Pondicherry, also known as the French Capital of India is a scenic and picturesque city that welcomes tourists from all over the world. Blessed with scenic beaches, promenades, quaint cafes and old township; Pondicherry never fails to delight travellers. Not only the city but even the places located around it are worth a visit. There are various places near Pondicherry that will surely augment your travel experience. The reason why the city is called the French capital is because it was captivated by colonists from France till 1954. The French influence is easily visible through the architecture and localities.
Top 20 Places Near Pondicherry
The city is surrounded by some of the best places that are worth a visit. Some of the places around Pondicherry that should be included in your itinerary have been listed below!
- Mahabalipuram: Explore The Architecture
- Covelong: Relax By The Beaches
- Chennai: Explore The Metropolitan City
- Kolli Hills: Witness The Beautiful Views
- Tirupati: Say Your Prayers
- Yercaud: Surrounded By Serene Beauty
- Bangalore: Be A Part Of Bustling City
- Sirumalai: Admire The Green Landscapes
- Madurai: Land Of Religious Places
- Coimbatore: Take A Quick Break
- Kodaikanal: Amidst The Forested Valleys
- Kotagiri: Surrounded By Nature’s Beauty
- Coonoor: Witness The Waterfalls
- Ooty: Visit The Magnificent Place
- Kanchipuram: Known For Art And Culture
- Tiruvannamalai: Explore The Ashrams And Temples
- Kovalam: Enjoy A Tranquil Vacation
- Chidambaram: Known For Its Heritage
- Thanjavur: Historic Remnants
- Yelagiri: Experience A Surreal Getaway
1. Mahabalipuram: Explore The Architecture
Known for beautiful temples and monuments that date back to the Pallava dynasty, Mahabalipuram is one of the most picturesque places to see near Pondicherry. Located on the coast of Bay of Bengal, this place is counted upon for a day trip from Pondicherry and Chennai. With incredible architecture, sculpture, and wall carvings, Mahabalipuram is a stunner for all, particularly for art enthusiasts and history buffs.
Distance From Pondicherry: 96 kms
Key Attractions: Mahabalipuram Beach, Shore Temple, Krishna Butter Ball, and Pancha Rathas
Places To Stay: Radisson Blu, Nirvana Boutique Hotel and BM Beach House
Must Read: 11 Best Beaches In Pondicherry You Must Visit Before They Go Mainstream
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2. Covelong: Relax By The Beaches
Located on the East Coast Road, Covelong is a quaint fishing village that is known for immense serenity and natural view. An idyllic spot to relax, rejuvenate, and recharge, Covelong is one of the best places to visit near Pondicherry, especially if you want to spend a few days in absolute tranquillity. There is a beachfront resort to relax, a surf school which offers professional guidance for surfing and a yoga centre which offers sessions on the beach.
Distance From Pondicherry: 114 kms
Key Attractions: Covelong Beach and The Madras Crocodile Bank
Places To Stay: Taj Fisherman’s Cove, Lee Crysta, and Sea La Vie
Suggested Read: Visit These Temples In Pondicherry To Amp Up Your Travel Experience
3. Chennai: Explore The Metropolitan City
Flaunting skyscrapers, malls, and top-notch commercial spaces, Chennai has an expansive coastal stretch to stroll and enjoy the sunset view. Try delicious local food, buy beautiful silk sarees, and spend exciting moments on the Marina Beach and make your weekend memorable and enthralling. When looking for some of the must-visit places around Pondicherry, considering the city of Chennai would be the right thing to do.
Distance From Pondicherry: 151 kms
Key Attractions: Marina Beach, Government Museum and Fort St. George
Places To Stay: Grand Cascade Hotel, Hotel Pandian and The State Hotels
Suggested Read: 5 Places To Visit In Pondicherry In July For All The Nature Lovers!
4. Kolli Hills: Witness The Beautiful Views
An offbeat place to explore and visit near Pondicherry, Kolli Hills are a lush-green hillock with an elevation of 4,265 feet. This attraction is a must visit for those looking for some of the best falls near Pondicherry. Owing to scenic waterfalls, viewpoints, and ancient temples, Kolli Hills attracts nature lovers, trekkers, and photography buffs. The hill is named after a mystic ghost called ‘Kolli Pavai”, which translates into “mountain of death”.
Distance From Pondicherry: 231 kms
Key Attractions: Kolli Hill Forest, Thatagiri Merugan temple and Thipramadevi Lake
Places To Stay: Silverline Retreat Hotel, RVR Rejoice Villa Resort, and RJ Grand Resort
Suggested Read: 12 Pondicherry Travel Tips To Make Your Excursion Butter Smooth!
5. Tirupati: Say Your Prayers
Settled in the Chittoor district of Andhra Pradesh on the Tirumala Hills, Tirupati is a religious place, which is famous for Venkateshwara Temple. Devoted to Balaji and Govinda, this temple attracts millions of devotees round the year and is considered as one of the tourist places near Pondicherry.
Distance From Pondicherry: 233 kms
Key Attractions: Sri Venkateshwara Swami Temple, Sri Venkateshwara National Park, and Kapila Teertham.
Places To Stay: Holiday Inn, Vihas Hotels and Fortune Select Grand Ridge
Suggested Read: 9 Best Villas In Pondicherry For A French-Like Stay!
6. Yercaud: Surrounded By Serene Beauty
Perched on the Shevaroy Hills at an elevation of 1623 meters, Yercaud is one of the few hill stations near Pondicherry. Featuring sprawling orange groves and spice and coffee plantations surrounding a beautiful lake, this place looks nothing short of a painter’s canvas. There are numerous tourist spots at this hill station that make it a place worth adding to your itinerary.
Distance From Pondicherry: 237 kms
Key Attractions: Kiliyur Falls, Shevaroy Hills, Japanese Garden, Anna Park, Bonsai Garden, and Pogoda Point Road
Places To Stay: Sterling, Hotel Shevaroys and TGI Star Holiday Resort
Suggested Read: Shopping In Pondicherry: 20 Updated Places To Buy Souvenirs!
7. Bangalore: Be A Part Of Bustling City
Another great city that can also be visited from Pondicherry over the weekend is Bangalore. Apart from the man-made urban conglomeration, Bangalore boasts of sprawling gardens, museums, palaces, and forts of the medieval age. The city is a great amalgamation of historicity and modernity and is adorned by natural beauty.
Distance From Pondicherry: 309 kms
Key Attractions: Lalbagh Botanical Garden, Cubbon Park, Bangalore Palace, and Bannerghatta Biological Park.
Places To Stay: Ramada Bangalore, Royal Orchid Resort and JW Marriot Hotel
Suggested Read: 25 Restaurants In Pondicherry That Will Satiate All Gastronomic Cravings
8. Sirumalai: Admire The Green Landscapes
A scenic hill station near Pondicherry, Sirumalai is another place to admire. Adorned with lake, waterfalls, forests, lush green valleys, observation towers, and ancient church, Sirumalai is the safe bet for those who wish to spend a couple of days in peace and solace. With plenty of attractions to witness, Sirumalai is one of those places around Pondicherry that won’t disappoint you.
Distance From Pondicherry: 333 kms
Key Attractions: Sirumalai lake, Annai Velankanni Church, Kutladampatti Falls, Sirumalai Reserve Forest, Sirumalai Hills, and Perumal Malai
Places To Stay: JMA Garden Resort, Lion Resorts, and Coffee County Resorts
Suggested Read: 42 Best Places To Visit In Pondicherry: India’s French Colony!
9. Madurai: Land Of Religious Places
Located on the banks of Vaigai River, Madurai is a colourful town and attracts religious travellers and art enthusiasts to a large extent. Featuring 14 colourful and vibrant gopurams or gateway towers, Madurai receives tourists round the year, especially during April’s Chithirai Festival celebrating Meenakshi and Lord Vishnu. From temples to museums, the city of Madurai will keep you all excited during your visit.
Distance From Pondicherry: 334 kms
Key Attractions: Meenakshi Amman Temple, Thirumalai, Gandhi Memorial Museum and Koodal Azhagar temple
Places To Stay: Heritage Madurai, Astoria Hotels and Regency Madurai
Suggested Read: Nightlife In Pondicherry: 5 Underrated Yet Super Cool Experiences To Try
10. Coimbatore: Take A Quick Break
Settled on the banks of Noyyal River, Coimbatore is one of the most famous cities in Tamil Nadu. Popular as Kovai and Koyamuthur, this place is a quick retreat near Pondicherry. One can admire the beauty and stunning architecture of the temples, opulent mountains, and gorgeous cascades here. Located near Pondicherry, this city is ideal for travelers seeking spirituality as well as peace amidst nature.
Distance From Pondicherry: 378 kms
Key Attractions: Marudhamalai, Dhanyalinga, Siruvani Waterfalls, and Kovai Kondattam Park
Places To Stay: Vivanta, The Chennai Residency, and Cheran Palace Lodge
Suggested Read: New Year Parties In Pondicherry: Welcome New Year By Celebrating At These Splendid Venues
11. Kodaikanal: Amidst The Forested Valleys
There is no dearth of scenic places near Pondicherry and Kodaikanal is surely one of them. From forested valleys, waterfalls, granite cliffs, lakes, meadows and verdant hillocks; Kodaikanal has everything to allure all kinds of tourists – from honeymoon couples to adventure enthusiasts. Make the most of your visit to this place near Pondicherry by trying out some of the most fun activities.
Distance From Pondicherry: 398 kms
Key Attractions: Kodaikanal Lake, Silver Cascade Falls, and Bryant Park
Places To Stay: Kodai Resort, Villa Retreat, and The Cartlong
Suggested Read: 11 Top Homestays In Pondicherry For An Unforgettable Holiday
12. Kotagiri: Surrounded By Nature’s Beauty
Located near Ooty, Kotagiri is a quaint hill station in the Nilgiris. With an elevation of 1847 m, Kotagiri is the third highest hill station in the Nilgiris known for a jaw-dropping view of the surroundings. One can even enjoy hiking to the nearby waterfalls for an ultimate memorable travel experience.
Distance From Pondicherry: 406 kms
Key Attractions: Catherine Falls, Rangaswamy Peak and Pillars, Longwood Shola Reserve Forest and Kodanad Viewpoint
Places To Stay: Garuda Park Resort, Celestial Resorts, and Green Pearl Cottages
Suggested Read: 15 Fabulous Pondicherry Resorts Near Beach Where One Can Experience A Lavish Stay!
13. Coonoor: Witness The Waterfalls
Adorned with lush green aromatic tea plantations, Coonoor is a mesmerising place for all, particularly honeymoon couples. Surrounded by a stunning view, waterfalls and thick forests of rhododendrons, Coonoor is the ideal place to relax and rejuvenate the mind and soul and spend some cozy time with your beloved. This is one of the best choices for a honeymoon near Pondicherry.
Distance From Pondicherry: 410 kms
Key Attractions: Sim’s Park, Dolphin’s Nose, Rallia Dam, and Lamb’s Rock
Places To Stay: Wallwood Garden, Sun Valley and Teanest by Nature
Suggested Read: 10 Churches In Pondicherry That Are Architectural Wonders!
14. Ooty: Visit The Magnificent Place
The list of best and most scenic places to see near Pondicherry cannot be completed without Ooty. Perched in the Nilgiris, Ooty is a favourite holiday destination amongst all. With sprawling lake, botanical garden, hilly trails, view from Doddabetta and opulent eucalyptus forests; Ooty is a heaven for those in search of peace and solace.
Distance From Pondicherry: 427 kms
Key Attractions: Botanical Garden, Rose Garden, St Stephen’s Church, Ooty Lake, and Dodabetta
Places To Stay: Savoy Ooty, Hotel Lakeview, and Delightz Inn Resorts
Suggested Read: 12 World-Class Hotels In Pondicherry That Have Plenty To Offer For A Comfy Stay!
15. Kanchipuram: Known For Art And Culture
Popularly known as Kanchi; Kanchipuram is one of the best places near Pondicherry for art, culture as well as recreation. Adorned with beautifully crafted temples showcasing Dravidian heritage and style, Kanchipuram has themed villages and a sprawling bird sanctuary to explore. This is surely one of the best places to visit near the city of Pondicherry.
Distance From Pondicherry: 118 kms
Key Attractions: Kamakshi Amman Temple, Kailasanthar Temple, and Ulagalantha Perumal Temple
Places To Stay: Hotel SSK Grand, Regency Hotel and Nitheesh
Suggested Read: 13 Treehouses In South India That’ll Bond You With Nature’s Mystique
16. Tiruvannamalai: Explore The Ashrams And Temples
This is one of the religious places in Tamil Nadu which is visited by many devotees throughout the year. The main highlight of this place is the Annamalaiyar Temple which is a much renowned Hindu temple dedicated to lord Shiva. Alongside that there are many Ashrams to explore around apart from the temples.
Distance From Pondicherry: 108 Kms
Key Attractions: Arulmigu Arunachaleswarar, Virupaksha Cave, Arunachala
Places To Stay: Sparsa Resort, Hotel Himalayaa
Suggested Read: 20 Best Waterfalls Near Chennai That Should Be On Your Travel Itinerary!
17. Kovalam: Enjoy A Tranquil Vacation
This is a beautiful fishing village which is known for its surreal beaches and tranquil beauty. Kovalam is one of the gems of Kerala which is famous for its three beaches – Lighthouse beach, Samudra Beach and Hawah Beach. The tourists come here to relax and enjoy a great time discovering the beautiful beaches and also indulging into activities like surfing and fishing. For a weekend getaway, this is one of the best places near Pondicherry.
Distance From Pondicherry: 115 Kms
Key Attractions: Sagarika Marine Research Aquarium, Vizhinjam Lighthouse, Samudra Beach Park
Places To Stay: Uday Samudra Leisure Beach Hotel, Turtle On The Beach, Raviz Kovalam
Suggested Read: 15 Places To Visit In Mahabalipuram That Puts This Town On The Map
18. Chidambaram: Known For Its Heritage
This place is known for the famous Nataraj temple for which is visited by people throughout the year from every corner of the world. In addition to this the town is also a home to the Pichavaram Wetlands which is second largest in the world. This place is a home to heritage, culture and also the mangroves which are worth exploring.
Distance From Pondicherry: 64 Kms
Key Attractions: Thillai Nataraja Temple, Mangrove Forest, Govindaraja Perumal Temple
Places To Stay: Hotel Grand Palace Stay, Vandayar Hotel
Suggested Read: 21 Hill Stations Near Coimbatore For A Blissful Retreat!
19. Thanjavur: Historic Remnants
Known as the rice bowl of India, Thanjavur is the cultural and religious land of South India. Surrounded by the temples and palaces from the Dravidian civilisation, this place is a retreat for a peaceful vacation. The main highlight of this place is Brihadishwara temple which reflects the architecture of South and makes it one of the ideal places near Pondicherry.
Distance From Pondicherry: 217 Kms
Key Attractions: Brihadeeswara Temple, Great Living Chola Temples, Thanjavur Maratha Palace
Places To Stay: Svatma, Sangam Hotel, Hotel Parisutham
Suggested Read: 20 Hill Stations Near Chennai That Will Leave You Loving Summer Forever
20. Yelagiri: Experience A Surreal Getaway
This is a beautiful and misty hill station located in Tamil Nadu surrounded by the four mountains. Offering pleasant weather to enjoy, this place is just the ideal place to enjoy a peaceful time. Apart from the Yelagiri hills, there is a lake which is worth visiting. Adorned by the lush-greenery, this is an ideal place to enjoy a relaxing time.
Distance From Pondicherry: 241 Kms
Key Attractions: Swamimalai Hills, Nilavoor Lake, Yelagiri Lake
Places To Stay: Sterling Yelagiri, TGI Kairos
Further Read: Pondicherry Honeymoon: Lend A Colonial Touch To Your Romantic Holiday
While holidaying in Pondicherry , do explore these places near Pondicherry. These fantastic places adorned with natural marvels and heritage will enhance your travel memory to a large extent. For a comprehensive fun tour in the state of Tamil Nadu, do add the above-listed places near Pondicherry.
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Frequently Asked Questions On Places To Visit Near Pondicherry
Which are the budget hotels in Chennai?
The budget hotels in Chennai are Hotel Ibis Chennai Sipcot, Quality Inn Sabari, Keys Hotel Katti Ma, Green Meadows Resort and Hotel Chandra Park.
What to do in Yercaud?
One can enjoy trekking, hiking, enjoy the stunning view from Ladies Seat, enjoy a fascinating drive on the Loop Road and boating in the Yercaud Lake.
Name the popular homestays in Ooty?
The popular homestays in Ooty are Marlborough House, Ooty Cottages, Glen View Homestay, and Gemini Homestay.
How to reach Coonoor from Pondicherry?
The best way to reach Coonoor from Pondicherry is by train and bus. One can take Mangalore Express from Pondicherry and get down at Salem. From Salem, one can hire private cabs to reach Coonoor.
What to buy from Ooty?
One can buy handmade chocolates, eucalyptus oil, honey, spices, aromatic oils, and handmade souvenirs.
What to see in Tirupati apart from the Balaji temple?
Apart from Balaji Temple, one can see Shri Govindaraja Swami Temple, Srivari Padala Mandapam, Sri Kapliswaraswamy Temple, Srikalahasti Temple, Shri Venkateshwara National Park and Tirumala deer park.
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