Feel the French connection in Pondicherry - India's Own French Town. You go there with a chaotic mind and would come back with a clear and much more positive outlook on India. You will keep asking yourself, "Am I in India or France?" Pondchierry is a union territory and has been under the authority of France for 300 years (approx.). So even today, the French colony, their architectural craft, and culture are well preserved here. Pondicherry, or what people still know by the name of Pondicherry, is a prized Nagina of this treasure.
This place full of natural beauty is nothing less than a paradise. Filled with diverse forms of nature, shining white sand, blue sea, and golden sunshine, this city is a unique attraction for tourists from all over the world. By taking a short break from your busy life, you can also enjoy a great holiday in Pondicherry. Whether you are after underwater marine life or seeking rejuvenation at the spiritual Ashrams, this french town in India couldn't be any more epic.
Continue reading to find out everything about the Pondicherry travel guide.
Why Visit Pondicherry?
The East Coast Road connecting Pondicherry to Chennai has a lot of untouched and extraordinary beaches. Which is safe even with the keen eyes of the local people. This is important for any female traveler, whether married or unmarried. There may be some fishermen around, but they do not bother. It is a safe place where there is no clumsiness or molestation.
Pondicherry is a serene town and home to many secluded beaches. It is also one of the best places in India for scuba diving and exploring underwater marine life. There are ashrams in Pondicherry where tourists can attain mental peace. Auroville Ashram is one such place for meditation. With the sheer presence of French appeal everywhere, the seafood of Pondicherry is a blend of Tamil and French cultures.
If you want to transport yourself back into the ancient century, Pondicherry is a must-visit place.
How To Reach Pondicherry?
Tourists looking for ways to reach Pondicherry either from domestic or international destinations will be spoiled with choices. There are three ways to reach the French town in India, which includes:
By Flight: Pondicherry Airport is an interstate airport in the Lawspet district. There are regular flights from Bangalore to here, and Chennai Airport is the nearest international airport from where regular domestic and international flights will be available. Traveling by air from Chennai is also a good option where you can go to Pondicherry, which is just 145 km (approx.).
- Domestic airlines to reach Pondicherry: IndiGo, GoAir, SpiceJet, etc
- International airlines to reach Pondicherry: Qantas, Vistara
By Train: The nearest railway station to Pondicherry is in Villupuram. It is 40 km (approx.) from Pondicherry. The rail network of French towns is well connected with the major Indian towns like Kolkata, Trivandrum, Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, etc.
By Road: Pondicherry has excellent road connectivity with its nearby towns like Chennai - 150 km (approx.), and Bangalore - 310 km (approx.) Pondicherry is well connected to the rest of the country by a good network of roads. It is located on National Highway 45 and easily accessible by bus from nearby major cities, including Chennai, Thanjavur, Trichy, Coimbatore, Bangalore, and Madurai.
How To Travel Around Pondicherry?
Pondicherry is the sole township in the street mohallas. The best way to see this small town is by renting a bike or a bicycle. There are a lot of shops on Mission Street that offer bikes and kinetic fares at low prices. Rent bikes are cheaper than auto-rickshaws and convenient for walking in the streets.
Note: Pondicherry tourism department runs buses for tourists to explore the attractions in Pondicherry. However, tourists could hire a private cab also.
Best time to visit Pondicherry:
The ideal time to visit Pondicherry depends upon tourists and their interests. If you are someone who wants to plunge into beach activities, you must visit Pondicherry in winter. Tourists who love lush greenery around them could plan their trip in monsoons. During summers, the accommodation price gets dropped, which makes Pondicherry a must-visit place for budget-friendly tourists.
Here is detailed information about the best time to visit Pondicherry according to weather and climate:
Pondicherry in Winters (October-February):
Winter marks the best time to visit Pondicherry because of the plentiful water sports activities. From scuba diving to beach hopping, tourists are welcomed in Pondicherry in October-March. The temperature remains pleasant for sightseeing and oscillates between 15°C-30°C (approx.) It is the time when the international yoga festival is celebrated in Pondicherry.
Pondicherry in Monsoon (July-September):
If you love rainfall and budget-friendly accommodation, the best time to visit Pondicherry is between July-September. The temperature minimum and maximum temperature touch 25°C-35°C (approx.). It is the time when Pondicherry is blanketed in lush greenery. Tourists can indulge in photography. From the cultural point of view, the monsoon period marks the celebration of Sri Aurobindo's birthday with full pride and joy.
Pondicherry in Summers (March-June):
Tourists can beat the heat by plunging in cool waters in the evening on a beach between March-June. This period marks the summer season in Pondicherry. However the humidity is at its peak, but that doesn't stop tourists from flocking around Pondicherry's top attractions like Promenade beach and Serenity beach. The temperature ranges between 26°C-42°C. If you love boating and taking Vitamin SEA, Pondicherry couldn't be better in summer.
Places to Visit in Pondicherry:
Famous as the French Town in India, Pondicherry has many top tourist attractions. Here is a list of must-visit attractions in India's Own French Town:
Paradise Beach
Paradise Beach is the oldest beach here, which is reached by boat through the backwaters of the Chunnambar River. You can build sand forts here, play with the ball or read a book while having fun. Boat House Beach, Paradise Beach, and Chunnambar Beach are all the same names.
Shri Aurobindo Ashram
This Ashram in Pondicherry is a must-visit place if you want to attain mental peace. This ashram is a great option for meditation. Not only Indians but people from different parts of the world come to this ashram.
Gingee Fort
Unfold the history of Pondicherry and explore Gingee Fort. It was labeled as a National Monument in 1921 due to its impeccable architecture. If you are a historical buff, you must visit Gingee Fort.
White Town
See the mix of past and present at White Town. It is a place that will take you to the old French town because of its culturally rich pasts, and chic cafes. You will have ample photography options if you love capturing yellow architecture. The White Town has plenty of Instagrammable cafes to relish the delicious seafood.
Jawahar Toy Museum
Envy yourself by pampering your inner child on the Pondicherry holidays. If you love this, visit Jawahar Toy Museum. It is a dollhouse that features 140+ dolls (approx.) brought from different states in India. This place is a great spot for kids, also.
Things to Do in Pondicherry:
Keep reading to learn why the French town in India is a tourist magnet for both local and international tourists. Here is a list of the top things to do in Pondicherry for all age groups:
Scuba Diving
There is no shortage of calm, sun-kissed beaches in Pondicherry. So, adventure sports options are at every beach. Witness the enigmatic underwater life and meet underwater creatures. Underwater creatures to watch during scuba diving: sea snakes, butterflies, manta rays, dolphins, and lionfish.
Places for scuba diving in Pondicherry: Aravind's Wall, Ravines, PADI Dive Center
Bird Watching at Osudu Lake
This lake in Pondicherry houses 40+ (approx.) species of migratory birds. You can see egrets, openbill strokes, white-breasted water hens, and golden orioles. You can also indulge in boating fun with your family. It is a great place for photography enthusiasts.
Sightseeing on Bicycle at Green Quarter
Hop the French on a bicycle to explore the vintage French colonies and traditional Tamil settlements. Going on a cycling trip at Green Quarter is about witnessing cultural centers and historical palaces. You will be rewarded with impeccable architecture to capture in your camera.
How Many Days Are Sufficient to Visit Pondicherry?
3-4 days (approx.) are sufficient to explore the French town in India. However, this could be increased depending on the type of traveler you are. If you love leisure around Pondicherry beaches, you should add 2-3 days (approx.) to your Pondicherry itinerary.
Average Travel Budget For Pondicherry:
The budget required for a Pondicherry trip is around INR 2000 - INR 2500 (approx.) per person. However, it may increase if you will indulge in the best things to do in Pondicherry, including shopping, eating, and sightseeing. This is subject to change price and highly fluctuates the type of accommodation you select.
Where to Stay in Pondicherry:
Whether you are a luxury accommodation lover or seek budget accommodation, Pondicherry will serve your accommodation according to your budget. The French town has many homestays, hostels, and mid-range and luxury range accommodations available. Check out the best accommodation as per your travel style:
- Luxury - Palais De Mahe La Villa, Villa Shanti
- Mid Range - Villa Anna Pondy, Pondicherry Executive Inn, White Pearl Residency
- Budget: Villa Umar, La Maison Radha
- Hostel: Valentine Hostel, Blue Lotus
- Homestays: Unique Thatch Cabin, Serenity Homestay, House of Mud
Where to Eat in Pondicherry?
The French town has a huge influence on Tamil and French culture. Here you can gorge on Tamil and French cuisine. You must savor the seafood in Pondicherry. If you love seafood like crab and Jhinga Fish, there are plenty of places to eat in Pondicherry.
A few of the best restaurants in Pondicherry:
- Cafe Ecstasy, Baker Street, Juka Choco-La (MG Road)
- Le Dupleix and Satsanga (White Town)
- Tanto Pizzeria (Kuliyapalam, Auroville)
- Cost: INR 500 - INR 1500 onwards (approx.) for two people
Shopping Places in Pondicherry:
The French town of India is fondly famous for its fragrance candles, oil, handmade clothes, and crafts. Check out the best shopping places in Pondicherry:
- Kalki Boutique: Shop cotton and silk clothes, handmade pieces of jewelry, and unique oils.
- La Boutique Auroville: This shopping spot in Pondicherry has one of the best collections of clothes and scarves for women.
- Geetanjali: For traditional artifacts, carved doors, wooden chests, beautiful paintings, and furniture, Geetanjali is the place to go!
Pondicherry Travel Tips:
- Carry your ID proof if you want to hire bicycles or self-drive cars.
- Also, compare the operators' prices and pick the one that suits you.
- Be a responsible tourist, and do not wander alone after sunset.
- Book your scuba diving activity in advance to avoid hefty prices.
- English, French, and Tamil are widely spoken in Pondicherry.
- Test your bargaining skills to avoid shopkeepers fooling you.
- Dress modestly when visiting cultural attractions.
- Smoking and drinking on the beach are strictly prohibited.
- A permit is not required to explore Pondicherry.
