The French formerly ruled Pondicherry. It consists of four non-contiguous districts or enclaves. It also consists of Karaikal Mahe and Yanam.
The Seaside resort Pondicherry has a special ambience, not felt anywhere else in India. It is a blend of spiritual aura, French colonial heritage, Tamil culture and the cosmopolitan flair of many nationalities in a small but varied town.
The inherent ambience of Pondy, as it is fondly called, becomes most evident in the oldest part of the town which flanks the seashore boulevard. Colonial buildings, some which trace back to the 18th century, line along a grid of straight clean streets and house the French institutions, private homes and businesses, and the sprawling premises of the famous Sri Aurobindo Ashram. Mellow colours of cream, yellow, pink and grey greet the visitor with flamboyant bougainvillea bursting over gates and compound walls of cool courtyards.
Quiet beaches and peaceful resorts to the north and south balance the town's bustling, yet easy going life.