Transport
Pondicherry, also known as Puducherry, is a popular tourist destination on India’s southeast coast. Here are the different ways to reach Pondicherry along with the approximate fares and routes:
Pondicherry has a domestic airport located in Lawspet, about 7 km from the city center. Currently, only two airlines operate flights to and from Pondicherry: Here are the updated details of the flights that currently operate to and from Pondicherry:
- SpiceJet: SpiceJet operates flights between Pondicherry and Hyderabad daily. The flight duration is approximately 2 hours.
- SpiceJet: SpiceJet operates flights between Pondicherry and Bangalore daily. The flight duration is approximately 1 hour.
Here are some popular websites that you can use to book flight tickets to reach Pondicherry:
Flights:
Please note that flight schedules and availability are subject to change, so it is recommended to check with the airline or travel agent for the latest information.
The nearest airport to Pondicherry is the Chennai International Airport, located around 135 km away. From the airport, one can take a taxi or a bus to reach Pondicherry. The fare for a taxi from Chennai to Pondicherry is approximately Rs. 3000-4000.
Pondicherry has a railway station, which is connected to major cities like Chennai, Bangalore, and Delhi. One can take a train from these cities to reach Pondicherry. The fare for a train ticket from Chennai to Pondicherry is approximate Rs. 100-300, depending on the class of travel.
Trains:
Pondicherry is well-connected to major cities in Tamil Nadu and other neighboring states by bus. The Pondicherry Road Transport Corporation (PRTC) operates regular buses from cities like Chennai, Bangalore, and Hyderabad to Pondicherry. The fare for a bus ticket from Chennai to Pondicherry is approximately Rs. 300-400.
One can hire a taxi or rent a car to reach Pondicherry. The approximate fare for a taxi from Chennai to Pondicherry is Rs. 3000-4000, depending on the type of car and the time of travel.
Weather condition
Pondicherry experiences a tropical savanna climate, which is characterized by hot and humid conditions throughout the year, with distinct wet and dry seasons.
The summer season in Puducherry lasts from March to June, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 40°C. The hottest months are May and June when temperatures can reach up to 40°C or higher. This season is marked by high humidity and occasional heat waves, making it uncomfortable for people to be outside for extended periods.
The monsoon season in Puducherry starts in July and lasts until September, with heavy rainfall and occasional thunderstorms. The city receives an average annual rainfall of around 1200 mm, with the maximum precipitation occurring in October and November. This season relieves the scorching heat and provides much-needed water for agriculture and other activities.
The post-monsoon season in Puducherry lasts from October to December, with temperatures ranging from 22°C to 32°C. The weather is generally pleasant during this time, with clear skies and low humidity.
The winter season in Puducherry lasts from December to February, with temperatures ranging from 18°C to 30°C. This season is marked by cool and comfortable weather, making it an ideal time for tourists to visit the city.
Overall, Puducherry experiences a warm and humid climate throughout the year, with distinct wet and dry seasons. The best time to visit the city is during the winter season when the weather is cool and comfortable.
It’s worth noting that these are just averages and the weather conditions can vary yearly.
Tourists Safety
Pondicherry is a safe city for tourists, but it is always advisable to take necessary precautions while traveling to a new place. Here are some safety precautions and measures that tourists should keep in mind while visiting Pondicherry:
- Be aware of pickpockets: Tourists should be aware of pickpockets in crowded places like markets and tourist spots. It is advisable to keep valuables like passports, wallets, and mobile phones safe and secure.
- Use licensed taxis: Tourists should use licensed taxis or autorickshaws to travel around the city. It is advisable to negotiate the fare before getting into the vehicle.
- Be careful while swimming: Tourists should be careful while swimming in the sea, as the currents can be strong at times. It is advisable to swim only in the designated areas and follow the instructions of the lifeguards.
- Avoid walking alone at night: Tourists are advised to avoid walking alone at night in isolated areas. It is advisable to take a taxi or autorickshaw instead.
- Follow traffic rules: Tourists should follow traffic rules and wear seat belts while driving or riding a two-wheeler. It is advisable to wear a helmet while riding a motorcycle or scooter.
- Carry a copy of important documents: Tourists should carry a copy of their passport and relevant documents with them at all times.
- Follow COVID-19 protocols: Tourists should follow COVID-19 protocols such as wearing masks, maintaining social distancing, and washing hands frequently.
Tourists should keep the emergency numbers of the police and ambulance services handy. In case of emergencies or difficulties, tourists can contact the local police or their embassy for assistance.
Accessibility
Puducherry has made significant efforts to make its tourist places accessible to people with disabilities. Here are some ways disabled people can access tourist places in Puducherry:
- Wheelchair ramps: Many tourist places in Puducherry have wheelchair ramps to make them accessible to people with mobility impairments. For example, the Promenade Beach, the Botanical Garden, and the Auroville Visitors Centre all have wheelchair ramps.
- Accessible toilets: Some tourist places in Puducherry also have accessible toilets for people with disabilities. These restrooms are usually spacious enough to accommodate a wheelchair and have grab bars for support.
- Assistance: Many tourist places in Puducherry have trained staff who can assist people with disabilities. For example, the staff at the Puducherry Tourist Information Centre can provide information on accessible tourist places and arrange for assistance if required.
- Special tours: Some tour operators in Puducherry offer special tours for people with disabilities. These tours are designed to be wheelchair-friendly and may include visits to accessible tourist places.
- Public transport: The Puducherry Government operates a fleet of accessible buses for people with disabilities. These buses have low floors and wheelchair ramps for easy access.
Currency
Below is a list of some of the most popular foreign exchange centers in Puducherry which also offer currency exchange services for various foreign currencies and also provide services like international money transfers, travel insurance, and prepaid travel cards.
- UAE Exchange & Financial Services Ltd.
- Address: No. 84, Anna Salai, Near Hotel Jayaram, Pondicherry – 605001
- Contact Number: +91-413-2223574, 9345417774
- UVKC Credit & Forex Services Pvt. Ltd.
- Address: 38, S.V. Patel Salai, Pondicherry – 605001
- Contact Number: +91-413-2349389, 9344431777
- Thomas Cook (India) Ltd.
- Address: Shop No. 10, Canteen Street, Pondicherry – 605001
- Contact Number: +91-413-4203220, 9843013511
- Centrum Direct Ltd.
- Address: 38, 1st Floor, Ambalathadayar Madam Street, Pondicherry – 605001
- Contact Number: +91-413-4211615, 9894651615
- Weizmann Forex Ltd.
- Address: 263, Mission Street, Near Muthialpet Market, Pondicherry – 605003
- Contact Number: +91-413-4201028, 9345001028
- Muthu Forex
- No. 248, Bharathi Street, MG Road, Pondicherry – 605001.
- The contact number is +91-9443266676.
It’s recommended to compare rates and services offered by multiple exchange centers before making a decision.