Best Weekend Getaways From Pondicherry For A Much Awaited Break

Pondicherry is one of a kind place in India which is known for the beautiful streets, magnificent architecture, surreal beaches, its rich heritage and a fascinating history. But beyond the beauty of its own, this place is known for being in the vicinity of some of the famous places of South India. From the historical town of Mahabalipuram to the metropolitan city, Chennai, all these places make some of the ideal weekend getaways from Pondicherry. And the best thing is that these places are just a few hours away.

Best Weekend Getaways From Pondicherry

Here is a list of the best weekend getaways for a relaxing escape from Pondicherry which one must definitely add in their travel list:

1. Mahabalipuram 
2. Pulicat 
3. Vellore 
4. Tranquebar 
5. Yercaud 
6. Chennai 
7. Tiruchirappalli

1. Mahabalipuram 

Situated close to the Coromandel Coast at the Bay of Bengal, Mahabalipuram is one of the ideal weekend getaways from Pondicherry. A perfect place for the people who are the seekers of spirituality and also love exploring the beaches. This is one of the best tourist destinations which is known for being the UNESCO world heritage-listed temples which are worth exploring and showcases the magnificent beauty of the architecture. Locally called Mamallapuram, this place was once called the capital of the Pallava Empire. Apart from the magnificent architecture and surreal beaches, the town is also famous for hosting some of the fascinating water-based activities by the beach shore. Some of the super fun beach activities include windsurfing and sea diving.

Distance from Pondicherry: 87 km
Known for: Temples, beaches and water sports
Attractions to visit: Shore Temple, Pancha Rathas, Descent of the Ganges, UNESCO listed stone temple

2. Pulicat 

This town is famed for being the first Dutch fort in the country, but it has more than just this. Pulicat was built in 1613 and is known as one of the ancient seashore towns and also for being home to Fort Geldria. This quaint town also has many buildings and churches which reflects the Dutch and Portuguese architecture. The streets of this town are equipped with buildings from the colonial era. With all the history intact within its boundaries, this town is one of the perfect weekend getaways from Pondicherry for the history buffs and also nature lovers.

Distance from Pondicherry: 215 km
Known for: Historical architectures, sanctuaries
Attractions to visit: Pulicat Bird Sanctuary, Pulicat beach

3. Vellore 

There is no doubt in the fact that Vellore is one of the profound places for education and has some of the prime institutes. But going beyond that this fort town also holds the historical treasures which makes it one of the ideal weekend getaways from Pondicherry within 200 km. One of the main attractions here is the Vellore fort which was built in the 16th century and reflects the royalty of various kingdoms which once ruled this town. Alongside that, there are some magnificent temples which are worth exploring.

Distance from Pondicherry: 165 km
Known for: Temples, forts

4. Tranquebar 

Once considered the home of the Danes, Tranquebar is a quaint village which is located close to the Coromandel Coast in Tamil Nadu. Despite its beautiful and rustic Danish architecture, this town remains largely undiscovered by the visitors. There are forts which date back to the 17th century and alongside that, there are historic churches which belonged to the Danish governors. Also, there is the Tranquebar museum which is a paradise for the history buffs. This place holds Danish manuscripts, antiquities and relics which dates back to the 17th and 18th century.

Distance from Pondicherry: 116 km
Known for: Museum, Danish architecture, forts and churches
Attractions to visit: New Jerusalem church, Zion Church, Fehling’s House, Tranquebar Museum

5. Yercaud 

With fresh air surrounding and mesmerizing views to admire, Yercaud makes one of the best long weekend getaways from Pondicherry. This is a paradise for nature lovers who don’t want to miss the panoramic views of the hill and the clear sky. Alongside this there are tea plantations to explore and also take a tour to the Bear’s Cave which was once home to bears. In addition to this, there are some adventurous trekking spots to explore without any guilt.

Distance from Pondicherry: 236 km
Known for: Botanical garden, caves, plantations
Attractions to visit: Bear’s Cave, National Orchidarium, Botanical Garden

6. Chennai 

When it comes to listing down the best short weekend getaways from Pondicherry, Chennai is considered one of the ideal places. Located at a distance of close to three hours from Pondicherry, this place cannot be missed by the cultural seekers, history buffs and also the beach lovers. There is everything for all kinds of people right in one place. The city is famous for its historical churches, bustling markets and also nightclubs for an extravagant nightlife.

Distance from Pondicherry: 169 km
Known for: Churches, markets, beaches
Attractions to visit: Marina beach, Fort St George, Government Museum, St Mary’s Church

7. Tiruchirappalli 

For the people who want to take a religious tour, this city in Tamil Nadu is blessed with a plethora of temples. Boasting a magnificent architecture, the temples are a symbol of marvellous beauty. Alongside the temples and churches, there is a planetarium situated at the Anna Science Centre which cannot be missed. To enjoy a time exploring the mesmerizing temples and other traditional architectures, this one of the ideal weekend getaways from Pondicherry.

Distance from Pondicherry: 179 km
Known for: Temples, churches
Attractions to visit: Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple, Brahmapureeswarar Temple, Jambukeswarar Temple, Rock Fort Temple, Gallo-Catholic church

Everybody needs a break from the monotony of life, and these weekend getaways from Pondicherry are surely gonna give that. Starting off from the temples, museums to the beaches, there is every kinda place which a person needs to get that stress out of their head. So if you’re planning a vacation in Pondicherry, then make sure to add these places in your list to have a rejuvenating escape. Check some of the best Pondicherry holiday packages and book your getaway now with Pickyourtrail.