022, and hosts rotating exhibits by regional artists. The Puducherry Museum, meanwhile, offers a glimpse into history, displaying relics from the Chola and Vijayanagar empires alongside elegant French antiques.
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