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PHOTO: T. SINGARAVELOU

PUDU DESTINATION Crowded beachfront or snazzy restaurant, Puducherry attracts numerous visitors from neighbouring States on weekends

The hospitality industry and tourism department estimate that, on an average, around 2,000 people from these two cities flock the town on Saturday and Sunday.

. “It’s becoming a getaway for IT professionals and, even students. We have a list of regular clients,” says V. Anandganesh, marketing manager of Ananda Inn.

What brings people to Puducherry? “It’s a place devoid of any entertainment or sightseeing options. There are no big malls, or nightclubs. The town goes to sleep by midnight. But, it is these very factors that have turned into an advantage,” says Harirajan, general manager, Ajantha Sea View.

The “spending crowd” in Chennai or Bangalore just wants to relax, shop or visiting religious places, says Anandganesh, adding that the Ashram and Auroville are the two important places that attract the weekenders.

Various people have various reasons for Puducherry being their favourite weekend getaway. “Travelling from Chennai or Bangalore by road is itself a pleasure. It’s a short fun ride, says Suresh, senior executive with a media firm in Bangalore. His friend Sairam K.M, Manager, Wipro, Bangalore, adds that another major factor that attracts people is the price factor. “Whether it’s the price of petrol or anything else, it’s comparatively cheap. The price difference in petrol is almost Rs. 10. During our return journey, we fill the tank and save almost Rs. 300,” he explains.

Ganesh Ramaswamy, accounts manager, Oracle, Bangalore, believes that Puducherry offers an amazing mix of heritage, cuisine and culture. “The French connection throws up unique combinations in food, fashion and culture. Adding to the beauty of the place is the lovely beach, a perfect location to unwind,” he adds.

“The town is so small. Once you park your car at the hotel, you can walk around, shop and visit all the important landmarks. Another option is to rent a bike or cycle and visit all the places in and around the town,” says Cyriac John, a sharebroker from Chennai, who, along with his friends, makes sure that they come here at least twice a month. “The Sunday market is ideal for shopping; it offers good bargains,”he says.

Arundeep Sachdeva, general manager, The Promenade, feels that the shopping is a big draw with tourists. “Known for its traditional doll making and textile units, the Union Territory is also the origin of several world-class brands in leather, pottery, aromatics, fashion and handmade paper. The décor boutiques and antique furniture galleries are worth taking at look at. It’s a place where one can easily chill,” he opines.

As the number of tourists swell by the day, most of the hotels are gearing up to improve facilities. An official in the tourism industry says that 15 hotels have come up in the past three months. An equal number of projects are in various stages of completion. Looks like this is one rush that will never cease!

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