In this episode TravelTV.News focuses on:
- Whenever we talk about the colonial heritage of South India, the first name that usually comes to mind is Pondicherry. But did you know that beyond Pondicherry, there are still some untold stories of history waiting for you? Two such destinations where the colonial era is still alive are Tranquebar, also known as Tharangambadi, and Karaikal.
- Tranquebar is located in the Nagapattinam district of Tamil Nadu and is also called Tharangambadi, meaning “the village of waves.” In 1620, Denmark established its first trading post here. This is considered the oldest Danish colony in India. Interestingly, while most people are aware of the British, French, Portuguese, and Dutch colonial presence in India, very few know about Denmark’s footprint here.
- The main attraction here is Fort Dansborg. Located by the sea, this fort is relatively small in size but an excellent example of Danish architecture. Tranquebar’s beach is calm and clean, and its air is believed to be rich in ozone. Taking a walk here in the morning or evening is a soothing experience in itself.
- A short distance from Tranquebar lies Karaikal, which was once a French colony and today is still a part of Puducherry. This place is far more peaceful than Pondicherry. The old French-style houses, churches, and narrow lanes still remind one of the bygone era.
- No journey is complete without food. In Tranquebar, seafood such as fresh fish, prawns, and crabs are specially served with coconut-based gravies. You can also enjoy the traditional Tamil thali, which includes rice, sambar, rasam, and vegetable dishes. Some heritage hotels also serve European dishes, offering tourists a unique blend of Danish and Indian flavors.
- Tourists here can explore the fort and museum, and by staying in heritage homestays, they can experience the local lifestyle up close.
- Reaching Tranquebar and Karaikal is easy. The nearest airport is in Trichy, about 150 km away.
- Two to three days are enough to explore both these destinations comfortably. If Pondicherry is also included in this journey, it becomes a 5 to 6-day heritage circuit that combines history, culture, and the serenity of beaches—all in one.