Hand-spun towels placed in a traditional display case at the Ashram Weaving Department, Pondicherry. Pic/Dhara Vora

Cluny Embroidery Centre, housed in a picturesque heritage building was built in 1774 and is one of the few 18th century buildings in fine condition. The centre is run by Sr Stella, and Sr Augusta who tell us that they employ women who come from lesser-privileged backgrounds. The women create beautiful thread embroidered pieces such as napkins, bed spreads and cloth pieces that can be framed. They use encyclopaedias on plants and birds as picture sources for their embroideries.
Timings: 9 am to 12 pm and 2 pm to 5 pm. Shut on Sunday and Monday
At: 46, Romain Rolland Street, opposite Hotel De L’Orient.
Call: (413) 2335668