- Access
- By boat from Chunnambar Boat House
- Boat ride
- About 15 minutes
- Best time
- November to February
- Ideal time needed
- Half a day
Getting there
Boats leave from the Chunnambar Boat House, run by the Puducherry tourism department, on the Cuddalore road south of town. The ride through the backwaters takes about 15 minutes and is part of the fun. Buy tickets at the counter, and check the time of the last return boat, as services stop in the evening.
Things to do
- Swim and relax on the wide sandy beach
- Try kayaking, jet skis, parasailing or a banana boat ride
- Take a longer backwater boat ride from Chunnambar
- Play beach volleyball or take a walk along the shore
- Watch the fish in the clear water from the small pier
Facilities
There are food stalls and huts selling snacks and drinks, and changing rooms and toilets are available both on the beach and at the Chunnambar boat house, where there is also a restaurant. Facilities are basic but adequate for a half-day visit, and there is plenty of shade under the thatched huts if you want a break from the sun.
Tips for your visit
Go early in the day to avoid the heat and the weekend rush. Carry sunscreen, water and a change of clothes. Swim only in the safe areas, as the sea can be rough. November to February is the most comfortable season.
How to reach Puducherry
Buses run frequently from Chennai and Cuddalore to Puducherry, and the railway station has trains to Chennai and other Tamil Nadu towns via Villupuram. From town, take an auto or taxi to Chunnambar. Puducherry has a small airport with limited flights. Virudhachalam is within easy reach, and we can arrange a day trip.
Also nearby
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