There is the guide book tourist checklist and then there is
the trail of discovery off the radar. Diipti Jhangiani takes you through both
routes rediscovering destinations along coastal India.
Pondicherry
With its blue surfs, little cafes and French architecture,
Pondi as it is fondly known is a city located along the eastern coast of India.
Tourist Checklist
Walk along the Promenade and stop at Le Cafe for light
munchies and a beautiful view of the surfs. Take the heritage walk, visit Aurobindo
Ashram on the route. Top up on energy at Rendezvous restaurant to sample mouth
watering local sea food. After having your fill, workout those calories with
good old retail therapy at the souvenir stores at Mission Street.
Off the Radar
Auroville, a township for alternative living, lies a few
kilometres away from the city. Book a meditation session at Matri Mandir, a
dome shaped meditation room at Auroville for a surreal experience.
For the adventure junkie, grab onto a surf board from
Kallialay Surf School at Serenity Beach and master riding those waves.
Goa
Goa’s over hyped beaches have an identity of their own, but
this state located along the western coast of India has a lot more to offer.
Tourist Checklist
Explore the by lanes of the capital city Panjim walking
along Portuguese churches and homes. Build up an appetite by trekking up Fort
Aguada and then head to Mango Tree for a late breakfast. Follow this up with
trinket shopping at Anjuna and then cool off gazing at the night sky, grooving
to music at Curlies.
Off the Radar
Set off on a road trip starting with Tiracol Fort Heritage
hotel for a breathtaking view of Querim beach at the northern most tip of Goa. Drive
down to a spice plantation sampling vanilla pods and sumptuous lunch, followed
by a dip in Dudhsagar falls, Goa’s largest waterfall toward the west. Follow
the trail south heading towards Palolim beach for a picture postcard end to
your Goan holiday.
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