Pondicherry, now known as Puducherry, is a charming coastal destination that attracts travelers with its French colonial architecture, serene beaches, and vibrant café culture. If you’re planning a trip from Bangalore, you have multiple travel options to choose from, including flights, trains, buses, and self-drive routes. Each mode of transport offers a different experience, balancing cost, convenience, and travel time. In this guide, we’ll explore How to Reach Pondicherry from Bangalore, helping you choose the most suitable option based on your budget and preferences.
How to Reach Pondicherry from Bangalore
Fare Comparison Table – Bangalore to Pondicherry
| Mode of Transport | Type | Fare Range (INR) | Travel Duration | Booking Platform |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Flight | Direct (Limited) | ₹3,000 – ₹7,000 | ~1 hour | MakeMyTrip, Goibibo, Airline Websites |
| Via Chennai (Flight + Cab) | ₹2,500 – ₹6,000 (Flight) + ₹2,500 – ₹3,500 (Cab) | ~3-4 hours | MakeMyTrip, Uber, Ola | |
| Train | Sleeper Class | ₹250 – ₹400 | ~8-10 hours | IRCTC |
| AC 3-Tier | ₹700 – ₹1,000 | ~8-10 hours | IRCTC | |
| AC 2-Tier | ₹1,000 – ₹1,500 | ~8-10 hours | IRCTC | |
| Bus | Non-AC Seater (Govt) | ₹400 – ₹700 | ~7-9 hours | RedBus, KSRTC, TNSTC |
| AC Seater | ₹700 – ₹1,000 | ~7-9 hours | RedBus, AbhiBus | |
| AC Sleeper | ₹1,000 – ₹1,800 | ~7-9 hours | RedBus, VRL, SRS Travels | |
| Car (Self-Drive/Rental) | Hatchback | ₹3,500 – ₹4,500 (fuel included) | ~6-7 hours | Zoomcar, Revv |
| Sedan | ₹4,500 – ₹6,000 (fuel included) | ~6-7 hours | Zoomcar, Revv | |
| SUV | ₹6,000 – ₹8,500 (fuel included) | ~6-7 hours | Zoomcar, Revv | |
| Cab (One-Way Rental) | Sedan (4-seater) | ₹5,000 – ₹7,500 | ~6-7 hours | Ola Outstation, Uber, Savaari |
| SUV (6-seater) | ₹7,000 – ₹10,000 | ~6-7 hours | Ola Outstation, Uber, Savaari |
Distance from Bangalore to Pondicherry
Bangalore is approximately 310 km away from Pondicherry by road. Depending on your mode of travel, the journey time varies:
- By Flight: Around 1 hour (direct flights are limited).
- By Train: 7 to 10 hours.
- By Road: 6 to 8 hours, depending on the route and traffic.
- By Bus: 7 to 9 hours, depending on the type of bus.
How to Reach Pondicherry from Bangalore by Road
If you enjoy road trips, traveling from Bangalore to Pondicherry by car is a fantastic option. The scenic drive through Tamil Nadu offers picturesque landscapes and smooth highways.
There are three major routes you can take:
Route 1: Via NH 77 (Shortest & Most Popular Route)
- Distance: ~310 km
- Travel Time: 6 to 7 hours
- Route: Bangalore → Hosur → Krishnagiri → Chengam → Tiruvannamalai → Tindivanam → Pondicherry
- Why Choose This Route?
- The shortest route with well-maintained roads.
- Passes through Tiruvannamalai, famous for Arunachaleswarar Temple.
- Ideal for those looking for a quick journey.
Route 2: Via NH 44 & NH 332 (Scenic Route via Vellore)
- Distance: ~360 km
- Travel Time: 7 to 8 hours
- Route: Bangalore → Hosur → Krishnagiri → Vellore → Arcot → Tindivanam → Pondicherry
- Why Choose This Route?
- Passes through Vellore, where you can visit the famous Golden Temple.
- Good for those who want to explore additional places en route.
Route 3: Via NH 75 & NH 45 (Longer but Less Traffic)
- Distance: ~400 km
- Travel Time: 8 to 9 hours
- Route: Bangalore → Kolar → Chittoor → Arcot → Tindivanam → Pondicherry
- Why Choose This Route?
- Less congested compared to other routes.
- Suitable for travelers who prefer a relaxed drive with fewer tolls.
Road Trip Tips:
- Start early to avoid Bangalore’s traffic.
- Fill up fuel before the journey, as fuel stations are sparse in some areas.
- Carry snacks and water for convenience.
- Be mindful of speed limits and road conditions.
How to Reach Pondicherry from Bangalore by Train
Traveling by train is an affordable and comfortable option. There are multiple direct and indirect trains from Bangalore to Pondicherry.
Popular Trains from Bangalore to Pondicherry:
| Train Name | Train Number | Departure (Bangalore) | Arrival (Pondicherry) | Duration | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Yesvantpur – Puducherry Express | 16573 | 9:00 PM | 7:15 AM | ~10 hrs | Runs on Mon, Wed, Thu, Sat |
| KSR Bengaluru – Puducherry Weekly Express | 16532 | 9:30 PM | 7:45 AM | ~10 hrs | Runs on Sundays |
| Yesvantpur – Puducherry Garib Rath Express | 12255 | 10:40 PM | 7:20 AM | ~8.5 hrs | Runs on Fridays |
Train Travel Tips:
- Book tickets in advance through IRCTC to get confirmed seats.
- Opt for AC coaches for a more comfortable journey.
- Carry light snacks and drinking water.
- Trains can sometimes get delayed, so plan accordingly.
How to Reach Pondicherry from Bangalore by Bus
Several private and state-run buses operate between Bangalore and Pondicherry, making it a convenient option for travelers who prefer overnight journeys.
Types of Buses Available:
- KSRTC & TNSTC Government Buses – Budget-friendly but basic.
- Private Sleeper & Volvo Buses – Comfortable, air-conditioned options.
- Luxury Buses – Premium services with reclining seats and entertainment.
Popular Bus Operators and Timings:
| Operator | Type | Departure Time (Bangalore) | Arrival Time (Pondicherry) | Fare (Approx) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| KSRTC | AC Sleeper | 10:00 PM | 5:00 AM | ₹900 – ₹1,200 |
| TNSTC | Non-AC Seater | 9:30 PM | 6:30 AM | ₹500 – ₹700 |
| VRL Travels | AC Sleeper | 10:30 PM | 6:00 AM | ₹1,200 – ₹1,800 |
| SRS Travels | Volvo AC | 11:00 PM | 6:30 AM | ₹1,000 – ₹1,500 |
Bus Travel Tips:
- Book your tickets online through RedBus, Abhibus, or MakeMyTrip.
- Choose a sleeper bus for a more comfortable overnight journey.
- Carry warm clothing as AC buses can get cold.
How to Reach Pondicherry from Bangalore by Flight
Pondicherry has a small domestic airport (Pondicherry Airport – PNY), but direct flights from Bangalore are limited. Most flights to Pondicherry from Bangalore have layovers in Hyderabad or Chennai.
Flight Details:
- Duration: ~1 hour (direct), ~3-5 hours (with layover).
- Airlines: SpiceJet, IndiGo (limited services).
- Fare Range: ₹3,000 – ₹7,000 (one-way).
Alternative Option: Fly to Chennai and Take a Taxi to Pondicherry
Since Chennai (MAA) is just 150 km from Pondicherry, you can fly to Chennai and take a cab or bus from there.
- Flight Time (Bangalore to Chennai): 1 hour.
- Cab Fare (Chennai to Pondicherry): ₹2,500 – ₹3,500.
- Bus Fare: ₹300 – ₹500 (State buses available).
Best Travel Option Based on Your Preference
| Preference | Best Mode of Transport |
|---|---|
| Fastest way | Flight (via Chennai) |
| Most budget-friendly | Train or Government Bus |
| Most comfortable | AC Sleeper Bus or Car |
| Best for a road trip | Self-drive car |
| Best for sightseeing | Train via Vellore |
Conclusion
Now that you know how to reach Pondicherry from Bangalore, choosing the best travel option depends on your budget, schedule, and comfort preferences. Whether you take a flight for convenience, a scenic train journey, a budget-friendly bus ride, or a road trip for flexibility, each option offers a unique experience. Plan your journey wisely, book your tickets in advance, and get ready to explore the beauty of Pondicherry hassle-free. Safe travels!
Have you traveled to Pondicherry before? Share your experience in the comments! 🚗✈️🚆