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Pondicherry

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About Pondicherry

A love child of the French and Indian cultures, Pondicherry (Pudducherry) is a beach-side union territory located in Tamil Nadu. Previously until 1954, Pondicherry was French settlement. Now the old Bouganvellia-draped French-style houses, churches and even the newly built French-style shops, bright coloured cafes and restaurants give Pondicherry an exotic character to it.   

This French capital of India will definitely make you feel like you are someplace out of India when you visit places like the Rock Beach, Pondicherry Beach, Serenity Beach or the Botanical Gardens. And the best place to see Pondicherry with the same notion is to visit Auroville and Sri Aurobindo Ashram where people from all over the world come to seek spirituality through yoga and meditation. 

Pondicherry is such a place, which will never cease to surprise you with its unique style. There are several cafes and restaurants that serve impeccable French cuisine along with some lip-smacking international cuisines as well. As a popular beach-town, Pondicherry also offers you with the amazing nightlife through numerous clubs and beach-parties offering great music and delicious cocktails. There is so much to do and explore here, that you will not want to go back and experience more and more of this quaint French town of India. 

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Pondicherry FAQ's

What are the different things and activities to do in Pondicherry?

You will be surprised by the array of activities to do in Pondicherry, wanting you to extend your trip a bit more, Below mentioned are some of the best things to do in Pondicherry

1. Scuba Diving
2. Surfing at Serenity Beach
3. Visit Auroville
4. Visit Sri Aurobindo Ashram
5. Explore Rock Beach
6. Visit Pondicherry Museum
7. Water activities at Karaikal beach

Which are the best resorts to stay in Pondicherry?

Being a popular tourist destination, there are numerous stunning resorts in Pondicherry. a popular tourist destination. However, there are some that are a class above the rest and cater effortlessly to today’s discerning traveller. Have a look.

1. Gate House
2. La Maison Tamoule
3. CGH Earth Hotel Maison Perumal
4. LeDupleix
5. Hotel Du Parc

When is the best time to visit Pondicherry?

The best time to visit Pondicherry is from October to February. This is the winter time when temperatures range between 22 degree celsius to 32 degree celsius.

Summers: One can also visit during summers if he/she does not mind some sun. During this time, the temperatures range from 26 degree celsius to 42 degree celsius.

Monsoons: Monsoons can be a little unpredictable but it adds to the natural beauty of the place. Temperature ranges from 25 degree celsius to 35 degree celsius during these months.

Click Here To Book: Pondicherry Travel Package

Drinking Laws

The legal age for drinking is above 18 years in this autonomous Union territory, Pondicherry. You cannot carry liquor from Pondicherry to any other state. 

Tipping

You can give a tip of 10% of the bill, as this is also followed as a standard tipping etiquette in Pondicherry restaurants. For porters, you can give a tip of 20 to 25 INR per bag. Auto drivers are also likely to ask you a tip if you are travelling long distances.


What would you like there?

French style architect
You will enjoy the French culture and the global cuisine, wine, and continental food when in Pondy. You can relish on these dishes and enjoy the local cuisine as well when you visit this place.

Tranquility and nature
For those who love to live their lives in calm and serene atmosphere, this is the right place to be. Not too popular for nightlife, you can visit this place for experiencing global culture and scenic habitat.

Yoga and outdoor sports
You can learn yoga and meditation while in Pondy. For people who are spiritually inclined as well as those who want to take a course in scuba diving and other water sports, this is the best place to be.
Shopping sprees
You will not find luxurious malls in Pondicherry, but it has always been popular for street shopping. The local bazaars are stocked with artistic handicrafts, showpieces, clothes, jewelry, incense, candles, and more home décor items. 

Food and nightlife
Though, you will not find the nightlife Ibiza style, it is good enough to satiate your recreational needs. The food is something people love about Pondy. Your platter of steak and wine, dressed in French style and more can give you mouth watering moments. 

Our Recommendation: What You Can’t Afford to Miss?

Beaches
You can visit 9 beaches in Pondy. Quiet beach in Pondicherry is a calm and a serene location. It is located 8 kilometers from this place and provides you tranquility. The Karaikal beach is a decent hangout for friends and family, where you can play water sports and enjoy the sunrise. Mahe beach has beautiful palms on the coastline and white sands. Promenade beach is great for walking and strolling. You can live in the boat house and enjoy kayaking in Paradise beach. You can also visit the Serenity beach, reppo beach, and Auroville beach for a peaceful time.

Culture and heritage centers
You can visit many places of religion like, Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus church, Chidambaram temple, and many other temples dedicated to Ganesha and Lord Vishnu. You can also visit the Anglo-French textile mills, Pondicherry museum, and memorials to get a taste of French and Roman culture. 

Parks and Aquariums
Botanical gardens provide vibrant species of plants, herbs, and flowers. This is a place not to be missed by nature lovers. You can also visit the Bharathi Park and Keezhoor Park for sightseeing. 

Auroville
This is one of the best places to visit in Pondy. You can visit the ashram, Matrimandir, and spend a day here in meditation and take courses in cooking, ayurvedic medicine, yoga, and other wellness programs. You can also enjoy street shopping in Auroville and bring home artistic artifacts.

How to reach Pondicherry?

Pondicherry is well connected by Road, Rail and Air.

By Air
Pondicherry has a Domestic airport that is well connected to Bengaluru through regular flights. Also for international travellers, one can travel to Chennai and Trichy and travel onwards to Pondicherry which is a few hours from either places by road besides flying in from Bengaluru.

By Rail
Nearest station to Pondicherry is Villupuram. The station is linked to major cities such as New Delhi, Kolkata, Mangalore, Mumbai, Bhubaneshwar, Chennai, Bengaluru. Nagarcoli Express and Pondicherry Express are two of the most popular trains travelling to Pondicherry.

By Road 
Pondicherry is well connected by road with cities like Chennai and Bengaluru. One can take an overnight bus to reach the destination by road or book a taxi to the destination from Chennai or Bengaluru.

Which are best places to stay near Pondicherry Airport?

If you have an early flight home, it makes sense to stay close to Pondicherry Airport. There are several good hotels you can choose from that are located about 15-20 drive away. Take your pick from these 5 popular choices –

1. Hotel Atithi
2. Shenbaga Hotel & Convention Centre
3. Hotel Bon Sejour
4. Ginger Hotel
5. Hotel Annamalai International

Which are the best homestays in Pondicherry?

Get up close and personal with Pondicherry’s culture and make new connections with locals by opting for a homestay. Tastefully decorated with a homely feel, these 5 options are among the most popular.

1. Gratitude Heritage
2. Les Hibiscus
3. Nila Home Stay
4. Dumas Guest House
5. Vatika Guest Home

What are the best romantic resorts in Pondicherry for couples?

Couples looking to get away from it all and spend time in each other’s company will find terrific romantic resorts in Pondicherry. French colonial architecture with hints of Indian elements and unmatched hospitality and service await you at these charming resorts:

1. Palais de Mahe
2. Villa Shanti
3. La Villa Pondicherry
4. Grand Serenaa Hotel & Resorts

Which are the best hubs for shopping in Pondicherry?

Pondicherry offers a range of items that tourists would love to take back with them besides of course unforgettable memories. A few places for every shopper are:

1. Casablanca
2. Muthu Silk Plaza
3. Mission Street
4. Serenity Beach Bazaar

What is the best local cuisine out here? Where can I get to try it out?

Pondicherry is famous for its French, Italian and South Indian delicacies. One should definitely try the bakery products on Baker’s street, try the Chettinad chicken at Appachi and pizza at Tanto Pizerria. A few other important eating joints where one can find local cuisine are:

1. Cafe des Arts
2. Le Cafe
3. Cafe Artrika
4. Carte Blanche at De’Lorient
5. La Maison Rose

Which are the famous spiritual centers in Pondicherry?

Pondicherry is famous for its spiritual centres which attract people from the world over. Few of the most famous centres are:

- Shri Aurobindo Ashram
- Auroville
- Manakula Vinayagar Temple
- Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus

Where can one enjoy boating in Pondicherry?

One can enjoy boating in the Chunnambar boathouse.

Which are the best beaches for surfing in Pondicherry?

Pondicherry sees a lot of tourists surfing on its picturesque beaches. Few of the popular beaches for surfing are:

- Serenity Beach
- Auroville Beach

Where can i enjoy Kayaking in Pondicherry?

The most popular kayaking destination in Pondicherry is Karaikal beach. Kayaking and Canoeing is a much popular water sport there.

Where can i enjoy scuba diving in Pondicherry?

Scuba Diving is one of a kind experience. It opens one up to the marvels of the underwater world. The coral reefs and mosaic of different coloured fishes makes the visual experience almost surreal. It is definitely a high priority activity for any tourist who intends to make the trip to Pondicherry worth every penny. The most famous Scuba Diving spots in Pondicherry are:

- Temple Reef
- 4 corners
- Coral Shark Reef
- Ravines
- Aravind’s Wall
- Padi Dive Center
- The Hole

Pondicherry Reviews

Traveller image gallery
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Yogesh Sh
Reviewed: 26 Jun 2022
5.0/5
Had a great experience booking thru thrillophilia.. first of all it is cheaper than what you get by going to the place and booking there..timely pickup by the driver.. he was so polite and he acted as a guide..car provided was superb!!thrillophilia support team responded to our queries very well..ov... Read More
yogesh Sh
yogesh Sh
yogesh Sh
yogesh Sh
yogesh Sh
yogesh Sh
(8+)View All
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Shubham Goel
Reviewed: 29 Jun 2022
5.0/5
Hey I had an amazing experience of Scuba Diving in Pondicherry which is hard explain in words. The experience will remain unforgettable for me. It was like going into a different world, a world which is just a one step away from you when you are standing on the shore. My instructors were amazing.... Read More
Shubham Goel
Shubham Goel
Shubham Goel
Shubham Goel
Shubham Goel
Shubham Goel
(3+)View All
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Snigdha Munuru
Reviewed: 16 Jun 2023
5.0/5
The knowledge provided by scuba professionals was so calming and helpful. I started this whole adventure with the belief that I can do it. But the moment I fell into the ocean in a back flip. I forgot what my trainers thought me but my trainer held me instantly and kept me engaging in feeling okay. ... Read More
Snigdha Munuru
Snigdha Munuru
Snigdha Munuru
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Sarthak Yadav
Reviewed: 18 Dec 2022
5.0/5
This is coming from someone who can't swim. it was my first time seeing the open seas, and got this recommendation from multiple people in Pondicherry. I must say, Samudra Adventures made the impossible look like a cake walk for a non swimmer. Here's a detailed breakdown - The day started early mor... Read More
Sarthak Yadav
Sarthak Yadav
Sarthak Yadav
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Chandra Sekar
Reviewed: 31 May 2023
5.0/5
#scubadiving has been on my bucket list and this #Pondy trip gave me the opportunity to check that box! We booked it through #thrillophilia The day before the dive we were invited to a pool training session at their office, near Eden beach and it put to rest a lot of our questions and concerns. ... Read More
Chandra Sekar
Chandra Sekar
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Arya Sajith
Reviewed: 30 Jan 2023
5.0/5
I had the best timein pondicherry for my scuba divinv ! Thanks to thrillophilia for arranging everything so hassle free and helping me to check off one more thing from my bucketlist wish! 🫶
Arya Sajith

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