Mahé, also known as Mayyazhi, is a town on India’s southwest coast. It’s part of former French colony of Puducherry and is the smallest of the 4 territories including Pondicherry, Karaikal and Yanam with just 9 sq.kms area. Mahe is known for its heritage which is reflected in its buildings like Government House. Though small there are several things to see in Mahe Including Tagore Park, a statue of French icon Marianne honoring French Revolution, St. Theresa’s Shrine is known for its annual October festival. Boats from the Mahé Boat House cruise the Mahé River.
Beaches include palm-backed Mahé Beach, at the mouth of the river. The name Mahé derives from Mayyazhi, the name given to the local river and region in the Malayalam language. After Independence of India Mahe was under French rule until 13 June 1954, when it joined the Indian Union and became a district of Pondicherry Union Territory. The culture and geography of Mahe is like those in the Malabar coast of Kerala. The major festival of this region is Vishu Onam and Eid. The major language is Malayalam.
The population also includes Tamil and Arabic speaking populace. Mahé Municipality is the seat of the local administration of Mahé. The Mahé municipal area comprises of Mahé Town, Cherukallayi. Chalakkara Chembra Palloor, and Pandakkal. Mahe is among the most visited shrines in the country and people of all religions make this trip, especially during Fete de Mahe, besides this there are a few places worth visiting these include Mooppenkunnu Hillock an impressive Heritage Picnic spot, Mahe River Walkway, Azhimukham, St. Theresa Shrine, Puthalam Temple.
Water Sports Complex, Manjakkal, and Museum & Government House. Mooppenkunnu is a Hillock. It is a Heritage picnic spot in Mahe district. There are pavements to walk, benches to rest and a restroom facility for the tourists. The hillock contains the historic Light House and is a famous sunset view point. Azhimukham is the estuary of Mahé River and the Arabian Sea. Shrine of St. Theresa of Avila at Mahe is one of the oldest Shrines in India. The Water Sports Complex is located on the bank of the Mahe river, Puthalam in Mahe is an ancient temple of Bhagavathi.
Every year there is ‘Thirayattam’ an ancient festival. The Government House and museum has numerous historical artefacts of the bygone days. Well connected by rail, road and air its open to tourist throughout the year. Mahe proves to be an ideal destination for nature watching and one of the most appealing destinations for day and evening picnics. The adventure seekers, can enjoy water sports like motor boating, pedal boating, and other similar activities at Water Sports Complex. Heritage lovers can go out to visit the historical landmarks and other significant places strewn across Mahe. There are numerous budget-friendly/luxury, guest houses across the city.
