subject: Pondicherry To Chennai Form The French Riviera To The Cultural Hub [print this page] Pondicherry is the living testimonial of its French connection in the past. Its pristine beaches and other remains of the French colonial rule, along with the unique culture, have propelled Pondicherry as a prime tourist destination with an identity of its own.
Though a major portion of this union territory is geographically placed in the state of Tamil Nadu, a part of it can be found in Kerala as well (Mahe). Currently, Pondicherry town, which is the capital of the Union Territory, is known as Puducherry (meaning New Town). Fondly called "Pondy", this is the idyllic destination for a fun filled holiday.
Gracefully sitting along the banks of the Coromandel Coast, is Chennai, the capital city as well as the cultural hot pot of the south Indian state of Tamil Nadu. It is the proud owner of a rich heritage that is a unique mix of culture, traditions and the lifestyles of the residents, which has been carried on through many generations, till the present times. The fourth largest metropolis of India, Chennai presents the perfect blend of the modern times with that of the rich heritage of the past.
Often termed as the Gateway to South India, Chennai is often a representative of the entire region and anyone from South India is fondly called a Madrasi (Derived from Madras, the former name of Chennai, it means people from Madras).
Travelling from Pondicherry to Chennai is fairly easy as the distance between the two places is only around 163 km. Time taken to cover this distance by road would be approximately 2 and a half hours. In fact, travelling by road is one of the common means of travel between both the places. There are lots of (government operated as well as private operated) buses that ply through the route at regular intervals. The ticket cost will vary according to the type of bus preferred. It is more suited for lone backpackers.
On the other hand, trains offer a more comfortable mode of travel from Pondicherry to Chennai. The trains connect Pondicherry with the Chennai Egmore station. Presently only one express train - the Pdy Bbs Express (12897) - has direct connectivity with both these cities. Hence it is prudent to do online advance booking of the tickets through the railways site. Trains are the best means of travel, especially if one is travelling along with kids and elders.
Another more convenient mode of travel from Pondicherry to Chennai is by hired cabs. Though the taxis are costlier than other public transport systems, it offers great comfort and a certain degree of flexibility in ones schedule. Hence, it is one of the best options while travelling with family.
