Pondicherry is a beautiful place located on the southeastern coast of India that has stunning beaches, promenades, quaint cafes, French colonies, and old townships. Whether you are living in Pondicherry and planning for a weekend getaway or you are travelling to Pondicherry and expecting to explore a few other places nearby, you have come to the right place. There are loads of attractions in Pondicherry to explore. When you are done, make sure to visit these places near Pondicherry to make your travel in 2025 more interesting.

Top 10 places to visit near Pondicherry

Mahabalipuram
Covelong
Chennai
Kolli Hills
Tirupati
Yercaud
Bangalore
Coimbatore
Sirumalai
Chidambaram

Mahabalipuram

Mahabalipuram is one of the most picturesque places to see near Pondicherry or Chennai. Beautiful temples and monuments that date back to the Pallava dynasty make this stunning place a must-visit. Located on the coast of the Bay of Bengal, this place is counted upon for a day trip from Pondicherry and Chennai. This stunning place is located 96 km away from Pondicherry. Mahabalipuram is a stunner with its incredible architecture, sculptures, and wall carvings. It is a must-visit for art enthusiasts and history buffs. Key attractions in Mahabalipuram are Mahabalipuram Beach, Shore Temple, Krishna Butter Ball, and Pancha Rathas. Well-rated properties like Radisson Blu, Nirvana Boutique Hotel, and BM Beach House are available for people to stay and relax.

Temple enthusiast? Checkout: Shiva Temples in India

Kovalam

Kovalam, known for immense tranquillity and natural views, is a quaint fishing village. It is an idyllic spot to relax, rejuvenate, and recharge with your loved ones. Kovalam is one of the best places to visit near Pondicherry, especially if you want to spend a few days in absolute peace. It is located 114 km from Pondicherry. Key attractions in Kovalam are surfing at Kovalam Beach and the Madras Crocodile Bank. People can stay in well-rated beachfront properties like Taj Fisherman’s Cove, Lee Crysta, and Sea La Vie. This place also has a yoga centre that offers sessions on the beach.

Chennai

Chennai has an expansive coastal stretch to stroll and enjoy the sunset view. It is designed with flaunting skyscrapers, malls, and top-notch commercial spaces. People can try the delicious local food, buy beautiful silk sarees if you are interested in shopping, and spend exciting moments on the Marina Beach and make your weekend memorable and enthralling. It is located 151 km away from Pondicherry. Some of the key attractions in Chennai are Marina Beach, Government Museum, and Fort St. George. Also, Chennai being a metropolitan city, one should not worry about the stay. It has a wider range of options, right from 3-star properties to luxury properties, to suit your interests and budget.

Checkout: Scuba Diving in Chennai

Kolli Hills

Kolli Hills are a group of lush green small hills with an elevation of 4,265 feet. It is an offbeat place to explore and visit near Pondicherry. This attraction is a must-visit for people looking for some of the best falls near Pondicherry. Kolli Hills attracts nature lovers, trekkers, and photography buffs because of its scenic waterfalls, viewpoints, and ancient temples. The hill is named after a mysterious ghost called ‘Kolli Pavai,” which means “mountain of death.” Kolli Hill Forest, Thatagiri Murugan Temple, and Thipramadevi Lake are some of the key attractions here.

Tirupati

Tirupati is a religious place that is famous for the Venkateshwara Temple. It is located in the Chittoor district of Andhra Pradesh on the Tirumala Hills. Devoted to Balaji and Govinda, this temple attracts millions of devotees round the year. Considered as one of the richest temples in India, it is located 233 km away from Pondicherry.

Yercaud

Yercaud is one of the few hill stations near Pondicherry. It is perched on the Shevaroy Hills at an elevation of 1623 meters. This place looks nothing short of a painter’s canvas. Highlighting sprawling orange groves and spice and coffee plantations surrounding a beautiful lake, this place attracts many tourists around the year. There are many tourist spots at this hill station that make it a place worth adding to your itinerary. Kiliyur Falls, Shevaroy Hills, Japanese Garden, Anna Park, Bonsai Garden, and Pogoda Point Road are some of the key attractions.

Bangalore

Bangalore is another great city that can also be visited from Pondicherry over the weekend. This place comprises sprawling gardens, museums, palaces, and forts of the mediaeval age. The city is also a great combination of historicity and modernity and is enhanced by natural beauty. Lalbagh Botanical Garden, Cubbon Park, Bangalore Palace, and Bannerghatta Biological Park are some of the key attractions here.

Looking for a stay in Bangalore? Checkout: Family Resorts In Bangalore

Coimbatore

Coimbatore is one of the most famous cities in Tamil Nadu. Settled on the banks of the Noyyal River, this city is popularly known as Kovai and Koyamuthur. This place is a quick retreat near Pondicherry. People can admire the beauty and stunning architecture of the temples, opulent mountains, and gorgeous cascades here. This city is ideal for travellers seeking spirituality as well as peace amidst nature due to its stunning weather. Marudhamalai, Dhanyalinga, Siruvani Waterfalls, and Kovai Kondattam Park are the main attractions in and around Coimbatore.

Sirumalai

Sirumalai is a scenic hill station and another place to admire near Pondicherry. This is the perfect place for those who wish to spend a couple of days in peace with their loved ones. It won’t disappoint the visitors, as it has plenty of key attractions like Sirumalai Lake, Annai Velankanni Church, Kutladampatti Falls, Sirumalai Reserve Forest, Sirumalai Hills, and Perumal Malai to visit.

Chidambaram

Chidambaram is known for the famous Nataraj temple. This place attracts visitors throughout the year from every corner of the world. In addition to this, the town is also home to the Pichavaram Wetlands, which is the second largest in the world. Looking for heritage, culture, and also the mangroves all in one place? Then Chidambaram is the place to go and worth experiencing.

All these places to visit near Pondicherry are fascinating and promise to help you make unforgettable memories. It might be a family vacation or a solo trip; these will suit you nonetheless. You know what? You can also choose international tour packages to step beyond borders and gain various experiences. Let 2025 be a year you choose to create more memories and get out of your comfort zone.