Bangalore Pondicherry itinerary should be good enough for covering at least four to five major travel destinations that lie on this scenic route. This entire region after all, has a spectacular terrain that will make for a lovely trip.
Each year, thousands of travelers plan a trip from Bangalore to Pondicherry. The duration of travel time between both these places is about 6 hours. Hence, a lot of travelers from both India as well as outside plan the Bangalore Pondicherry itinerary in such a way that they cover most of the region.
If planned well, Bangalore Pondicherry itinerary can help you not only in visiting both these major travel destinations but a lot of places in between like Chennai and Mahabalipuram. Each place that lies on the route is surely worth visiting.
The terrain, culture and food tastes begin to diversify as one travels from Bangalore to Pondicherry. Even though the distance between both these places is less than 310 kms, the difference in the topography of the regions is remarkable.
I’ve explored South India a number of times now and in great detail. Therefore, sharing my experience with all of you feels good. By means of this blog, I would like to help fellow travelers plan a good Bangalore Pondicherry itinerary that in turn leads to an amazing and memorable trip.
In my current blog, I will not only share with you the places and activities that you can easily pursue your Bangalore Pondicherry itinerary but I will also elaborate on all of those places in detail.
Bangalore Pondicherry Itinerary
Depending on the availability of time, you can plan your Bangalore Pondicherry itinerary to suit your travel needs.
You can either cover the entire region in a touch and go manner in merely two days or you can choose to stay longer and explore a tad bit more in about 4 to 5 days.
1 Day Trip from Bangalore to Pondicherry
| Places that can be covered
Chennai |
| Activities that can be pursued
Visiting Marina Beach in Chennai and some close by sightseeing. |
I’ve seen a few tourists include just a day trip for their Bangalore Pondicherry itinerary as a way to save time.
Well, here’s the thing – you should not plan a one day Bangalore Pondicherry itinerary because the only place you will be able to cover then is Chennai. Pondicherry is out of the question.
If you’re willing to visit Pondicherry even then, you will end up traveling 5 to 6 hours and will reach your destination tired.
There will be absolutely no scope for you to explore around. By the time you want to do so, it will be evening and by the next morning, you will be traveling back.
My recommendation: Do not plan a mere 1 Day Bangalore Pondicherry itinerary for your trip. It isn’t fair for you as a traveler as well as to the places that you intend to explore.
This is the entrance to VGP Golden Beach in Chennai. Visit here at enroute Bangalore to Pondicherry. It’s a lovely place to hang out. Picture credits: Akriti Mattu
Now moving on to the Bangalore Pondicherry itinerary for travelers having 2 days to invest time in the region.
2 Day Trip from Bangalore to Pondicherry
| Places that can be covered
Chennai, Mahabalipuram, Pondicherry |
| Activities that can be pursued
Beach hopping in Chennai, Cultural exploration at Mahabalipuram, Short sightseeing in Pondicherry |
A two day trip from Bangalore to Pondicherry will prove to be a good option if you’re native to the region. It can be a good weekend getaway from Bangalore and you can save on time.
However, I highly insist that individuals planning a trip for the first time to this part of the world should do away with this short duration.
My recommendation: A 2 Day Bangalore Pondicherry itinerary will suffice if you’re wanting a weekend getaway and are native to the region.
The five rathas of Mahabalipuram. The entry fee to visit them is mere 10 INR. Picture credits: Akriti Mattu
Now moving on to the Bangalore Pondicherry itinerary for travelers having 3 days to invest in the region.
3 Day Trip from Bangalore to Pondicherry
| Places that can be covered
Chennai, Mahabalipuram, Auroville, Pondicherry |
| Activities that can be pursued
Beach hopping in Chennai, Food tour in Chennai, Cultural exploration at Mahabalipuram, Shell Museum visit at Mahabalipuram, Visiting Auroville, Good sightseeing of White Town in Pondicherry, Relaxing at Paradise Beach. |
Taking a 3 day trip from Bangalore to Pondicherry can prove good even if you’re traveling in this region for the first time. Make sure to start early morning from Bangalore on day 1 so as to reach Chennai by lunch.
Invest a good amount of time during the remaining time and then set off to Mahabalipuram early next morning. It lies midway between Chennai and Pondicherry.
My recommendation: You will be able to cover places well if you pursue a 3 Day Bangalore Pondicherry itinerary. So if you have the time, invest 3 days on the region.
Now moving on to the Bangalore Pondicherry itinerary for travelers having 4 days to invest time in the region.
4 Day Trip from Bangalore to Pondicherry
| Places that can be covered
Chennai, Mahabalipuram, Auroville, Pondicherry |
| Activities that can be pursued
Good sightseeing of Chennai, Visiting VGP Golden Beach and spending a fun afternoon there, Visiting Marina Beach at night and enjoying the local food treats there, Cultural exploration at Mahabalipuram, Shell Museum visit at Mahabalipuram, Spending an afternoon by the Shore Beach, Visiting Auroville, Enjoying lunch at Auroville, Taking the nature walk in Auroville, Good sightseeing of White Town in Pondicherry, Relaxing at Paradise Beach, Pursuing scuba diving at Serenity Beach |
Pursuing a four day trip between Bangalore and Pondicherry is the best option. You get to see the region well plus you can connect with the places and culture better.
Personally, I would highly suggest individuals spend at least 4 days on this region. The least number of days that I’ve spent here is also 4. The maximum has been much longer.
My recommendation: A 4 Day Bangalore Pondicherry itinerary is a good option for people visiting the region for the first time to explore it in detail.
This is me gazing around the shoreline at Paradise beach in Pondicherry. Picture credits: Akriti Mattu
Based on your travel needs, availability of time and your nature as an explorer, you can choose to stick to any one of the above options.
Had it been up to me, I would have spent at least 4 days in the region.
Bangalore Pondicherry Itinerary followed by me for an under 5 Day Trip
The following Bangalore Pondicherry itinerary was followed by me on my first trip to the region.
Back then, I had four days to myself. So had to cover the maximum locales within minimum time. If you too are short of time, you can go for the same itinerary.
Day 1
| Morning
Reached Chennai early morning. Checked into a hotel. Had authentic south Indian breakfast and headed straight to VGP Golden beach. Enjoyed the beach for some hours. |
| Noon
Had lunch at the beach and explored the theme park. Took a cab and visited Kapaleswarar Temple, Tholkappiar Ecological Park and Snake Park. Spent a good amount of time at all of these places. |
| Evening
Visited the Marina beach and enjoyed the calming breeze. Ate fried fish from stalls at the beach and a couple of few snacks. Took a long stroll at the beach. |
| Night
Headed back to the hotel, had dinner and slept early. |
Day 2
| Morning
Woke up early (6:00 am) and ate breakfast. Took an auto till the main bus station of Chennai. From there boarded a bus till Mahabalipuram. Reached Mahabalipuram by 10 in the morning. |
| Noon
Hired an auto for 3 hours, toured and explored Mahabalipuram in detail. Visited all of the Five Rathas, Shore Temple, Krishna’s Ball, Mahabalipuram beach, Shell Museum and the Light House. Had lunch at the Ananda Aahar Bhavan. |
| Evening
Went to the bus stop nearby that lied directly beside the highway and waited for a public transport bus. Got one, hoped in and reached Auroville. Checked into my hotel and fed myself with some light snacks. |
| Night
Visited Auroville Beach (but insist that you don’t) and felt a sense of danger from the rising tide and waves so quickly came back. Had dinner and slept early. |
Day 3
| Morning
Woke up early, strolled around Auroville and got to know the place better. Ate breakfast at a small eatery. Took an auto and reached the Entrance of the Auroville Township. Took a nature walk till Matrimandir and spent a lot of time there. |
| Noon
Strolled back to the Visitor’s Centre at Auroville at ate lunch at a cafe inside the premises. Checked out a French boutique inside the complex and bought some organically made incense. |
| Evening
Got super tired by the end of the day so went back to a cafe and relaxed. Ate a bite and went back to my hotel. |
| Night
Took a shower and slept early. |
Day 4
| Morning
After early morning breakfast, took to the nearby bus stop and boarded a local bus till Pondicherry. From there, took an auto till White Town. Strolled around White Town, visited 3 cafes and finally went to Seaside Promenade. Spent some time at the Rocky beach but since it was very hot, headed to Sri Aurobindo Ashram. Observed meditation for a while and then went to a cafe for lunch. |
| Noon
Headed to Paradise Beach and enjoyed the sun. After a few strolls, went to Serenity beach and enjoyed the lovely breeze. Tried scuba diving and spent a few hours here. |
| Evening
By around 7 pm booked a cab (you have got to book them early here) and went back to my hotel. Realized that transportation from Serenity beach can be a hassle at times. |
| Night
Reached my hotel. Took a shower. Did some light reading and then slept early. |
Day 5
| Woke up early and boarded a bus back t0 Bangalore |
Even in a short span of under 5 days, I covered Chennai, Mahabalipuram, Auroville and Pondicherry.
This is me taking a hike along the powerful waters of Serenity beach in Pondicherry. Picture credits: Akriti Mattu
Since it was my first trip, I did not explore it as much detail as I have now but even the surface sightseeing proved to be a good getaway experience from Bangalore.
Bangalore Pondicherry Itinerary Followed by Me for a 4 Week Long Trip
As mentioned above, I don’t usually indulge in a ‘touch and go’ philosophy to places. I make it a point to spend good amount of time per place. That is how I get acquainted with the place, its people, food and culture.
I’ve taken a lot of trips under a reasonable Bangalore Pondicherry itinerary. My weeks have almost always been spent as described below.
| 1st week
The first four days of the week one were invested entirely in Chennai. This just didn’t include the beaches but the cultural heritage of the city as well. Not to forget some great food tours. The remaining two days were spent at Mahabalipuram. The places of visit more or less remained the same (just a couple of more sights included). I got a lot more time to myself this time and connected well with the region. |
| 2nd Week
After spending seven days in Chennai – Mahabalipuram, I headed straight towards Pondicherry. Split my time and decided to spend half my remaining days in Pondicherry and half in Auroville. However, I easily explored Pondicherry (in whole) in just 6 days. So then revamped the plan and invested the rest of my time exclusively in Auroville. |
| 3rd Week
Day 14 to day Day 30 was spent exclusively in Auroville. I realized that I hadn’t quite understood Auroville well the last time I visited. Maybe that is because I visited as a tourist but this time I surely came as a traveler. My experience was unique this time around. Not only did I understand the causes for which a township like Auroville was built in the first place but also engaged with people from more than 90 countries (you read it right). |
| 4th Week
The last week in Auroville was spent exclusively for volunteering work. I invested time on the farms of Auroville contributing my bit towards the grain production. It was a new and inspiring experience. Had I got more time, I would have surely done more. I highly recommend that anyone reading this should pitch some work as well. |
For people planning a Bangalore Pondicherry itinerary for the first time, it is important to remember some tips.
Travel Advice for People Visiting Bangalore to Pondicherry for the First Time
These tips will come in handy at all times. Also, they will guide throughout your trip especially if you’re travelling to this South Indian region for the first time.
As a traveler, it is important that you remain aware of certain important aspects while traveling from Bangalore to Pondicherry.
14 Very Important Tips to Remember if Traveling from Bangalore to Pondicherry
I am listing tips, that I feel are extremely important for you. Keep them at the back of your head at all times. They will help you save a lot of trouble.
Now that you have a good idea about a reasonable Bangalore Pondicherry Itinerary, let me share with you about each of the individual places mentioned above in my travel plan.
By knowing the places in detail beforehand, you will surely make a better connect with the region.
| Make Bangalore your starting point
Plan your Bangalore Pondicherry itinerary in such a way that the ‘City of Gardens’ is your starting point. Traveling from Bangalore to Pondicherry is a lot better than traveling from Pondicherry to Bangalore. Reason being that Pondicherry is the kind of place where you would want to spend more days. Also, if you are an international traveler or even an Indian traveler, you can book your return flight from nearby Chennai than coming all the way back to Bangalore and facing jam-packed traffic. |
| Apply a mosquito repellent throughout
The entire region that is a part of your Bangalore Pondicherry itinerary has witnessed a growing number of the mosquito population in the recent years. It is advisable to apply a mosquito repellent in the form of a cream or a spray-on yourself every 3 to 4 hours. The odour drives mosquitoes away effectively. By applying the repellent and spending little money, you can easily protect your body against diseases like Dengue. |
| Stay hydrated from Chennai onwards
It is of paramount importance to stay hydrated once you reach Chennai and continue your journey further. Bangalore is a high altitude and so the weather there is quite pleasant throughout the year. Chennai being near the cost witnesses high temperatures. You will constantly sweat. Hence, it is important to stay hydrated by consuming large quantities of normal water or even coconut water. Try consuming at least 5 to 6 glasses of water early morning before you wake up. Then drink one glass every one or two hours. |
| Make use of sunscreen at Mahabalipuram
Mahabalipuram has an arid climate being close to the sea. The sun there is strong and can easily give you a sunburn that will itch. So I would highly advise you to apply sunscreen on your face and neck. Apply it on your legs and arms if it is exposed. Buy a good SPF sunscreen. |
| Try buttermilk at Mahabalipuram
The buttermilk that is sold by local vendors at Mahabalipuram is one of the best in the region. You have got to try it before leaving Mahabalipuram. It will not only keep you hydrated but will also impart immunity against several infections. Buttermilk is essentially the thin liquid that is left behind once butter is churned out of cream. |
| Check-in with valid ID proof in Pondicherry
While checking in a hotel, you will be asked to provide a valid ID proof. This will hold true more so for unmarried couples. So kindly carry a valid ID proof before checking in any hotel, guest house or homestay. The cops in the region are quite strict about ID cards due to some unforeseen incidents lately. |
| Use public transport in Pondicherry
Public transport in Pondicherry is effective, nominal and super safe. The buses there comprise of a CCTV camera and every traveler and bus staff member is under strict vigilance. This makes Pondicherry ideal for backpackers and solo travelers especially women. |
| Order food before 7:30 pm in Pondicherry
As surprising as it may seem, most eating places in Pondicherry shut down around 8 pm. Even the eateries that are centrally located close early. So the last order is taken by 7:30 pm. The owners are strict about timings and will not even serve you an extra morsel if you order food late. Hence, if you want to save yourself from starving, order food well in time. There is no scope of laziness in Pondicherry. |
| Do not disturb chameleons in Auroville
While taking a nature walk in Auroville, you will easily come across some beautiful chameleons in the side bushes. Do not disturb them. If you want to capture the moment, just click a picture from some distance. If you come too close to the chameleon, chances are that you will get attacked. |
| Avoid rowdy behavior
Folks down south are extremely decent and humble. They will welcome you with open arms. However, if you try to misbehave or act in a rowdy way, they will not tolerate it. Kindly stay polite at all times. Even if there’s a conflict of thoughts, engage in a civil debate only. |
| Experiment with food
Just because the cuisine down south is different from the rest of the country does not mean that you should not taste it. I highly recommend you feed yourself with the traditional cuisine for a major part of your trip. It’s delicious, fresh, hygienic and super nominal. |
| Dress in cotton fabric
Be it a T-shirt, pants, skirts, shorts or any kind of clothing; make sure the fabric is cotton. Once you’re out of Bangalore, the heat will get to you if you happen to wear the wrong fabric. Avoid synthetics of any kind. Else, you’ll get thick red rashes on your skin. |
| Check weather conditions
I highly insist that you check the weather conditions before planning the Bangalore Pondicherry itinerary. Reason being, the abrupt climate change over the years has led to floods, cyclones and even tsunamis in the region. |
| Visit temples
Now I’m not imposing religion on you in any way. I’m suggesting you keep temples in your Bangalore Pondicherry itinerary as a priority because they’re reflective of the prosperous times gone by. Marvel their architecture and being. Listen to the hundred of folk tales that are associated with them. Thousands of travelers across the globe visit Southern India only for temples and ancient monuments. |
A chameleon spotted in the bushes of Auroville. If you spot one, do not spook it. Picture credits: Akriti Mattu
Now that you’re aware of the Bangalore Pondicherry itinerary in detail for a short or a long trip. Also, the essential travel tips for visiting the region. It’s time, I share more travel information about the places that lie enroute from Bangalore to Pondicherry.
Knowing about the places will help you understand them and hence enjoy them better.
What all to Do in Chennai ?
Chennai is a coastal city that lies in the state of Tamil Nadu and is also its capital. The city displays a perfect blend of tradition and modernity. The folks here have not forgotten their roots and remain proud of their culture.
There is so much to explore in Chennai – the beaches, the temples and the museums. Not to forget, the delicious Tamil food that is served on a fresh banana leaf. Somehow, eating that way, the meals taste better. Try it.
Explore lovely beaches in Chennai
While in Chennai, do visit VGP Golden Beach during day time and Marina Beach at dusk. VGP Beach is part of a resort. The entry here is not free. The Beach is well maintained. It’s clean and you can easily take a dive in it. The lukewarm water feels comforting against the strong sun.
Once you’re done with frolicking in waters of VGP Beach, you can take a shower in the washrooms nearby or even an open shower. Change your clothes, take a bite and explore the theme park therein a little. If you’re lucky, you can even find some traditional art and culture festival in the resort area.
Marina Beach
Visit Marina Beach during dusk. The entire shoreline has vendors selling fresh fried fish and other delectable street food items. It’s quite lively after sunsets. If you visit Marina Beach during day time, the small stalls and shops will all be closed. The beach is totally deserted during day time.
Temples and Museums
If you have time left the next day, do visit the Kapaleeswarar, Parthasarathy and Ekambareswarar Temples. The architecture is magnificent. Each carving has a story to tell. Art lovers will stand in awe in all of these temples.
If you’re still not done with lovely Chennai, feel free to visit the Cholamandal Artists Museum, Click Art Museum and the Live Art Museum. You can also visit the National Art Gallery there.
Essential travel information about Chennai
| Location
Tamil Nadu, South India |
| External transport options
Buses for nearby towns and cities, Trains for distant towns and cities, Flights for distant towns, cities and foreign countries. |
| Internal transport options
Buses, Autos, Cabs by Ola and Uber |
| Travel time from Bangalore
Around 5 to 6 hours by both road and train. 1.5 hours by flight. |
| Travel time till Mahabalipuram
Around 1.5 hours by road. |
| Travel time till Pondicherry
Around 3 hours |
| Suggested accommodation
I stayed at the Peace Inn. It was a decent place with hygienic rooms. |
| Beaches not to miss
Marina Beach, VGP Golden Beach |
| Temples not to miss
Kapaleeswarar, Parthasarathy and Ekambareswarar Temples |
| Museums not to miss
Cholamandal Artists Museum, Click Art Museum and the Live Art Museum. |
| Must-try food and beverages
Bonda soup, Ven Pongal, Ragi Adai, Idli, Masala dosa, Chettinad Chicken, Payasam, Filter Coffee |
| Important travel tip
People at large converse in Tamil here. But if you politely converse in English, they will be happy to respond, in case you ever need help. |
This is me frolicking at Marina beach in Chennai. The sun is quite strong here. So always wear sunscreen. Picture credits: Akriti Mattu
Moving on from Tamil Nadu’s capital – Chennai to the coastal temple town of Mahabalipuram.
How to Explore Mahabalipuram in Less Time ?
Mahabalipuram, also known as Mahabalipuram is a coastal town located on the Coromandel Coast. It is situated roughly at 60 kms from the capital city of Chennai and is hardly a 1.5 hours drive from there.
Once you reach Mahabalipuram, the first thing you should do is hire a local auto for showing you around and finally drop you at a good eatery for lunch. If you feel that you will be able to see this town on your own on foot, you’re mistaken. Not only will it take a lot of time but it will also make you worn out because of the heat.
The autowalla (person driving the auto) will not just show you around but also explain the historic and cultural significance of the various travel sights here. The auto drivers in Mahabalipuram are quite decent and honest.
Monuments of Mahabalipuram
Mahabalipuram is culturally rich. It has monuments and rock temples dating back to several hundred years. It also has a shell museum which has diverse shells from all over the world. Lastly, it also has a beach which is quite a nice place to soothe yourself and a Light House from where you can view the nearby ocean.
The most interesting aspect of Mahabalipuram is an ancient rock which goes by the name of Krishna’s Butter Ball. It lies on a slippery slope but never slips down. Sit under it and get yourself clicked. Trust me, the rock will not fall down on you.
The Panch Rathas
Panch Rathas or Maharathas are monolithic temples that are highly appreciated by travelers. They were built during the Pallava empire, are named after the 5 Panadavas and Draupadi (characters from the Indian epic of Mahabharata) and stand strong till this day.
You can explore these temples for 10 INR if you’re an Indian citizen and for 250 INR if you’re a foreign national. Go inside each of these temples and see the architectural prowess. If you have time and stamina left, do climb up the Light House and also visit the nearby Beach.
Essential travel information about Mahabalipuram
| Location
Tamil Nadu, South India |
| External transport options
Buses for nearby towns and cities. |
| Internal transport options
Autos |
| Travel time from Bangalore
Around 6.5 hours |
| Travel time from Chennai
Around 1.5 hours |
| Travel time till Pondicherry
Around 1.5 hours |
| Suggested accommodation
There are a few hotels and inns at Mahabalipuram. However, I explored the entire town during day time and moved en route to Pondicherry in the evening. |
| Sights not to miss
Shore Temple, Panch Rathas, Mahabalipuram Beach |
| Museums not to miss
International Shell Museum |
| Must try foods and beverages
South Indian thali, Buttermilk, coconut water |
| Eating options
Eat at the Ananda Aahar Bhavan located right by the highway. They serve authentic south Indian food. |
| Important travel tip
Either carry an umbrella with you at all times or apply sunscreen over your face, neck, shoulders (if exposed). Failing to do so will result in a serious sunburn. |
Moving from the coastal temple town of Mahabalipuram to the multi-nationality township of Auroville.
How to Spend Quality Time in Auroville ?
Auroville, also known as the ‘City of Dawn’ is a spiritual township that lies a few kilometers north of Pondicherry. The entire township is built centrally around the Matrimandir. Auroville has over 50,000 houses and witnesses inmates and travelers from over 50 countries.
When you travel from Mahabalipuram towards Pondicherry, Auroville will come first. So booking accommodation here will not only help you save time but also budget. I stayed at the Auro Oceanic Resort. It cost me 1199 INR Per night and was totally worth the stay.
50+ Years of Being
While pursuing your Bangalore Pondicherry itinerary, make Auroville a priority destination. In 2018, Auroville has successfully completely 50 years of being.
Auroville can be rightfully termed a spiritual community. Its essence is based on Sri Aurobindo’s teachings along with his compatriot – The Mother, or Mirra Alfassa, who founded the place. If you have time, spend a minimum of 4 to 5 days in Auroville alone. The entire place has messages and billboards of peace and humanity.
Sacred Matrimandir
The Matrimandir is the soul of Auroville. Its structure resembles a gold ball. If you’re taking a one day trip, venture out in the short trail from the entrance of Auroville to the Matrimandir and observe it from a distance. If you wish to visit inside (which you should), get yourself a pass from the Visitors’ Centre and learn about the timings.
Savoury Treats
Munch your heart out at Auroville. The cafes here offer some savoury preparations. Make sure to follow the timings for food here. Once you’re done eating, visit the Town Hall and watch a documentary on the origins and making of Auroville. Also, visit the three boutique stores that sell stuff made in Auroville itself.
Auroville keeps hosting a lot of events. If you’re interested, you can go and seek more information from the Visitors’ Centre.
Essential travel information about Auroville
| Location
Parts of Auroville lie in the south Indian state of Tamil Nadu while parts of it lie in the Indian union territory of Pondicherry. |
| External transport options
Buses for nearby towns and cities. Two-wheelers for nearby towns and cities. |
| Internal transport options
Shared transport services (STS), Local buses, autos, two-wheelers. |
| Travel time from Bangalore
Around 6.5 hours |
| Travel time from Chennai
Around 3.5 hours |
| Travel time till Pondicherry
Around 20 minutes |
| Suggested accommodation |
| Sights you can skip
Auro Beach (Even though its the closest beach, it’s dirty and dangerous. Not to forget the haunted appearance. There is no place to walk on the shore. The waves will touch against you at all times and they are really high). |
| Sights not to skip
Matrimandir, Savitri Bhawan, Town Hall |
| Cafes not to miss
Auroville Bakery and Boulangerie, Tanto’s Pizzeria, Gelato Factory, Naturellement Garden Café, Solitude Organic Farm, Solar Kitchen |
| Must-try foods and beverages
Tahini, Hummus, organic jams, Gelato, Baguettes and Croissants, Rasam and rice. |
| Important travel tip
Carry enough cash. You will not find ATMs easily in Auroville. |
The sacred Matrimandir at Auroville. You need to take a brisk hike to reach here from the Main gate. Picture credits: Akriti Mattu
Now coming to the lovely beach town of Pondicherry.
What all to Pursue in Pondicherry ?
A trip to Pondicherry cannot be deemed complete without visiting White Town, Sri Aurobindo Ashram, old churches, the many beaches and the various cafes scattered throughout the city.
I started my Pondicherry trip by exploring White Town first. This place is centrally located and is the heart of the city. It lies close to the sea and there are many things to see and do here within a short distance of 1.5 kms.
Local sightseeing and Eating Places
While here, do take a stroll by the rocky beach (sit on the rocks but don’t dive in owing to the depth), visit the Seaside Promenade, observe the statue of Gandhiji, explore the many streets, spend time at the Rolland library, check out the brightly painted houses and munch at the cafes.
There are a lot of eateries in and around White Town that not only serve authentic French cuisine but also provide a good ambiance. The owners of most of these eateries are French people but speak well in English as well. Each time, I visit Pondicherry, I spend a lot of time in the eateries of White Town, savouring good food and writing new blogs.
The Aurobindo Ashram
While you’re in White Town, do pay a visit to Sri Aurobindo Ashram. This will be the most peaceful place on your Bangalore Pondicherry itinerary. Observe pin-drop silence here and meditate.
White Town and adjoining areas can be covered in one day on your Bangalore Pondicherry itinerary plan. Spend the next days exploring the rest of the city which mainly includes the beaches.
Offbeat beaches in Pondicherry
Now I need to make it clear here that Pondicherry isn’t just one small city. It also comprises other landmasses that lie outside the city. After all, it is an Indian union territory.
Most people don’t go beyond Promenade, Paradise and Serenity beaches. But there are more beaches than you should visit like Mahe Beach and Repos beach.
Watch out for the high tides
One thing you should keep in mind at all times in to not go deep into any of these beaches. Reason being the high waves from the Bay of Bengal. Unlike beaches of Goa or Kerala (that lie on the Arabian sea), beaches in Pondicherry lie on the Bay of Bengal.
The latter is known for its dangerous water levels, high speedy winds, slightly blackish water and the occasional tsunami. So be careful.
Paradise beach can be covered on a short trip to Pondicherry as well while the other beaches will require more time. If you have more time, try scuba diving at Serenity beach.
Insights on Pondicherry
| Location
Tamil Nadu, South India |
| External transport options
Buses for nearby towns and cities. Two-wheelers and cabs for nearby towns and cities. |
| Internal transport options
Public transport buses rented bikes, autos, cabs |
| Travel time from Bangalore
Around 6 to 7 hours |
| Travel time from Mahabalipuram
Around 1.5 hours |
| Travel time from Auroville
Around 20 minutes |
| Suggested accommodation
On most of my trips, I’ve stayed at Auroville. However, twice I had the chance to accommodate myself in Pondicherry at the Chaplin Hotel. I insist that just like me, you should stay at or near White Town. That way you’ll be at a well-connected location. |
| Beaches not to miss
Promenade beach, Serenity beach, Paradise beach, Mahe beach, Repos beach. |
| Temples not to miss
Villianur Temple, Sri Varadaraja Perumal Temple |
| Museums not to miss
Bharathi Memorial Museum, Jawahar Toy Museum |
| Must-try dishes
Karandi Omelet, Kamatchi Chicken, Fish, Kamatchi, Croissant, bagel, filter coffee |
| Important travel tip
Try to have meals at fixed times because the eateries in Pondicherry will not serve you food after a fixed time. This holds true, especially at restaurants. |
This is the Rocky beach alongside Seaside Promenade in Pondicherry. It’s a beautiful place to hang out by yourself. Picture credits: Akriti Mattu
No trip can be called good unless you pack the most useful of items. So let me share below the travel stuff that you will most certainly need to implement your Bangalore Pondicherry itinerary.
Important Things to Pack While Traveling from Bangalore to Pondicherry
Your Bangalore Pondicherry itinerary should not just comprise places to visit and things to do but also the stuff to pack. Some of it can be crucial for you.
I’ve mentioned all the things below that will benefit you on your trip from Bangalore to Pondicherry.
| Sunscreen Lotion |
| Mosquito Repellent |
| Book Light |
| Fiber Cookies |
| Toilet Roll |
| Toiletry Kit |
| Hand sanitizer |
| Power bank |
Now coming to the end of my travel blog, I would like to share with you some important tidbits regarding the Bangalore Pondicherry itinerary and the region in general.
Essential Travel Information for Visitors
The subsequent information will prove useful, especially for travelers visiting the region from abroad.
| Location |
| Time Zone
Indian standard time |
| Currency
Indian rupee (INR) |
| Best time to visit
End of November to the beginning of January |
| Domestic travel options
Trains, buses (for cities and towns nearby), flights (for distant places) |
| International travel options
Take a flight till either Bangalore or Chennai. From there board a plane till Pondicherry. |
| Local travel options
Public transport, rental bikes |
| Native Cuisine
Traditional south Indian (especially Tamil cuisine) |
| Available food options
South Indian food, North Indian food, Continental food |
| Level of safety
Very high |
It’s been a lot of years since I first planned a decent Bangalore Pondicherry itinerary. From there onwards, I’ve been extensively traveling in and around the region.
However, each time I visit these places, the feeling is brand new. What’s not new though is the warm welcome and positive vibe I receive as a traveler.
For those of you who are yet to travel down south, I say, “take the plunge.” You’ll love all of these places and a part of them will stay with you forever.
Happy wayfaring.
