On the coast of Tamil Nadu, within day-tripping distance of Chennai, the city of Pondicherry (officially known as Puducherry) offers a unique blend of French architecture and Tamil culture not found anywhere else on Earth. Many of the things to do in Pondicherry involve exploring its architectural and cultural history—from visiting temples and churches to savoring Franco-Tamil cuisine at local restaurants. Most visitors to the city also pay a visit to neighboring Auroville, a 1960s-era international township just north of town.
The best time to visit Pondicherry for good weather is during the January–March winter season, when temperatures are at their relative coolest and the weather is typically pretty dry. Just note that this time of year is popular, so expect more crowds and higher hotel prices. If you don’t mind (a lot) of rain, you can get great discounted rooms during the monsoon seasons, which run from July–September and again from October until December.
Pondicherry is an easy city to get around, especially if you’re staying in the historic White Town area. Many visitors walk from point to point, though you can also rent a bicycle or motor scooter if you want to get around town faster. Auto-rickshaws are available (but bargain hard—they’re notoriously overpriced and despite government efforts, most drivers don’t use meters). For destinations further afield, taxis or day tours are your best bet.
If you're a fan of contemporary art, you'll find plenty of spots worth checking out in Pondicherry. See the works of local artists at Tasmai, a Centre for Art & Culture in the northern reaches of town, or visit the government-run Puducherry Contemporary Art Gallery on Saint Louis Street in the heart of White Town, just steps away from the Puducherry Museum.
