Canyons and geological marvels

Pondicherry’s drama is not only colonial. A short ride inland you hit laterite canyons, eroded red cliffs, and fossil-bearing beds that remind you this coast is old. Pair a canyon stop with Arikamedu — the Roman-era port — and you get a day that has nothing to do with croissants. Go early; there is almost no shade. Carry water, wear shoes you can ruin, and do not treat cliff edges as viewpoints.