GETTING THERE

Puducherry airport is equipped for small planes to fly into the city, connecting Bengaluru and Hyderabad via direct flights. You can also fly to Chennai (151 km) and take a bus to the town. A coastal drive on the East Coast Road from Chennai is a popular option to get here.

STAY

Accommodation varies from homerun guesthouses such as L’escale Guest House (starts from ₹ 1,800/ US$25; lescalepondicherry.com), chic hotels such as Villa Shanti (starts from ₹ 7,650/US$107; lavillashanti.com) and upscale options like Palais De Mahe (starts from ₹ 13,000/US$182; cghearth.com).

WHEN

October to March.

IDEAL FOR

Architecture enthusiasts looking for a stress-free, easygoing holiday flavoured with surfing, scuba diving, and some time for self-discovery.

DISCOVER

. The Eglise de Notre Dame des Anges (known as ‘French church’ among locals), Arulmigu Manakula Vinayagar Temple, the Government Museum and the Chunnambar Boat House (7 km from the city).