Puducherry in India

Puducherry Overview

Puducherry, also known as Pondicherry, is a Union Territory of India located on the southeastern coast, along the Bay of Bengal. 

It is known for its French colonial heritage, pristine beaches, spiritual retreats, and unique blend of Indian and French cultures.

Location on Google Map

How to Reach Puducherry

For Domestic Tourists

Air

Nearest airport: Chennai International Airport (151 km).

From Chennai, you can take a taxi or a bus to Puducherry.

Train

Nearest railway station: Puducherry Railway Station.

Well connected with cities like Chennai, Bangalore, and Mumbai.

Road

Excellent road connectivity via East Coast Road (ECR) from Chennai.

State and private buses run frequently from Chennai, Bangalore, and other major cities.

International Tourists

Fly to Chennai International Airport

Chennai serves as the gateway. From there, take a taxi, bus, or train to Puducherry.

Direct Flights (Limited)

Puducherry Airport handles a few domestic flights from Bangalore.

Accommodation in Puducherry

Budget

Ajantha Beach Guest House (~₹1,000/night)

Hotel Du Palais (~₹1,500/night)

Mid-Range

Hotel De L'Orient (~₹3,500/night)

Shenbaga Hotel (~₹3,000/night)

Luxury

Palais de Mahe (~₹9,000/night)

The Promenade (~₹7,500/night)

Unique Stays

Guesthouses in Auroville (~₹1,000 to ₹5,000/night).

Meals and Food Options

Local Delicacies

Crab masala

Coconut curry

French baguettes and croissants

South Indian staples (idli, dosa, sambar)

Famous Cafes and Restaurants

Café des Arts (French cuisine)

Surguru (South Indian meals)

Villa Shanti (fusion dining)

Transport in Puducherry

Local Transport

Auto-rickshaws: Convenient but negotiate fares beforehand.

Bicycles/Scooters: Easily rentable (~₹300/day).

Taxis: Available for day trips (~₹1,500-₹2,500/day).

Unique Option

Explore the French Quarter on foot or cycle for the authentic experience.

What to Visit and Must-Do Activities

Heritage and Spiritual Spots

Sri Aurobindo Ashram: A spiritual retreat.

Auroville: An experimental township with the iconic Matrimandir.

Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus.

Beaches

Promenade Beach: Perfect for a morning walk.

Paradise Beach: Accessible by boat; tranquil and clean.

Auro Beach: Near Auroville; ideal for sunsets.

Cultural and Historical Attractions

French War Memorial.

Bharathi Park.

Pondicherry Museum.

Activities

Scuba diving (~₹6,000-₹8,000).

Boating at Chunnambar Backwater.

Shopping for handicrafts, leather goods, and incense.

Ideal Duration

3-4 Days: Enough to explore major attractions and relax.

5-6 Days: Recommended if you wish to include Auroville workshops or leisure activities.

Sample 4-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival, explore French Quarter, Promenade Beach.

Day 2: Visit Auroville, Matrimandir, and Auro Beach.

Day 3: Scuba diving, Chunnambar Boat House, Paradise Beach.

Day 4: Sri Aurobindo Ashram, shopping, and departure.

Estimated Cost

Budget Trip (3-4 days): ₹8,000-₹12,000 per person.

Luxury Trip: ₹20,000-₹35,000 per person.

Breakdown:

Travel: ₹2,000-₹5,000.

Accommodation: ₹1,500-₹10,000 per night.

Meals: ₹500-₹1,500/day.

Activities: ₹2,000-₹6,000.

Tips and Tricks

Offbeat Experiences

Yoga retreats in Auroville.

Exploring traditional Tamil houses in the Tamil Quarter.

Attend cultural performances at Alliance Française.

Shopping

Hit Goubert Market for spices and local products.

Look for eco-friendly items in Auroville.

Season to Visit

Best Time: October to March (pleasant weather).

Avoid: Monsoon months (June-September).

Avoid Crowds

Visit attractions early in the morning.

Unique Finds

Pottery workshops in Auroville.

Taste locally brewed Puducherry wines.