A beautiful landmark within the area, Hotel de Pondichery, A Boutique Hotel, with an Ethnic touch depicts the charm of a past era with its 14 guestrooms set in conservation French colonial houses of Pondichery. The Hotel de Pondichery, Boutique Hotel has a distinct " French " flavor, incorporating interesting Indian touches. The interiors of the Hotel de Pondichery evoke the elegance of days long past, intricate motifs throughout the building's facade welcoming guests to the comforts of a French Colonial residence. The nice little old town of Pondichery is equidistant from two major tourist areas -    1 ½ hour from Mahapalipuram (7thCentury Temples & Monuments) and - 1 ½ from Gingee Fort (Nayak Dynasty - 13th Century) Famed, since the 19thCentury, for its French architecture, Pondichery is known for its authenticity, warm heartedness, appeal and charm.