The History of Hotel Dune De L’Orient

Those who have visited Puducherry or heard about this beautiful city will know of its colonial architecture. Indeed, the city still retains remnants of its French past, making it one of the biggest tourist attractions in India. Knowing this, FRANCIS WACZIARG and AMAN NATH set out in search of ruined structures in the White Town area. Their main goal was to restore such historic buildings and give them a new identity. 

During their exploration of Puducherry’s French quarter, they discovered a hidden gem at No. 17, Rue Romain Rolland-an antique building with a fascinating history that would astonish anyone. Let’s delve into its remarkable past. 

Constructed in 1760, this mansion is one of the oldest structures in Puducherry. During its restoration, several ancient artefacts were uncovered, suggesting that a French family once occupied the building. Years later, it is believed that the Sinna’s family took possession of the property. 

From 1952 onwards, the building was officially used by the French Department of Education and was known as “INSTRUCTION PUBLIQUE”- a name still visible on the board above the entrance. However, the department later declared the structure unsafe and planned to vacate it. 

In October 1998, Francis Wacziarg officially acquired the property. The restoration aimed to revive its 18th-century atmosphere, and in 2000, the renovation was completed by Mr. Ajit Koujalgi, a senior architect from INTACH Puducherry. 

The building was then transformed into a heritage hotel, “HOTEL DE L’ORIENT”, under the Neemrana Group. That same year, it won the UNESCO Asia-Pacific Heritage Award for Cultural Heritage Conservation. Additionally, it received certification from VMF (Vieilles Maisons Françaises) for preserving French architectural heritage.

Hospitality Oasis in Dune Wellness Group 

In 2014, following the demise of Mr. Francis Wacziarg, the HOTEL DE L’ORIENT was fully acquired by the Dune Wellness Group in 2017. The Dune Wellness Group operates a small chain of eco-luxury hotels with properties in India, Sri Lanka, and Indonesia. After the acquisition, the hotel was rebranded as “DUNE DE L’ORIENT”. The group now manages two properties in Puducherry: 

– Dune de l’Orient (located on Romain Rolland Street). 

– Dune Eco Village (located in Pudhukuppam, near Puducherry). 

Known for showcasing local culture and landscapes, the group is also deeply committed to environmental sustainability. They prioritize organic food, a calm ambiance, and a healthy atmosphere* for their guests. 

Experiencing Lavish Accommodation & Tariff

Dune de l’Orient invites guests to discover 14 uniquely designed rooms that pay homage to French colonial heritage, echoing Puducherry’s enduring cultural charm. Each room is named after a historically significant Indian city from the colonial era-including Masulipatnam, Surate, and Calicut-while the suites bear the names of former French colonies like Mahé, Yanaon, and Chandernagor.

These elegantly furnished, air-conditioned accommodations blend authentic period artifacts with modern comforts. Guests will enjoy organic toiletries, eco-friendly linens, complimentary purified water, and contemporary amenities such as Wi-Fi, CFC-free minibars, inverter AC systems, solar-powered hot water, and electronic safes.

Room rates start from INR 8,000 to INR 15,000. Each carefully curated space promises relaxation, comfort, and elegance. Please note: tariffs are subject to seasonal change, and additional charges may apply for children. Seamlessly blending historical narrative with sustainable luxury, Dune de l’Orient offers a truly distinctive stay.

Dining at Chez Francis: A Culinary Delight

Tucked away in the charming courtyard of Hôtel Dune de l’Orient, CHEZ FRANCIS offers a truly memorable dining experience. The restaurant’s talented chefs specialize in an expert blend of authentic French and Creole cuisine, making it one of the few places in Puducherry to find such genuine flavors.

The menu also features South Indian dishes, all prepared with traditional spices and organic vegetables sourced directly from the hotel’s own farms: Elephant Valley in Kodaikanal and Dune Eco Village.

Chez Francis prides itself on impeccable culinary standards. The kitchen uses exclusively handmade breads, jams, and pastries from premium ingredients, with a strict ban on frozen foods, canned items, artificial additives, and chemical enhancers.

For a special occasion, the restaurant offers bespoke dining experiences. Options include private candlelight dinners, romantic rooftop meals under the stars, and unique heritage-themed dinners. The heritage experience recreates an old-world ambiance with gentle hand-fanning breezes, perfectly complementing the Creole cuisine-a refined fusion of Tamil spices and French technique.

Set within the elegant confines of a restored French villa, Hôtel Dune de l’Orient provides the ideal setting to savor this sophisticated fusion of classic French cooking with local flavors.

Location and Overview

Dune de l’Orient conveniently located in front of Embroidery Centre (Hôtel Lagrenée de Mézières) at White Town of Puducherry, can be reached through all directions from Puducherry border by taking National Highways respectively, 15 km via NH 32 Cuddalore, 23 km via NH 332 Vizhupuram, 23 km via NH 32 Tindivanam, 4 km via ECR (East Coast Road) NH 332A. Dune de l’Orient is just walkable distance away from Mahatma Gandhi statue in the beach road. You can reach the destination in just 1.5 km from Puducherry railway station, 6.5 km away from Puducherry Airport and just 2 km away from new Bust stand. Both tourist and local people can reach the place easily. As it very nearer to many famous landmarks of Puducherry. Come and enjoy this enchanting landmark.

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Good To Know

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Spot:

The 18^th Century house was transformed into a Heritage Hotel, Since – 2000.

Distance:

200m from Mahatma Gandhi Statue, Beach Road.

Door opening hours:

24 hours a day. Check in at 2 pm & Check out at 11 am.

Restaurant open from 12.30 to 3pm. Dinner 7.30 pm to 9.30 pm.

Breakfast 6.30 am to 9 am.

Available:

Room Stay, Restaurant & Candlelight Dinner.

Room Tariffs:

Starting from INR 8000.  

Shop Near: 

Anokhi Lifestyle, Chinzt Boutique & Via Pondichéry.

Parking:

Free Street Parking Outside of Dune de l’Orient (or) Near Old Port.

Location:

Door Nº 17, Romain Rolland Street, White Town, Puducherry, 605001, INDIA.

Booking Call:

+91 91595 50343.

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Text / Video / Pictures: Doorways Pondicherry.

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Disclaimer: The purpose of this site is to foster a free exchange of ideas and commentary among the tourists & enthusiasts interested in exploring traditions of Puducherry. The information’s are gathered from all available resources. Opinion, and perspectives expressed in this blog are solely by the author(s), and are carved through first-hand experience incorporating imaginary words & also responsible to vividly convey the essence. We sincerely thank the Tourism Department, INTACH, PTDC, LFIP, IFP, AFP, EFEO, business people, and heritage house owners of Puducherry for their co-operation.