Puducherry

Puducherry

Explore the beauty, culture, and attractions of Puducherry.

2 Days in Bahour for a Budget Trip

Bahour is a quiet, offbeat corner of Puducherry that’s perfect if you want to escape the crowds without spending much. I love how green it feels here, with coconut groves and paddy fields everywhere. The pace is slow, the people are friendly, and you can experience a slice of rural Tamil life just a short ride from Pondicherry’s beaches. It’s the kind of place where you can sip fresh coconut water by the roadside and watch farmers work the fields.

Puducherry, puducherry
2 Days
Budget
Custom Trip

Trip Highlights

Cycling through the peaceful countryside with views of paddy fields and coconut groves
Tasting fresh, cheap local snacks like banana chips and vada from small roadside stalls
Visiting the serene Bahour Lake, especially beautiful at sunrise or sunset
Exploring the simple but charming local markets where you can buy fruits and spices for a steal

Best Time to Visit

NovemberFebruary

Share Your Adventure

Spread the word about this amazing trip!

Day 1

Day 1 in Bahour

A relaxed introduction to Bahour, exploring its serene lakes, local markets, and authentic Tamil cuisine.

Activities

Morning by Bahour Lake

Start your day with a peaceful stroll around Bahour Lake, a quiet spot perfect for birdwatching and soaking in the rural charm. The lake is especially lively in the early hours, with locals fishing and farmers working nearby.

Bahour Lake, near the town center6:30 AM - 8:30 AM (best for cool weather and bird activity)Free
Tips:
  • Carry binoculars if you’re into birdwatching.
  • Wear comfortable shoes—the path around the lake is uneven in places.
Explore Bahour Market

Head to the bustling Bahour Market, where you’ll find fresh produce, spices, and handmade crafts. It’s a great place to pick up local snacks or just observe daily life. Don’t miss the small stalls selling jaggery and coconut-based sweets.

Main Market Road, Bahour9:00 AM - 10:00 AM (before the midday heat sets in)50-200 INR (for snacks or small souvenirs)
Tips:
  • Bargain politely—it’s expected for non-food items.
  • Try the fresh coconut water from street vendors.
Lunch at a Local Eatery

Drop by a no-frills Tamil eatery for an authentic meal. Places like Annapoorna or Murugan Bhavan serve hearty thalis with rice, sambar, rasam, and seasonal veggies. The flavors are simple but deeply satisfying.

Near Bahour Bus Stand12:30 PM - 1:30 PM100-200 INR per person
Tips:
  • Ask for the day’s special—it’s often the freshest option.
  • Meals are usually served on banana leaves for an authentic touch.

Must Try Foods

Vegetable thali
Pongal (savory rice dish)
Fresh jaggery sweets

Transportation

Nearest Railway Station
Puducherry Railway Station (about 15 km away, 30-40 minutes by cab)
Nearest Bus Stop
Bahour Bus Stand (frequent buses to Puducherry and nearby villages)
Metro Station
Not available
Cab Availability
Auto-rickshaws and cabs are easily available near the bus stand; negotiate fares before boarding.

No destinations found for this itinerary

Day 2

Day 2 in Bahour

A mix of cultural spots and local flavors, diving deeper into Bahour's charm with visits to a historic temple, a serene garden, and a taste of authentic Puducherry cuisine.

Activities

Visit Sri Gokilambal Thirukameswara Temple

Start your day with a peaceful visit to this ancient Shiva temple, known for its Dravidian architecture and spiritual vibe. The temple is less crowded in the mornings, making it perfect for a quiet experience. Don’t miss the intricate carvings on the gopuram (tower).

Sri Gokilambal Thirukameswara Temple, Bahour6:30 AM - 12:00 PMFree (donations welcome)
Tips:
  • Dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered)
  • Carry cash for offerings if interested
Stroll at Bahour Botanical Garden
Stroll at Bahour Botanical Garden

A hidden gem with lush greenery, rare plants, and shaded pathways. It’s a great spot to unwind after the temple visit. The garden is well-maintained and offers a quiet escape from the town’s hustle.

Bahour Botanical Garden, near Bahour Lake8:00 AM - 5:00 PM₹10-20 per person
Tips:
  • Visit early to avoid the midday heat
  • Carry water and sunscreen
Lunch at a Chettinad-style Eatery

Try Bahour’s take on Chettinad cuisine, known for its bold flavors and spicy aromas. Head to a no-frills local spot for dishes like pepper chicken, fish curry, and fluffy appams. The meals are hearty and budget-friendly.

Local eateries near Bahour Market12:30 PM - 2:00 PM₹150-300 per person
Tips:
  • Ask for mild spice if you can’t handle heat
  • Try the banana leaf thali for a full experience

Must Try Foods

Chettinad pepper chicken
Appam with fish curry
Banana leaf thali

Transportation

Nearest Railway Station
Puducherry Railway Station (15 km, 30-40 mins by auto)
Nearest Bus Stop
Bahour Bus Stand (frequent buses to Puducherry and nearby villages)
Metro Station
Not available
Cab Availability
Autos and shared cabs readily available; negotiate fares before riding

Travel Tips

Rent a bicycle—it’s the cheapest and best way to get around Bahour’s flat roads
Carry cash—many small shops and stalls don’t accept cards
Try the local tea stalls—they serve strong, sweet chai for just a few rupees
Start early to avoid the midday heat, especially if you’re cycling

Related Trips

Explore related trips for this destination

Other Popular Destinations

Explore itineraries for other amazing destinations

Itineraries by Destination