Chunnambar Boat House Pondicherry

🚤 Chunnambar Boat House, Pondicherry

💰 Entry Fee: ₹15 (Adults), ₹5 (Children 4–8 years), Free for kids below 4 years
📞 Phone: +91 413 260 2444
Rating: 4.0 / 5 (Based on 30 reviews)
📍 Address: NH-45A, Near Water Sports Complex, Nonankuppam, Pondicherry – 605007, India

Looking for a serene yet exciting experience near Pondicherry? Head to Chunnambar Boat House, one of the most scenic and adventure-packed attractions in the region. From calm boat rides through backwaters to adrenaline-filled beach sports and water activities at Paradise Beach — this destination promises unforgettable memories.

🧭 Location & Getting There

Just 8 km from Pondicherry city center, Chunnambar is easily accessible by local bus, cab, or two-wheeler. It’s nestled between lush greenery and tranquil waters, offering a perfect escape from city life.

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🌟 Highlights of Chunnambar Boat House

✔ Boating to Paradise Beach: Scenic 15-min boat rides through backwaters to the famous Paradise Beach (Plage Paradiso)
✔ Beach & Water Sports: Jet ski, banana ride, kayaking, pedal boating, rain dance, ATV rides & more
✔ Treehouse Stay & Camping: Unique overnight stays in treehouses and beachside tents
✔ Delicious Food: Local and continental dishes available near the boat house
✔ Photographer’s Heaven: Capture stunning landscapes, boats, and sunset views

🚗 How to Reach

✔ By Road: Just 6 km from Pondicherry Bus Stand; take an auto or cab
✔ By Train: Puducherry Railway Station is 13 km away
✔ By Air: From Chennai Airport (150 km), travel via ECR — approx. 3.5 hours by cab
✔ Landmark: Located on NH-45A at Nonankuppam, near the PTTDC Water Sports Complex

💡 Travel Tips

✔ Visit between October and March for best weather
✔ Carry extra clothes, swimwear, and sunscreen
✔ Bring waterproof bags for valuables ✔ Lunch Break: 12:00 PM to 12:30 PM (Speed Boat Staff)
✔ Treehouse & beach camping available (advance booking recommended)
✔ Cameras are allowed (₹20 for still camera, ₹50 for video)

📜 History

The Chunnambar Boat House, also known as the Chunnambar Backwater Resort, has long been one of the most peaceful and scenic getaways in Pondicherry. It was developed by the Pondicherry Tourism and Transport Development Corporation (PTTDC) in the late 20th century as part of the union territory’s efforts to promote eco-tourism and water-based recreation.

Strategically located along the Chunnambar River, where it meets the Bay of Bengal, the area has been cherished by locals for decades due to its calm waters and lush surroundings. With the increasing popularity of Paradise Beach (Plage Paradiso), accessible only by boat, the site naturally evolved into a hub for boating activities.

Over the years, PTTDC introduced modern infrastructure, including speedboats, pedal boats, houseboat rides, beach sports, and even treehouse accommodations, turning the boat house into a full-fledged tourist attraction. Its purpose was not just entertainment, but also to bring people closer to Pondicherry’s unique coastal and riverine ecosystem.

Today, the Chunnambar Boat House stands as a symbol of sustainable leisure tourism, blending natural beauty with adventure, and offering a peaceful escape from the city — all while preserving the local ecology and promoting responsible tourism.

🛶 Boating Charges (Sample Rates)

Boat TypeCapacityTrip TypeCharges (₹)
Speed Boat10Beach Trip4000 (Round Trip)
Speed Boat4Long Trip (8 mins)1000
Motor Boat1To Paradise Beach200
Pedal Boat230 minutes30
Kayak11 hour25 – 400
Jet Ski1Short Trip800
Banana Ride6Long Trip1000

 

⏰ Chunnambar Boat House Timings

DayTimings
Monday9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Tuesday9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Wednesday9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Thursday9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Friday9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Saturday9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Sunday9:00 AM – 6:00 PM

 

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know before visiting Chunnambar Boat House Pondicherry

🕘 The boat house is open daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. However, long beach rides end by 4:00 PM, and only short trips are available afterward.
💰 Entry is ₹15 for adults and ₹5 for children (4–8 years). Separate charges apply for parking, boating, camera use, and beach activities.
✅ Yes! Boats from Chunnambar take you to Paradise Beach (Plage Paradiso). It’s a 15-minute ride, and visitors typically spend around 3–4 hours at the beach.
🍽️ Yes, the boat house area includes snack stalls, restrooms, and shaded seating. It’s a comfortable spot for families to relax before or after their beach trip.
🚫 Swimming is not advised due to strong currents. While you can enjoy the water near the shore, there are lifeguards posted, and safety rules must be followed.
📞 Currently, there is no online booking system. Tickets for boats and water activities can be booked on the spot at the Chunnambar Boat House counter.