Dune Mansion Calve - Hotel in Puducherry - Pondicherry, India

All the negative reviews about this hotel are absolutely true. I booked this place for my parents, who are senior citizens, through Dune's website and I'm writing this while they are still staying there - that's how disappointing it is. The rooms look nothing like the images and it is actually a dilapidated house and has not been taken care of. The rooms are dark and dinghy, there is nothing in the name of amenities - no hot water, no mug, no TV (its important for senior citizens who may not like to venture out late in the evenings). One thing they did have were torn towels at check-in which my father requested them to change. For a dilapidated property like this, that they pass off saying heritage, you would expect the management to make up with good service - the service here is practically non-existent. When I called the manager he said this was the best room in the hotel. If this is the best then it certainly makes you wonder how the other rooms are. When you have been waiting for a vacation and paid a premium (Christmas is peak season) this is not what you expect. I have been reading all the reviews and realised that the management has not responded to a single review - negative or otherwise. To me that is an indication of the complete lack of customer centricity. I wonder if the management is even reading what people are saying about the property. Strongly recommend against booking anything here and wasting money.

The room we stayed in was called Emerald, and was divided vertically into 2 sections, connected by a small stair case. It didn't have any natural ventilation, just one window that opened up to the common corridor. There's no television, minibar or tea/coffee and kettle. The pros would be the courteous staff, who were always available and politely assisted us with all our requests. The property itself was beautiful and it was good experience, but I was a little disappointed with the rooms and the ensuite amenities considering the price point.

We stayed for five days and loved the hotel. The rooms were two levels and kept cool by effective ac. The traditional tamil mansion was in great shape and well kept up. The staff was wonderful and made us feel at home. Great to stay away from the touristy french quarter to get a more authentic flavor of pondy!

STAY IN OLD VINTAGE FRENCH BUILDING BUT VERY SHORT OF MODERN AMENITIES The location is excellent. However, the property is not recommended because of the poor amenities. I visited at a time when there were few guests, so service was very poor. <>The rooms were nice and huge with high ceilings, very cool (during summers). However, a bit dark. <>The rooms lack proper charging points. (Didn't change the old charging points) Hence, faced a lot of problem with that. Neither the hotel provides any adapter to help that. <>Although the charges were quite high, a 3-star accommodation would at least provide some electric kettle, with tea/coffee/sugar etc. But the property didn't have any of the facility. <>The bathroom had leaking washbasins. <>The internet service is terrible. (You cant call that a complimentary internet service!!!) Overall the rooms were a lot disappointing for the price you pay. <>Breakfast was good and sumptuous. Had enough options. The waiters were nice and courteous. Not at all a memorable stay. Could've have been better if the rooms are improved by miles.

HORRIBLE PLACE AND PRICE. Does not live up to boutique hotel claim. I don't recommend this place at all for anyone. Talk of first impression....No Parking, old security person not bothered about who is coming in or going out. Entrance dimly lit, uncourteous staff, so called large room is so tiny that one don't have enough space to turn around, go around bed. Power Sockets don't work. Door and Windows are so designed that you can hear the other people in lobby or next room loudly. No bed tea/ tea kit. We stayed another hotel in the vicinity at 1/ 3rd rate - 3 times bigger and palatial room. Felt utter dejected at overall experience.

The place is tucked in a street in the heritage town. The property is old and the owner had renovated to a new heritage hotel. The rooms are small and crampy. The old and antique furniture adds to the glory of the heritage property. No restaurant food available since their restaurant is operational only during the weekend to cater to the huge tourist which comes to Pondicherry. The room tariffs are higher compared to the property available.

Located in Tamil Quarters, very quite, no vehicular traffic. A typical 150yrs old Tamil Mansion. Well furnished with many windows for natural lighting. Do not forget to take a tour of the mansion. Staff is good. Serves only breakfast. Only negative is bathroom, could have been cleaner. External walls need repair, they had dampening issues.

I would highly recommend this place. It is one of those 100+ years old buildings which is very well renovated to provide you with the modern amenities and still be able to retain the vintage look. The staff is very polite and takes care of your needs. This place feels like that you're away from the entire city and you can have a peace of mind. If you have a budget of 6-8k or higher, I would certainly advise you on this.