Arikamedu

Arikamedu is an ASI-protected archaeological site near Puducherry, identified with the ancient port of Podouke. This guide covers its history and how to combine it with the museum.

Arikamedu is an archaeological site at Kakkayanthope in Ariyankuppam Commune, about 4 km from Puducherry city, on the banks of the Ariyankuppam River. It covers 34.57 acres and has been protected by the Archaeological Survey of India since 1982, according to Wikipedia. The site is identified with Podouke, a port named in the Periplus of the Erythraean Sea in the first century CE, and is a key piece of evidence for trade between Rome and India.

Sir Mortimer Wheeler carried out scientific excavations in 1945, Jean-Marie Casal worked here from 1947 to 1950, and Vimala Begley's investigations in 1989-1992 revised the chronology, showing occupation from the 2nd century BCE to the 8th century CE. Finds include Roman amphorae, Arretine pottery, glass and stone beads, a terracotta Brahma figure and dyeing vats associated with muslin processing.

Little remains visible beyond excavated brick structures and an ASI notice, so the Pondicherry Museum, which displays material from the site, is a useful companion visit. Opening hours and any fee were not found in a reliable source; check locally before making the trip.