Pondicherry (Paris of the East)

A French colony till 1954, Puducherry (earlier Pondicherry)is a small Union territory in India that retains a distinctly French ambiance and culture. It has a spiritual ambiance, an unspoiled stretch of beaches, and backwaters, and a surprising mix of cuisines. Every year, it attracts thousands of tourists to visit the Aurobindo Ashram, meditate and learn yoga. Food, ocean view, coconut trees, clean air, and peaceful shores, this place has a color for everyone and is definitely a great weekend getaway. Some places have the power to lure you back again and again.