Puducherry Travel Resources. Apps, Maps, Emergency Contacts

Google Maps
Indispensable for navigation, finding attractions, and understanding public transport routes.
Google Translate
A useful tool for overcoming language barriers. Download the Tamil offline language pack.
WhatsApp
Prevalent in India for communication. Message hotels, tour operators, and acquaintances.
Ola/Uber
For transportation-hailing services. Check what's available locally in Puducherry.
Online Reservation Systems
Booking.com, Agoda, MakeMyTrip assist in finding accommodations, flights, and activities.

Puducherry Tourism
The official tourism website (tourism.py.gov.in) offers information on attractions, events, and services.
Auroville Official Website
(auroville.org) Provides detailed information about the experimental township.
Indian Railways (IRCTC)
(irctc.co.in) For booking train tickets across India.
Bus Booking Platforms
RedBus, MakeMyTrip, Goibibo assist in booking long-distance bus tickets.
Embassy/Consulate Website
Check your country's embassy or consulate website for the latest travel advisories and visa information.

Follow official tourism handles for Puducherry or India for updates and inspiration. Local travel bloggers offer up-to-date insights.

Search for podcasts on South Indian travel, French colonial-era history, or Auroville's unique experiment.

TripAdvisor forums or Reddit communities permit asking certain inquiries and reading reviews.

Reddit r/india TripAdvisor Forum

Lonely Planet India or Rough Guide to India cover Puducherry as part of a wider itinerary.
Local tourist maps are often available at hotels or tourist information centers.
These maps assist in navigating the French Quarter and Tamil Quarter on foot.

"Pondicherry, Auroville, East Coast Road - A Tourist Guide" by K.S. Venkataramanan offers specific details.
Reading about French The History of colonization inside India.
Exploring writings by Sri Aurobindo and The Mother.
Local English newspapers carry local news, event listings, and cultural information.

Emergency & Medical Information

JIPMER: A large, respected government hospital.
Indira Gandhi Government General Hospital: Another major government hospital.
Pondicherry Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS): A private hospital with up-to-date facilities.
Numerous private clinics and pharmacies are available.

Report loss or theft to the nearest police station immediately for a First Information Report (FIR).
Communicate with your country's''s diplomatic mission in Chennai for replacement assistance.
They guide you through the process.

Monitor local news and weather advisories, especially during monsoon and cyclone seasons.
Listen to official guidance (e.g., evacuation orders).
Hotels usually carry emergency plans and can provide guidance.