If you are looking to engage in one of the most heart-thrilling adventures around, then you should be looking at all of the incredible places to visit near Pondicherry. This high-ranking traveller’s destination, which is fondly referred to as ‘Pondi’ promises to shock and delight you as it is surrounded by so many incredible places.
From a number of pristine beaches to quaint buildings, inspiring temples and renowned food scenes exploring Pondi and its surroundings, without a doubt deserves a spot on your bucket list.
Situated on the south-eastern coast of India, Pondicherry is a vibrant city centre that takes much of its influence from the Dutch, the Portuguese, the English and the French. That being said, its ability to fuse its history with authentic Indian cultures makes this an incredibly unique destination. Better yet, all of the places that surround this hub make it an undeniable adventure.
How to travel to the top places to visit near Pondicherry
Before we can delve into all that this bustling area has to offer, we need to establish how you will be getting there.
Trying to find transport to get to the places surrounding Pondi might not be as easy as getting around in Pondicherry, however, with the help of some locals and a few phone calls to some local taxi operators or travel agents, you’ll quickly figure out a way to get around.
Keep in mind that the locals are friendly and knowledgeable. Lean into their insights as they will be able to fill you in on the best modes of transportation! Better yet, they know how to do it at a more affordable rate, so it truly is a win-win.
Tip: When booking your accommodation in Pondicherry, make sure to take into account the location and whether or not it’s in a party hotspot (depending on what you’re looking for).
Top places to visit near Pondicherry within 100 kms
Make sure to visit some of the top places to visit near Pondicherry when you’re in the area.
Auroville
Probably the closest and still debatable whether it can be easily achievable by everyone as part of their ‘Pondicherry sightseeing tour’ due to its distance of about 15 kms from the city, however, if you are looking to travel out to the surrounding places, then there is no excuse to miss this place!
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Auroville is a town straight out of a movie with beautiful man-made wonders and restaurants serving delicious mouth-watering dishes. Never go with a full stomach to Auroville! You will regret it until the day you get the chance to revisit it again!
Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary
Lying just next to the well-known tourist spot of Mahabalipuram is the Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary. This massive sanctuary covering a land area of a whopping 30 hectares is one of the sites to visit if you want to see the beauty of nature. Close to around 30,000 birds fly over to this sanctuary every year during the time of migratory season and the sight is simply breath-taking. Makes one realise the wonders of nature and that all of the Pondicherry tourist places are completely memorable.
Kanchipuram
You have officially arrived at the Golden city with a thousand temples. Kanchipuram is a holy city which attracts thousands of visitors each year. Visitors are mostly Hindu devotees although the city does seem quite a few of both domestic travellers and tourists as well. The grandest temple in the city is the Ekambareshwar temple, whose massive complex spreads over 40 acres of land and history dates back to the Pallava period.
Chidambaram
Another popular temple town in Tamil Nadu is the town of Chidambaram. The total population of the town is about 100,000. What makes this town a standout amongst all the other temple towns in the state is its beautiful style of architecture of its temples and buildings depicting the Dravidian style of architecture and culture. This is the town to visit to experience a proper heritage visit.
Manakula Vinayagar Temple
Manakula Vinayagar Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to the god Ganesa. It is a popular pilgrimage site and tourist destination in Pondicherry given is historic significance.
The temple’s name derives from two Tamil words ‘Manal’ which stands for sand and ‘Kulam’ which refers to Pond near the sea. The literal meaning of the temple goes back to the time of its construction when there was a pond which was engirdled by sand.
There are also a number of festivals and celebrations are conducted at the temple all throughout the year! You will also be indulged in inspiring architectural designs that are a celebration of culture and design.
Pichavaram
If you are looking to experience nature in all of its most gorgeous forms, then you need to visit Pichavaram. This incredible location about 77 km from Pondicherry. It truly is every nature lover’s paradise. In fact, it even has the world’s second-largest mangrove forest. It literally is one of the main attractions when you think of the top places to visit near Pondicherry.
Once you’ve explored its landscapes via foot, you need to explore it via its incredible backwaters. There are a number of houseboat cruises that are available. You will then have over 400 boating routines that you can take.
Better yet, you can also opt-in for rowing, canoeing, and kayaking as well.
Koyambedu Wholesale Market
If you are looking for fresh produce and authentic cuisine options, then you HAVE to visit Koyambedu Wholesale Market. This is where local farmers get to show off their produce and let’s just say that the options truly are endless.
You should also note that the prices are also significantly lower since you are getting the produce directly from the farmers themselves. Do however keep in mind that this market does get incredibly crowded at times.
It is in your best interest to go as early as possible around 6am. This way all of the good stuff is still available, and you don’t have to elbow your way through.
The reality is that when it comes to the top places to visit near Pondicherry, you really are spoilt for choice. At this stage all that’s left for you to do is bookmark this blog, book your ticket and get exploring!
