Pondicherry Travel Guide 2024: Places To Visit, Where To Eat & Stay + Travel Tips

Disclaimer: The author of the article has vacationed twice in Pondicherry. Most of the recommendations in this article are from her personal experience. Read about our editorial policies.

I must confess, it was love at first sight for me! No, I am not talking about any secret lover. But Pondicherry’s bright-hued streets, huge French-style mansions, pristine beaches with no litter (mostly), gorgeous churches & heavenly bakes, left me in awe. 

That explains why my husband and I went rushing back to the place within a year of our first visit. Unlike Goa, Pondicherry is a quiet beach holiday destination in India with a unique charm. 

Also called Puducherry or Pondy, this little France of India has a lot to offer for tourists and locals alike. In this article, we are going to cover everything from the best places to visit in Pondicherry, culinary must-tries, top-rated stay options, helpful travel tips, and a complete 3-day itinerary for a fulfilling stay in Pondicherry. 

We will also answer frequently asked questions about Pondicherry towards the end of the article. Let’s start off with the best parts about a Pondicherry vacation.

Top 4 Highlights Of My Pondicherry Trip

# The food

The absolute best part about traveling to Pondicherry, for me, was the delectable food. From French delicacies such as croissants, cakes & sourdough breads to fresh, organic, farm-to-plate dishes, Pondicherry is a foodie’s paradise. We’ll get to the details of where to eat and must-try foods here later in the article. But, be well prepared to put on some extra kilos when you visit Pondicherry.   

# The French colonial architecture 

A mood-booster would be an understatement for Pondicherry’s French Quarters. The bright yellow, pastel pink & sea blue coloured palatial buildings, with high roofs and vintage windows, make White Town a delight to be in. The place offers a glorious peek into the past, yet is beautifully revived for the modern traveler. Also, the best cafes and hotels here are at a walkable distance from the serene Promenade beach. 

# The intriguing town of Auroville

A town that is a result of a confluence of people from 50 countries, Auroville is a peaceful, lush green place where casteism, religions and crimes don’t exist. Everybody earns the same amount of money here and together, they have turned acres of barren lands into food forests.  Intriguing, isn’t it? 

# Locals really know how to live 

One of the most refreshing aspects I observed about the people of Pondicherry is their laidback lifestyle. They maintain a healthy work-life balance and are not running after money all the time. Many cafe owners in Auroville close their businesses early (by 5-6pm), even though they could easily earn big bucks by keeping their spaces open for dinner. Instead, they devote their evenings to things they love, be it families, community service, pursuing hobbies or simply catching up with friends. 

Brief History Of Pondicherry

In the pre-colonial era, the place that is now called Pondicherry witnessed the rule of multiple royal dynasties — including the Cholas, Pandyas, Vijaynagar Empire and Sultan of Bijapur. 

During the latter’s rule, the Portuguese, the Dutch and eventually the French started trading here. Back then it was a small fishing village.

By 1673, the French took over the entire place. Eventually, they developed it into a thriving port town with beautiful European and Tamil houses. The town was later named Puducherry. 

The French lived here for almost 2.5 centuries till India’s independence. It wasn’t a smooth journey though, as the French lost the town to the British several times, but also regained it back. 

In 1954, post India’s independence, Pondicherry became a union territory. Today, it is home to a unique convergence of French and Tamil cultures. There is one part of Pondy (south) where every nook and corner is a reflection of the French influence. While the other part (north) is thriving with local Tamil communities. 

Interestingly, many of these local Tamils still hold French passports, thanks to their ancestors who were in the service of the government of France. They are called the Creole communities. 

Best Time To Visit Pondicherry

Pondicherry, also known as the French Riviera of the East, can be visited anytime of the year. But, the most pleasant and ideal time to visit Pondicherry would be October to February. These are the months when the place is relatively cooler. 

Pondicherry also experiences rainfall between August and September, bringing down the temperatures drastically. 

If you want to soak in some Franco-Tamil culture, The Pondicherry government hosts a beach festival called ‘I See Pondy’  in April. The festival features indie bands, dance performances, flea markets and a celebratory carnival. 

However, if you’re not used to extremely hot and humid climatic conditions, you should avoid visiting Pondicherry in the Summer, as it is a coastal town with tropical weather.

TWT tip: Regardless of when you decide to visit Pondicherry, remember to stay well hydrated and cover your head in the afternoons to avoid sun strokes 

Things To Pack For Your Pondicherry Trip

Apart from packing your general travel essentials like clothes, toiletries, passports, chargers, swimwear, sanitizers, gadgets & other accessories, here are a few things that you might need particularly for Pondicherry:

1. Hats or caps: As Pondicherry’s sun can be extremely strong, a hat or cap can be very useful to keep your head protected from direct sunlight during the day.
2. Sunglasses: While head accessories partly do the job, it is important to keep your eyes cool and protected as well, in order to prevent yourself from getting overly tired.
3. Sunscreen: I am no beauty expert, but your skin can get easily sunburnt in a place like Pondicherry. Thus, applying generous dollops of an SPF 50 PA+++ sunscreen can help prevent tanning and sun spots.
4. Water bottles: Yes, there are lots of places where you can buy mineral water bottles. But, it might be smart of you to carry your own water bottle, so that you can frequently hydrate yourself. This is the best way to beat the scorching heat of Pondicherry.
5. Shorts: Since Pondicherry is a beach destination, you might want to pack your shorts if you are looking to have a fun time at the beach, without worrying about wetting your clothes. Keep some extra clothes handy as well, just in case the ocean waves get unpredictably playful with you.
6. Loose cotton clothes: Whether you are packing dresses, T-shirts, shirts or any other kind of clothing, keep the tropical & humid weather in mind. Wearing light and loose cotton wear will ensure that you stay comfortable during your holiday.
7. Cooling drinks: For days when the heat is sucking your energy out, keeping some drinks like sodas, juices and cold coffees in your bag will be a good idea, especially during long walks.
8. Cooling bags: This is a useful accessory to store your cool drinks and maintain their temperature, regardless of the weather outside. I personally use a 10 liter isothermal ice compact bag in which I carry juices and vegan buttermilk, whenever I travel to hot regions. It keeps the contents cool for almost 12 hours, if stored with 3 ice packs. You can also carry ice creams in such bags.
9. Loose cash: Though India has majorly moved to online payment systems like Gpay and PhonePay, many auto drivers in Pondicherry don’t use them. Credit/debit cards might also not work with them. So carrying some loose cash in your pockets can help you pay tips and commuting charges.
10. Emergency medicines: Yes, you can buy these at any medical store near you. But having some emergency medicines for stomach upsets, indigestion issues or headaches can help save you, just in case the heat gets the better of you and if you don’t find a medical shop close by.
11. Mosquito repellent cream: You will need this to save yourself from the army of mosquitoes that wander in the evenings, especially around Auroville and the areas closer to the lagoon. So apply mosquito repellent cream generously on the exposed parts of your body. 

How To Reach Pondicherry?

Pondicherry has an international airport that sees frequent visitors from across the world. However if you’re planning to visit from another city, your nearest options are Chennai to Pondicherry (150 km & 3-hour drive) or Bangalore to Pondicherry (300 km & 6-hour drive). You can either hop on to a train from any of these cities or reach Pondicherry by a taxi, bike or public bus, based on your preference. If you have enough time in hand, you can also check out the other getaways from Chennai.  

Where To Exchange Your Foreign Currency?

You will find several currency exchange offices in Pondicherry, such as Muthu Forex and Ebix Cash on Mission Street. You can contact travel companies such as Thomas Cook as well. They offer currency exchange services online with a cash delivery option to your preferred address. 

You can also choose to get a traveler’s cheque or forex card that you can use at major hotels. However, you might want to have some local currency notes on you as well. 

Where We Stayed + Pondicherry’s Best Hotels

During our first visit, we stayed at the suite room of Villa Du Ocean, which was a lovely boutique hotel with a vintage touch. The location was perfect, as the hotel was just 5-minutes away from the Promenade Beach. It was also at a walkable distance from all the best cafes in the French quarters. 

The room was equipped with a 4-poster bed, a swing,  bathtub and all the essential amenities. The hotel also had a roof-top pool, which offered a fabulous view of the Notre Dame Des Anges Church and the Bay of Bengal. You can check out our detailed review of Villa Du Ocean to know more about the hotel. 

For the second visit, we chose a budget hotel called Ginger, which had decent and clean rooms. We particularly found it sensible to not spend much on the stay, as we knew we were going to be out the whole day in Pondicherry. We only went back to the room to sleep at night. 

However, there are a plethora of gorgeous stay options to choose from in Pondicherry, including luxury resorts on the beach as well as heritage properties. Here is a list of the top accommodations that have the best reviews to help you pick:

Top Rated Accommodations In Pondicherry

1. Palais De Mahe

This is one of Pondicherry’s most popular hotels for its colonial French design. Palais De Mahe offers aesthetic rooms that are a reflection of the past, while offering all the modern amenities to today’s guests — including a courtyard pool, Ayurvedic massage center and huge verandahs. 

Price: USD 265-460 (INR 22,000-38,000)

Location: White Town, 5-minutes away from Promenade Beach

2. Le Pondy Beach Resort

The luxe resort comes with a private beach, huge swimming pool, Ayurveda center, spa and children’s play area, making it a perfect spot for a family vacation. 

Price: USD 120-360 (INR 10,000-30,000)

Location: On Paradise Beach, Lake View Road, Pudukuppam

3. Ocean Spray

A luxurious beach resort in Pondicherry with a gigantic pool, Ocean Spray features 72 rooms and 34 villas! The property also has banquet halls, spa, money exchange facility and restaurants that serve global cuisines. 

Price: USD 90-220 (INR 7,500-18,000)

Location: ECR Main Road, Manjakuppam, 5-minute drive from Ocean Spray Beach

4. Radisson Resort Pondicherry Bay

This pet-friendly resort in Pondicherry is an inclusive space with accessibility features for the specially-abled and multilingual staff. The resort offers 46 chalets and 5 private villas with Franco-Tamil architecture, besides a pool, spa and multiple restaurants to choose from. 

Price: USD 140-450 (INR 11,500-37,300)

​​Location: Manavely Revenue Village, Maraimalai Adigal Street, 10-minute walk from Eden Beach

5. Le Dupleix

One of the oldest properties in Pondicherry, Le Dupleix was built as a residence for the town’s mayor in the 18th century. The heritage hotel in the French quarter has an old-world charm, featuring antique wooden interiors, textiles and artifacts. You can stay in one of their luxury penthouses, suites or regular rooms.

Price: USD 96-188 (INR 8,000-15,500)

Location: White Town, 3-minute walk from Promenade Beach

6. K Resort

This 30-acre resort features various types of villas, a mini Golf court, Tennis court, snooker room and a pool. It is also pet-friendly with separate pools for your fur babies. They offer dining options by the lake located within the property, besides play area and pool for kids.

Price: USD 96-240 (INR 8,000-20,000)

Location: 10-minute walk from Koonimedu Beach, State Highway 49

7. Dune Eco Village & Spa

If you’re looking for a unique, eco-friendly Pondicherry stay in bamboo houses, mud houses or other unusual eco-rooms, this is where you can book your stay. The property has an in-house healing center that offers Ayurvedic therapies, water therapies, water yoga and complete cure programs for a rejuvenating holiday.   

Price: USD 84-240 (INR 7,000-20,000)

Location: East Coast Road, 4-minute walk from Puthupattu Beach

8. La Villa

Designed by two French architects, La Villa is a revived 19th century mansion that screams minimalistic luxury. It has 6 suites, an open-air restaurant that serves French cuisine, and a pool.

Price: USD 132-240 (INR 11,000-20,000)

Location: White Town, 5-minute walk from Promenade Beach

9. Maison Perumal

A 100+ years old Chettiar mansion turned into a heritage hotel, Maison Perumal is a true reflection of pre-colonial Tamil design sensibilities with hints of French influence. The property proudly showcases works of local artists, serves Franco-Tamil cuisines made with locally grown ingredients and also offers a live cooking demo with their in-house chef. 

Price: USD 170-240 (INR 14,000-20,000)

Location: Tamil Quarters, Heritage Town, 5-minute drive from Promenade Beach

10. Grand Hotel D’Europe

This heritage guesthouse had once hosted French spiritual guru Mirra Alfassa. Founded in 1891, the stay offers antique rooms, a pool, multiple dining spaces and a massage-cum-spa center. 

Price: USD 156-200 (INR 13,000-17,000)

Location: White Town, 5-minute walk from Promenade Beach

11. The Residency Towers

Residency Towers is a contemporary hotel with 75 automated rooms, 3 multi-cuisine restaurants, a pool and a spa. It offers both suites as well as regular rooms amidst modern amenities. 

Price: USD 110-240 (INR 9,000-20,000)

Location: Anna Salai, 7-minute drive from Promenade Beach

12. The Promenade

Located right in front of the Promenade beach, this modern hotel overlooks the Bay of Bengal. It offers sea-facing rooms, a rooftop pan-Asian restaurant, swimming pool, a souvenir store and a spa. 

Price: USD 120-170 (INR 10,000-14,000)

Location: Opposite Promenade Beach, White Town

13. Villa Shanti

With a blend of colonial and contemporary architecture, Villa Shanti offers a central courtyard with a vertical garden, a patio, 11 rooms and 4 vintage suites. They also have an open-air restaurant, cafe bar and a wellness room. 

Price: USD 120-170 (INR 10,000-14,000)

Location: White Town, 5-minute walk from Promenade Beach

14. Lagoon Sarovar Premier Resort

This resort, with colonial architecture, provides stunning views of Bay of Bengal’s backwaters, along with an infinite pool, multiple restaurants, a kids’ play zone and indoor-outdoor games. You can also avail their water sports and boat ride facilities. 

Price: USD 84-108 (INR 7,000-9,000)

Location: Poorankuppam, 1 km from Paradise Beach

Note: The prices mentioned have been recorded at the time of writing this article. They may vary from season to season, and depend on the value of the Indian rupee at the time of your visit. Also, you might want to book your stay well in advance as some of the hotels get filled up for months.  

Other budget stays in Pondicherry:

Besides the luxurious resorts and heritage properties mentioned above, Pondicherry also has several decent budget and mid-range accommodations you can choose from. These include Hotel Atithi TGI Grand, Accord, Villa Ecotiva, Villa Krish, Villa Helena, the Ginger, Villa Du Ocean, Unearth Hostel, De Asian Villa, Gaia’s Garden Guest House, La Maison Aurele, Sengal Boutique Hotel, The Canopy Guest House and Auroville Lotus Pond Studio. 

These stays can cost you between USD 18-96 (INR 1500-8000), depending on the room type and property you decide to book. 

Free stays in Pondicherry:

In Auroville, an experimental town in the Villupuram district of Pondicherry, you can live for free if you offer your volunteering services for the community. You can do anything from cooking, farming and teaching, to social media management and staff management for businesses, depending on your expertise. In return, they will let you live for free in any of their guest houses. On rare occasions, they might even pay based on your type of work.  

Our Top Food Recommendations In Pondicherry 

Pondicherry has a host of charming eateries that serve global cuisines. However, the most dominant cuisines served here are naturally French, Tamil and Creole. 

The cafes and restaurants in Pondicherry feature either French colonial architecture or lush green natural settings. Just spending time at these eateries and hopping from one cafe after another, to explore each of their unique offerings, is an activity many travelers enjoy. 

Here are some of Pondicherry’s top-rated restaurants/cafes and my favorite dishes from them:

1. Bread & Chocolate — Sourdough toasts (especially scrambled Tofu), Orange Cake, chocolate smoothies, Mocha, sourdough pizza, croissant, Chocolate Bon Bons, Mason & Co. single origin chocolate bars

Timings: 11 am to 9 pm (White Town branch); 8 am to 5 pm, Mondays closed (Auroville branch) 

Location: Auroville main road & White Town

2. Auroville Bakery — Chocolate Croissant, Apple Cake, muffins & cookies (lots of vegan options)

Timings: 7 am to 5:30 pm, Sundays closed

Location: Auroville main road

3. Marc’s Cafe — Coffees, dosa (especially the accompanying coconut chutney), sandwiches & cakes 

Timings: 8 am to 10 pm, Wednesdays closed

Location: Auroville main road

4. Solitude Farm Cafe — Farm-to-plate thali (vegan, gluten-free, organic, sugar-free), Hibiscus Cooler & Blue Pea Flower Cooler (must-try to beat the heat)

Timings: 9 am to 3:30 pm, Sundays closed

Location: Auroville main road

5. Cafe Des Arts — Crepes, Coffee, Biscotti (from the brand Tamarind Bakery – yummy!)

Timings: 9 am to 7 pm, Tuesdays closed

Location: White Town

6. Sakura Sushi — Brinjal Sushi, Kimchi Sushi, Pumpkin Sushi & Tempura Sushi 

Timings: 12 pm to 3 pm & 6 pm to 9 pm, Tuesdays closed

Location: Auroville main road

7. Naturellement Garden Cafe — Thai Curry with Brown Rice (light yet delicious), Flourless Coconut Carrot Cake & Mint Cooler (very refreshing!)

Timings: 9 am to 5 pm, Tuesdays closed

Location: Udyogam, Auroville

8. Dreamer’s Cafe — Cakes, sandwiches, cold pressed juices & fresh fruit mojitos

Timings: 8 am to 6 pm

Location: Visitor’s Center, Auroville

9. Matrimandir cafeterias — Kulfi, veg meals & a variety of gelatos

Timings vary for each store

Location: Visitor’s Center, Auroville

10. Bay of Buddha — Sushi, Burnt Garlic Fried Rice, Sticky Rice with Mango (delicious!)

Timings: 6:30 pm to 10:30 pm

Location: White Town

11. Surguru — Idiyappam (served with fresh coconut milk), Parotta, Masala Dosa (must-try) & Veg Thali

Timings: 7 am to 10:30 pm (timings of some branches may vary)

Location: Mission Street/near Providence Mall/Jawaharlal Nehru Street/100 ft road/Sardar Vallabhai Patel Salai

12. Flaming Dragons –– Momos, Ramen, Pina Colada, Thai Green Curry 

Timings: 11 am to 2 am

Location: White Town

13. Coromandel Cafe — Vietnamese Rolls, Chunky Blondie, Naples Style Thick Crust Pizza (simply unforgettable…drool alert!)

Timings: 8:30 am to 10:30 pm

Location: White Town

14. Villa Shanti — Carrot Pakoda, Risotto, Indian breads, Sangria, Herbal Tea

Timings: 12 pm to 3 pm & 7 pm to 10:30 pm

Location: White Town

15. Baker Street — Quiche, breads, Croissant & Baguette

Timings: 7 am to 9:30 pm

Location: MG Road

16. Zuka — Chocolates, pastries

Timings: 9 am to 10 pm

Location: MG Road

17. Celine’s Kitchen — Pizza

Timings: 11 am to 11 pm

Location: White Town

Note: We have not tried the last 3 eateries in this list, as they did not have any vegan food options. However, they are very popular and considered among Pondicherry’s top rated restaurants. There was also another restaurant called Tanto’s that was famous for its pizzas, but they are no longer open. 

You can also visit other popular eateries like Hope Cafe, Season, A2B, Le Petit Four, Crepe In Touch, Veryy Pondy, Canteen 18 and Auro Pizza. For nightlife, there is Hopper’s Bar & Kitchen, Catamaran Bar & Kitchen, Bike & Barrel, Float Gastro Pub & more. 

Sightseeing Recommendations For Pondicherry 

1. White Town – The entire area of White Town is a must-visit for travelers to soak in the pastel and bright palettes of the high-roofed buildings. Their French-style windows and vintage facade truly celebrate colonial architecture. 

And, this is where you will find all of the hottest and happening restaurants in Pondicherry, besides some stunning photo-ops. You can simply walk around or go on a bicycle tour.  

TWT tip: For some Insta-worthy photographs, pose in front of the iconic wall of Cafe Des Arts in White Town. 

2. Promenade Beach – A quick walk away from most of White Town, the Promenade Beach is one of the most popular and safest beaches of Pondicherry. Also called Rock Beach, it features a beachfront walkway that is over a kilometer long. 

When you are here, you can casually stroll along the beach, visit the War Memorial, check out the lighthouse and see the statue of Dupleix, the last governor of French India. Don’t miss the stunning sunset here. 

Timings: 6 am to 8 pm; Location: White Town

3. Notre Dames Des Anges Church – Before moving away from White Town, you could consider visiting this gorgeous, pastel pink-hued church. If you find yourself admiring the exteriors of the church, wait till you get inside and see the splendid interiors. It is a complete visual feast, and offers unparalleled peace while you are here. 

Timings: 5:30 am to 12 pm & 4 pm to 8 pm; Location: White Town, 5 minute walk from Promenade Beach

4. Matrimandir – Considered as the soul of Auroville, Matrimandir is a golden globe-like temple that shimmers as the sunlight bounces off its surface. It was founded by spiritual guru Mirra Alfassa, who is called ‘the mother’. The temple, which took 37 years to build, does not belong to any religion. 

Visitors are only allowed till the viewing point, whose passes can be collected at the Auroville Visitor’s Center. You will need to walk on a kilometer-long shaded path from there to reach the Matrimandir view point. While returning, you can avail their free bus ride. If you wish to meditate in the inner chambers, you would need to physically register 3-10 days in advance.

Timings: 9 am to 4:30 pm (Mon-Sat) & 9 am to 1 pm (Sun); Location: Auroville

5. Swaram Sound Garden – This is one of the most unique places that you should visit at least once. Although if I had been in the town for longer, I would have personally visited multiple times. 

Swaram is a musical research and knowledge center that features unusual musical instruments made of natural materials such as stone, bamboo, metal, wood, seeds and shells. Created by Auroville’s local artisans, these instruments emit some unheard and surreal tunes. You can also purchase some of the instruments at their shop. 

They offer an interesting 1-hour healing session at their sound therapy room, besides conducting sound baths every Monday at the Unity Pavilion. 

Timings: 8:30 am to 12:30 pm & 1:30 pm to 5:30 pm (Mon-Sat), closed on Sunday; Entry fee: USD 1.45 (INR 120); Location: Auroville, 2 km from Matrimandir 

Did you know?

Swaram has been recognised as one of the first 50 projects worldwide by the United Nations’ initiative ‘Music as a global resource’. 

6. Paradise Beach – One of the best tourist places in Pondicherry, Paradise Beach is accessible by a boat ride from the Chunnambar Boat House. The ferry passes through the Chunnambar river, which is surrounded by scenic views. Try spotting the colorful birds on the way. 

After reaching, you can chill on the beach for hours together or go for water sports such as jet skiing and kayaking. They also offer paragliding services here depending on the season. 

Timings: 9 am to 5 pm; Location: Near Chunnambar River, Pudukuppam

7. Aurobindo Ashram – This is one of the most significant landmarks of Pondicherry. Founded by spiritual guru Shri Aurobindo Ghosh over a 100 years ago, the ashram is a place to simply sit for a while, meditate and find your inner peace. 

You will also get to hear the story of Shri Aurobindo, who had a massive spiritual following in Pondicherry. His disciple and spiritual collaborator Mirra Alfassa later went on to spread his peace message and eventually laid the foundation for the utopian society of Auroville. 

Timings: 8 am to 12 pm & 2 pm to 6 pm; Location: White Town

8. Sacred Heart Basilica Church – One of the largest churches in Pondicherry, this revered Christian pilgrimage was constructed in Roman-Byzantine architecture more than a century ago. The glass paintings and chandeliers are among its most striking features. You can visit to pray, find some peace or just to marvel at its beautiful interiors. 

Timings: 6 am to 6 pm (Mon-Fri), 6 am to 5:30 pm (Sat) & 5:30 am to 7:30 pm (Sun); Location: MG Road, Near Railway Station

9. Pondicherry Museum – A must-visit for history enthusiasts, the Pondicherry Museum is home to 6000+ relics from the town’s past era — including the Chola and French periods. From transport systems like palanquins to furniture, stone sculptures and Bronze statues, you will find a lot of ancient glories to gaze at here. 

Don’t forget to check out the jewelry and coins that were excavated from Arikamedu, an ancient Indo-Roman trading area whose remains are now among the historical sites of Puducherry. 

Timings: 9 am to 6:30 pm, closed on Monday; Entry fee: USD 0.60 (INR 50) for foreigners & INR 10 for Indian nationals; Location: White Town

10. Pichavaram Mangrove Forest – Just 2 hours away from Pondicherry, this is an offbeat getaway to consider if you have enough time. It is the second largest mangrove forest in the world and home to several species of birds. You can enjoy the scenic views of the forest on a guided boat, which takes you through dense canals. 

Remember to spot a thin piece of land that separates the forest from the Bay of Bengal. From Pondicherry, you can go by road on a bike, car or bus to Pichavaram. The short road trip itself makes for a tranquil drive, with the path lined up by majestic coconut trees. 

Timings: 9 am to 6 pm; Fee for boat rides: USD 1.8-12 (INR 150-1000); Location: Pichavaram 

Other tourist places in Pondicherry 

Apart from the attractions mentioned above, you can also visit the Sri Manakula Vinayagar Temple (built over 500 years ago) or the Gokilambal Thirukameswar Temple, to get a sneak peek into traditional Hindu architecture.

The French War Memorial can be a stop-over to pay homage to the soldiers who sacrificed their lives. You can check out the Bharathi Park and Botanical Garden to see 1500+ species of plants. Many tourists also visit Arikamedu, an Indo-Roman archeological structure.

Some other places to visit in Pondicherry include the Jawahar Toy Museum and Sri Karaneswara Nataraja Temple, built as a pyramid-like structure. There are also other less-crowded beaches in Pondicherry such as Eden Beach, Mahe Beach and Auroville Beach. However, please note that it would be safe to visit the secluded beaches only if you are with a large group. 

TWT Tip: Every place in Pondicherry has varied timings and off days, including the sightseeing spots as well as restaurants. Thus, if you are particular about covering any of the places mentioned in this article, you might want to check the holidays and timings of each place carefully before planning your trip. 

Activities To Enjoy In Pondicherry

1. Cycling tours 

This will definitely give you the Paris feels as you ride through the vibrant streets of White Town. You can explore Heritage Town as well, to check out the Tamil homes built by the French before India’s independence. 

Bicycles can be rented on Mission Street. You can also opt for a guided 2-hour cycling tour from Sita Cultural Center that starts from 7 am. They offer kids’ cycles as well for 8+ year olds.

Prices could range from INR 500 to 1500, depending on your package & touring agency

2. Scuba diving

Pondicherry has several diving sites where you can witness the sea’s beautiful marine life –– including the Temple Reef, Coral Shark Reef and Four Corners. You can spot various species of coral reefs and marine animals such as Batfish, Lionfish, Dappers, Moray Eels and on lucky days, even dolphins and whale sharks! 

The best part is that there are enough diving agencies with professional instructors for both beginners and advance-level divers. Some of your options are Samudra Adventures, Temple Adventures and Urban Nomad Adventures.   

Prices could range from INR 3,000 to 15,000, depending on your level and package you choose 

Warning: Please remember that scuba diving involves several precautions that need to be followed before, during and after the activity. Hence, it is very important to be trained by an instructor and follow all the rules declared by your respective diving agency. 

3. Sustainable farming

Organic farming workshops are one of the best activities in Pondicherry to understand and experience how our food is grown. A 3-day permaculture workshop is organized regularly by Krishna Mckenzie, an organic farmer and owner of the Solitude Farm & Cafe. The man came from England 25+ years ago and has settled here ever since. 

You can stay rest assured that you will be able to grow your own garden after attending his classes. Besides Permaculture, he also teaches soap making and organic cooking at his farm. He can fluently speak Tamil, by the way, and is also a musician. 

Priced at INR 11,800 for adults and INR 4720 for kids (this includes accommodation at their bamboo huts, all meals & teaching materials) 

4. Boating/sailing

Pondicherry offers a plethora of cruising options on its backwaters as well as the Bay of Bengal. You can choose to hop on to a houseboat from the Chunnambar Boat House or Pondy Marina Boat House. 

For sailing, you can get in touch with Pondy Yacht Club. They offer sailing introduction courses as well, in case you are interested in learning the art of sailing. 

Prices start from INR 25, depending on the type of boat and activity 

5. Heritage & cultural walks 

This is one of the best ways to learn about Pondicherry’s history and culture, while meeting new people and possibly starting some great friendships! The town offers several kinds of walks — including a tour through the French quarters & Tamil quarters, spiritual walks, food walks and more. 

Some of these tours are organized by Indian National Trust For Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH), which has also revived several heritage buildings in Pondicherry. Other travel and touring agencies offer these walks too. 

Prices start from INR 1000 

6. Water & adventure sports

From surfing to kayaking, jet skiing, canoeing and snorkeling, Pondicherry offers many exciting water sports, if you’re looking for some adrenaline rush. These activities are available at multiple beaches, including Paradise Beach and Karaikal Beach. You can also try ATV rides, paragliding and ziplining at Paradise Beach. 

Prices start from INR 300, depending on the sport you choose

7. Cooking workshops

Learn the art of Indian and French cooking, or get the culinary secrets of Creole (Indo-French) families at the Sita Cultural center. Organic cooking workshops are also held at the Solitude Farm, while several chefs at Pondicherry’s heritage hotels offer cooking demos, as mentioned earlier in the article. 

Prices start from INR 900

8. Pottery

Indulge in the soothing and grounding activity of pottery at Mantra Pottery in Auroville, or at the Enso Creative Space, Kuruchikuppam. From basics of the wheel to advanced techniques that include bisque firing, trimming, decorating and glazing, you will learn it all, depending on the kind of course you choose. 

Prices start from INR 8000

Other activities in Pondicherry

Apart from the activities listed above, cafe hopping and wine tasting (especially the local Rose Wine) can be a joyous activity here. You can also simply walk by the beach, or try your hand at traditional kolams (colorful floor drawing) in the Tamil quarters. 

Pondicherry also has a host of spas and Ayurveda centers, where you can indulge in some rejuvenating wellness therapies and traditional massages. 

And, don’t forget to check out Alliance Francaise, just in case any of their cultural events coincide with the time of your visit. They host various programs such as dance shows, movie screenings, rock concerts and more. 

Shopping in Pondicherry 

Pondicherry has tons of shopping options that include both high end artisanal boutiques and affordable street-side stores. Here are some of Pondicherry’s shopping hotspots for all kinds of budgets:

1. Mission Street – Pretty summer dresses and tops, handicrafts, souvenirs, sustainable outfits, antiques

Location: Heritage Town

P.S: I found a cute top (in pic below) for just INR 250 at a small, nameless store here! 

2. Craft Bazaar – Bags, home decor, footwear, wooden toys, magnets & other souvenirs

Location: Beside Gandhi Tidal, Beach Road, White Town

Note: This is a handicrafts fair organized by Pondicherry’s Department of Tourism regularly throughout the year.

3. Casablanca – Fridge magnets, hats, clothes, accessories, stationary, home decor & other souvenirs

Location: Mission Street, Heritage Town

Timings: 10 am to 10 pm (all days)

P.S: I found a lovely photo magnet (in pic below) featuring the text ‘Pondicherry’.

4. La Boutique D’Auroville – Cotton clothes, earthenware, scented candles, essential oils, soaps, home decor, some musical instruments from Swaram Sound Garden (mentioned in the sightseeing section of the article) & more

Location: Auroville visitor’s center 

Timings: 9:30 am to 8:30 pm (all days) 

5. Serenity Beach Bazaar – Bags, clothes, ceramics, accessories, handicrafts & other souvenirs 

Location: Serenity Beach

Timings: 10 am to 5 pm (Sat-Sun only) 

6. Via Pondicherry – Varieties of bags

Location: White Town

Timings: 9 am to 8 pm (all days) 

7. Auro Woodworks – Wooden artworks

Location: MG Road

Timings: 10 am to 8 pm (all days)

8. Janaki – Sustainable garments, skincare products

Location: White Town

Timings: 10 am to 8 pm

9. Anokhi – Ethnic Indian garments

Location: White Town 

Timings: 10 am to 7:30 pm

10. Ma Pondy Cherie – Quirky footwear featuring Indian weaves, jewelry, clothes, accessories and stationery 

Location: MG Road

Timings: 10 am to 7:30 pm (Sun-Wed) & 10 am to 8:30 pm (Thu-Sat)

11. Sund’Art – Vibrant cotton wallets, toys & garments

Location: Aurobindo Street

Timings: 10 am to 6 pm (all days)

12. Kalki Boutique – Fragrances, fashion garments, jewelry and handicrafts

Location: Mission Street

Timings: 9:30 am to 8:30 pm (all days)

13. Aura – Garments, home decor, personal care, eco-friendly bags, soaps & jewelry

Location: White Town 

Timings: 9 am to 9 pm (all days)

Apart from these, there are many other shopping options in Pondicherry, including Nehru Street, Goubert Market, Sri Aurobindo Handmade Paper Factory, Cluny Embroidery Center, Nava Vihan, Habitart, Kriti Eco Boutique, and more. 

Complete 3-Day Itinerary Of Pondicherry

While you can stay in Pondicherry for as many days as you please, or even try slow traveling across Auroville for months together, you need a minimum of 3 days to cover the place, if you’re a traveler in a rush. So here is a well planned 3-day itinerary of Pondicherry that you can use for your trip. You can also check out our video at the end of the article for a closer look at our Pondicherry itinerary. 

DAY 1

First Half:

• Assuming you have arrived early in the morning and checked in to your hotel, start with a scrumptious breakfast and coffee at Bread & Chocolate (present in White Town & Auroville). You can also purchase some of their fabulous chocolates (in pic below). 

• Then head to Mission Street to rent out a bike from one of the many bike rental shops here. You can also get bicycles on rent in this area. With a vehicle to commute, you can explore Pondicherry without any hassle.
• While you are on Mission Street, indulge in some shopping therapy at Casablanca and the nearby street stores. You can purchase some great memorabilia & souvenirs here.
• Next, visit the Notre De Dames Church or Sacred Heart Basilica Church. You will find yourself admiring the intricate interiors and exquisite architecture of the ancient churches.
• For lunch, go to Coromandel Cafe in White Town to eat some of Pondicherry’s best food, especially the pizzas and desserts. 

Second Half: 

• Post lunch, drive to Cafe Des Arts and pose for some quirky photographs in front of its iconic wall.
  
• By 4 pm, it would be the right time to head to the Promenade Beach and relax here till sunset. In the evening, you can also go for a leisurely walk on the beach walkway and around White Town just to admire the colors and architecture of the place.
• For dinner, head to the beachfront restaurant Bay of Buddha and have a delicious pan-Asian meal. 

DAY 2

First Half: 

• Begin your second day with specialty coffee and breakfast at Marc’s Cafe, which is in Auroville. 
• Next, head to the Matrimandir. The visit could easily take 1-2 hours, starting from exploring the Auroville visitor’s center, hearing the intriguing story of the town and then walking to Matrimandir view point. Spend some tranquil time here under the tree shade before returning. 
• After coming back to the visitor’s center, you can check out the many stores and cafeterias here. Sip on some refreshing drinks and get yourself something to take back home.
• For lunch, you can either eat at the visitor’s center’s cafeterias, or Naturellement Garden Cafe, or have a farm-to-plate thali at Solitude Farm Cafe.

Second Half: 

• Next visit the Swaram Sound Garden to explore its unique musical instruments and tunes. You can easily spend an hour here and indulge in the sound healing session if you are interested.
• On your way back, stop by Auroville Bakery for some croissants and muffins, or visit Hope Cafe for snacks.
• Next, drive to Serenity Beach and simply spend a relaxing evening watching the sunset.
• Finish your day with some delicious sushi at Sakura Sushi.

DAY 3

First Half:

• Have breakfast at the famous Baker Street.
• Go to Chunnambar Boat House to catch the ferry for Paradise Beach. Spend half a day here leisurely or go for water sports at the beach.
• Alternatively, you can also choose to drive to Pichavaram and go boating in the Pichavaram Mangrove Forest. Keep some snacks handy as you might not find great dining options here.
• After coming back to the main town, lunch at Flaming Dragons or Celine’s Kitchen.

Second Half: 

• If you have any shopping left to do, visit the Crafts Bazaar near Gandhi Thidal or check out the stores at M.G Road. You can also purchase chocolates at Zuka here.
• Next, visit the Aurobindo Ashram and Pondicherry Museum.
• After this, if you have time, you can go for a spa, massage, walking tour or sign up for any of the cooking/pottery workshops mentioned earlier in the article.
• Wind up the day with some lip-smacking Indian food at Surguru.
• Return your rented bike before retiring for the day.

How Much Can A Pondicherry Trip Cost?

A Pondicherry trip can easily be done for as low as 60 USD (INR 5,000) or as high as 1,200 USD  (INR 1 lakh) or more. Yes, you are reading that right. While Pondicherry has several luxury properties, the French town of India is also home to several mid-range and budget stays. You can also live in Auroville for free if you volunteer for the community in return for the free stay. 

For us personally, it cost around USD 240-360 (INR 20,000-30,000) for each of our 2 trips. The prices include stay, food, commuting, and exclude the flight & taxi charges for reaching Pondicherry. 

Pros & Cons About Pondicherry 

Pros 

Pros about Pondicherry are too many, including the amazing culinary experiences, serene beaches, lush greenery and gorgeous architecture. Also, if you’re into socializing, Pondicherry is the place to be as people from so many countries have settled here, making it a melting pot of varied cultures. 

Cons 

The only con about Pondicherry is the hot and humid weather, for which you need to take enough precautions, as discussed earlier in the article. 

FAQs On Pondicherry Travel

Q. Is Pondicherry worth visiting? What is its specialty? 

A. Absolutely, Pondicherry is called the Little France of India for a reason. With its beautiful churches, colorful streets, French buildings, classic cafes, Franco-Tamil cuisines and clean beaches, Pondicherry is one of the best holiday and beach destinations in India. 

Q. Who should not visit Pondicherry?

A. If you’re mainly looking for a happening nightlife and partying spots, Pondicherry is not for you. It’s also not for you if you don’t have a special interest in architecture, beaches, history, or nature.

Q. What is the best way to commute In Pondicherry?

A. Pondicherry has multiple public transport facilities such as buses, taxis and autos. However, we highly recommend that you rent out a bike, so that you can make the most of the place. You can also explore areas with narrow lanes on a bike. It will ensure that you don’t have to walk much in the sultry weather. 

Q. What language do they speak in Pondicherry?

A. Although people from several countries reside in Pondicherry, you will majorly find people communicating in English, while the local Tamilians speak Tamil. However, don’t be surprised to find a few people speaking French and Italian as well.

Quick Guide  To Speaking Indian Languages For Foreign Tourists 

Q. Are there any tips for foreigners visiting Pondicherry for the first time?

A. Pondicherry is one of the most foreigner-friendly places in India, with people from many countries already living here, including US, France, Italy, England and Germany. So you will feel almost at home in Pondicherry. However, as a tourist, remember to travel with some Indian currency notes, use Google translator if you find someone who can’t speak English, get an Indian SIM and keep your belongings carefully, even though Pondicherry is a very safe city to be in.

Q. Do I need to buy a local SIM in Pondicherry?

A. Yes, you do need a local SIM card if you want to stay connected with the rest of the world and access the internet during your holiday. You will be able to purchase them at the arrival area of any airport you are landing in. Just need to display your passport and VISA while buying the SIM card. You can top up your SIM at any local store in Pondicherry.

Q. How far is Bangalore from Pondicherry?

A. Bangalore is at a distance of 300 km from Pondicherry. It takes around 6 hours to reach from Bangalore to Pondicherry by train or car. A bus ride could take slightly longer than that.

Q. Can we find vegan food in Pondicherry?

A. Yes, it is one of the most vegan-friendly destinations of India, with plant-based options offered at most restaurants in Pondicherry. You will find everything from vegan croissants, cakes, pizzas and Indian vegan food in this town. This is because many residents of Auroville follow veganism as a principle.

TWT Experience Summary Of Pondicherry Trip

Honestly, my Pondicherry trips are among my favorite and most memorable travel experiences! It’s a paradise for lovers of French bakes. And, most of the food here is organically grown in their local food forests, making the meals absolutely heartwarming. 

The locals, including Tamilians, Creole Families and people from various parts of the world, really care about their community and the environment. They also take out enough time for themselves and their well being, instead of running after money all the time. 

You can get a taste of Pondicherry’s unique Franco-Tamil culture by going for heritage walks, signing up for workshops or attending the events organized by Alliance Francaise and the tourism department. 

Pondicherry is also a great place for both adventure lovers and spa enthusiasts, with so many water sports and Ayurveda Centers to choose from. For spiritual seekers too, there are many places to visit in Pondicherry. 

For me personally, the plethora of vegan French specialties in Pondicherry felt like finding my Hansel & Gretel gingerbread home! This is because vegans have relatively fewer options in the other cities of India, although the scenario is changing now. But more on that for some other day.

 

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