Pondicherry is an amazing Indian city but every once in a while everyone needs a change. The best way to do that is to head out for some amazing weekend getaways from Pondicherry. They needn’t occupy your whole weekend. They could just be a Sunday outing or long drive. These great weekend getaways from Pondicherry are sure to give you some cool ideas.
Note that these locations are also great destinations to add to your road trip to Pondicherry. In fact, that is exactly how we explored the area. One of the downsides is that you will have to figure out a mode of transportation. Usually, locals use their own vehicles. If you are headed there as a tourist, you can choose to rent a vehicle, hire a cab or employ a driver.
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1. Auroville
A glimpse of the Matrimandir in Auroville.
Auroville is located just about 15 kilometers outside Pondicherry. If you have never been to Auroville before then it should definitely be on your wish list. It is a perfect place if you are looking for weekend getaways from Pondicherry. The city is renowned as an experimental township. The idea is that man and women can live in peace and harmony irrespective of their country of origin, caste, creed, beliefs etc.
The only way to truly understand what Auroville stands for is to experience it first hand. The city is gorgeous with lots of green cover. It is one of the perfect weekend getaways from Pondicherry. Its proximity to the city makes it even more appealing. Renting out accommodation close by is a great way to get away from the city noise.
2. Gingee Fort
A view from a top one of the sides of Gingee Fort.
The Gingee fort is a well preserved fortress that lies in the state of Tamil Nadu. It is just 71 kilometers away from Pondicherry and is a great place to head to if you need a weekend getaway from Pondicherry. The fort is located across three different hills. The incredible structure is easily accessible and the hike up is a short one. The views however is breath taking.
You will be surprised at how well the fort has been preserved. While we hiked up only one of the hills, the Gingee fort has a lot more to see if you have time. It also is a great pit stop on the way from Bangalore.
3. Mahabalipuram
Mahabalipuram is one of my favorite weekend getaways from Pondicherry.
Located at around 100 kilometers away, Mahabalipuram is another great weekend getaway from Pondicherry. The drive along the East coast road is beautiful and peaceful. The road itself is in pretty good condition which makes the drive even better. The town is located on the coast which makes it a great place if you want to chill while listening to the crashing of the waves.
Mahabalipuram has numerous old temples that are UNESCO heritage sites. It’s a calm and peaceful place to visit with plenty of things to do. People indulge in water sports and enjoy the food. Sometimes its great just to sit on an uncrowded beach and relax.
4. Kanchipuram
The Kanchi Kailasanathar temple in Kanchipuram is one of the iconic spots you can see on your weekend getaways from Pondicherry.
Kanchipuram is 120 kilometers away from Pondicherry. It is home to many of the old Hindu temples and has rightly been called one of the temple cities of India. In fact, the Kanchipuram temples are a popular pilgrimage spot. If you ever head to this area, do not miss visiting the Kanchi Kailasanathar temple.
Kanchipuram is one of the best great weekend getaways from Pondicherry. There is a lot to explore and see in the city. It is also home to the famous Kajeevaram sarees. Not only can you buy these exquisite sarees, you can also watch and see how they are made.
What are the weekend getaways from Pondicherry that you have taken? Have you tried any of these locations? We would love to hear what you think in the comments below.
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