Paris of the east
Pondicherry: French Riviera of the East
Pondicherry also known as Puducherry is a picturesque city known for its rich French colonial heritage, quaint buildings, vibrant people, delicious food, stunning promenades, and picture-perfect beaches.
Puducherry is the Tamil interpretation of “new town”. Puducherry’s average elevation is at sea level and includes a number of sea inlets, referred to locally as “backwaters”. Puducherry experiences extreme coastal erosion as a result of a breakwater constructed to the south of the city.
Puducherry is a tourist destination. The city has many colonial buildings, churches, temples, and statues which, combined with the town planning and French-style avenues in the old districts, still preserve much of the colonial ambiance.
While the sea is a draw for tourists, Puducherry no longer has the sandy beaches that once graced its coastline.
By Air
The nearest airport is Chennai International Airport (MAA), which is about 135 km from Puducherry.
By Train
Puducherry has its own railway station (PDY) with good connectivity to major cities in India. You can take a direct train to Puducherry or travel via Villupuram, which is well connected and about 38 km from Puducherry.
By Road
You can drive to Puducherry from nearby cities. The East Coast Road (ECR) from Chennai is a popular route offering scenic coastal views. The distance from Chennai to Puducherry via ECR is around 155 km and takes approximately 3 to 4 hours.
By Sea
Reaching Puducherry by sea is less common than other modes of transport however you can still use this mode through Cruise, boat or a private yacht.
Promenade Beach, FrenchQuarter, Aurobindo Ashram
Auroville, Paradise Beach, Botanical Garden
Pondicherry Museum and departure
How can I reach Puducherry?
Puducherry is accessible by road, rail, and air. The nearest airport is in Chennai, about 135 km away. Puducherry has its own railway station and is well-connected by road to major cities like Chennai and Bangalore.
What languages are spoken in Puducherry?
The official languages are Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, and English. French is also spoken by some locals due to the region’s colonial history.
Typically how many days do I need to visit Puducherry?
Typically a 2N/3D trip is sufficient to cover the city. We help you further customise the trip to cater to your needs of sightseeing and relaxation.
Are there any historical sites in Puducherry?
Yes, Puducherry has several historical sites including French colonial buildings, churches like the Sacred Heart Basilica, and the Aurobindo Ashram.
What kind of food can I expect in Puducherry?
Puducherry offers a mix of South Indian, French, and international cuisines. Seafood is also a highlight here. There are plenty of vegetarian options also available in Puducherry.