Who doesn’t love a beach vacation? Especially when it’s in India. Pondicherry is one of the most popular destinations for backpackers and budget travelers, offering stunning views of the Indian Ocean and a vibrant nightlife scene that won’t break your wallet.
Pondicherry is a much calmer version of India’s bigger cities, with a laid-back atmosphere and relaxed vibes. But that doesn’t mean it lacks exciting experiences; the city still has plenty to offer. From historic sites like Auroville to French colonial architecture, there is something for everyone here.
When planning your trip to Pondicherry, one of the most important factors to consider is where you will stay. Although there isn’t a huge influx of choices in Pondicherry it just means that meeting other travelers, connecting with locals, and having a home away from home when exploring the city is easier than ever.
So let’s get into the best hostels in Pondicherry.
Quick Answer: The Best Hostels in Pondicherry
- Best Hostel in Pondicherry – Nomad House
- Most Budget-Friendly Hostel – Eness Hostels Pondicherry
- Best Hostel for Solo Travelers – Micasa Hostels
- Best Female-Only Dorm Room in Pondicherry – Aura Hostel
- Biggest Party Hostel in Pondicherry – WoodPacker 2.0
The Broke Backpacker is supported by you. Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more.
What to Expect from Hostels in Pondicherry
While exploring the world, hostels can be a traveler’s best friend when it comes to finding affordable lodging. Not only are they amazing for solo adventurers who are looking for fellow backpackers to hang out with, but also ideal for those seeking cost-savings on their journey.
Pondicherry is a little bit off the map and more of a chill destination compared to other places in India, but it’s quickly becoming a hotspot for backpackers. With that in mind, most of the hostels offer basic amenities such as Wi-Fi, breakfast, AC, and hot showers.
Additionally, they are centrally located so you can easily explore the city without having to worry about transportation costs.
When it comes to choosing which hostel is right for you – there are a few factors to consider. Price is always important, as well as the atmosphere and amenities. And since most of the hostels in Pondicherry offer similar services, it’s best to look for reviews before making a decision.
Imagine being in a destination that surpasses your expectations and offers you the experience of a lifetime and all on a budget! That dream comes true by visiting Pondicherry – an amazing place with plenty of budget-friendly facilities including cheap hostels, party hostels, craft hostels as well as yoga classes.
If you’re a solo female traveler and need some girl time, or simply want to immerse yourself in the female company right away, then the female-only dorms are perfect for you!
Booking a bigger dorm is typically more affordable, but if you’re seeking some quality shut-eye, then it may be worth splurging a few dollars to invest in a smaller dorm or even a private room. This can still provide significant savings compared to other accommodations. And if you choose to go for a private, you will still have access to all of the amenities and the ability to meet other solo travelers.
- Dorm (mixed or female-only): $3 – $12/night
- Private Room: $10 – $35/night
Pondicherry is a smaller city but there are a few outside neighborhoods worth exploring too, such as Auroville and the French Quarter. So it’s best to choose a hostel that is within walking distance or has easy access to public transportation.
Here is what you can expect from different neighborhoods and locations:
- The Promenade – for party enthusiasts
- Auroville – for the spiritual seekers
- City Center, near the bus terminal – perfect for low-budget travelers
When looking for a hostel, the first place I always look is Hostelworld. They have a comprehensive list of Pondicherry hostels and you can sort them by price, rating, location, or other amenities.
There are also a few great hostels on booking.com, you can view photos, read reviews and compare the costs to other hostels easily.
So now that you know the basics of Pondicherry hostels and what to look for, let’s take a look at some of the top hostels in Pondicherry.
Best Hostels in Pondicherry
Pondicherry is smaller and doesn’t have too many hostels to choose from, but luckily the ones they do have are incredible.
So here are our top 5 best hostels in Pondicherry.
Nomad House – The Best Hostel in Pondicherry
The best overall hostel in Pondicherry is Nomad House. It’s located close to the bus terminal, making it easy to get around town. I would say it’s where all the cool kids stay and if you have FOMO like me then this is the place for you.
The rooftop lounge gives you a great view of the city and is a great spot to meet other travelers. It has swings, and hammocks perfect for lounging and they also have a bike hire service where you can rent bikes to explore the city.
I love that this place is always hosting different events and activities, so there is always something going on and allowing everyone to meet new people. Plus, the staff is super friendly and accommodating making it a warm and cozy place for your stay in Pondicherry.
The hostel itself is cool, clean, and simple. There are plenty of communal spaces to hang out in and there’s always someone grilling out on the BBQ in the evening.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Chill vibes!
- Karaoke nights with everyone.
- Furry friends are welcome!
If you’re looking for an unforgettable experience of relaxation and meeting other travelers in Pondicherry, this hostel is the perfect destination. Being a great place for solo travelers, it offers a special atmosphere that makes it stand out from all other hostels in Pondicherry!
It ranges from $7 to $12 a night, so you can be sure you’ll get the bang for your buck. However, because it’s located near the bus terminal, it’s a little bit of a walk into the old town but if you want to see some of the other parts of Pondicherry, then go to their bike hire service and you can explore the city on two wheels.
Eness Hostels Pondicherry – The Most Budget-Friendly Hostel
Budget travelers will love Eness Hostels in Pondicherry.
Costing as low as $2 per night, this budget hostel in Pondicherry offers a clean and comfortable place to stay for those on the tightest of budgets. Not only does it have all the essential amenities like free Wi-FI, hot water showers, and air-conditioning but there are also cool features like a rooftop chill area and an outdoor game station for travelers to connect.
The rooms are a bit on the smaller side but the beds are comfortable and the staff is friendly. They also provide breakfast for a charge and a laundry service, so you don’t have to worry about packing too much!
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- The cheapest bed you might ever have… duh!
- Location to everything in Pondicherry.
- Rooftop Hangs!
Besides the crazy good bed prices, the best thing about Eness Hostel is the location. It is so close to some of the best places to visit in Pondicherry.
Seriously, just look at this. It’s 800m away from the beach and 500 m from Sri Aurobindo Ashra, conveniently located within 400m of Sri Aurobindo Hand Made Paper Factory. I mean, it is right next to everything.
This is one of the more popular hostels for Indian travelers, so it’s a great way to connect with locals and get insider tips on where to go and what to do in Pondicherry.
We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.
Want more deetz on why these packs are so damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!
View on Osprey View on REIMicasa Hostels – Best Hostel for Solo Travelers
Nothing quite compares to the joy and excitement of entering a new hostel populated with fellow travelers all ready to meet and mingle. The atmosphere of a hostel truly can make or break your time in a certain place. And luckily Micasi has a great atmosphere along with an amazing town that comes clashing together to make an incredible time for its travelers.
The rooms are clean and tidy while also being very spacious, making you feel right at home. Plus, they have a range of activities on offer like beach days, live music nights, movie nights, and more!
You’ll find that the common area has a few different guitars for everyone to gather together in the evenings and have a sing-along. And when you’ve had enough of singing, why not hang out with the other travelers over a game of Sorry or Backgammon?
The staff at Micasi are welcoming and friendly, always making sure that guests have a great time during their stay. There is also an onsite bar that serves some delicious local drinks!
Why you’ll love this hostel
- Lots of Dorm Options
- Superb Staff
- Early Check-in
For as little as $8 a night, you can get a great night’s sleep and make loads of new friends at the same time!
If you’re looking to stay close to all the hustle and bustle of this Indian coastal city while still being able to enjoy some peace and quiet, Micasi is the perfect place for your visit.
From its terrace viewpoint, you can take in breathtaking views of the city’s skyline. Plus, with a 12-minute walk getting you access to Promenade Beach, Sri Aurobindo Ashram, Pondicherry Railway Station, and Botanical Garden – there won’t be a single thing (or sight!) that you miss staying at Micasi!
Aura Hostel – Best Female-Only Dorm Room in Pondicherry
If you’re looking for a safe and comfortable place to stay in Pondicherry, Aura Hostel could be the perfect fit. This hostel offers all kinds of options when it comes to budget-friendly accommodation in Pondicherry, including female-only dorm rooms and some of them even come with balconies.
Aura Hostel brings all of the best vibes for a chill, relaxing, girls’ trip. It features a bilingual reception, so you can get the help you need in your language of choice. Plus, it’s located in a peaceful neighborhood and all of the amenities are within easy reach – including Pondicherry’s stunning beaches!
They also have a yummy breakfast every morning and a fully equipped kitchen which you can use to prepare your own meals. It’s a great way to connect with other travelers and make some new friends. And if you’re up for it, there’s even a bar and lounge downstairs where you can go to let off some steam after a long day of exploring!
Why you’ll love this hostel
- Best Hostel Game Room
- Curtains on Dorm Beds
- Eclectic and colorful vibes
Often overlooked because it’s in a quieter area of town but Pondicherry is known for its spiritual aura and it’s easy to feel that when staying at Aura Hostel. It will give you the ability to connect with yourself, nature, and other like-minded travelers.
And when you’re ready to get a little rowdy, you’ll find a busy game room and a selection of fun activities like table tennis, card games, chess, and other board games. Plus the hostel offers great discounts for groups!
The rooms are all equipped with curtains so you can get some much-needed privacy even if you’re in a shared dorm. And the hostel has an eclectic, colorful vibe that makes you feel right at home.
WoodPacker 2.0 – Biggest Party Hostel in Pondicherry
WoodPacker 2.0 is the biggest party hostel in Pondicherry, and it lives up to its name! It’s a great place to stay if you’re looking for an enjoyable, vibrant atmosphere with lots of international travelers. They even have an in-house DJ who’ll be playing some awesome tunes all night long.
So many people come for two days and end up staying two weeks, it’s that good! Plus, you can also enjoy a variety of activities such as movie nights, beach days, and cooking classes if you feel like taking a break from the partying.
The staff is incredibly friendly, and the facilities are top-notch. Plus, you can enjoy a nice view of the city from their rooftop terrace or enjoy a yoga class! This hostel is all about staying connected to yourself, the environment, and of course – having an amazing time!
Why you’ll love this hostel
- Immaculate Vibes
- Sunrise Yoga
- Incredible Day Parties on the Roof
While this hostel is so much fun, it’s important to know it’s located outside of Pondicherry and in Auroville which is a 25-minute drive away. But this is the perfect spot if you want to experience a different kind of vibe, and that’s why WoodPacker 2.0 remains one of the most popular places to stay in Pondicherry!
In each room, you have a balcony and garden view, and while it may take a little longer to get to the beach and city center; you can always explore the local area. Plus, it’s well worth the ride!
So whether you’re looking for an authentic experience or just a good time, WoodPacker 2.0 is the perfect hostel to stay at during your visit to Pondicherry. With its amazing atmosphere and friendly staff, you’re sure to have an incredible time!
Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.
It looks exactly like a normal belt except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)
Hide Yo’ Money!What to Pack for your Pondicherry Hostel
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Check out my definitive Hostel Packing list for even more top hostel packing tips!
Pondicherry Hostels FAQ
How much do hostels in Pondicherry cost?
Hostels in Pondicherry average about $7-$9 for a dorm bed. Private rooms typically cost around $15-$25 per night.
What are the best hostels in Pondicherry for couples?
Eness Hostels Pondicherry is the ideal hostel for couples in Pondicherry. It’s clean and a great location where most tourist places are within walking distance.
What is the best hostel in Pondicherry near the airport?
Aura Hostel is a budget-friendly hostel 1km from the Puducherry Airport.
Travel Safety Tips for Pondicherry
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
Final Thoughts on Hostels in Pondicherry
Pondicherry is a dream destination for travelers looking for an authentically unique Indian experience. I’ve always felt so connected to hostel goers, we don’t need too much, just a nice bed, and a great vibe and we are happy!
Hostels in Pondicherry offer travelers all of this and more. You can take advantage of their various amenities and get to know some really cool people, all while exploring a fascinating culture. Head to Nomad House for an all-around good time. You’ll be near everything and have a great time, or go for WoodPacker 2.0 if you’re looking for an unforgettable nightlife experience.
The choice is yours! Whichever hostel you pick, I’m sure it will be an amazing stay that you’ll never forget!
- Check out our extensive guide to backpacking in India for a wealth of info!
- Not sure what to do once you arrive? We’ve got all the best places to visit in Pondicherry covered.
- Remember to grab yourself an international sim card for India to avoid any issues.
- Prepare for your trip with our backpacking packing list.
Buy Us a Coffee!
A couple of you lovely readers suggested we set up a tip jar for direct support as an alternative to booking through our links. So we created one!
You can now buy The Broke Backpacker a coffee. If you like and use our content to plan your trips, it’s a much appreciated way to show appreciation 🙂
