We left what felt like our holiday resort in Mamallapuram this morning on our minibus to head to 'Pondy'.

Wasn't too sure what to expect in this former French colony but did find French influences in the roads, buildings with little courtyards behind the main entrance and of course in the bakeries with baguette and croissant.

Very charming town with a relatively quiet and calm feel. Perhaps due to the famous Sri Autobindo Ashram which has led to it becoming a bit of a retreat with yoga centres etc. No photos there but a beautiful, well manicured garden as you walk in to see the tree where Sri Aurobindo and 'The Mother' are buried. Felt very tropically French to me.

Somehow didn't see the many French churches but went into the Sri Manakula Vinayagar Temple to Ganesh where beautiful pink lotus flower offerings were being given.

I really enjoyed my little wander through the streets in my own, v hot, company. I got a little snap happy!