The Arts and Crafts Village at Murungapakkam is a government-built craft centre on the banks of the Chunnambar backwaters, about 5 km south-west of White Town, just off the Cuddalore road towards Ariyankuppam. It was developed on around four acres with two dozen permanent artisan stalls plus demonstration and exhibition space, on a model similar to Delhi’s Dilli Haat.
It is the most convenient place near Pondicherry to see local and South Indian crafts in one spot and to buy directly from the people who make them. Unlike the boutiques of White Town, many stalls here are run by artisans who work on site.
On this page
What you will find
- Terracotta: the Pondicherry region, especially nearby Villianur, has a long tradition of terracotta work. Look out for figures, horses, lamps and large garden sculptures.
- Pottery: a pottery studio where you can watch the wheel at work, and sometimes try it yourself.
- Papier-mâché and dolls: painted dolls, including the kind traditionally displayed at Navaratri.
- Other crafts: stone and wood carving, coconut-shell and seashell craft, Tanjore-style paintings, kalamkari bags, leather footwear, paper lamps, handloom and jute products.
- Backwater setting: the village sits beside mangrove-lined backwaters, and boating or kayaking has been offered here; check what is running on the day.
Timings and entry
At the time of writing, the village is reported open daily from about 10 AM to 5:30 PM, and entry is free. Individual stalls may open later or close earlier, especially on quiet weekdays, and water activities depend on the season and weather. Check locally before you go.
Best time to visit
Mornings and late afternoons are cooler for walking between stalls. Weekdays are quieter, and you get more time to talk to artisans; weekends see more visitors and more stalls open. Plan one to one and a half hours, longer if you want to try pottery or go on the water.
Shopping tips
- Ask about the maker: many sellers are the artisans themselves and are happy to explain techniques.
- Bargaining: polite bargaining is acceptable, but prices for handmade work are often already fair. Paying the artisan directly supports the craft.
- Packing: terracotta and pottery are fragile. Ask for extra wrapping, or buy large pieces only if you have space in the car.
- Payment: carry some cash; not every stall may take cards, though UPI is common.
- Photography: ask before photographing artisans at work.
Practical tips
- Parking: there is parking at the village. Our drivers wait while you browse.
- Footwear: comfortable sandals; paths are mostly flat.
- Sun and insects: carry a hat and mosquito repellent, especially near the water in the evening.
- Refreshments: a small coffee outlet has been reported on site; carry water anyway.
Nearby places
The craft village is in the same area as the Chunnambar Boat House, Paradise Beach, Eden Beach and the ancient port site of Arikamedu, so it slots neatly into a south-of-town day. Terracotta fans can continue to Villianur, known for the craft as well as its great Shiva temple.
Visiting on a tour
The village is included on our heritage and beaches tour and makes a good hands-on stop on the family holiday. For more shopping ideas, see our food and shopping page, or ask us on WhatsApp for a shopping-focused day in Pondicherry.
Frequently asked questions
Where is the Arts and Crafts Village in Pondicherry?
At Murungapakkam, on the Chunnambar backwaters about 5 km south-west of White Town, just off the Cuddalore road towards Ariyankuppam.
Is there an entry fee for the Pondicherry Arts and Crafts Village?
At the time of writing, entry is free. You pay only for purchases and activities such as pottery or boating.
What are the timings of the Arts and Crafts Village?
It is reported open daily from about 10 AM to 5:30 PM at the time of writing. Individual stalls may keep shorter hours.
What can you buy at the Murungapakkam craft village?
Terracotta, pottery, painted dolls, stone and wood carvings, coconut-shell and seashell crafts, paintings, bags, lamps and leather goods, mostly bought directly from artisans.
