Full of divergent spirit, outstanding architecture, and exclusive beauty, Pondicherry is one of the most favorite Indian destinations for foreigners and tasteful travelers. Exquisite cohabitation of a number of historical monuments, spiritual adheres, and nostalgic deep blue ocean offer you a lot of things to do in Pondicherry in an unalike manner.
In this travel story, I am introducing the most precious memories of my own Pondicherry trip that you may consider as a most extensive travel guide to Podicherry rather than a simple travel diary.
Introduction to Pondicherry
Wherever, I visit, I do a basic study on the climate and history of the place before and after visiting.
Pondicherry is a small international city, situated at the south-eastern coast of India, just beside the Bay of Bengal. If you hear about Puducherry on the internet, don’t be confused; Pondicherry is officially known as Puducherry, a district and capital of the Indian Union Territory of Puducherry, and is an enclave of Tamilnadu.
The climate of Pondicherry is tropical savanna, and throughout the year temperature varies from 19-38 °C, on average. In summer (April to June) it is too hot and the temperature rises up to 42 °C.
Brief History of Pondicherry
Some historical signs proved the occurrence of a marketplace in Poduke (near Pondicherry) in the 1st century, which was known as the gateway for Roman trade with India. Also, there is evidence of Indian kingdoms (Pallava, Chola, Pandya) and Muslim kingdoms (Sultanate of Madurai and Sultan of Bijapur), who ruled Pondicherry from 4th to 16th century.
However, the expanded history of Pondicherry has been recorded after the initiation of French colonial powers in Pondicherry.
In 1674 French colonial power occupied Pondicherry and set up a trade center for the French East India Company. Further in 1693 Dutches captured the colony, but handed it over to the French in 1699. The French colony was stable up to the next 62 years, and in 1761 British Emperor of India captured Pondicherry, though returned to the French in 1765. Thereafter, Podicherry was ruled by the British emperor for a longer term (1793-1814) and again by the French people (1814-1954).
Finally in 1954 Pondicherry was handed over to Indian union.
Due to the long-term presence of French colonies, Pondicherry is well architected with historical French sculptures and monuments, which offer you the scope to explore years old history in addition to the heavenly beauty and charms of meditation of Pondicherry.
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Best Things to do in Pondicherry
As I mentioned, there are many things to do in Pondicherry that include beach visits, hide in nature, meditation, exploring local handicrafts and boutiques, shopping malls, churches, temples, enjoying water sports, bar time, and many more.
Let’s explore the must-visit places first.
1. Visit Paradise Beach
On the Bay of Bengal, isolated Paradise Beach is the topmost tourist attraction in Pondicherry; foreigners to Indians, almost no one can skip the call of Paradise on their Puducherry trip.
Not exactly an island, but it’s a beautiful delta at the estuary of Chunnambar backwaters (river), where you can reach after an exciting boating trip while watching the riverside greenery and variety of aquatic birds.
Once you reach the paradise beach, you’ll uncover a serene and photogenic place, well decorated with naturally shaped stones, tamarisk, and coconut trees. The ocean water looks absolutely blue from this beach, and it’s pretty clear where the waves thuds; you can enjoy an exciting sea bath in Paradise beach if you are carry swimming costumes or spare clothes with you. At the backend of the beach, there are some snack bars on the beach where you can spend some quality time with your friends and family.
2. See Sunrise from Rock Beach and Have Peaceful Walk
To prevent sea erosion, the bank of rock beach has been completely covered with a high boulders’ line, so definitely it’s not a place for enjoying the beach sand. But, you’ll find a unique space of relaxation here; the sound of waves onto the rock, the breeze from the ocean, the beachside road, years’ old french colony, exclusive cafeterias, everything offers the feeling of an international holiday destination.
In the early morning, here you can experience the stunning sight of sunrise from the horizon and can enjoy your pleasant morning walk along the beach road. The restriction of vehicles in this area from 6 PM to 7 AM keeps your peace alive in the early morning.
Although evening time is a bit crowded here, the charm of the evening in Rock Beach is something unexplainable. Sitting onto the boulders to chill out with the loved one or maybe even alone into the cool breeze while listening to the sound of the unstoppable waves thudding the rocks; overall, one of the top feelings I personally experience here during my Pondicherry trip.
If you love to hang out in the cafe, this is a great landmark for you, there are exclusive cafeterias and bars around. Additionally, you may have food variety and shopping options nearby Rock beach.
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3. Feel the Inner Spirit in Sri Aurobindo Ashram
During your Pondicherry tour, if you wish to spend some time in peace, spirituality, and tranquility, Sri Aurobindo Ashram is one of the perfect places for you. This Ashram is close to Rock beach.
In 1910 Sri Aurobindo (was a nationalist before) retired from politics and settled in Pondicherry with few of his followers. In Pondicherry, ‘The Mother’ (formerly known as Mirra Alfassa) became the biggest follower of Sri Aurobindo’s spiritual realizations. Although she had to leave India after the first world war, she returned back in 1920; in 1926 the Mother and the spiritual community formed the Aurobindo ashram to spread Sri Aurobindo’s major spiritual realization.
Sri Aurobindo Ashram is a place of feeling the divine; upon crossing the main entrance of the ashram, you’ll find a noise-free peaceful environment all around that keeps you completely isolated from the entire world.
Note: Spiritually is not for every age, even Sri Aurobindo achieved the spiritual feelings after a busy youth age; so, if you are not ready for spiritual moments, you may simply skip this place.
4. Walk within the French colony
Near the Rock beach and around Sri Aurobindo Ashram, you’ll find very clean streets, full of well-maintained white and yellow colored french style housings. Architectures of these years old housings are very different from the rest of India. Being the former French colony, the architecture of buildings in this area is very different from the rest of India.
You can walk through the streets after or before visiting Sri Aurobindo Ashram; then, you can follow the road beside the Rock beach to reach Promenade.
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5. Visit Veerampattinam Beach
This is one of the lovely beaches in Pondicherry, remains crowd-less most of the time due to being unknown to the common tourist, thus a perfect for spending one or two romantic hours in the lap of nature.
The beach is situated in Veerampattinam, a historical village near Puducherry. To reach there you need to follow Pondicherry-Cuddalore highway, the beach is located 7 km away from Pondicherry center. You may face difficulty locating the entrance but can find the way by asking local people.
After buying the ticket you’ll find a small park and a few broken old constructions around. Next, you’ll be passing through the rows of palm trees and a narrow path between stagged backwater on both sides, and finally, reach the lonely beach covered by green plants and golden sand.
You may see, few fishermen fishing to the backwater with thin one-man wooden boats, which is a pretty unconventional sight to the city residents.
Waves are not very rough on Veerampattinam Beach; you can soak your feet in the white wave, though sea bathing is not recommended as there is no coast guard. The place is absolutely serene and photogenic, especially when the indefinite shapes of white clouds form to cover the blue sky and reflect over the blue ocean, while the amazing breezy wind blows you out to a sea beach of dreamland.
6. Explore the Sign of Ancient History in Arikamedu
It is an exceptional experience to explore the history of 100 BC, uncovering the lost Indian city, Arikamedu.
Arikamedu or Poduke is known as the only Indian city having trade relations with the Romans. You’ll see broken monuments, thousands of years old buildings of the ancient international harbor of Poduke. The town was known to be inhabited by Cholas people and Roman traders. As per the archaeologists, wine was the major import, and textile, beads, gems, glass, shell bangles, etc. were major exports.
Presently the area has been owned by the Archaeological Survey of India but not maintained properly, resulting in the formation of the forest of Palm trees and mango trees around.
It is recommended to contact a proper guide before a visit there, otherwise, you cannot explore the place properly. Guides will take you to the place describing the proper history and sail you to the Aryankuppam river. The riverbank is naturally decorated with lush green mangrove forests. Experiencing the boat ride through the mangroves with the melodious song of unknown birds, it’s pretty exciting to any adventure lover.
Arikamedu day-trip is relatively less explored, but its one of the most refreshing things to do in Pondicherry trip.
7. Must Visit The Town of Unity, Auroville
The world-famous slogan for humanity and human unity attracts thousands of foreign delegates to Auroville.
In the search for ultimate human unity, the Mother invented the idea of a universal township where people from all nations and religions can leave together in a peaceful and progressive environment. Auroville is the realistic form of the Mother’s proposition. This is a small township situating close to Pondicherry city, populated with 2000+ people of around 50 nations.
The Matri Mandir resides at the center of the town is a major attraction to the tourists. But you can’t visit there so easily as you proceed through several steps and waits.
Firstly, you can’t visit there on the same day as you apply for entry; you need to wait for your slot. Secondly, they allow only 50 people at a time inside the Matri Mandir to keep the peaceful environment undisturbed.
Auroville’s township service bus will take you to Matri Mandir. Right from the fence, you can see the huge golden globe in the middle that is completely made of gold plates. Inside the globe, you can experience some stunning architecture of the glob (Matri Mandir); You’ll be directed upstairs in the dark meditation room equipped with a crystal globe at the center where you’ll learn how to meditate keeping pin-drop silence.
Auroville and Matri Mandir is a must-visit place in Pondicherry to experience peace and serenity, humanity, and world-class architecture.
8. Play with the Waves in Serenity Beach
Serenity beach is a fishing coast near Pondicherry, located beside the East Coast Road, just 6 km away from Pondicherry center. Not many people visit this beautiful beach and thus remain pretty crowd-free usually; The waves are relatively calm and good for taking a bath in the seawater. A part of the beach is occupied by the fishermen; in the morning session, you can see fishermen are accumulating on the beach having their catches before sending the fishes to market.
The beach is located outside the city; so it is strictly advised to visit there in the daytime – there no light and no security in the evening. Also, this beach is not recommended for sunbath and swim in shorter clothes, Paradise Beach is safer for such activities.
You can watch the sunrise here and then spend the morning session, swim in the sea. Instructors of AuroSwim (part of Auroville) often teach their students in Serenity beach.
9. See Seaside Promenade
This is a point residing at the end of Rock Beach, where you’ll find a big statue of Mahatma Gandhi, known as Father of Nation (India). If you cross the road towards “Place de is Republic” you’ll find lovely gardens.
You can cover this point when you visit Rock beach because Promenade is a part of Rock beach site seeing. In the evening, after visualizing the Mahatma Gandhi statue, you can chill into the cool breeze sitting on the rock, or you can hang out to the bar, cafeteria, or local shops.
10. Experience Bird’s Eye View from Old Lighthouse
The lighthouse is another historical monument in Pondicherry which was built in 1836 by French to guide the marine at night. It’s located just near Promenade. The lighthouse is 29 m high and if you climb at the top (no elevator), you’ll experience the spectacular bird’s eye view of Pondicherry.
You need to pay a minimum charge for entry (INR 10 only) and for the camera (not applicable for the mobile camera). It remains open from 3-5 PM on weekdays only.
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More Things You Can do in Pondicherry
The above list represents the top 10 things to do in Pondicherry. Anyone planning a short trip to Pondicherry, must not miss out the above places and activities. You can cover all the above points in 3 days.
In case, you are planning a longer trip in Pondicherry (4-6 days), there are several other places to visit for you.
11. Visit Churches
Due to the presence of French colonies for a long period in Pondicherry, the city got some beautiful churches in every corner. You can visit the top 3 churches as listed below.
The Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus
This catholic church is situated very close to Pondicherry railway station. The beautiful architecture in red and white in front of a blue sky offers an outstanding sight. Inside, you can see spectacular stained-glass art.
Eglise de Notre Dame des Anges
This church is located near Promenade; so, you can easily visit there on your trip to Rock beach. This one was architected by mimicking Notre Dame in Paris, though the color combination is different.
Immaculate Conception Cathedral
Blue sky behind the pure white architecture of this church explores the ultimate beauty on a sunny day. The architecture and painting of the inner wall are magnificent. The church is situated near White Street and the main market of Pondicherry.
12. Visit Popular Monuments and Memorials
Following statues and monuments and memorials you can visit during your trip.
French War Memorial
This is a small memorial at Promenade and dedicated to the French Indians militaries who lost their lives in the first world war while fighting for France. The place looks nice at night due to the excellent decoration of light.
Kargil War Memorial
This is another memorial at the same Promenade, which is dedicated to the great Indian soldiers who sacrificed their lives for their motherland in the Kargil war.
Park Monument
If you visit Bharati park in Pondicherry you can watch the Park monument.
Statue of Dupleix
In Promenade, you’ll see another statue of one of the former generals of the French army in India.
Saint Joan of Arc Statue
The statue of Joan of Arc is situated opposite to the Dumas church near Promenade. Joan of Arc is one of the nine secondary Patron Saints of France.
It is believed that she joined the uncrowned King Charles VII to recover France from English after she received instructions from the devine. She was caught by the English and proved convicted in 1431, and the English army burned her alive when her age was only 19. Further, in re-trial after her execution, she was proved innocent and declared as a Martyr.
13. Visit Ousteri Lake
This a wetland near Pondicherry. You can enjoy the boat ride and watch aquatic birds and lotus. If you are lucky enough, you can see birds like flamingo, pelicans, and storks in proper seasons.
14. Visit Auro Beach
This is another rocky beach and nice to spend time by walking and sitting. You’ll get fried fresh fishes in the nearby stalls. Auro beach is 1.5 km away from Serenity beach.
Other Things to do in Pondicherry
Pondicherry hosts plenty of places to see. Foreign travelers often stay their for several weeks to spend peaceful holidays and thus wish to explore every single corner of the Pondicherry. If you are looking to stay there for a longer time you have more places and activities to explore. following is a brief list of rest of things to do in Pondicherry.
15. Visit Some Ancient and Modern Temples
You can visit the following temples in Pondicherry to explore the art and culture of ancient India.
Varadaraja Perumal Temple
This temple is located in the heritage township of Pondicherry and dedicated to Lord Krishna. It is believed, the temple was established in 11th century by Cholas. The architecture, painting, inner decoration, beautiful Lord Krishna and the calmness, everything is amazing here.
Arulmigu Manakula Vinayagar Temple
The temple is situated near Aurobindo Ashram and dedicated to Lord Ganapathy (Vinayaka). This is relatively crowded, but beautiful too. An elephant will bless you before your entrance, just give him bananas.
Kanniga Parameswari Temple
The temple is located on M.G. Road and dedicated to Mahashakti goddess Durga (Kali).
Sri Karaneswara Nataraja Temple
An Egyptian pyramid-like structure provides an interesting look to this Lord Nataraja temple. It is located 10 km away from central Pondicherry on ECR Road. There is a small beach near the temple. there is no crowd, and thus the temple is peaceful and quiet.
16. Bharati Park
This is a well-maintained park near Rock beach and good enough for leisure time especially if you have children with you. The park is clean and calm.
17. Visit The Ganesh Garden
Here you can enjoy your relaxing time with loved ones in the lap of nature. The garden has been maintained very well by a French couple. Beautiful place!
18. ExperincePondicherry city bike tour
You must try the bicycle tour in Pondicherry. During your cycle tour, your guide will explain the detailed history of all the visiting places. So, do not miss it.
19. Enjoy Scuba dive and other water sports
Maybe you have done scuba dive in past, or you haven’t done you. Whatever it is, you can try Scuba dive in Pondicherry. They take you to the middle of the sea (7 km from the shore) to provide some wonderful experience in the marine life under the sea. In Pondicherry, Scuba dive is relatively expensive than in other parts of India, but still worth it. You must choose the right scuba instructor team.
The Best Time to Visit Pondicherry
Pondicherry is located in hot climate region. Thus, for the Tourists, winter (Oct/Nov to Feb) is the best season to visit there. If you are from a cold climate, I would rather suggest you visit in the month of November to February. March also offers pleasant weather, but relatively hotter (24-33 °C).
October to March: From late October, the temperature starts falling down in Pondicherry, and rises again from mid-March. This full season is perfect for visiting Puducherry as the temperature never crosses the upper limit of 30 °C. Without some exceptional days at the end of December to early January, the temperature doesn’t fall below 18 °C. The winter is the best time to experience the beautiful blue ocean of Pondicherry. Under the pleasant weather of winter, you can enjoy all the things to do in Pondicherry, comfortably.
April to June: It is the hottest season when humidity and temperature increase a lot, at least up to 40 °C. There are certain plus points, (1) This is a relatively less crowded season to realize a peaceful vacation, (2) You can enjoy the water sports in cool water. Still, I don’t recommend visiting Pondicherry in the summer.
July to September: This is the rainy season in Pondicherry, and you cannot see the blue beauty, but can be a witness to the lush green landscape of the rest of the Pondicherry. The month of August offers a vibrant scenario to celebrate the birthday of legendary guru and nationalist Sri Aurobindo (15 August 1872).
How to Reach Pondicherry
It totally depends on your latest location just before you head for Pondicherry. There are direct flights and trains, and you can also choose a road trip.
By Air
Pondicherry domestic airport is located around 6 km away from the city center. This airport is connected to all megacities of India (Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, Kolkata, Chennai, Hyderabad) but non-stop direct flights are available only from Bangalore and Hyderabad.
Chennai International airport the next closest airport which is 160 km away from Pondicherry city. You can reach Pondicherry by road (3 hours) or by train (4 hours) from Chennai.
By Train
Puducherry railway station is not a busy one, but you’ll get 1 express train daily from Chennai Egmore railway station, and 9 weekly trains from other parts of the nation (New Delhi, Howrah, Tirupati, Mangaluru, Yesvantpur, Kanyakumari, Bhubaneshwar, Dadar – Mumbai).
Besides, 4 more passenger trains run daily from Chennai Egmore, Tirupati and Villupuram (2 daily).
Villupuram is the next closest railway station from Pondicherry, which is about 38 km away from the city. Many trains from the different corners of the country stop at Villupuram. You can reach Pondicherry from here by passenger train or rented a car.
By Road
Personal car or a rental car is the best option to reach Pondicherry with full freedom (if you do not reside far away). Once, we visited there by road from Ooty, and another time from Chennai.
If you are from an international destination, and willing to land at Chennai Airport, then, you can follow the Chennai – Pondicherry East Coast Road which is the shortest route (160 km). NH-32 (170 km) and NH-48 (204 km) are the other routes to reach Pondicherry.
Also, you’ll get buses to reach Pondicherry (Puducherry) from Chennai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Coimbatore, Trichy, Madurai, Mumbai, and other places.
Things to Do in Pondicherry: The Final Words
I have shared all my experiences about Pondicherry covering the best things to do in Pondicherry. To be honest, When I was writing this article, I was missing all beaches and beautiful places, the amazing evenings in Rock beach, stunning Auroville, in fact, everything in Pondicherry.
I shall be more than happy if this article becomes helpful to you, especially in planning your own Pondicherry trip.
If you have some questions leave your query in the comment box below, I shall get back to you to help you. If you like the article, social sharing would be highly appreciated.
Dr. Suvankar Das is a scientific advisor by profession, associated with a CRO organization. He pursued his doctoral degree in Chemistry in 2015. Later, he worked as a postdoctoral researcher & scientist in a couple of institutes/companies.
Besides his scientific journey, Dr. Das is also a passionate traveler and travel blogger. He loves to share all his travel experiences with other travelers so that everyone can enjoy hassle-free holidays with their own tour plans.
He believes, the most beautiful thing in this world is the WORLD itself. so there is no way to live like a clock; rather live it like a compass!
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Thank you for sharing with us this great review on Pondicherry.There are many places around the world which are beautiful to visit but any place has its beauty.
I found Veerampattinam Beach a very peaceful place to go with a loved person and relax.
I wish I could visit this place and enjoy its good weather .
You are absolutely right. Every place has its own beauty, and Pondicherry is also standing in this world with its unique beauty, which is fulfilled by the slogan of human unity.
Veerampattinam beach is wonderful. The blue ocean, yellowish sand, and greenery in the bank of the lagoon, all are visible here. The real beauty is not explainable within such a small article, even I could not include may beautiful pictures. It is my great pleasure, still, you all can imagine the beauty.
I wish you can visit this place soon.
Best wishes,
Dr. SD
Wow, I wouldn’t normally associate beaches with India, but having read your article, Pondicherry would be a beautiful place to visit, in particular Paradise Beach. I love that there’s also plenty of historical sites and buildings to explore as well. Now that I have kids, travelling has changed a bit. Would you say that Pondicherry is suitable to visit with children?
Hi Fiona,
First of all thank you very much for visiting here in “My Travel Accessories” and dropping your insight.
Yes, Pondicherry is an absolutely great place to visit with children. This is a place for peace, charm, and meditation; and also one of the safest place in India, where a great number of foreign travelers visit every year to this wonderful place.
Paradise beach is extremely beautiful without any confusion, and the boat journey to reach it is exciting too. You must enjoy all the historical sites there, for sure. There is no problem to visit there with children.
You can not imagine the internal beauty and calmness of Auroville unless you watch the place. But, if your kids are too young then they may not be allowed to visit in the Matri Mandir at Auroville, because pin drop silence is required there for meditation. Little baby can cry and speak often as they do not understand meditation.
Hope these answers are helpful to you.
With regards,
Dr. SD
It really is amazing. When I had previously thought of India, my mind would go to the cities. However, I never knew about the stunningly beautiful beaches it had. What amazing natural beauty to see! Some of those pictures you posted are just incredibly beautiful, so thank you so much for sharing.
If one were to visit from the United States, is the Chennai Airport one international flights would be directed toward or is there another?
Hi Steve,
Thank you very much for stopping by and post a comment.
If you ever visit India you must travel to Pondicherry, at least for 3-4 days. Pondicherry is an international city (more like a town); many people visit here from the USA, even many of them become a permanent resident of Auroville (which I mentioned in the article).
If you are from the USA, Chennai international airport is the best option to reach Pondicherry. You’ll get 1 stop flights from Baltimore/Washington, Newark, Philadelphia, and Boston. You can travel by rental car from Chennai to Pondicherry. Alternatively, you can fly by another connecting flight, from Chennai to Pondicherry airport. There are options for train also (Chennai-Pondicherry), which you can reserve from IRCTC.
Not only the beaches. you’ll also enjoy the historical places, city tour by bicycle, and Auroville.
With regards,
Dr. SD
Hello,
Thanks for the awesome review of Pondicherry, I’m just getting to know that a place like this exists in India and poses such great features and excellent guess to behold. I have been a fan of your blog lately and I’ve always been blessed with a great review on travel guidelines. Thanks
Hi Salim,
Thank you for your visit here at MTA, and post a wonderful comment. It is my great pleasure to know, you like my article from the vision of Pondicherry.
Pondicherry is one of the peaceful and beautiful international city (town actually) in India. There are many beautiful places in India in between Kashmir to Kanyakumari, where national and international travelers are heading throughout the year; but Pondicherry is different for its calmness, cleanness and cultured environment. In addition, you’ll experience here many historical eras and after all the beauty of the paradise.
Auroville is a place where 2/3 people are from various international destinations; they all are residing permanently there very happily and experiencing the vision of human unity. That is really great to see.
Thank you for the compliments.
With regards,
SD
Greetings to you. Your website looks nice, both by the look and the theme you have chosen, and the blog that you have built very beautiful. There are many valuable travel posts and what you should do when you travel, what you have to take with you during the journey, many beautiful blogs. I like the look and everything. You are also greeted and successful this year. Cheers, Bajram
Thanks for your visit here and the compliments. It is great to hear that, you like the posts.
Best regards,
Dr. SD
There are lots of places to visit in Pondicherry, its cultural and historical background is awesome. It feels like that site is meant for the French after all:) They always grab it, then hand it over to the French. I feel like Pondicherry is to India what Singapore is to Southeast Asia because of its usefulness in the colonial era. I don’t know how much it will cost, but I’d like to visit Veerampattinam beach, what a good sight to behold.
Thank you for your visit and post a comment.
There were French colonies in Pondicherry almost 65 years back, but after 1954 Pondicherry is a part of free India. In 1954 they handed over Pondicherry to the government India after lots of political issues. It is true that many French people have been still staying here permanently because of their love with this holy place; not only French but people from 50 other countries are staying in Auroville village in Pondicherry as permanent residents. That’s why Pondicherry is an international city.
Veerampattinam beach is uniquely decorated by nature, where green plants and blue water combined together. Paradise beach is very beautiful too, you’ll experience boat ride into the backwater to reach there.
Without flight fare $ 420 – $ 550 will be sufficient for 2 people (a couple) for a 5 day trip in Pondicherry. However, expenditure on a trip strictly depends upon your style of living, food habit and drink habit. If someone stays moderately, $ 420-450 will be nice.
Regards,
Dr. SD
Having never heard of Pondicherry, I wondered why someone would write a travel article about it. But I’m sure the people of India and surrounding areas are very familiar with this city and especially the beach. Based on your chart of monthly high and low temperatures, if we were to visit, I’m sure we would spend many hours in the ocean waters to keep cool!
In Houston, Texas where I am from, the temps are similar although winter can be a little colder. Air conditioning is a necessity there. Cars, homes, offices, shopping malls, etc are all air conditioned. Is it the same in Pondicherry? Is it a comfortable place to visit?
You did a very thorough job introducing us to this interesting place. Thank you for an interesting read.
First of all, thank you very much for your visit here in MTA, and drop such a valuable comment.
For your kind information, Pondicherry is an international city (more likely a town) in India, where a great number of people from several parts of the world resides permanently and peacefully. Every year, thousands of international visitors from various countries (mostly from Europe, USA and Canada) come to experience the beauty of Pondicherry. In Auroville, people from at least 50 countries (including India) are living permanently very peacefully in search of human unity, which was the thought of Sri Aurobindo and The Mother (formerly was a French lady). Many among them are from the USA. Notably, Auroville is a great project passed and sanctioned by UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization). People from all religion, cast, nation are always welcome therein Auroville but need to believe on human unity. So, people are staying comfortable in Pondicherry.
If you think about the climate, it is relatively hot. In the winter (November-February) weather remains very pleasant. There are many luxury hotels in the town, There are air condition machines in every room. You’ll get air condition restaurants, bar, everything. This is a very safe and comfortable to visit in Pondicherry.
Hope the overall description is helpful to you.
Best regards,
Dr. SD
Hey there,
A city with lots of things to do and do your vacation in 🙂 The compination of beaches and sightseeing is a great one, if you want to stay a few days there. I guess you will be busy 🙂
Which of the sightseeing places one snouldn’t miss? Is there any ticket with discounts for the various sites, just like in other cities?
Thanks!
Marios
Thank you very much for visiting here in MTA, and drop a comment.
You are right, you’ll be busy if you visit here for only a few days, because really there are many things to do in Pondicherry. 7-8 days vacation is ideal for a restful trip to Pondicherry. People from international destinations stay here for relatively time, but local people often visit for 3-4 days and can not cover all. There are many foreigners in Auroville who become permanent residents in the land of human unity.
The charges of the tickets are reasonably low in all the paid spots in Pondicherry. I think so. Charges for houseboat trip and scuba dive ($98 – $112) are relatively high, but they do not offer a discount in pick season (October to April). In summer the charges may be less, but it is too hot and humid in that season. Not a great idea to visit.
With best regards,
Dr. SD
Dr. SD
What a very thorough and informative guide for visiting Pondicherry. Sounds like a wonderful place to visit when it’s Winter-time here in the US. I sure would love to be able to make that trip soon. Have spent much time there? Thanks for sharing.
Thank you for stopping and post a comment.
Pondicherry is really a wonderful place in India, and many international tourists visit there every year, and many among then become a permanent resident here.
I also visited there a tourist, thus did not spend too much time, but fall in love with the place.
If you are from the USA, you can plan a trip for the next winter. Directly reach to Chennai International airport and then only 3.5 hours by car or 30 minutes by another flight to Pondicherry airport.
Best wishes.
Thanks for this amazing post. I can’t recollect the number of times I have stumbled on your blog but one thing is certainly sure, that is the fact that you always come up with nice travel guides and indepth contents. I will include pondicherry in my next list of place to visit and going by your opinion I am sure I will have a nice experience in India.
Thank you very much for your repeated visit in MTA, and your compliments.
I am glad to know that, you wish to travel through Pondicherry and already included it in your list of place to visit. There are many places to visit in India and Pondicherry is one of the best and popular destinations for foreign travelers.
If you can follow this travel guide, I hope you’ll enjoy your trip to Pondicherry, India.
Best wishes.
I had no idea there was this much to do in Paradise Beach to Auroville. I’m planning a trip there for next year, and I will save and use this guide! I can’t wait to check out Serenity Beach and all the churches. I didn’t know the Eglise de Notre Dame des Anges church was in Auroville, so I will definitely be going there. Thank you for the excellent guide, I’ll make sure to visit most of these spots!
It is great to know you are planning to head towards Pondicherry soon, wish to keep this guide with you.
Paradise beach is a beautiful one to spend a couple of hours or more. Many tourists spend a whole day at Paradise beach for relaxing, swimming and enjoying the sunbath. Serenity beach is nice too, but for your visit in the daytime.
The churches are the signs of history with wonderful architectures and are well maintained. However, you can feel amazing in Auroville too where you can see many international people are staying together in search of human unity.
Wish you all the best for your journey the Pondicherry, India.
Being an Indian I know Pondicherry is a city that everybody would like to travel for its beautiful beaches and monuments. I have never been to Pondicherry but planning for a 2 weeks trip to south India in next month. Thanks for sharing all the location that I can visit and enjoy my trip. Pondicherry has all the foreign influence in their architecture and I think it would make me feel like traveling in Europe.
Yes, you are absolutely right. You may feel partially like traveling in Europe because of the cleanness, architectures and well-planned decoration, especially in certain places like Rock beach, Paradise beach and French colony; but the climate differs a lot.
If you are planning to travel south India next week, you must visit Pondicherry for at least 4-5 days, or 3days for a short trip (you need to cover selective spot for 3 days trip). And don’t miss the Matri Mandir in Auroville, especially if you’ll travel with your family. You’ll be amazed there for sure.
Thank you for your visit here in MTA and share your insight.
Regards.
Hi,
I have read the whole review of this information. This really a great information Pondicherry. Thank you for giving this information. I want to go Pondicherry after reading your article. I am planning to go to this place in mind. I like your article very much. I will share this article with my friends. Thanks for sharing this information.
Thank you for your kind attention to this article, and share your insight. it is a great pleasure that you like my article and wish to share this to your friends.
I am glad, that you wish to go to Pondicherry after reading this article, and for sure you’ll like the place as described if you go there. You must visit Auroville and Matri Mandir where people of all cast, all nation, and all religion are welcome always.
Best wishes.
One learns something new every day. I have never heard of Pondicherry, but it sounds pretty amazing.
I don’t think I would enjoy the heat of full season though and would prefer to go later in the year if I had a choice.
The beaches sound beautiful, especially Veerampattinam Beach and I would definitely like to see the Statue of Ghandhi and also the old lighthouse, as I love revisiting history. I see there is also a wealth of memorial sites to take in.
Thanks for the interesting post, and I would definitely be interested in visiting a place such as this.
It is really a great pleasure to know your insights and realizations after gathering bits of knowledge from this article. You are very right, people learn something new each and every day, there is no end of knowledge.
It is great to know you wish to visit Pondicherry. If you ever fix a trip to India, you must keep Pondicherry in your list. I assure you, you’ll like the place, not only the beaches but also the Matri Mandir in Auroville. You can see many people from different countries are living there peacefully. In addition, you’ll get the historical monuments, which you like.
Best wishes.
Hi Dr. SD – I have never heard of Pondicherry before, but it sure does look like a nice place to visit. if I do make it there, I would definitely go to Paradise Beach. And especially to see the sunrise, that picture looks beautiful. Matri Mandir in Auroville looks amazing too.
Thanks for introducing me to a new vacation destination.
Michele
Yes Michele, your choice is great. Paradise beach and Matri Mandir are the most attracting places in Pondicherry. But overall you’ll like the place very well if you ever visit there. You’ll find there a lot of people from international destinations, both tourists and permanent residents.
You can see the sunrise from any beach (ocean located in the east), better to see from the Rock beach or Serenity beach. But the picture is of the sunset over the Chunnambar river which is located in the west. If you return from Paradise beach in late afternoon, you can experience this.
Regards.
I love the way you outlined your review about Pondicherry. I feel like visiting Pondicherry ever since I read your article. This is lovely and I really appreciate your post; my best hobby is travelling and I will love to do the needful by trying Pondicherry. I actually read every word to imagine how Pondicherry looks like; I have not been to India before but i wish to vist anytime soon. I will definitely re-visit your site because I can see you give such great and accurate information.Thanks for your indepth analysis
Thank you for visit here in MTA and your wish to revisit; thank you also for the comments and the compliments.
If traveling is your hobby you must visit the various corner of the world. If you did never been to India, you should be there, because costs are relatively low there. You can consider Pondicherry in your list, many international tourists visit there every year. And I guess, you’ll enjoy the place as well as I described here.
Best regards.
I have never heard of Pondicherry until I read your blog. It seems like the perfect paradise to visit when I have a budget for a vacation. I am still single and really don’t enjoy traveling alone, however, with so many beautiful places to visit and lots of fun activities I’m sure I will have a great time. And, it seems the climate is closer to mine since I am from a warm climate. This would be much like home. I have never visited India, Pondicherry will certainly be on top of my list of top 10 places to visit.
Exactly, you are absolutely right. If you are looking for a budget vacation, India is one of the best destinations. And if you visit India, Pondicherry is a must visit place along with many others. Though the climate matches well to your hometown, I would say you visit within October to March to experience the best stay. I assure you, you’ll have a great time if you really love to travel, though you are single.
I wish you all the very best.
I haven’t been to India, yet and until now, never really thought of it as a place to travel.
I couldn’t decide where to start from and how to plan my trip accordingly. Yes, there are lots of travel literature and I also know people who are traveling a few times to India but, I still couldn’t make up my mind.
However, your review on Pondicherry got me hooked. I so would love to go there since you have written so detailed everything a newcomer, like myself, needs to know.
Thank you for your time in doing so and for sharing, appreciated 🙂
Hi Sylvia, if you never thought India as a place to travel, you are absolutely wrong. India is versatile and incredible in terms of variety, history, culture, and beauty, though the cultures are a bit different than the rest of the world, you can say a bit conservative. But, that doesn’t matter if you love to travel and explore the wonders in this world. However, you can explore this enormous variety at a relatively much lower cost compared to many other countries, I assure you as a traveler.
However, it is great to know that, you become interested in Pondicherry after reading this review. If you manage to visit India you must keep Pondicherry in your list. I assure you’ll love the place.
Thank you very much for your visit here in MTA, and share your insight.
With Regards.
Pondichery is indeed a great and beautiful place which is good for every tourist. I will love to visit pondichery as there are too many things to do in ponchidery. The beach side, the beautiful birds around and so many other things to catch fun with. Any Indian who has not been there is really missing alot.
Yes, any Indian didn’t visit Pondicherry is missing a lot. Pondicherry is a beautiful place, and you’ll enjoy the place for sure. If you are a bird lover you can see the birds in Chunnamber river and Ousteri Lake.
Thank you for your visit here and share your insights.
Regards.
I had never heard of Pondicherry prior to a few weeks ago. I have a very close friend from Goa, He recommended I plan a trip there as long as I am so close (I am in Dubai). Based on this I started to do some research. This is how I came across your excellent review on the many things to do while visiting Pondicherry.
You really opened my eyes to the value of a trip there, and there is no doubt that I will be planning one over the coming months. This is such a lovely place. You mentioned you have been there many times, and it shows in the depth of information you gathered and included.
Thanks for sharing your knowledge and experiences, and I look forward to reading more of your articles. They are full of useful information.
It is great to know you that, have a friend in Goa, which is another popular destination for international travelers in India. Though the culture of Goa and Pondicherry is very different, you should visit Pondicherry to realize the beauty and the value of humanity. Goa is a place which offers you all the fun you expect in your life, whereas Pondicherry is rich with French-Indian culture.
You are so close to India, and I assure you there are many reasons to spend a holiday in India as all are pretty inexpensive. If you travel to India you must visit Pondicherry for peace and beauty.
Just contact your friend and ask for; however, you can google too, through the given links.
Best wishes.
Good evening Dr. SD,
Pondicherry in India, I had never heard this name before so I started to read your post with interest.
I like it that you tell your readers about its past history, which, as a visitor, is a must know.
As I live in the south of Spain I am used to a hot climate but you say that from April to June, besides reaching 40C the humidity can also be high. That might be a bit of a problem as I am used to 50%
I would love to visit Paradise beach, climb on the old Lighthouse and I would certainly would want to spend some hours, perhaps more, at the Sri Aurobindo Ashram.
The last must on my list would be to visit the lost Indian city Arikamedu. To capture the essence of that old place would be extraordinary.
Thanks to your detailed description in my mind I have already visited Pondicherry.
Regards, Taetske
Thank you for your visit here in MTA, and dropping a comment.
The climate of Spain is not hot at all in comparison to India due to geographical location. This is very close to a place where sun attacks directly, please follow the geographical map.
You are from Spain and thus suggested to visit within November to February.
One thing I noticed you have chosen Sri Aurobindo Ashram to spend time. I guess you like to spend time peace. That place is great for you. Another place you must like is Matri Mandir in Auroville. I guess you become a member of their society (just guessing).
If you ever visit there you must visit these two places along with many others.
Best wishes.
What a beautiful job you’ve done describing this place that has clearly left an impression on you. I enjoy vacationing in places that have historical sites, and provide opportunity for photography. This place would not have been on my list, as I had never heard of it before finding your website! I’ve learned here that it has a lot to offer, and think that it would make a relaxing yet educational family trip.
Thank you for sharing your experience, and giving such detail to your readers as to what they should see when making this trip to Pondicherry. You’ve provided a great visitor’s guide!
First of all thank you very much for your visit here in MTA and the great compliments.
There are many places to visit India to experience historical sites, Pondicherry is one of those. Yes, for sure you’ll, of course, get a lot of opportunity for photography.
You just go to Pondicherry with your family and enjoy the place; it’s a very peaceful and cultured spot to fulfill your requirements.
Wish you all the very best.
Hey,
This is an amazing article . If you have come to experience indian culture ,one of the best places to go in Pondicherry . It is dedicated to lord Ganesh , one of the most popular Hindu deities . The community strives to be entirely environmentally friendly and is located in a beautiful semi-jungle . Thanks for sharing this wonderful article .
Thanks a lot for stopping by and share your insight.
You are fine up to you said about Indian culture. Yes, Pondicherry is a great place to realize Indian culture, in true sense Indo-French culture. Many International tourists come to visit there.
For your kind information, This place is to only dedicated to Lord Ganesh but crosses the barrier of all religion. I don’t know whether you have visited there or not, but you must not reach up to the Matri Mandir in Auroville. Remember forever, Matri Mandir is a place for all nation, all casts, and all religion, and that is located in Pondicherry, and the place is popular for for such thinkings of Sri Aurobindo and The Mother.
So, maybe there is a very popular Ganesh temple in Pondicherry, never mix it up with humanity. Pondicherry, as well as Auroville, is a place for human unity.
Regards.
Hi
Thanks for writing this excellent article about things to do in Pondichery and step by step guideline while traveling to that place. I was planning to visit Himachal and other’s territory with my friends but I think Pondichery will be great choice for me. I am going to share this article with my friends and I believe they will be interested also. I am also excited to visit paradise beach. I am going to bookmark this important article for my future reference.
Hi,
Thank you very much for visiting here and drop a comment.
It all depends upon, which climate you are from, what kind of tour you like (adventure/hiking or Relaxing), and when you are planning to visit.
Like Pondicherry, Himachal is a great place to visit too. But if you are from a cold climate and wish to visit Himachal in summer, and then Pondicherry, you may not enjoy the climate of Pondicherry. People from a cold climate should visit Pondicherry from November to February to feel relaxed.
So I’ll suggest you plan your trip wisely.
Best wishes.
Just by going through the article, one could feel himself being there on the beaches. Very beautifully described. I am sure, just like me, anyone would feel the urge to go and visit all beaches and historical places just by reading it. It would help any amateur traveler in a big way. This article would definitely be super useful if I ever get a chance to visit Puducherry. Thanks for sharing.
Thank you for stopping by and your compliments.
It is a great pleasure to know, you did feel like you are on beaches while reading this article. Besides beaches and historical places, there is one more amazing thing – Auroville, you cannot realize how wonderful is that place without a watch by your own eyes.
I hope you can visit there soon to explore the beautiful beaches, Auroville and historical monuments.
Best wishes
This is a great and informative article. Thanks for this picture of Pondicherry, I really don’t to know that a place like this exists especially in India with this great features. I have been a fan of beaches lately and I am blessed with a great review on travel guidelines. This is a must visit in my nest sojourn to India.
How safe is it at Pondicherry? any safety tips will be well appreciated.
Thanks for sharing.
It is great to know, you have been interested in Pondicherry after visiting here in MTA. Thank you for your comment.
There are many heavenly places in India and Pondicherry is one of those. Pondicherry is a very popular place for foreign tourists, especially for travelers from the USA. Europe and Australia.
No safety tips are required to visit in Pondicherry, this is a very tourist friendly destination and you can see thousands of foreign tourist every day all over the Pondicherry. Even in Auroville many foreigners living together in search of human unity. This is an absolutely peaceful place.
Still, I shall mention two safety tips which I already discussed in the article.
(1) You can avoid Serenity beach in the afternoon or evening because it is away from the main city and situated in a relatively empty place. But morning time is great there, we spend there up to 2 PM. And no sunbath there in Serenity, Paradise beach is a great place to enjoy sunbath and sea bath.
(2) Must take a reputed guide when you go to Arikamedu/Poduke.
Regards.
Highlighting what you said in your post In this travel guide, you’ll get an overview about things to do in Pondicherry, which includes the best spots to visit, an idea about the yearly climates, the best way to reach there and an idea to plan your tour. If you wish to plan a 3-4 day’s short trip there, you can cover I completely agree this is a really good post incisive information the readers and am sure this write up together couldn’t have been better nice job This is a nice travel page Talking about things to do in a pondicherry nice Post
Thank you very much for your visit here in My Travel Accessories and your appreciation.
Pondicherry sounds like a really interesting place to visit. I didn’t know India could be such an amazing tourist destination. This would sound cliché, or maybe I’m not educated enough, I wasn’t of churches in India, even big cathedrals. It would be worth a visit, to see the structures the French left behind.
Pondicherry also seem to have lots of Beaches, would be nice to experience the sun in a far away land. You talked a lot about places to visit. Sadly, you didn’t mention the cuisine or the night life in Pondicherry. Wish you can elaborate on that.
Thanks
We are right that I did not mention the nightlife in Pondicherry because it is pretty normal and not like other megacities in India. There are bars, people enjoy there evening there but never exceed the limit.
All the bars are very sophisticated. Most of the bars close within 11:00 to 11:30, excluding some specially permitted bars. You can enjoy your evening and late night there peacefully.
What I tried to highlight, the beauty, history, and peace in Pondicherry.
Regards.
Hi! I have been told Pondicherry is a wonderful place. And you have greatly encouraged me to go there through your post.
I feel attracted to its history. The period between the 4th and 16th century, is an interesting stage of their past. Indian kingdoms ruling over its soil. And after that, and up to 1954, European powers struggling for its dominion.
Pondicherry’s history has enriched their culture, bringing to this place a mix of interesting flavors.
You are absolutely right.
You’ll get a mixed flavor of beauty, history, peace, and culture in Pondicherry. If you are from India or you visit India you must visit Pondicherry, and remember the words as I explained here.
Thanks for stopping by and share your insight.
Regards.
Hi,
I am Badhan. I am a travel lover. Some of my friends let me know that Pondicherry, also known as Puducherry, a French colonial settlement in India until 1954, is now a Union Territory town bounded by the southeastern Tamil Nadu state. A beautiful place for a change. I think from your article I have known all those things that some travel lovers should know before paying a visit to that kind of wonderful spot. Aah and the table of content was so unique and would be so helpful to me. You have shared all the good things about Pundicherry now please let me know…
⏺Would it be a safe place for foreigners?
and
⏺How is the criminal activists of Pondicherr? (Specially against the travellers.)
Hi Bandhan,
Thank you very much for your interest in Pondicherry as well as in this article. As per your comments, it is very clear to me, that you are a nice travel lover.
Please note, Pondicherry is a great place for foreign tourists. I have already stated in the article that, Auroville in Pondicherry is a place where a great number of foreign people staying together and working in search of human unity. Moreover, A number of foreign people (especially French) are staying permanently in Pondicherry. Foreigners are extremely safe there.
Pondicherry is a very peaceful place, never worry about criminal activity. A great number of foreign people visit every year in Pondicherry, enjoy cycling, sunbath in paradise beach, visit other beautiful beaches and throughout the city. Serenity beach is good to avoid after afternoon because that is a little away from the city and relatively empty place (But morning time is fine, we spend there with family up to 2 PM).
I’d say once again, Pondicherry is a very peaceful place, for Foreigners as well as Indians.
Regards.
Your site is really informative with every detailed aspect to it about Pondicherry review. There are beautiful places everywhere to visit in Pondicherry, the beaches. I heard that Pondicherry is famous for two places, one is maitri mandir which is also known as Golden Globe, but I’ve forgotten the second place. Please what’s the name for the second place?What a very thorough and informative guide for visiting Pondicherry you’ve listed on your post.Thank you!
Yes, the Golden globe is actually Matri Mandir, situated in Auroville at Pondicherry. That is known as a place of ultimate peace and human unity.
I am not sure which one the other place you are talking about. Maybe it is Paradise beach and Chunnambar backwater which are very popular choices for the tourists, especially the foreigners. Even the other one may be the historical French colony area.
Thanks for your visit here and share your insight.
Wow! I feel very excited by reading and looking at pictures are used in your article. Thank you for writing nicely the informative history of Pondicherry. I agree with you to make a vacation plan in summer. I also heard about the mesmerize of Paradise Beach. The sunrise of Rock Beach on the picture you share is just killing. I really enjoyed reading your article. I will post this on my facebook link.
Thank you for your interest in Pondicherry after reading the article, and for sharing your insight.
You can visit any time there in Pondicherry, October to March is the best time to visit.
Regards.
I am planning to travel to India with my friends by the end of this year, and I’m glad it’s indeed the best time to travel there. So, Pondicherry can be accessed easily via train from New Delhi. You mentioned 1 express train daily and 9 weekly trains, does that mean only 1-2 train schedule available per day? Also, I think we will spend time exploring Pondicherry for a day. We love visiting historical monuments, and in spare time we may hit the beach. Which popular monuments (temples or churches) that you recommend to be a must-visit within 1 day limitation? Thank you very much for your information.
Thank you for stopping by and send a query about the tour plan in Pondicherry.
First of all, 1 day is not sufficient for Pondicherry. At least 3 days required to cover the major places. You must have to visit Paradise Beach and Auroville. However, both are a half day trip. Most of the monuments are available near Promenade or Rock beach. You can cover them in the evening. But I think for 1 day this will be too hectic. You should choose either Paradise beach or Auroville.
Best wishes
Thank you for giving this more information about the Pondicherry and its places, I really Liked it, Awesome I enjoyed reading your blog post. The places listed here on this blog are too good. Good job.