Pondicherry is most popular with tourists and is one of the most traveled and among the most attractive beach retreats near the metro city of Chennai. Whether you are planning for a weekend getaway or a shoreside escape then Pondicherry is the way to all your travel requirements.
The relaxing, old French town is combined with colonial heritage, millennial trapping, and the untouched beauty of the broad bay and glittering shores. The best way to visit Pondicherry from Chennai is to drive. Rent a car from Chennai to Pondicherry with Drop Me Taxi and enjoy the drive down the East Coast and make the trip more amazing and interesting.
Chennai to Pondicherry Cab: A Convenient Way to Travel by Car
The path from Chennai to Pondicherry comes between the East Coast Road and is one of the most famous drives in South India. With Drop Me Taxi’s Chennai to Pondicherry Cab service, you can enjoy the drive via the beautiful attractions, with the Bay of Bengal on one side and ancient temple towns and villages of Tamil Nadu on the other.
In the passage, you will come across some famous tourist locales where you can take a break and add some excitement to your trip. We will help you explore the best routes and travel strategies for a memorable trip from Chennai to Pondicherry.
It doesn’t matter whether you are traveling solo or in a group, we have all range of vehicles to satisfy your needs that guarantee you will have a comfortable and enjoyable journey. Our vehicles are spacious and have all the necessary facilities to keep you calm and entertained on the road.
Perfect Time for a Road Trip from Chennai to Pondicherry by Car
Located along the Coromandel Coast by the Bay of Bengal, Pondicherry has a typical coastal climate. The months of April and May are very hot, while the months that come after the monsoon are more pleasant and create the best time to travel and discover the town’s attractions. The rainy season, however, can make it hard to take on the sea, and most water sports are barred at this time. Make your trip unforgettable by taking our car rental in Chennai to experience the scenic beauty of the city at your own convenience.
Route 1: Chennai to Pondicherry via East Coast Road – Road Conditions and Travel Details
This is the closest and quickest route to reach Pondicherry from Chennai. It is also the most suggested route by Google maps and used by visitors. And if you want to book a return cab from Pondicherry to Chennai for a comfortable and trouble-free journey to your place then, My Friend, we are here to help! Contact us now.
Chennai to Pondicherry Distance via East Coast Road
The Chennai to Pondicherry distance on this route is around 150 KM, and it takes around 3 hours to reach. This route has tolls and you might experience some Chennai to Pondicherry traffic because of roadwork. But for the real-time update on Chennai to Pondicherry road conditions, it is advised to follow live maps.
Must-Visit Sights and Monuments Along the Route
| Sights/Monuments | Description |
| Madras Crocodile Park, Kelambakkam | It is a wildlife reserve where you can see crocodiles and it is located near Chennai city. |
| Dakshina Chitra Heritage Museum, Muthukadu | A museum representing South Indian culture and heritage, it is perfect for a quick visit. |
| Shore Temple, Mahabalipuram | An 8th-century temple by the Bay of Bengal, and if you are a photo enthusiast, this place is great for photos and sightseeing. |
| Mahabalipuram Lighthouse, Mahabalipuram | A lighthouse offering beautiful sunrise and sunset views, and is very popular for photography. |
| Alamparai Fort, Edaikazhinadu | The ruins of an old fort by the shore, a great spot to visit and explore. |
Best places to eat along the route:
- Madurai Sri Pandi Muniyandi Vilas: Cuddalore Road, Kirumampakkam, Puducherry
- Logeshwari Biriyani And Fast Food Center: Cuddalore Main Road, Kirumampakkam, Puducherry
- Shore Temple: Mahabalipuram (Not part of the restaurant list, but a popular landmark)
- Mahabalipuram Lighthouse: Mahabalipuram (Another popular site for sightseeing)
- Sri Krishna Bhavan: ECR Rd, Puducherry
- Dannie Mess: Cuddalore Road, Kattukuppam, Puducherry
- Hotel Royal – Amora Adigas Restaurant: National Highway 45A, Periyakattu Palayam
- New Deepika Mess: Cuddalore Road, Periyakattupalayam, Puducherry
- Sri Madurai Munniandi Villas: Cuddalore Road, Kattupakkam, Puducherry
- Hotel Vaigai: Near State Bank, Shop No. 84, Cuddalore Main Road, Thavalakuppam, Puducherry
Route 2: Chennai to Pondicherry via NH 32 – Road Conditions and Travel Details
This is another route to reach Pondicherry and Chennai. This route is a bit longer and also takes a bit more time as compared to the first one.
Chennai to Pondicherry Distance via NH 32
The distance on this road is 165 Km and takes around three and a half hours. You might experience some occasional traffic on this route between Chennai and Pondicherry. It is advised to check real-time traffic and live maps for the most accurate information on Chennai to Pondicherry road conditions.
Must-Visit Sights and Monuments Along the Route
| Sights/Monuments | Description |
| Arignar Anna Zoological Park, Vandalur | A zoo with a big natural compound for Asian animals and a large forest area. It is great for a short safari or drive. |
| Palar River View Point, Kanchipuram | A large view of the river and countryside, and it is perfect for sunset or a break. |
| Muthalamman Temple, Maduranthakam | An old temple with Dravidian stone architecture and which is considered sacred by locals. |
| Omanthoorar Park, Tindivanam | A public park with gardens, named after a former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister. |
| National Fossil Wood Park, Thiruvakkarai | A protected park with ancient fossils and historical remains. Don’t forget to visit this place. |
Best places to eat along the route:
- Hotel Saravana Bhavan: Chengalpattu
- Hotel Aaryas: Tindivanam
- Nivi’s Delhi Dhaba: Kanchipuram
- Sahara Restaurant: Kalpakkam
- Sathyam Vegetarian Restaurant: Chengalpattu
- Vasanta Bhavan: Acharapakkam
- Oorvasi veg restaurant & cafe lounge: Tindivanam
Chennai to Pondicherry Best Route
While you choose any of these two routes, we suggest Route 1 Via East Coast Road. The road conditions are impressive and the traveling time is also less. However, always check the live traffic updates before going on your trip.
Attractions in Pondicherry for Sightseeing
- Start your Pondicherry tour with a walk to Promenade Beach and Rock Beach – two popular spots for tourists.
- Walk through White Town and see the beautiful French villas and old mansions.
- For history lovers, visit:
- Pondicherry Museum
- French War Memorial
- Arikamedu – an ancient Roman site with ruins.
- Visit Paradise Beach – known for its white sandy beaches and small resorts.
- For a spiritual experience, go to:
- Shri Aurobindo Ashram
- Auroville
Final Words
Taking a Chennai to Pondicherry Cab is the ideal way to explore the scenic beauty and cultural places of this alluring coastal town. With convenient travel options, you can enjoy a trouble-free ride along the East Coast Road or NH 32, making stops at famous landmarks and eating places along the way. Whether you are traveling solo or with friends, booking a cab with Drop Me Taxi guarantees a relaxed and unforgettable journey to Pondicherry, where history and spirituality come together exceptionally.
