From Next Week Tourists Will Be Able To Travel From Chennai To Puducherry On A Beer Bus
Puducherry, one of the most sought-after beach tourist destinations in South India is rolling out a new attraction for visitors there.
From April 22, tourists visiting the former French colony will be able to travel to the Union Territory from Chennai on a ‘Beer bus’.
Rs 3000 for a round trip on beer bus
The Hop on beer bus was launched by Catamaran Brewing Co., Puducherry’s first microbrewery, with an aim to provide a unique experience to tourists there.
The bus ride that costs Rs 3,000 for a passenger includes the round trip from Chennai, a three-course meal, and unlimited craft beer. In addition to this, the trip also includes a guided tour of the microbrewery.
The first beer bus is set to ride on April 22 and followed by trips every weekend. Around 40 tourists will be able to travel on the beer bus.
Beer bus, but no beer on bus
Sounds too good to be true? probably it is because there is a catch. While it is called a ‘beer bus’, you won’t be allowed to drink and beer won’t even be served on the bus as it is illegal.
Instead, the beer bus will stop at a place sanctioned by the government in Puduvai where it is allowed on the premises.
Catamaran Brewing issued this clarification after the posters of the beer bus went viral on social media giving a wrong impression.
How beer bus came up
According to Prasad Radhakrishnan, the co-founder of Catamaran Brewing, the idea of the beer bus started from a joke by a tourist who asked if there was a transport service for visitors from Chennai to Puducherry, where the beer is cheaper.
“The idea is to transport people safely from Chennai to Puducherry, introduce them to the nuances of craft beer, and return them safely to Chennai on the same day. It’s an excellent way for groups to arrive,” he said.
Tourism in Puducherry
Known for its pristine beaches and historic buildings from its French past, Puducherry sweetens the deal for many tourists with alcohol and beer that are cheaper compared to most states.
While October-March is considered the best time to visit Puducherry, the UT attracts tourists from across India and around the world throughout the year.
More than 12 lakh tourists from India and abroad visited Puducherry in 2021. With the COVID-19 restrictions all but lifted, the tourism industry in Puducherry is expecting a bigger footfall this year.