Villa Shanti is a restored French colonial property, first built over 200 years ago during the influx of French Europeans traveling to Pondicherry. It was owned by Paquiry Segiyane Sylvain, who commissioned Yves Lesprit and Tina Trigala, Parisian architects with intimate knowledge about French colonial styles and design. Aside from restoring the villa, they also made modern additions to the property, creating a beautiful structure that blends the old and the new. It is because of their hard work and genius that Villa Shanti would later open in 2011 as a heritage hotel and become a well-known part of White Town's community and culture.

Design and Architecture

The painstaking restoration and redesign of the European-style Villa Shanti are credited to Yves Lesprit and Tina Trigala. The pair of Parisian architects could be considered masters of blending old and modern styles to create something new. During the restoration of Villa Shanti, they also added a modern wing to complement the property's heritage designs.

The color schemes and decorative themes of the hotel's social spaces and 15 rooms are also their work. Likewise, the quality and the look of each of the hotel's accouterments and fineries had to go through them, with results that show that all the effort was worth it. The resulting aesthetics are a combination of Parisian and Indian street fashion tied together by contemporary artistic touches.

Villa Shanti Restaurant

Villa Shanti's signature restaurant is divided into two spaces: the patio dining area features a vertical garden and alfresco setting, while the indoor area has air-conditioning. The menu consists of French and Indian selections, along with tandoori-cooked items.

Opening hours: 12 pm - 2:45 pm and 7 pm - 10:45 pm (weekdays); 12 pm - 3:30 pm and 7 pm - 10:45 pm (weekends)

Cafe Bar

Situated next to the patio dining area, the Cafe Bar features a relaxing corner with a lounging space. Aside from the selection of light meals and local and international wines and liquors, the expert mixologists will also craft your favorite cocktails and mocktails.

Opening hours: 11 am - 10:45 pm

Cultural Experiences

Since Villa Shanti focuses on gastronomic delights, guests can discover more about the heritage of Pondicherry by partaking in the delicious Indian and French cuisine offered at the hotel's restaurant. First-hand experiences are also a fantastic way to learn, and a good way to do so is by walking the historic streets of the French Quarter where the hotel is located.

The Puducherry Museum and Raj Nivas Palace are two places within walking distance of the hotel where guests can marvel at artifacts and architecture from the city's past. Guests are also encouraged to check out their Feel the Sea package tour, where they can charter a boat and explore the coasts and coves around Pondicherry.

Other Celebrations

Make sure to collaborate with the management and staff if you've got a special day planned during your stay. As a heritage stay with a focus on food, the property may let you make arrangements for special dishes for a birthday or anniversary.