Pondicherry

Pondicherry, just the name brings to mind cozy cafes, sun-kissed beaches, and streets lined with bougainvillea. For folks in Chennai, it’s like our backyard, just a few hours away, perfect for a quick escape from the city’s hustle. Whether you’re looking to sip coffee in a quaint French cafe, gobble some dessert, get your tan on at the beach, or just laze around doing nothing to recover at Auroville, Pondy’s got you covered. It’s a destination that works for everyone—from wide-eyed kids to the ‘I need a break from life’ adults(that’s me).

My Earlier Visits to Pondicherry

Let me take you down memory lane. My first trip to Pondy was a one-day wonder with a friend from Cuddalore, (21year old me). And my second visit was with my college mates (23 year old me). We hit all the classic spots: Rock Beach, Auroville, Sri Aurobindo Ashram,—you know, the Pondy starter pack. We ate our weight in dosas at Suguru Veg Restaurant, strolled through Government Park like we owned the place, and took a thousand selfies with the Mahatma Gandhi statue and had Gelato at Gelateria Montecatini Terme. But, now it is my third visit (27 year old me), a solo trip, that was truly something else.

A Solo Trip to Remember

Ah, the solo trip, definitely a chaotic one, trust me, it gets me everytime. Four weeks ago, I found myself on the wrong side of a company team trip—yep, as I was on notice period, they organized it and left me out. Talk about feeling like the last kid picked for dodgeball. So, I(cry baby) did what any self-respecting millennial would do: I packed my bags and took a solo trip to Pondicherry. Let me tell you, there’s nothing like solo travel to remind you that corporate life sucks, but Pondy doesn’t.

This trip was raw, real, and a little bit rainy. My emotions were all over the place, but Pondy? It was just as chill as ever, offering me solace in its streets, cafes, and that ever-so-soothing sound of the waves.

Staying at Zostel Auroville

This time, I decided to stay at Zostel Auroville. I booked the ticket 4 days prior in their website. It was around Rs 905. A chill spot, popular with solo travelers who are all about meeting new people and trading stories. My journey started with a MEMU train from Tambaram at 7:40 AM. Ticket price is : Rs 40 (since i bought the ticket at pallavaram). This is my first time taking train. I have been there via bus and car. You can also take Bla Bla shared cab. Word of advice: if you’re planning to stand for an hour, get on at Egmore by 6:00AM instead. After standing for 1hr, I finally snagged a seat at Thindivanam and spent the rest of the journey trying to forget my aching feet. Arrived in Pondy around 10:30 AM, where I encountered the great Auto Guy Domination™ – a phenomenon where auto drivers seem to run the town. I wisely chose to walk a bit and called an Uber instead.

Zostel Auroville greeted me with a relaxed vibe that immediately made me forget about my ex-company’s betrayal. I checked into an all-female dorm named “Poochi,” and was pleased to find it clean, cozy, and, best of all, with a bucket and cup in the bathroom – finally, zostel is getting it! I chose an upper bunk bed, which was comfortable and came with a nifty stand for my phone and specs. After my lunch, I had a really really good sleep, should I say most needed one? But here’s where it got interesting – one of my roommates, thinking the bed was empty, tried to swipe my bed sheet as her bed sheet got dirty, while I was still under it! Her startled reaction when she realized I was there was priceless. I am not a sadist. But this… That’s why you shouldn’t try to take other people’s stuff. 

At Zostel you can also rent bikes and bicycles. Bit expensive though per day 200 for bicycle. Obviously more for bikes. But considering the amount you have to pay for autos its fair enough but make sure you pick the right vehicle.

As for food, I made the rookie mistake of ordering pasta. Let’s just say it was bad and overpriced, like a sad breakup dinner. Pro tip: stick to South Indian food—it’s cheaper, tastier, and much less likely to break your heart.

My Pondy Travel Itinerary

This time, my Pondy plan was simple: relax, eat, and let the place work its magic. After settling in at Zostel, by evening I went for a walk in the rain (thank you, mom, for the umbrella!). My first stop was Conscious Cafe, a little gem of a place where I indulged in a delicious hot chocolate that practically hugged me from the inside. Later, I had a cozy meal of appam and veg stew that made me forget all my corporate woes, at least for a little while. Then went for a shopping at a boutique near by. And ended the day by having a call with my family and friends before hitting the snooze button.

The next day, I was all about slow, relaxed exploration. I wandered along the Promenade, savored a raspberry cheesecake gelato (yes, it was as good as it sounds), and stopped by Le Petit Four for a refreshing peach iced tea. My walk through Pondy’s streets was leisurely, with no agenda other than soaking in the vibe. I even bumped into an old schoolmate working at Starbucks—a nice surprise that added a touch of nostalgia to my day.

5 Reasons Why Women Need to Carry an Umbrella in Pondicherry

• Sun, Sun, Go Away: Pondy’s sun can be relentless. An umbrella is your best defense against turning into a human tomato.
• Rain, Rain, Also Go Away: With coastal weather, you never know when the sky will open up. An umbrella will keep you dry and your hair frizz-free.
• Safety First: Pondy has its share of drunk men who think groping is a hobby. I experienced it twice during this trip, one tried to grope another tried to hug. An umbrella can be a handy deterrent—trust me, it works. 
• Personal Space, Please: Crowded streets can be a bit much. Wielding an umbrella helps you carve out your personal bubble. Especially if you are trying to avoid people.
• Accessorize Like a Pro: Who says safety and style can’t go hand in hand? A chic umbrella is the perfect blend of function and fashion.

Top 5 Cafes in Pondicherry You Should Try

• Conscious Cafe: Cozy vibes and the best hot chocolate. It’s a place that makes you want to stay forever.
• Le Petit Four: For those moments when you need a break from walking, their iced teas are a life-saver.
• Cafe des Arts: Bright, artsy, and perfect for Instagram. Plus, I heard the crepes are to die for.
• Villa Shanti: This spot has lovely courtyard. I am yet to try the dishes though. It’s a photogenic place.
• Coromandel Cafe: A beautiful setting and its always crowded with people who always comes there again and again.

Top 10 Things to Do in Pondicherry

• Stroll along Rock Beach.
• Get your zen on at Auroville’s Matrimandir.
• Wander through the French Quarter like you’ve stepped back in time. Some of the streets to visit in Pondicherry are: Rue Dumas, Rue Saint-Martin, Rue Romain Rolland. Other notable streets include Goubert Avenue, Rue Suffren, and Mission Street.
• Find peace at Sri Aurobindo Ashram.
• Shop for quirky souvenirs at the local markets.
• Try your hand at surfing at Serenity Beach.
• Take a heritage walk and pretend you know all the history.
• Marvel at the artifacts in the Pondicherry Museum.
• Chill out at Serenity Beach and watch the hot surfers do their thing.
• Eat, eat, and eat some more (unless you are broke like me) — because Pondy’s food scene is legit.

Top Places to Visit Near Pondicherry

• Pichavaram Mangrove Forest: Get lost in nature—literally. It’s a day trip you won’t forget.
• Chidambaram: History buffs, this one’s for you. The Nataraja Temple is a must-see.
• Panamalai: Quieter Historical and spiritual architecture, built during Pallava times.
• Mahabalipuram: Temples, rock carvings, and a whole lot of history.
• Gingee Fort: An offbeat gem with stunning views and a dash of adventure.
• Gangai Konda Cholapuram: Fascinating temple built by Cholas a miniature of Tanjore Big Temple.

On the whole…

As I wrap up this journey through Pondicherry, I have realised Pondicherry has become expensive as ever. Yet, it’s the charm of French colonial architecture. It’s the warm embrace of the sea breeze. It’s the simple joy of discovering a hidden café. Pondy is a place that stays with you long after you’ve left.

The emotions of my recent solo trip have taught me that Pondicherry is an experience. It is a blend of old-world charm and modern-day vibrancy. Every visitor finds their own slice of peace, adventure, or inspiration.

So, whether you’re a first-time traveler or a returning explorer, Pondicherry will welcome you with open arms (literally – some drunk men does it). As you explore its streets, savor its flavors. Soak in its unique vibe. You’ll realize, just like I did. Pondy isn’t just a place on the map. It’s a place where you can treat yourself with a break and a dessert.

Zostel Auroville: https://www.zostel.com/zostel/pondicherry/zostel-pondicherry-pndh771/

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