The city of Pondicherry, situated in the union territory of Puducherry has a long coastline bestowed with golden sands and blue water. Offering a striking contrast to our materialistic world that entails stress and pressure all the time, these beaches remind us that the key to happiness is found amidst the magnificent nature.
Auroville Beach
Close to the famous Auroville township and alternatively known as the Auro beach, this one is characterized by its black and golden volcanic sands. Being a storehouse of colorful shells, it has two lighthouses around it.
Getting Here:
This is around 11 Km away from the main city of Pondicherry where you will find private cars for hire. Located at the right side of the East Coast Road, you may also walk by the main road coming from the Auro village to reach here, it would take 3-4 minutes.
Once You Reach:
The fine sloping of the beach along with small waves is safe for both novices and efficient swimmers and surfers. There are various food joints nearby, along with ice cream and coconut water vendors. You will find reasonable beach resorts and hotels along the shoreline. Weekdays are preferable as during weekends the beach remains thoroughly crowded.
Nearby Attraction: Aurobindo Ashram (7 km)
Promenade Beach
Stretching from the War Memorial to Dupleix Park, covering around 1.2 km, this beach showcases startling statues of great personalities like Mahatma Gandhi, Joan of Arc, and Marquis Dupleix. Moreover, the old pier relics, along with the old lighthouse, are iconic attractions on the beach.
Getting Here:
Travel a short distance of around 3.5 Km from the city by public or private cars. Vehicles are allowed on the beach from 7:30 am to 6:00 pm.
Once You Reach:
Check out delectable spicy items from chat vendors, exotic seafood from nearby eateries, and collect souvenirs from local shops. Indulge in volleyball, swimming or a picnic, and contact the Tourist Information Centre if you need any help. A romantic early morning, afternoon or nighttime stroll allows you to witness a picturesque sunrise, sunset, and moon rise.
Paradise Beach
This secluded beach in Chunnambar (7km south from the town) has an alternate name, Plage Paradiso, but is popularly known as paradise because of the tranquil ambiance. Nourished by the Bay of Bengal, the sea has crystal clear water coupled with sands having a grainy texture. Since the water is deep, swimming is allowed only near the shoreline
Getting Here:
Take an auto rickshaw or bus from the city and reach the Chunnamber boathouse. From there, take a ferry which will take you to the beach within fifteen to twenty minutes. The service is frequent and you can entertain yourself at the boathouse as there are good eateries and a playground for kids. The last ferry from the beach leaves around 6:30 pm.
Once You Reach:
Depending on the nature of the sea, canoeing and jet skiing are organized here. Indulge in appetizing snacks along with coconut water, but no great food options are there for kids, so carrying some food and water is recommended. You may also have some extra clothes in your bag if you plan to take a swim.
Best time to visit:
From November to March
Serenity Beach
Justifying its name, the peacefully silent and clean beach has palm trees all along the shore. Located just a few miles from Pondicherry, it becomes crowded mostly at weekends.
Getting Here:
It takes hardly twenty minutes to reach from the northern part of the town. The beach remains accessible to the public till 6:00 pm.
Once You Reach:
Surfing is the most common activity here, as the sea is not ideal for bathing and swimming. You could also enjoy the sea from the raised platform on the beach. There is a café along with a surfing institute nearby. The weekend flea market is a hotspot for shoppers. There are budget-friendly sea-facing resorts and hotels as well.
Best time to visit:
From September to March
Karaikal Beach
This splendid 2 km wide beach of Karaikal city features a fountain, a children’s park, and a lighthouse in the nearby Arasalar river, making it a picture-perfect frame for photographers.
Getting Here:
Around 2 hours drive from the city of Pondicherry, this beach is also easily accessible by public transport.
Once You Reach:
Take part in activities like kayaking, backwater cruising, and canoeing in the Arasalar River.
Nearby Attractions: Karaikal Ammaiyar Temple (3 Km away)
Best time to visit:
From October to March
The alluring invitation of these seas always invokes curiosity and wanderlust in us, and we are glad to comply. So, when life becomes monotonous, take a respite and let the glorious Pondicherry be your destination.
