Places to Visit near Chennai
Chennai, the cultural capital of South India, is not just known for its bustling city life, rich heritage, and beautiful coastline, but also for the variety of travel experiences it offers just a short drive away. Places to visit near Chennai ,ancient temples and colonial towns to serene beaches and lush hill stations, the areas surrounding Chennai are perfect for quick weekend getaways or short vacations. Choosing to stay in Luxury Service Apartments in Chennai provides the perfect blend of comfort and convenience, particularly for travelers looking to explore the many scenic and culturally rich destinations nearby
Places to visit near Chennai
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Muttukadu
Muttukadu is a small backwater area about 36 kilometres from Chennai. It is a popular spot for short trips and weekend outings. The main attraction in Muttukadu is the boat house run by the Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation (TTDC). Visitors can enjoy different boat rides, such as row, pedal, and speed boats. The calm water and gentle breeze make it a relaxing experience.
Muttukadu is also known for water sports activities like kayaking and windsurfing. It is a good place for people who want to try something new. Families often visit this place to spend some quiet time near nature.
There are also a few small restaurants nearby that serve simple food. The place is easy to reach by road, and parking is available. Muttukadu is a peaceful destination for those who want a quick escape from the busy city life of Chennai. When you visit Chennai to explore its many attractions, be sure to try Japanese Restaurant in Chennai for a taste of scrumptious, authentic cuisine.
Distance from Chennai: 36 Km
Things to do: Boating at TTDC Boat House, Water Sports, Beach Relaxation, Cultural Visit to DakshinaChitra, Visit to Crocodile Bank, and MGM Dizzee World
How to reach:
By Bus: The Metropolitan Transport Corporation (MTC) operates several buses from Chennai to Muttukadu
Train: While there isn’t a direct train to Muttukadu, you can take a train to Velachery Junction and then hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Muttukadu
By Car: Muttukadu is about a 45-minute drive from central Chennai via the East Coast Road (ECR), covering a distance of approximately 36 km -
Mahabalipuram
Located on the Tamil Nadu coast, Mahabalipuram is a historical village close to Chennai. It is famed for its rock-cut sculptures and traditional temples. One of the primary sights is the Shore Temple. It points toward the ocean and is a monument of early South Indian architecture. Each carved out of one rock, the Pancha Rathas are five stone arrangements looking like chariots.
The large stone relief Arjuna’s Penance depicts Indian mythology. The village also features several cave sculptures and temples. Around the 7th and 8th centuries, these structures were erected under the rule of the Pallava dynasty. Mahabalipuram is also known for its beach, on which guests lounge and watch the surf.
Among Places to visit near Chennai, local craftsmen offer stone carvings, a technique handed down from one to another. Learning about history, appreciating nature, and discovering ancient Indian art all take place in a tranquil environment. Many go to Mahabalipuram as a day visit from Chennai.
Distance from Chennai: 60 Km
Things to do: Explore the Shore Temple, see the Pancha Rathas, Admire Arjuna’s Penance, visit the Cave Temples, Watch Local Sculptors at Work, and relax at Mahabalipuram Beach
How to reach:
By Bus: Chennai Mofussil Bus Terminus (CMBT) or Koyambedu
Train: Nearest station is Chengalpattu (30 km away)
By Car: Chennai → ECR (East Coast Road) → Mahabalipuram -
Pulicat Lake and Bird Sanctuary
The distance between Chennai and Pulicat Lake and Bird Sanctuary is about 55 kilometres. It is India’s second-largest lake with brackish water. The lake extends throughout Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu. It is a well-liked location for bird watching, particularly in the winter. Between October and March, a lot of migratory birds stop by the lake.
One of the major draws during this time of year is flamingos. You can also spot other birds, including storks, herons, and pelicans. Photographers and wildlife enthusiasts will find the refuge to be a serene location. Boating is another activity that visitors can enjoy in various areas of the lake. One can get a taste of local life by visiting the adjacent fishing communities.
It’s a great destination for a day trip from Chennai. When the birds are most active, early in the morning, is the ideal time to visit. Pulicat Lake is a vital wetland for the ecology in addition to being a bird sanctuary. While exploring Chennai, don’t miss the chance to visit some of the best shopping malls in Chennai, where you can enjoy everything from high-end brands to local finds, along with great dining.
Distance from Chennai: 55 Km
Things to do: Bird Watching, Boating, Explore Historical Sites, Enjoy Sunrise and Sunset, Visit Nearby Beaches, Experience Local Culture, and Participate in the Flamingo Festival
How to reach:
By Road: From Chennai, take National Highway 16 north toward Nellore. After about 30 km, turn right toward Ponneri, then continue approximately 18 km to reach Pulicat village.
By Train: You can take a suburban train from Chennai Central to Ponneri Railway Station, which is about 20 km from Pulicat
By Air: The nearest airport is Chennai International Airport, situated about 70 km from Pulicat. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or use public transportation to reach the sanctuary. -
Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary
About 85 kilometres from Chennai, Tamil Nadu, lies the well-known bird-watching location known as Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary. It is among India’s oldest bird sanctuaries. Thousands of migratory birds call the 30-hectare sanctuary home during the winter, particularly from November to March. Pelicans, storks, egrets, ibises, and herons are among the birds that travel from all over the world to visit this area.
Among Places to visit near Chennai,,These birds nest and dine in the sanctuary’s sizable lake. Visitors can observe the birds up close without disturbing them by using the walking routes and watchtowers. To learn more about the birds and their behaviour, local guides are frequently available.
Families, students, and others who enjoy the outdoors can all spend a day in a tranquil setting at Vedanthangal. The Tamil Nadu Forest Department looks after it. For the best chance of seeing birds, visit in the early morning or late afternoon.
Distance from Chennai: 85 Km
Things to do: Birdwatching, Photography, Nature Walks, Boating, and Picnicking
How to reach:
By Bus: Regular buses operate from Chennai and Tambaram to Chengalpattu.
By Train: Chengalpattu Railway Station.
By Car: Take National Highway 45 (NH45) south from Chennai towards Chengalpattu. After Chengalpattu, continue to Padalam Junction and turn right onto the road leading to the sanctuary. -
Vellore
The Tamil Nadu city of Vellore is almost 140 kilometres away from Chennai. It is well-known for its religious and historical significance. Constructed in the 16th century, the Vellore Fort is the primary attraction. The city’s diverse culture is reflected in the fort’s temple, mosque, and church. The Golden Temple in Sripuram is another significant location.
This temple is renowned for its serene atmosphere and gold-covered construction. One of India’s best hospitals, the renowned Christian Medical College (CMC), is also located in Vellore. Both tourism and medical treatment draw large numbers of visitors to the city. It is preferable to visit the city in the colder months because of its scorching weather.
Visitors can also enjoy a few parks and retail establishments. Travelling to Vellore is made simple by its excellent road and rail connections. For a quick getaway from Chennai or other neighbouring cities, it’s a great destination.
Distance from Chennai: 140 KmThings to do: Explore Vellore Fort, Visit the Golden Temple (Sripuram), See the Christian Medical College, and Relax at Parks and Lakes
How to reach:
By Road: Vellore is about 140 km from Chennai via NH 48.
By Bus: Frequent buses run from major cities like Chennai, Bangalore, Tirupati, and Madurai.
By Train: The nearest station is Katpadi Junction (KPD), about 5 km from Vellore city centre.
By Air: Chennai International Airport (MAA) – around 130–140 km away -
Pondicherry
On India’s southeast coast sits the peaceful town of Pondicherry. It is renowned for its French-style architecture, tidy streets, and serene beaches. A lot of people come to Pondicherry to unwind and enjoy the peace. Houses in the French Quarter, often known as White Town, have broad entrances and yellow walls. Compared to other Indian cities, this place feels distinct to walk around.
A popular destination for tourists interested in learning about yoga and meditation is the Sri Aurobindo Ashram. Auroville, a town where residents from several nations coexist, is another unique location. The beaches, such as Paradise Beach and Promenade Beach, are suitable for quick boat trips and morning strolls.
Among Places to visit near Chennai, French and Indian cuisine are served in several small cafés and restaurants. By road, Pondicherry is easily accessible from Chennai. It’s a great location for quick getaways with loved ones. The town is charming despite its simplicity.
Distance from Chennai: 160 Km
Things to do: Visit Sri Aurobindo Ashram, Walk Through White Town, Relax at Promenade Beach, Shop at Local markets, Visit Auroville, and Shop at Local Markets.
How to reach:
By Bus: Regular TNSTC and private buses from Chennai, Bangalore, and other cities
By Train: The nearest railway station is Puducherry.
By Air: Puducherry Airport -
Gingee Fort
About 160 kilometres from Chennai, in Tamil Nadu, sits the old Gingee Fort. The “Troy of the East” is another name for it because of its formidable defences. Built in the ninth century, the fort was subsequently expanded by the Marathas, Cholas, and Vijayanagara monarchs. It is dispersed throughout the three hillocks of Chandrayandurg, Rajagiri, and Krishnagiri.
Inside the fort, visitors can investigate the remains of temples, granaries, halls, and watchtowers. The vista is worth the effort, but getting to the summit requires a difficult trek. The moats and fort walls demonstrate how well-protected it was in the past.
Because of its history and serene settings, Gingee Fort is open to the public every day. The Archaeological Survey of India is in charge of maintaining it. A visit here offers an insight into the rich history and military architecture of South India.
Distance from Chennai: 160 Km
Things to do: Explore the Fort Structures, Climb the Hillocks, Photography, Enjoy Quiet Time, and Learn History
How to reach:
By Bus: Buses from Chennai to Tindivanam are available.
By Train: Take a train from Chennai Egmore to Tindivanam.
By Car: Drive via NH32 and NH77 through Chengalpattu and Tindivanam
Conclusion
Places to visit near Chennai tranquil beaches and scenic hill stations to culturally rich towns and historic landmarks, the places around Chennai offer the perfect escape for every kind of traveler. Whether you’re planning a quick weekend trip or a longer break, these nearby destinations let you experience the diversity and beauty of South India without venturing too far from the city.