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Pondicherry

Pondicherry, officially known as Puducherry, is a union territory and the capital city of the Puducherry district in southern India. It lies on the southeast coast along the Bay of Bengal, bordered by Tamil Nadu on the landward side. The Union Territory consists of four distinct districts—Puducherry, Karaikal, Yanam, and Mahe—each with its own coastal enclaves and cultural influences.

The city’s historic center, often called White Town, preserves French colonial architecture, shaded boulevards, and pastel

Historically a French colonial settlement from the 17th century, Pondicherry was integrated into India in the

Economically, tourism is a major activity, complemented by fishing, salt production in Karaikal, and small-scale manufacturing.

villas,
while
the
nearby
Tamil
Quarter
provides
a
contrasting
Tamil
urban
character.
The
area
around
Pondicherry
is
known
for
promenades
along
the
seafront
and
a
strong
tradition
of
ashrams
and
spiritual
communities,
including
the
Sri
Aurobindo
Ashram
and
the
experimental
community
of
Auroville
nearby.
mid-20th
century
and
has
since
retained
a
distinctive
cultural
blend
of
Tamil
and
French
influences.
The
city
remains
a
popular
tourist
destination
for
its
architecture,
beaches,
temples,
churches,
and
seaside
cuisine
reflecting
this
synthesis.
Tamil
is
the
predominant
language,
English
is
widely
used
in
administration
and
commerce,
and
French
influence
persists
in
street
names,
cuisine,
and
education.
The
region
is
connected
by
road
and
rail
to
Tamil
Nadu,
and
Pondicherry
Airport
provides
limited
domestic
air
service,
with
Chennai
and
Bengaluru
serving
as
major
air
hubs.
Public
life
centers
on
governance
by
a
lieutenant
governor
and
an
elected
legislative
assembly.