Why are people so eager to get to Pondicherry? They are looking up how to reach Pondicherry, what to eat there, where to stay and so on.

Pondicherry, or as some call it, Puducherry, is this gem tucked away on the southeastern coast of India. It's got this charming vibe with its French colonial history, beautiful beaches, and places for a peaceful retreat. It's like a little haven waiting to be discovered!

Pondicherry has something for everyone, whether you're into history, stunning scenery, or soaking up vibrant culture. It's the perfect getaway for travellers looking to unwind and discover new adventures. 

Here’s how to reach Pondicherry by flight, train and road. 

How to Reach Pondicherry by Air

If you prefer swift and convenient travel, flying to Pondicherry might be ideal. While Pondicherry does have an airport, it operates limited flights. Alternatively, you can fly to Chennai International Airport (MAA), the nearest airport to Pondicherry. 

It is approximately 135 kilometres away from Pondicherry. Chennai Airport offers better connectivity with major cities across India and international destinations. You can opt for a taxi or bus service from Chennai to reach Pondicherry, which takes around 2-3 hours. 

How to Reach Pondicherry by Train

Travelling to Pondicherry by train is popular due to its well-connected railway station. Pondicherry Railway Station, also known as Puducherry Railway Station (PDY), is within the city limits and serves as a crucial stop on the Southern Railway network.  

You can also get off at Villupuram Junction Railway Station, the nearest railway station to Pondicherry, about 35 kilometres away.

It offers regular train services to various destinations such as Chennai, Bangalore, Mumbai, Delhi, and Kolkata. Upon arrival at Pondicherry Railway Station, you can easily access local transportation options like taxis, auto-rickshaws, or buses to reach your desired location within the city. 

How to Reach Pondicherry by Road

Embarking on a road journey to Pondicherry allows you to soak in the scenic beauty of the surrounding landscapes and make memorable pit stops along the way. The city is well-connected by roads to major cities and towns in South India, making it easily accessible by car, bus, or motorcycle. The East Coast Road (ECR) from Chennai to Pondicherry is one of the most picturesque routes, offering breathtaking views of the Bay of Bengal.  

Closest Road Routes to Reach Pondicherry: 

Destination

Route

Approximate Time Taken

Chennai to Pondicherry

Chennai - East Coast Road (ECR)

3 to 4 hours

Bangalore to Pondicherry

Bangalore - Krishnagiri - Tiruvannamalai - Pondicherry

6 to 7 hours

Madurai to Pondicherry

Madurai - Trichy - Villupuram - Pondicherry

6 to 7 hours

Additionally, National Highway 45 connects Pondicherry to other cities like Bangalore, Hyderabad, and Madurai, providing travellers with multiple road trip options. 

How To Reach Pondicherry by Road from Other Major Indian Cities: 

From City

Distance to Pondicherry

Routes

Approximate Travel Time

Chennai

160 km

ECR or NH32

3-4 hours

Bangalore

320 km

NH77 or NH66

6-7 hours

Coimbatore

380 km

NH81 or NH38

7-8 hours

Hyderabad

800 km

NH44 and NH40

13-14 hours

Mumbai

1,400 km

NH48 and NH44

23-24 hours

Please note that these travel times are approximate and can vary based on road conditions, traffic, and stops along the way. It's best to plan your journey accordingly and consider overnight halts if necessary for longer routes. 

Where to Stay in Pondicherry?

Choosing the right accommodation can enhance your Pondicherry experience, offering comfort and convenience during your stay. From boutique hotels to beach resorts and heritage guesthouses, Pondicherry boasts a diverse range of lodging options to suit every traveller’s preference and budget.  

However, if you are looking for a truly premium luxury experience, visit the Club Mahindra Puducherry Resort in Manapet. 

Club Mahindra Puducherry is all about indulgence. The spacious and modern apartments have everything you need for a comfy stay. From Wi-Fi in common areas to delicious dining options, a relaxing spa, and fun kids' areas, we've got it all covered. 

At the resort, there's always something fun to do. Race your kids on quad bikes, try new activities like zorbing and archery, or simply enjoy the beach and waves. It's all about creating unforgettable memories together. 

The rooms are cosy and thoughtful, with eco-friendly features and kid-friendly setups. Relax in our garden sit-outs and enjoy amenities like a telephone, kitchenette, and tea/coffee maker for a home-like experience.

We hope the above information on how to reach Pondicherry by train, road and flight helps you plan your trip better.

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About Club Mahindra

Mahindra Holidays & Resorts India Ltd. (MHRIL), a part of Leisure and Hospitality sector of the Mahindra Group, offers quality family holidays primarily through vacation ownership memberships and brings to the industry values such as reliability, trust and customer satisfaction. Started in 1996, the company's flagship brand ‘Club Mahindra’, today has over 290,000 members , who can holiday at 140+ resorts in India and abroad.

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