The Ultimate Guide to Shopping in Pondicherry on Your Next Vacation

A fascinating tourist destination in South India that has made tourists curious across the globe is Pondicherry. While most people check out Pondicherry tour packages to explore its Franco-Indian heritage, there’s a lot more to it. After discovering the progressive wonderland of Auroville in Pondy, you can spare some to shop! From silk textiles, porcelain items, rare books, and junk jewellery to handicrafts, spices, and condiments, Pondicherry is a true shopping port of call! Here’s a guide to having the best shopping experience in Pondicherry on your next vacation: -

Shopping Spots in Pondicherry

Shopping in Pondicherry is surprisingly exciting, easy on the pocket, and simply heart-warming. Of course, there is a lot more to see and do than shop here but this does not mean that the local shopping spots in Pondicherry can be underestimated. This little piece of paradise has a lot to offer! So, gear up to explore the following shopping streets of Pondicherry: -

• Serenity Beach Bazaar
• Nehru Street Market
• Goubert Market
• Saram China Market
• Pondicherry Sunday Market
• Providence Mall
• Anokhi
• Casablanca
• Kriti Eco Boutique
• Cluny Embroidery Centre
• Auro Woodworks
• Via Pondicherry

An open-air street market that will make your vacation in Pondicherry truly memorable is Serenity Beach Bazaar. Nestled 5 km north of the city, this flea market takes its name from the nearby Serenity Beach. If you are aiming to do some street shopping in Pondicherry, then this is the first place you should visit. At Serenity Beach Bazaar, there is something for everyone. Are you looking for some junk jewellery, funky clothing or ceramics? This famous spot for shopping in Pondicherry has got you covered!

Address: Villa La Serenity Connecting Rd, Kottakuppam, Puducherry

Nehru Street Market

Be it a solo sojourn or a Pondicherry honeymoon trip, shopping is one thing that makes the vacation special. This is because you bring a piece of the place you visit back home. Now, remember this feeling. What would be the best street shopping experience for you in Pondicherry? If your answer includes buying pottery, handicrafts, and a bag full of souvenirs, then Nehru Street Market should be a part of your itinerary! Our recommendation would be to keep your trip to this market a little early in the day so that you have a lot more options to choose from.

Address: Nehru Street, Senthamarai Nagar, Chevarapet, Puducherry

Goubert Market

Colloquially known as Periya Kadai, this market area is the heart and soul of Pondicherry. You will find the locals buying fresh fruits and vegetables, groceries, meats, and a lot more here daily. If buying local spices and condiments is right up your alley, make sure to visit Goubert Market’s local vendors. Most of them are super friendly to tourists and even allow them to try out samples.

Address: Big Market Puducherry Town, Puducherry

Saram China Market

In the day and age of all things aesthetically pleasing, most of us are secretly obsessed with home decor products. Just admit it, we won’t tell anyone! Bring out the enthu-cutlet that you are for home interiors by shopping in Pondy’s Saram China Market. As the name suggests, you will find a lot of Chinese products here but fortunately, they are premium quality. So, whatever you buy will not break apart as soon as you bring it back home. Oh, and haggling is highly encouraged at this shopping street in Pondicherry.

Address:  Sundara Mesthri Street, Saram China Market, Kosapalayam, Puducherry

Pondicherry Sunday Market

There are many things to do in Pondicherry and this is the prime one among them. A part of every local’s Sunday routine is visiting this market even if they don’t have to buy anything. Such is the beautiful vibe of the Sunday Market, which has been around in Pondy for more than three decades. Come rain or shine, this shopping spot in Pondicherry is ready to serve you every Sunday between 10 am to 5 pm. If you’re in the city on a weekend, take out some time to take a walk in this market. Who knows? You might even spot the most precious bone china items, a rare novel or a priceless antique!

Address: Clock Tower, Bussy St, Chinnakadai, MG Road Area, Puducherry

Providence Mall

Yes, folks, capitalism has reached Pondicherry, like every other popular city in our country. But for a shopaholic like you, isn’t it simply amazing? The first shopping mall of Pondicherry, Providence has several gift shops, boutiques, brand outlets, eateries, and a cineplex. So, if you’re in the mood to just chill with your loved ones, then this is a pretty neat option.

Address: Cuddalore Road, Ambedkar Nagar, Orleanpet, Puducherry

Popular Boutiques & Stores in Pondicherry

Now that you have some semblance of shopping in Pondy, it is time to learn more about the most popular boutiques and shops listed below:

Anokhi

One of the most beloved retail chain stores in India right now is Anokhi. It has won hearts in Jaipur, Delhi, and now Pondicherry! Their cotton suits, kurta sets, fabrics, and bedsheets are reputed to be one of the best in the country. You can even find handmade wallets, jewellery items, footwear, and more at Anokhi.

Address: 1, Casern Street, White Town, Puducherry

Casablanca

An all-inclusive store that makes tourists always come back for more is Casablanca. Independent labels that have reached great heights like Maroma and Mason and Co. all began their journey at this multi-floor store set on the busy Mission Street. Since Casablanca is a concept outlet by Hidesign, everything you see here is top-quality and well-priced. To satiate yourself after shopping, you can enjoy a delicious meal at its in-house cafe, Le Pondicherry.

Address: 165, Mission Street, Heritage Town, Puducherry

Kriti Eco Boutique

A treasure in Heritage Town is Kriti Eco Boutique. Promoting sustainability with its souvenirs, spices, and clothing, this store is a must-visit for those who love to shop responsibly. A perfect gift shop in Pondicherry, Kriti Eco Boutique is renowned for selling products from several non-profit organisations. So, do a good deed. Visit this store in Heritage Town and donate for your fellow human beings.

Address: 6, H.M.Kassim Salai, Viratipatu, Heritage Town, Puducherry

Cluny Embroidery Centre

Operation since the early 19th century, Cluny Embroidery Centre is a convent initiative to empower women and become self-reliant. You will find the finest needlework in their laces, crochets, tablecloths, kerchiefs, cushion covers, bedspreads, bath sets, and pillowcases. You will see determined women diligently working with a smile on their faces. The entire experience of Cluny Embroidery Centre will take you a couple of hours so make sure you manage your time properly.

Address: 46 Rue Romain Rolland Street, Hotel Lagrenee de Mezieres, Puducherry

Auro Woodworks

Be it oak, teak, Portia or jack, every type of wood is used at Auro Woodworks to make exclusive pieces for its patrons. No, this is not a promotion pitch but a plea to discover the purity of this store in Pondicherry. Since it’s a little hidden away, most tourists aren’t able to find it. Listen to us and make the effort to reach Auro Woodworks. You will surely fall in love with their immaculate woodwork and buy some pieces for your home.

Address: 144, Mahatma Gandhi Road, Solai Nagar, Kottakuppam, Puducherry

Via Pondicherry

A sensation that began with Vasanty Manet, Via Pondicherry celebrates the Franco-Indian culture in the best possible way. You will find the most interesting patterns and colour themes at this boutique situated on Mission Street. Luckily, they have an online presence so if you miss out on a product in-store, you can check it out later as well.

With so many markets, boutiques, and antique shops in Pondicherry awaiting your arrival, it is time you do your bit and book a holiday package!