If you are planning a beachside holiday, two names that come on the top are Goa and Pondicherry. Both places are popular tourist destinations in India. However, Goa seems to be more popular among the tourists because of its reasons. It is often very difficult to decide between the two. Although both the places are holiday beach destinations they still have something unique to them. Whether planning for a romantic getaway or a family trip, both the places are quite common in everyone’s travel list. If you are having a hard time deciding, we can ease your dilemma with the help of this comparison between Goa vs Pondicherry for you to plan better.
Places To Visit – Goa Vs Pondicherry
Now that you know the basic details of both the places, let’s walk you through some of the must-visit places in Goa and Pondicherry.
Places To Visit In Goa
Here are the top 5 places that you must visit in Goa and enjoy the best time of your life witnessing the azure white beaches.
Calangute Beach: Calangute beach happens to be the largest beach in north Goa. Stretching from Candolim to Baga, it is also one of the most popular destinations in the state. Calangute beach is the ideal spot for tourists from all corners of the world. The beach is full of entertainment and it is also to get accommodation there. From numerous shacks to the exciting water sports you can enjoy it all at the beach.
Fort Aguada: Built-in 1612, this is yet another popular tourist attraction in Goa. The fort has a great history. It was built to watch and guard against the Marathas and Dutch. It served as a reference point for the ships coming from Europe. Although the fort is in ruins now, it is still worth watching. The beauty of the fort is still intact. There was a freshwater spring within the fort that provided water to the vessels that stopped by. This is how the fort was named Aguada, meaning Water.
Baga Beach: If you want to visit the most popular beach in North Goa, then Baga Beach is the option for you. If you are a sucker for nightlife, then this is the perfect destination for you. From Britto’s to Mambos, you will find some of the signature places in Goa at this beach. You will also find numerous shacks that come to life in the evening. You can relish the mouth-watering seafood while enjoying the pumping music in these shacks. Baga beach is also famous for its numerous designer stores and street-side markets. These are some of the happening places to shop for both tourists and locals.
Anjuna Beach: The next amazing beach in Goa is Anjuna beach. Located close to Panjim, it is said to be the heaven for hippies. If you want to enjoy some rocking time at night, then this is the place to be. At Anjuna beach, you are sure to meet a bunch of tourists from all parts of the world.
Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception: Located in the heart of Panjim, the Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception is one of the most iconic places in the state. This is a beautiful church located on the hilltop. There are many churches in Goa but your visit is incomplete without visiting this place. You will have to climb up a few stairs to reach the church.
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Places to Visit In Pondicherry
Here are 5 of the best places to visit in Pondicherry which one must to experience the picturesque views of the French colonies.
Paradise Beach: Paradise beach is also known as the Plage Paradiso. This is one of the most visited places in Pondicherry. It is located in Chunnambar, near Pondicherry town. The golden sand and the beautiful surrounding is what makes the place appealing to the visitors. This stunning beach is always swaying with the cold sea breeze. If you want to spend some quality time with your family, then this is the place for you.
Promenade Beach: Promenade Beach is yet another popular beach that you must visit in Pondicherry. The beach stays crowded with both locals and tourists playing various games such as volleyball, skating, swimming, and others. This attractive beach has something in store for all its visitors. Due to the presence of some of the important landmarks nearby, it happens to be a hub for the tourists.
Arikamedu: Located close to the French colonial town, Arikamedu happens to be an ancient Roman trade center. The word ‘Arikanmedu’ means ‘eroding mount’ in Tamil. This port town was occupied by Rome, French, and Cholas in the past. It served as a famous maritime center from 1st century BC to 2nd century AD. If you want to know the history of Pondicherry, then you must visit this place once.
Auroville Beach: Auroville Beach happens to be the part of Auroville Ashram. It is one of the most popular beaches in Pondicherry that attracts thousands of tourists all-round the year. This beach doesn’t have many establishments for food or snacks. It stays true to its form and serves the visitors with its beauty. The Auroville Ashram put in their best effort to maintain the beauty and serenity of the beach. They make sure that it is not tampered a lot because of human encroachment.
Botanical Garden: Botanical Garden in Pondicherry was established in the year 1862. Since then it has been the home of a wide variety of exotic plants and an aquarium. Tourists come here to explore the wide range of plants that are brought here from different corners of the world. The garden also has an Aquarium which is one of the main highlights of the place. There you will find a wide variety of aquatic organisms and fish flora.
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Weather And Best Time To Visit
Both Goa and Pondicherry have pleasant weather. However, it may vary from different times of the year. The summer months both in Goa and Pondicherry are hot and humid. The weather is otherwise quite enjoyable during the other times of the year.
Tourists coming from outside India, however, love to enjoy their natural tan during the summer months. If you want to enjoy Goa at its best without getting too sweaty, then the period between November and March is the most ideal time to visit. This is the peak period to visit Goa so be prepared to see the overcrowded beaches.
To enjoy pleasant weather during your visit to Pondicherry, you should plan your holiday between the period of October and March. During this time the temperature is lower than the hot summer months.
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Ideal Duration
The ideal duration for both the places would be 5 to 6 days. There are plenty of beaches to explore, so if you thought you will get done in 3 to 4 days, then you are wrong. Leaving the beaches, there are many other exciting places as well which are a must-visit when in Goa and Pondicherry.
If you don’t want to rush your experience, then you can extend your trip to 9 to 11 days for Goa, whereas for Pondicherry, 8 to 9 days are fine. The thing is Goa has more beaches than Pondicherry so it will take you more time to explore.
Suggested Read: 11 Best Beaches In Pondicherry You Must Visit Before They Go Mainstream
Currency
Both Goa and Pondicherry are located within the boundaries of India. This is why the currency of both places is Indian Rupee. You don’t have to go through a currency exchange or anything to visit these places.
Suggested Read: 42 Amazing Places To Visit In Pondicherry: India’s French Colony
Average Budget – Goa Vs Pondicherry
Many of you think that Goa is an expensive holiday destination. But in reality, it’s not, if you know the right way to spend your money. As far as Pondicherry is concerned, it won’t cost you much to explore this beautiful place. Even if you are visiting both places during peak time, it is still affordable. That being said, let’s check out the average budget for both the places.
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Average Budget For Goa
For you to understand, we have broken down the budget.
Flight fare from any metro city: Rs 6000 to Rs 10,000 both ways.
Hotel accommodation for 2 people: Rs 4000 to Rs 5500 per night.
Food and accessories: Rs 2000 to Rs 3000 per day
From the average budget breakup, we know that you need at least Rs 12,000 per day for Goa. However, we have taken the maximum price into account. You can cut down on the budget by adjusting your hotel and food costs.
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Average Budget For Pondicherry
Flight fare from any metro city: Rs 8000 to 12000 both ways
Hotel accommodation: Rs 2000 to Rs 5000 per night.
Food and accessories: Rs 2000 to Rs 3000 per day.
These are the maximum costs taken into account. On average, you need around Rs 10,000 to spend per day in Pondicherry. You can make it more affordable by cutting on your flight fare. Make sure that you book your flight tickets at least 3 to 4 weeks before your visit to get it at lower costs.
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Visa
If you are travelling to any of these places from any corner of India, you don’t need any Visa. But if you are travelling from outside the country, then it is mandatory to have a Visa. However, the rules and regulations may differ.
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Natural Landscape – Goa Vs Pondicherry
Coming to the natural landscape of Goa and Pondicherry, both places have lots of beaches to explore. The beauty of the sandy shores and the warm sun can be felt both in Goa and Pondicherry.
Goa happens to be the land of brilliant beaches. All round the year, it attracts thousands of tourists. Beaches in Goa never go empty as they are always crowded by tourists and even locals.
On the other hand, Pondicherry is a bit on the calmer side. The scene at the beaches in Pondicherry is quite different than in Goa. Pondicherry is more of a family holiday gateway whereas Goa is perfect for spending a great time with your friends.
Shopping – Goa Vs Pondicherry
If you want to enjoy the true shopping experience in Goa and Pondicherry, then you should visit the numerous street markets located there. There is not a single thing that you will not find in these markets. The best part is that everything is so affordable in these street stores.
Getting Around – Goa Vs Pondicherry
Using public transport can be a tedious thing and can also ruin your enjoyment. This is why you are advised to book a private rental car to move around in the state. This will give you the freedom to move at your own pace as well.
Choosing between the two places is difficult. But if you are looking forward to having some great fun in an affordable budget, then Goa would be the best option for you.
Further Read: 15 Fabulous Pondicherry Resorts Near Beach Where One Can Experience A Lavish Stay!
Whether you plan to take a vacation in Goa or want to spent your holiday in Pondicherry, this is an ultimate guide to choose the best for you between Goa Vs Pondicherry. So, if you don’t want a slow and boring holiday this guide will give you the best reasons to plan a holiday rightaway!
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Frequently Asked Questions About Goa Vs Pondicherry
How to reach Goa?
If you are planning to reach Goa, then you can book a flight from any of the metro cities. You can also board a train, if flight tickets are too expensive.
When is the best time to visit Pondicherry?
To enjoy the beauty of Pondicherry, you should visit the place during October and March. During this time the weather is pleasant.
Is it advisable to visit during the summer?
You can visit Goa all-round the year. But the summers are hot and humid, as a result, you may not enjoy your trip to the fullest.
What is the peak time to visit Goa?
The peak time to visit Goa is between January and March. If you are planning to visit the place during this time, then you should book your stay for 2 weeks in advance.
What are some of the best hotels in Pondicherry?
There are many hotels you will find in Pondicherry. But some of the best ones include Hotel Annamalai International and Hotel Le Royal Park.
How many beaches are there in Goa?
Goa can be called the land of beaches. There are around 50 beaches in Goa and almost all of them are popular among the tourists.
What kind of food can you enjoy in Goa and Pondicherry?
Since both these places are filled with sea beaches, you will get to enjoy a variety of seafood items out there. Dishes like crabs, lobsters, and octopus are quite famous there.
What kind of clothes to carry to Goa?
No matter which time of the year you are visiting Goa, you should carry a couple of swimsuits. After all, there are so many beaches to explore.
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Exploring new places and trying out new food cuisines are two things that bring Seema all the happiness. Travel freak and a die-hard foodie are the synonyms that define her the best. Popular on social media by the name of ‘PandaReviewz’, lazing around the beaches, exploiting the sunset points, visiting the farthermost villages, exploring the renowned cities, trying out new food cuisines, and blogging about them are few things that keep Seema occupied, and happy!
