GETTING THERE

There are direct and connecting flights to Puducherry from major Indian cities. You could also hire a private taxi from Chennai, roughly 150 km or three hours away.

WHEN

October to March is when Puducherry is at its best. IDEAL FOR

Couples, writers, and artists seeking a getaway or sanctuary.

STAY

Gratitude Heritage (starts from `5,000/US$70, gratitudeheritage.in); Maison Perumal (starts from `8,400/ US$118, cghearth.com);

Dune de l’Orient (starts from `10,300/US$144, dunewellnessgroup.com).

DISCOVER

Make sure to visit Sri Aurobindo Ashram and the nearby ‘Universal township’ of Auroville, for some tranquillity. Auroville is at a distance of 11 km from Puducherry. Visit The Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus on the southern boulevard to marvel at Gothic architecture. For a romantic wander or an idyllic evening stroll, pick the Goubert Avenue (Beach Road). Go boating in the serene backwaters of Chunnambar River. One can also go for scuba diving with Temple Adventures (starts from `7,900/US$110, templeadventures.com).