The Best Bars In Pondicherry, India

Selection of tropical cocktails
Selection of tropical cocktails | ©Goncharov_Artem/Shutterstock
Ritu Poojari

Located on the east coast of India, Pondicherry is an extraordinary city filled with color and life. Known for its colonial history, the city is a product of numerous cultures, including Indian, French, British and Dutch. We list the 10 best places to enjoy its unique atmosphere over a drink.

Kofi Bar

Kofi Bar is hard to miss. With its hut-like entrance, the glow of yellow light streaming from the inside hints at a warm welcome for visitors. The décor is rustically styled, with wooden benches broken at various ends, bamboo chairs and long unfinished tables that bring a raw and untreated look to the bar. It has a very friendly atmosphere with helpful staff ready to bring you the special of the day and an easy going crowd. Kofi Bar is a must-visit for a comfortable and care-free drinking session.

Toxic

A rooftop bar that is wallet-friendly is an unusual combination, but Toxic at the Hotel Atithi visitors can enjoy open air drinking without having to worry about the cost it normally takes to indulge. With a collection of classic drinks and cocktails available at affordable prices, and gorgeous views of Pondicherry, Toxic is the perfect place to hang out with a group of friends.

Poudou Poudou

With its minimalistic interior, Poudou Poudou provides visitors with cheap yet delicious alcohol and quick snacks to beat the heat and bustle of Pondicherry. It is usually crowded because of the great budget menu, however its wonderful beach location still guarantees you a relaxing, laidback time no matter how many people you’re sharing it with.

Pub Zipper

The bar Pub Zipper is one of the most happening places in Pondicherry. It is divided into various sections, including a quiet zone, a lounge zone and a smoking zone, making it the perfect location for a variety of preferences and evenings. The open air bar has an exotic interior and offers a wide range of cocktails and mocktails to choose from.

L’Aqua

L’Aqua is one of the most popular bars in Pondicherry among tourists, for the sole reason that it is situated on the town’s beautiful rock beach. The fresh breeze and sound of waves create the perfect mood for relaxing and taking in the surroundings over a drink. These include an excellent range of innovative cocktails and local beers.

Rendezvous

Rendezvous, situated in the heart of Pondicherry, is a popular spot among tourists and as the name suggests, this bar is all about creating the perfect ambience for a chance meeting between two strangers or a romantic atmosphere for couples. The nightlife isn’t jumping, but it’s a great place for a quiet drink on any given night.

Ozone Bar

Ozone Bar has always managed to attract a large crowd with its generous Happy Hours and sophisticated décor. Although the bar is regularly packed, the atmosphere always remains laid back and congenial, rather than boisterous or rowdy, making it the perfect place to catch up with friends over a few drinks.

Dragon Lounge

The Dragon lounge is a roof top bar on top of the hotel Laila’s Country which creates an on-the-beach experience for its visitors. The bar is less well known than others in Pondicherry, mainly because it is squeezed into a building on the corner of the road. Although finding it is quite an adventure, its relaxed vibes and excellent drinks make the hunt well worth it.

DeBussy Bar & Restaurant

One of the cheapest bars in Pondicherry, DeBussy is nevertheless a delight to visit. The bar has the style of a classic dive bar, with old-fashioned fixtures, minimalist décor and an emphasis on the local, while the fairylights and flower wreaths add color and cheer. The drinks here are incredibly cheap, and are served alongside a variety of traditional Indian seafood dishes.

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