Puducherry, more familiarly known as Pondicherry, has been on the minds of many Indians and foreigners who seek a tranquil escape in the laps of nature. Unconventional and unlike most Indian cities, but also unmistakably Indian with its Temples, Ashrams, colourful festivals and welcoming locals, Pondicherry is a blend of unique experiences.
Pondicherry, the small coastal town in the Union Territory of Puducherry, is among the most charming places in South India that have captured the interest of tourists from across the world. With its French colonial heritage, pastel-hued heritage hotels and churches and an abundance of cafés and boutique stores, particularly in the French Quarter, boulevards lining the streets and bougainvillaea draping over balconies of Mediterranean-style houses, Pondy tourism is made for the merry and the romantics.
But while the city is the cream of the cake, complementing its charm are the tourist places near Pondicherry.
Many of these tourist attractions near Pondicherry offer lifetime experiences. From the experimental township called Auroville to the UNESCO World Heritage monuments at Mahabalipuram or the commercial spaces in Chennai, places to visit near Pondicherry have a distinctive appeal on their own.
Best Places to Visit Near Pondicherry
- Auroville
- Chidambaram
- Mahabalipuram
- Thanjavur
- Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary
- Tharangambadi
- Chettinad
- Chennai
Auroville
Located a few kilometres to the north of the town of Pondicherry, Auroville is an experimental township. It is the first and only internationally endorsed settlement where residents from across the world live together in harmony. Among the places of interest near Pondicherry, Auroville offers a unique experience for those seeking a peaceful and sustainable way of life.
The township runs on the principles of harmony, peace and sustainable living and is surrounded by forested areas, farms and sanctuaries. Among the key attractions near Pondicherry are Auroville Beach and Matrimandir, which is a golden golf ball-shaped premises. Surrounded by lush green gardens, Matrimandir is a place for individual silent meditation.
To explore the township, it is ideal to book one of Auroville’s many guesthouses and accommodations. One can also enrol as a volunteer for one of Auroville's many projects.
Chidambaram, Tamil Nadu
The city of Chidambaram in the Cuddalore district of Tamil Nadu is well known for its ancient shrines and historic buildings. Perfect for a day's outing among the places to visit near Pondicherry, this beautiful temple town is situated on the banks of the Vellar River and was ruled by several influential dynasties in the past, including the Cholas, the Pandyas and the Britishers.
The town is home to several notable landmarks such as the Chidambaram Nataraja Temple, Pichavaram Mangrove Forests, Thillai Kaali Amman Temple, and Thirunelvayil Shiva Parvati Temple. Among these, the Chidambaram Nataraja Temple holds the most significance. The grand shrine is dedicated to Lord Shiva in his cosmic dance form, Nataraja. The temple is one of the Pancha Bootha Sthalams, the five elemental lingams in Tamil Nadu.
Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu
A UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to 7th and 8th-century monuments, Mahabalipuram, locally called Mamallapuram is a well-renowned sightseeing place near Pondicherry.
A significant part of our Pondicherry tour packages from Mumbai, Mahabalipuram rarely disappoints travellers. The group of ancient monuments, excavated remains, rathas or monolith temples and mandapas or rock-cut architecture edifices, reflect the glory and craftsmanship of the Pallava dynasty that ruled the land. These monuments hold a distinctive place in the classical Indian architectural design that continues to fascinate visitors to this day.
Besides architectural monuments, the Mamallapuram Seashell Museum and the scenic beaches of Mahabalipuram make it an ideal destination for leisure travelling, relaxing on the golden shore or simply soaking in the afternoon sun.
Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu
Among the places to see around Pondicherry, Thanjavur reflects the cultural richness and heritage of South India.
The city is unlike any other and offers the best of everything. From the majestic Brihadeeswara Temple, a part of the “Great Living Chola Temples” and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the rare paintings and manuscripts at Thanjavur Palace & Saraswathi Mahal Library, the Rajaraja Cholan Museum, Vijayanagar Fort and the Manora Fort, Thanjavur is a confluence of the past and present breathing together.
Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary, Tamil Nadu
Located within 100 kilometres of Pondicherry in the Madurantakam taluk of the Chengalpattu district, Vedanthangal is a locally managed bird sanctuary and observatory. Built over 30 hectares of area, the sanctuary draws in hundreds and thousands of migratory birds each year.
It is home to over 200 bird species including the Indian spot-billed duck, Asian Openbill, Black-headed Ibis, Indian Cormorant, Gray Heron, Red Naped Ibis, Red-vented Bulbul, Painted Stork and several rare species. Amidst the biodiversity, jackals, jungle cats, wild boar and black nape hares are often seen roaming the deeper parts of the sanctuary. The sanctuary is worth visiting when it comes to the top places to see near Pondicherry.
Tharangambadi, Tamil Nadu
Tharangambadi, formally called Tranquebar is a small town on the Coromandel Coast located south of Pondicherry is known for its coastal beauty, colonial architecture and stunning beaches. Tracing its roots back to the 17th century, Tharangambadi was once a bustling port town and trading centre for the Danes who left an indelible mark on the history of the town.
Built on a batch of land near Tranquebar Beach, stands the Dansborg Fort which was transformed into a public museum in the 1970s.
Tharangambadi offers a rare glimpse into the past of South India and is the best place to visit near Pondicherry and immerse yourself in the symphony of beauty and charm.
Chettinad, Tamil Nadu
Chettinad was once the ancestral homeland of the Nattukottai Chettiars merchants and is well renowned for its finely flavoured cuisine and architecture. The region comprises 56 villages in the Sivaganga district, 20 villages in the Pudukottai district, and its main town, known as Karaikudi. The city is home to the most elaborate and rich culture, impressive mansions, temples, palaces and museums.
Chennai, Tamil Nadu
Contrasting and complementing the calm of Pondicherry, the Capital of Tamil Nadu offers a vibrant, cosmopolitan experience. Known for its rich cultural heritage, Chennai is among the best places to go to near Pondicherry.
In our Pondicherry trip package, Chennai offers a perfect balance of modern city vibes, rich history and coastal experience. The city is home to iconic landmarks such as Kapaleeshwarar Temple, Parthasarathy Temple, and Marundeeswarar Temple, British Era Museums, Fort St. George, Sanhome Cathedral Basilica, Guindy National Park, Arignar Anna Zoological Park, Vivekanand House and countless beaches with their beautiful coastal views. Chennai is a great addition to any travel itinerary and the top places to visit near Pondicherry.
Pondicherry, with its peaceful streets, serene beaches, and vibrant history has charmed many travellers.
The unique allure of the place makes one want to slow down and soak in the natural beauty and wonder at the meaning of life.
Pondicherry offers something to everyone, but to truly experience its grandeur, it is important to time your visit right. Check out this guide for the best time to visit Pondicherry to plan a pleasant and memorable trip.
While the city itself proposes a laid-back European feel, the places to see around Pondicherry help create a well-rounded travel experience. Within the union territory, you get a taste of the French colonial elegance and outside, a fascinating blend of experiences. Be it a leisure getaway or the beginning of your journey together with your partner, Pondicherry will add a unique element.
Known for its quintessential European atmosphere and tranquil retreats, Pondicherry offers romantics an unforgettable start. Explore our Pondicherry honeymoon to know more.
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