PONDY BEACH - ARIKAMEDU - CHUNNAMBAR (8 KMS SOUTH). Set off on a Roman treasure trail to Arikamedu. The site of excavations which revealed suggestions of early Roman settlements. Evidences of flourishing trade were also dug out. You can explore the remains of an ancient Jesuit monastery, the ruins of which still stand imposingly here. And then you can wind your way to Chunnambar -and the spectacular backwater front. A campfire enthusiast's favourite haunt.

PONDY BEACH-OUSTERI LAKE (14 kms west). Pedal your way to the enchanting Ousteri lake. A centuries-old, man-made water body. Which the French made good use of, connecting it to a system of canals. Verdant crops make it a scenic location. In addition, the lake serves as a bird sanctuary, sheltering an incredible range of aquatic species.

PONDY BEACH - VILLIANNUR (12 kms west). Not far from Ousteri lake, you'll find the architecturally fine sight of Sri Gokilambal Thirukamaswera Temple, 10 kms from Pondicherry. Thousands of devotees converge here for a l0-day annual festival (Brahmostavam), held during May- June along with the appearance of the full moon.