Karaikal, India Cruise Port

A major port town and municipality on the eastern coast of India, Karaikal is located in the Karaikal district within the Union Territory of Puducherry. A newer harbor, opened in 2009, it’s used primarily for importing and exporting goods and crops, as well as for welcoming boats, yachts, and cruise ships. Formally part of French-ruled India, it’s now a free Indian state where Hindus, Christians, Muslims, and other religions live and practice within the borders of this harmonious society and beyond. Despite being independent for many decades, French culture and flavor continues to flourish in many areas around town and select surrounding areas. Of all the temples throughout the subcontinent, Karaikal has the only one devoted to Lord Saneeswara, a deity devoted to the planet of Saturn, one of nine heavenly bodies in the Hindu faith. The town acts as a gateway to other places of worship along the eastern coast of Tamil Nadu.

• Behold numerous idols and depictions of Shiva within the Saniswaran Temple. This renowned temple does have the tendency to become crowded, so try to get there early.
• For a peaceful walk in the sand, look no further than Karaikal Beach. Unlike some of the other beaches in the area that tend to become crowded, this relaxing locale is often quiet and isolated.
• Thirunallar Temple is the only temple devoted to Lord Saneeswara and planet Saturn as depicted in the Hindu faith. The shrine to the god and the temple walls themselves are both stunning and worthy of your time.
• The Nagore Dargah is a visually sensational Muslim tomb and a great place to visit to take in some of the local culture that isn’t influenced by Hindu or French ideology.