Pondicherry – A Tranquil & Peaceful Destination For Senior Citizens

Pondicherry is a dream come true tourist destination situated on the Bay of Bengal in South-East India. An Erstwhile French colony, sitting amidst the remains of the then grandeur-colonial architecture, history, heritage, picturesque coastline, delicious cuisine, a riot of seasonal blossoms, quiet and peaceful lanes, bustling boulevards, beaconing beaches inviting for a swim or a stroll. The must-visit Auroville and Sri Aurobindo Ashram and the friendly and helpful locals- together weave magic.  

Officially known as Puducherry and commonly referred to as Pondy, Pondicherry is a union territory of India. It includes the coastal regions of Puducherry, Mahe, Karaikal, and Yanam. A fine blend of French and Indian culture is clearly visible in these areas. The French quarters or the White town in Puducherry still carries the unique traditions of the French. The colonial-style villas and streets, language, signboards, and cuisine carry the essence of time.  

Best Season/ Time to Visit Pondicherry  

Pondicherry is situated in the South-Eastern region of India and hence has a semi-arid climate. The summer season (Mid-March to June) in this region is extremely hot and humid. This can be the right time if you are planning a beach holiday, but it is not advisable for a sightseeing tour. A beach holiday will be rewarding because various water activities like scuba diving, jet-skiing, surfing, and kayaking are available. The Monsoon season in Pondicherry lasts from July to September. Nature is at its most bountiful during this season. The winter season here continues from November to February, and it is the ideal time for visiting Pondicherry. It is extremely pleasant weather with sunny days but nights become chilly. Winter is the best season for sightseeing tours and exploring Pondicherry. 

How to reach Pondicherry 

By Road 

According to the Pondicherry Tourism Board, travelling by road is the best option. The southern cities have convenient bus routes connecting Pondy and regular bus service is available.  

By Train 

Villupuram lies 35 kilometres away from Pondicherry and is the closest railway station. Regular trains from Chennai, Madurai, and Tiruchirappalli ply to Villupuram. From the railway station, taxi services are available to reach Pondy. 

By Air 

Chennai is one southern city that is well connected to most major cities of the country. The Chennai International Airport is the nearest airport to Pondicherry and is located 135 kilometres away. Taxies and buses are available from the airport to Pondicherry.  

Note: It is advisable to book an online cab service in advance so that you are not overcharged.  

Nearby Hotels  

There are several options available regarding accommodation in Pondicherry according to your preference and budget. Some of the options are: 

• A Serene Hideout in the Heart of White Town, Pondicherry 

Location: White Town, Pondicherry 

Check-in: 12:30 PM 

Checkout: 11:30 AM 

Located in the middle of the White Town and close to Rock Beach, this homestay boasts a mix of both traditional European and Indian architecture. It lies cushioned amongst green gardens and thick shady trees. Located about 11 kilometres from Pondicherry in Auroville and can be easily reached by public or private transport.  

• A Serene Beachside Homestay in Pondicherry 

Location: Pondicherry 

Check-in- 02:00 PM 

Check-out- 11:45 PM 

This homestay is located in Pondicherry on the shores of the Bay of Bengal. Made in the traditional Indian architectural style, it provides proximity to nature.  

• A Villa Retreat in the Heart of Pondicherry 

Location: Kottakuppam, Pondicherry 

Check-in: 12:00 PM 

Check out: 11:00 AM 

Surrounded by greenery, this homestay is a 30-year-old heritage property.  

• Le Royal Park, Pondicherry  

Location: Kamaraj Salai, Saram, Puducherry 

Check-In: 1:00 PM  

Check-Out: 11:00 AM 

This offers a luxurious and comfortable stay. The resort is a perfect getaway from the humdrum of daily life. Surrounded by comforting seaside beauty, the stay here is going to be a memorable experience.   

Estimated Vacation Budget  

The cost of the trip will differ according to the time spent in Pondicherry. The mode of commuting, accommodation, and the amount spent on food, shopping, and other activities too are decisive factors. When deciding on the budget for a trip to Pondicherry, you must first decide on the amount you are willing to spend per day. You should be willing to spend between Rs.2500 to Rs.3000/- per head. This will accommodate your hotel, food, transport, and other expenses. Average hotel prices for two persons in Pondicherry fall to a little over 2000/-.   

Must Visit Places in Pondicherry 

There are several places to visit in Pondichery to discover and explore according to the time you have in hand. A trip to the French colony, also known as the White Town area is a must-visit. The colonial architecture, the grid-like patterned streets, signboards in French, and others add to the historical effect. Here is a shortlist of places to visit in Pondicherry. 

La Maison Rose, Pondicherry 

• Location: Romain Rolland Street 
• Timing: 10.30 AM to 10.30 PM 

It is an example of old French colonial architecture. Converted into three boutique shops for unique souvenirs, jewellery, and clothes. The boutiques are named Domus, Oh la la, and Amethyst.  

Villa Helena, Pondicherry 

• Location: Bussy Street 
• Timing: 12 Noon – 3 PM, 7 PM – 10 PM 

Like La Maison Rose, Villa Helena is located in a white town. A fine example of colonial architecture, it is a heritage hotel with a garden restaurant that provides some delicious multi-cuisine food and cocktails.  

Eglise De Notre Dame Des Anges, Pondicherry 

• Location: Dumas Street and Surcoof Street 
• Timing: 7.00 AM – 6.30 PM 

Built in the 18th century, it is amongst the oldest churches in the White Town area. There is a towering statue of Mother Mary holding baby Jesus and a statue of Joan of Arc. The only Mass in Pondicherry is held in this magnificent church.  

Sri Varadaraja Perumal Temple 

• Location: Mahatma Gandhi Road, Heritage Town 
• Timing: 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM 

Dating back to 600 AD it is considered to be the oldest temple here. Dedicated to Sri Varadaraja Perumal, who is an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. Built in the Dravidian architectural style, its gopuram is adorned with several sculptures of Hindu Goddesses.  

Auroville 

• Location: Viluppuram 
• Timing: 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM for visitors 

Considered one of the most famous places in Pondicherry Auroville is a must-visit for all spiritual people. Founded in 1968, it is a universal town where persons of any nationality live together in peace and harmony. In the middle of the town is situated a temple called “Matri Mandir” symbolizing the universal mother. 

Shri Aurobindo Ashram 

• Location: Marine Street 
• Timing: 8:30 AM to 11:30 AM and 4:00 PM to 6:00 PMShri Aurobindo founded this revered ashram in Pondicherry in 1926. Aurobindo Ghosh was an Indian freedom fighter. The ashram is an important tourist attraction. Tourists in large numbers seeking peace and tranquillity reach here and find serenity, solace, and fulfillment.  

The Pondicherry Museum 

• Location: Easwaran Kovil Street 
• Timing: 9:00 AM to 6:30 PM 
• Entry Fee: INR 10 for adults, INR 5 for children, INR 50 for foreign nationals 

There is an amazing collection of bronze structures dating back to the Pallava and Chola dynasties. Artifacts found at the archaeological excavation sites Arikamedu are on display here.  

Chunnambar Boathouse 

• Location: National Highway 45A, Nonankuppam 
• Timing: 9:30 AM to 4:00 PM 

• Entry Fee: Rs. 10/- per head 

Note: Extra charges for water sports and other activities will be applicable.  

Also known as “Plage Paradise” is situated at the confluence of the Chunnambar River with the Bay of Bengal. It is a breath-taking sight to watch the river rushing into the waters of the bay. Opportunities for water activities/ sports are available here.  

Rock Beach 

• Timings: open 24 hours 

Also known as Promenade beach is the most beautiful beach in Pondicherry. About 1.5 kilometres long, it offers a panoramic view of the landscape and the landmark around it. 

Serenity Beach 

• Timing: The beach closes at 6.30 PM 

It is very popular among surfers. People also come here to enjoy the surroundings and take photographs. The Serenity Bazar held on weekends from 10 AM to 5 PM also attracts tourists.  

Karaikal Beach 

• Timing: 9.00 AM – 5.00 PM 
• Water activities– Kayaking, boating, and canoeing.  

This beach is equally popular with adventure sport lovers and seekers of solitude. The sunrise from this beach is spectacular. Situated about 3 hours from the main town area, it offers good water activities and quality time can be spent here with family and friends.  

 Paradise Beach Pondicherry 

• Timing: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM 

Entry Fee 

• 150 per person 
• 20 for Camera 
• 40 for Video Camera 
• 30 for 2-Seater Pedal 
• 60 for 4-Seater Pedal 
• 20 for 1 Seater Kayak 
• 30 for Average Boat Ride 

Paradise Beach with its unparallel scenic beauty has a calming effect and leaves you peaceful and serene. It is one of the top places to visit in Pondicherry. Located a walking distance away from Chunnambar town, the beach is surrounded by thick mangrove trees, reflecting water, and a surprisingly clean sandy beach. One can pass the time strolling, resting, enjoying water activities, or visiting the eateries to satiate hunger pangs. Adventure sports like jet-skiing, kayaking, canoeing, and others can also be indulged in.  

Note: Gear for the water sports is not always available. Also, the waters at the beach are quite deep so it is advisable to contact the beach authorities beforehand.  

Places to visit in Pondicherry in one day 

If you are simply passing through Pondicherry or if you have one day in hand, you should visit the below-mentioned places. Try and cover as many as you can. People here are very helpful, and the local drivers will assist/help in your endeavour. Below are the most popular places to visit in Pondicherry in 1 day 

• Auroville 
• Matri Mandir 
• Sri Aurobindo Ashram 
• French War Memorial 
• Botanical Garden and Aquarium 
• Chunnambar Boat House 
• Promenade Beach 

Places to visit in Pondicherry in 2 days 

If you are visiting Pondicherry for two days, you have enough time to capture the essence of the place. Here is the list of unique places to visit in Pondicherry 

• Sri Aurobindo Ashram 
• Paradise Beach 
• Auroville 
• Mahatma Gandhi Statue 
• Basilica of the sacred heart of Jesus 
• The Pondicherry Museum and Aquarium 
• French War Memorial 
• Pondy Bazar 
• Rock Beach 
• Old Light House 
• Manakula Vinayagar Temple 
• Botanical Garden 
• Chunnambar Boat House 
• Café Xlasi 

Places to visit in Pondicherry in 3 days 

If you are planning a three-day trip to Pondicherry and desire to soak in the sun, enjoy the sea and explore the city, below is the itinerary to follow for a satisfying experience: 

Day-1 

• Gandhi Statue 
• Promenade Beach 
• Sri Aurobindo Ashram 
• Manakula Vinayagar Temple 
• Basilica of the sacred heart of Jesus 
• French War Memorial 
• Botanical Garden and Aquarium 
• Baker’s street 
• Asian House 

Day-2 

• Auroville 
• Auroville beach 
• Paradise Beach

Day- 3 

• Pondicherry Museum 
• Chunnambar Boat House 
• Pondy Bazar 

Best places to visit in Pondicherry in the evening 

Places to visit in Pondicherry in the evening/ night are: 

• Le Club- located near Promenade and Serves French food 
• Kofi Bar- a good place for coffee and snacks. It has a rustic atmosphere 
• Toxic- is a roof-top café with an open bar 
• Laqua- a roof-top place with a sea view 
• Story Tellers Bar 
• Asian House 
• Private Midnight cruise with dinner 
• Light House 

Places to visit in Pondicherry for couples 

Pondicherry is a perfect place to visit for couples. Its beaches, the sea, lakes, gardens, opportunities for water activities/ sports, and nightlife are major attractions for young people. Below are the best places to visit in Pondicherry for couples: 

• Paradise Beach 
• Botanical Garden 
• Chunnambar Boat House 
• Eglise de Notre Dame des Anges 
• Le Club 
• Pondy Bazar 
• Sri Aurobindo Ashram 
• Old Light House 
• Pondicherry Museum 
• Meeran Mosque 
• Auroville 
• Pondicherry Beach 

Places to visit in Pondicherry with friends 

People who choose to visit Pondicherry go back and decide to return because the experience leaves an indelible mark on them. When you plan a trip to Pondicherry with friends, check the list of places to visit in Pondicherry and make your itinerary of places to visit in Pondicherry with friends. Remember the best time to visit Pondicherry is in winter. So, plan accordingly and do not miss an opportunity to spend quality time with friends.  

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