Rich in culture and colonial history, Pondicherry is a well known South Indian destination that provides countless hours of sightseeing fun and exploration. The capital of The Union Territory of Puducherry, this coastal city was once colonised by the French and colonial churches and structures that can be still found here. Colonial buildings, ancient temples and beaches aside, the city also has lush patches of greenery worth visiting such as the Pondicherry Botanical Garden.
Dating back to 1826, the Botanical Garden can be found at the city bus stand’s southern entrance and offers welcome relief from the sun and the heat. Begun as part of an experiment by the French who wanted to study the types of plants that could be cultivated in the region, the garden soon fell under the care of botanist, C.S. Perrotet, who transformed it.
Spread across an area of around 22 acres, the Pondicherry Botanical Garden is the perfect spot to enjoy some rest and relaxation with the entire family as you sit back amidst shade and the songs of birds. As you explore the site you will come across French design layouts along with paved paths and lush plantations. A dancing fountain, an aquarium and a memorial to Perrotet can be seen at the site which also has a children’s train that provides kids with a fun filled ride.
Nature lovers visiting the park will appreciate the range of trees as well as exotic plant species that can be found here in a variety of themed areas. The trees and plants have been labelled with their scientific and common names making for easy recognition, while additional information including their medicinal value can also be found on some.
Those who love the outdoors can further visit the city’s Bharati Park which is home to the well known Aayi Mandapam monument, while not to be missed is an excursion to the Ousteri Lake wetland area which can be found around 10 kms from the city.
Travellers looking for centrally located Pondicherry hotel accommodation which would make an ideal base from which to explore the city can stay at Hotel Atithi. This city centre Pondicherry hotel is within walking distance from the beach and is well suited for business and leisure travellers alike.
