Catch the Perfect Wave: Surfing in Pondicherry for Beginners
It doesn't get more exciting than this - riding a wave and letting the motion of the water carry you. Though Hawaii is one of the world's top surfing locations, India is an upcoming location for surfing.
With a long coastline and stellar waves, India offers numerous surfing spots for catching the perfect wave - from Goa in the west to Pondicherry in the southeast. Surfing in south India is a unique experience because it's truly a surfer's paradise. Relatively less crowded beaches and amazing waves for surfing - what more could you ask for?
Did you know? Surfing was made popular in India by an American named Jack Hebner, a.k.a. the Surfing Swami who set up India's first surf school near Mangaluru in 2004.
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About Pondicherry
A cozy little seaside town on the shores of the Bay of Bengal, Pondicherry, or Puducherry, is the capital of the Union Territory of Puducherry. Being a French colonial settlement until 1954, the city of 1.5 million people has a rich blend of French and Indian culture, evident in its architecture, cuisine, and lifestyle.
Known for its beautiful, serene beaches, surfing in Pondicherry is especially fun for beginners because of its coastline and several highly reputed surfing schools that offer surfing classes in Pondicherry for tourists who want to explore the thrills of this adventure sport.
Pros and Cons of Surfing in Pondicherry
PROS | CONS |
- Great surfing spots with consistent waves. | - Some sharp rocks and rocky reefs are there. |
- Warm tropical climate ensures year-round for Pondicherry surfing | - Monsoon seasons can be challenging for surfers. |
- The cost of surfing is relatively cheap. | - Some spots can get very crowded. |
- Peaceful ambiance for a relaxing experience. | - Water quality in some places can be poor. |
- Friendly local community. | - Limited surfing shops/rentals available. |
Why is Surfing in Pondicherry great for Beginners?
Gentle Waves
Pondicherry has gentle waves. They are not too strong and don't break too fast, perfect for beginners learning to surf.
Warm Waters
The waters in Pondicherry are warm throughout the year, making it a comfortable experience for beginners.
Experienced instructors
Pondicherry has experienced surfing instructors who provide surfing lessons to beginners. These instructors are skilled at teaching beginners the basics and correct techniques of surfing.
Beautiful scenery
Pondicherry is a beautiful place, and the beaches are no exception. The beaches in Pondicherry offer stunning views of the ocean and the surrounding landscape,
Variety of waves
Pondicherry offers a variety of waves, which is ideal for beginners who are learning how to surf. Beginners can start with the gentle waves and gradually move to the more challenging ones as they progress.
Best months to visit Pondicherry for Surfing
Generally, the best time for beginners to learn surfing in Pondicherry is during the winter months from October to February, when the waves are smaller and gentler, making learning and practicing basic techniques easier.
For experienced surfers, the monsoon season from July to September is generally the best time to surf in Pondicherry, as the waves are more challenging and consistent.
However, it is essential to note that the water can be rough during the monsoon season. Only experienced surfers with proper training and equipment should attempt to surf during this time.
Schools for Learning Surfing in Pondicherry
Located on Serenity Beach in Pondicherry, Kallialay Surf School is one of the most popular surfing schools in the region. It is run by brothers Juan and Samai Reboul.
It offers beginners and intermediate surfing courses, with experienced instructors providing personalized training.
Cost: Group lessons (for swimmers): ₹1700 onwards Private lessons (for non-swimmers); ₹2,400 onwards Contact number: +91 9442992874 Location link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/xvtTdt6ZtEFjdR7S9
This school is the brainchild of Shankar, a passionate surfer with a vision. It offers both group and private surf lessons for all levels. Caring for the environment is one of their goals. Cost: Group lesson: ₹1600 Private lesson: ₹1800 Contact number: +91 8940692171 Location link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/CdDrgZHtMWx4QNgeA
Guru Surf School is a well-known surf school in Pondicherry located in Serenity Beach that focuses mainly on teaching beginners the tips and tricks of surfing. It offers beginner foam surfboards and provides rental services.
Cost: Group lesson: ₹1500/per person Private lesson: ₹2000/per person
Contact number: +91-7604942994 / +91-8754173011
Location link: https://goo.gl/maps/dZUCd2AcpBqMytFTA
You say surfing, Pondicherry shouts back, 'Ecole De Surf School!' They train surfers of all ages and levels with great care and precision, ensuring the basics are covered first before the surfers are taught to ride waves in the ocean.
Cost: Group lesson: ₹1000/person onwards Private lesson: ₹1200 onwards/person
Contact number: +91-6369024278
Location link: https://goo.gl/maps/BV2NF3bzesxV2Jf67
Best time for Surfing during the day
Knowing the ideal time for surfing during the day in Pondicherry is essential for anyone planning a surfing trip to this location. It can help improve safety, surfing conditions, time management, and overall surfing experience.
Typically, the best time for surfing is during the early morning and late afternoon, when the winds are usually calm, and the waves are at their best. During these times, the wind is offshore or side-offshore, which creates clean and smooth waves that are ideal for surfing.
Some Essential Equipment Required for Surfing in Pondicherry
Surfboard (provided by the surf school) - A surfboard is essential for surfing. A foam surfboard provides the most support for beginners.
Fins (available to rent from the surf school) - Fins are attached to the bottom of the surfboard to help it smoothly shift direction in the water.
Leash (available to rent from the surf school) - A leash or a thick rope secures your body to the surfboard for maximum safety and balance.
Rash guard (provided by the surf school) - A rash guard protects your skin from the sun's harshness and the swimsuit's friction.
Swimsuit - Bring a sturdy, well-fitting swimsuit to surf on the adventurous waters.
Sunscreen - SPF 30 and above sunscreen is recommended to prevent the tropical sun from scorching your skin.
Things to do when not Surfing in Pondicherry
Enjoy a peaceful morning walk and a breathtaking sunrise at Promenade Beach.
Go birdwatching at the Ousteri Lake and its surrounding wetlands on a boat.
Spend a day at Auroville and walk around the picturesque greenery and the beautifully structured places of worship.
Shop at the Cluny Embroidery Centre for exquisite handicrafts in lace and crotchet work made by local economically-underprivileged women.
Experience the soothing and spiritually uplifting benefits of yoga at the Yoganjali Natyalayam.
Explore the Serenity Beach Bazar to get an authentic flavor of the life and activity of a traditional village marketplace.
Take a trip down the lanes of history at the White Town to soak in the colonial French atmosphere through the architecture and French cuisines.
Where to stay in Pondicherry?
Located very close to Auroville and a stone's throw away from the railway station, this is one of the most popular hotels in the area. This is a great place if you're taking your family along.
Cost:
Double bedroom: ₹1,880
Triple bedroom: ₹2,585
La Maison Renald
Enjoy a warm, welcoming homestay near Promenade Beach with air-conditioned rooms and other amenities.
Cost:
Double bedroom: ₹3640
Aaravi Residency This hotel is up-to-date with all the latest facilities and is popular for business trips as well as tourists. Cost:
Double bedroom: ₹2200 Twin Bedroom: ₹2950
FAQs
Q1: Which beach is best for surfing in Pondicherry?
Ans: The top 3 beaches for surfing in Pondicherry are:
Auroville Beach
Promenade Beach
Serenity Beach
Q2: Which season is best for surfing in Pondicherry?
Ans: March-May and October-December are the perfect time for surfing. It's best to avoid the monsoon season.
Q3: Is 30 too old to start surfing?
Ans: You're never too old to surf if you bring enough positivity and determination!
Q4: What beach waves are good for beginners?
Ans: White water waves are considered as good waves for beginners as it is easy to catch them.
Q5: How to reach Pondicherry?
Ans: Pondicherry can be easily reached by air, rail, or road:
By air: The airport at Pondicherry is small and can accommodate a limited number of flights. The nearest domestic and international airport is Chennai (140 km away).
By rail: The nearest rail station from Pondicherry is Villupuram, about 35 km away), and well-connected to cities like New Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, Chennai, and Trivandrum.
By road: You can easily reach Pondicherry in 3.5 hours by hiring a taxi from Chennai. Many buses ply from Chennai and other nearby cities to Pondicherry.
