Pondy - French Crepes, Markets and Street Art

Two hours south of Mamallapuram lies Puducherry, now Pondicherry, or Pondy for short.

Almost every place here has at least one other name, which doesn't necessarily make communication easier. The fact that the average Kiwi apparently also pronounces it wrong doesn't help either.

Pondy is a place full of contrasts. Until 1954, it was a French colony, and in the 'white town' district, many, mostly dilapidated colonial buildings stand out. Some better restaurants take advantage of these and, above all, the wonderful atmosphere in the courtyards.

One remnant is also the creperies, which are quite common and where you could swear you are in Paris while enjoying a crepe or better yet, a galette.

The street markets are an impressive experience and cannot be compared to the small market in Mamallapuram in terms of size, noise, and sometimes even smell.

Here, cars, motorcycles, tuk-tuks, dogs, cows, and people crowd the large streets, which serve as markets. You can buy anything you can imagine: vegetables and fruits, clothing in the brightest colors, chilies that make you break into a sweat just by looking at them, household items, and much more.

You can also buy combs. Of course, I have to buy some to expand my collection.

A Kiwi is better off staying in its travel bag.

Temples and shrines stand on every corner in all sizes and colors.

Young and old gather on the beach promenade, and every two minutes, someone wants to take a photo with us. (That's probably because of me)

It's the beginning of the Art Festival, and Mandalas line the entire promenade.

Here, you can relax a little from the hustle and bustle with coffee or even beer. The alcohol tax is significantly lower, and consumption is less frowned upon than in many other parts of the country.

After two days, we'll continue to the Backwaters, but first, our small travel group has another exciting bus ride to Chennai.