Best time to visit Pondicherry

Best-known for its serenity and scenic charm, Pondicherry is one of the major attractions in South India. The city is settled on the Coromandel Coast of Bay of Bengal, 170 km away from Chennai. The salubrious weather of the place defines its true form. The best time to plan a vacation to Pondicherry is during winter months, from November till March. However, if you enjoy rain, then visit Pondicherry in monsoon for lush greenery. For more information regarding the best time to visit Pondicherry read more.

Seasons	Months	Temprature
Summers	March – June	27°C – 32°C
Monsoon	July – September	31°C – 29°C
Winter	October – February	28°C – 25°C

When & Where to Visit in Pondicherry

Summers in Pondicherry (March to June)

Summer season in Pondicherry is humid and hot. The temperature during summer season varies from 27°C to 32°C. Humidity during this period might range up to 93%. But with a little rainfall in June, temperature drops down to 27°C. Usually, the temperature during this time hangs from 30°C to 32°C. Although, it is not the best time to enjoy sightseeing in Pondicherry, you can indulge thrilling water sports at Pondicherry beaches namely, Plage Paradise and Puducherry Beach.

Summers Average Temperature: 27.2°C – 32.1°C

Tips:

Wear cotton clothes and a hat for protection from the harsh sun.
A good pair of sunglasses that block out ultraviolet rays are advised.
While at the beach, skip wearing very short or tight-fitted clothes. Unwind in a cotton t-shirt with a long skirt or flowy pants.

Things to do in Pondicherry:

Visit Auroville
Go on a city tour
Try surfing at Serenity beach
Take a boat ride at Chunnambar Boat House
Indulge in mouth-watering cuisine
Visit churches of Pondicherry

Festivals to celebrate in Pondicherry:

Masquerade Festival, between March and April
Villianur Temple Car Festival, between May and June
Masi Magam, 1st March
Holi Festival, March
Tamil New Year, 14th April
Akshaya Thrithiya, 18th April
Villianur Temple Festival, 20th May

Monsoon in Pondicherry (July to September)

Monsoon in Pondicherry is irregular. The place receives sometimes less and sometimes heavy rainfall. The temperature from July to September ranges from 31°C to 29°C. Monsoon is the perfect season to enjoy the natural beauty of Pondicherry. The month of August is also considered to be the best time to visit Pondicherry as the celebration across the city is held to commemorate the birthday of Sri Aurobindo.

Monsoons Average Temperature: 30.8°C – 29.6°C

Tips:

Carry a collapsible umbrella.
As monsoon is the off-season, you may benefit from discounts at hotels.

Things to do:

Relax at the Old Lighthouse
Go on a Heritage Walk
Visit Sri Aurobindo Ashram
Enjoy the nightlife at pubs and bars

Festivals to celebrate:

Bastille Day, 14th July
Rishi Aurobindo’s birth anniversary, 15th August
Aadi Amavasai, 11th August

Winters in Pondicherry (October to February)

Winters are pleasantly cool and ideal to enjoy sightseeing in Pondicherry. The temperature from October to November varies from 24°C to 32°C. Further, it might drop down to minimum 24°C to maximum 29°C. Visitors are suggested to carry light woolens during this Pondicherry season.

Winters Average Temperature: 27.9°C – 25.2°C

Tips:

Bring sweaters and light jackets with you.
Due to peak season, you will encounter a lot of crowds. So, book in advance for scuba diving, hotels, and other activities.