Yanam

The French Telugu Blend
Yanam is famous for its unique culture, which is a combination of French and Telugu. Named as Frelugu, some people are from French and Telugu cultures.

Languages of the Region
Although most of the population are Telugu speaking people, a few groups of people can be spotted whose official language is French. Signboards around the city can be found which are written in French. For instance, Soyez le Bienvenue can be found when entering the town, and Merci Bienwhen can be found while leaving the city.

Yanam Festivities
Sri Rajarajeshwara Kalyanotsavam is a famous festival celebrated for twenty days during January or February. A Catholic festival is celebrated every March, where, Mother Mary devotees gather to offer prayers and seek blessings. There is also an annual cultural festival called Fete de Pondicherry which is conducted by the Department of Arts and Culture of the state of Pondicherry.

The city is quite famous for its variety of seafood available in various cuisines around the city.

Exclusive Fish 
The city houses many species of fish such as cheerameenu, and pulasa. Some of these fish are exported to France as well. These are some rare varieties of fishes which are exclusively available in Yanam.

Cheap Alcohol
The city is also famous for alcohol, which is quite cheap in the city when compared to the neighbouring states. Most of the alcoholic drinks are imported and are available in comparatively less expensive rates than what is usually sold in other countries.

Famous Restaurants and Bars
Gopikrishna Restaurant and Bar is a famous bar in the city which offers a great variety of foods and export wines. Yanon Restaurant, New Punjabi Dhaba, Shanmukha Family Restaurant and Spice N Ice are some exquisite cuisines in the city offering a variety of South-Indian and North-Indian delicacies.

Initial Reign
The city initially was a part of the Chola empire. During the 16th and 17th century, there was warfare between the Muslims, the French and the Britishers. Interestingly, the city was a Dutch colony until the early 18th century. The fort ruins called the Neelikundilu where the Dutch stored their currency, and some documentations point to the presence and rule of Dutch in the city. However, in the 1720s, French took over the town. The Britishers and Frenchmen traded the seaside city among themselves. Finally, after three wars during which the Britishers occupied the city thrice, the colony was handed over to the French in 1816.

Tuesday Market
A significant event during the French rule was the Tuesday Market. Popularly called the 'Mangalvaram Santa' when people from the Madras Presidency visited the city to buy illegal and smuggled foreign goods.

Child Marriage Restraint Act
Another noteworthy incident in Yanam is the connection of Yanam with the Child Marriage Restraint Act. The Sarda Act which is what it is popularly called as was passed in 1929 under the British rule. After the passing of the law, Telugu people who belonged to the British government travelled to Yanam to perform child marriages as it was legal under the French rule.

French Remains
The presence of French can still be spotted in the stained glasses and the French cemetery. There is also an ancient church placed in the memory of the French soldier who died fighting at an early age of 22. Despite India attaining freedom in 1947, this French controlled city continued under their authority. There were negotiations between the two regarding four cities, one of which was Yanam.

Yanam Independence
On 13th June 1954, the town of Yanam finally attained independence from the French rule after a sudden coup. The rich history of Yanam can be witnessed in many buildings and churches that were built around the city during the respective reigns of other governments. Interestingly, there is a prevalent belief that Frenchmen haunt some places in the town.

There isn't anything adventurous and thrilling to do in the city. Also, there are not many popular night clubs in the city which may be quite disappointing for clubbers.

People who are spiritual and have a keen interest in exploring unique cultures are those who must definitely visit this city. It is also an ideal place for all the history and nature lovers.

June is the best time to visit Yanam. Between February and May, summer heat hits the district. The temperature rises to a peak and the cimate remains hot and dry throughout. The sea breeze and pre-monsoon winds are the only hope for relief during this time. From June, the temperature begins to fall and the climate remains pleasant and comfortable which is the best time to visit the city. As the climate is calm and welcoming, travelling and sightseeing can be enjoyed to the fullest. Thunderstorms and heavy rains hit the district from November and the temperature drops, leaving the climate cold and breezy.
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Roadways, railways and airways well link the city. It is connected to most cities and states either directly or by transit.

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The top places near to Yanam are Konaseema which is 20 km from Yanam, Samalkot which is located 35 km from Yanam, Kakinada which is located 24 km from Yanam, Rajahamundry which is located 51 km from Yanam, Annavaram which is located 64 km from Yanam