Life in Chennai is hectic like any major city in the country. A weekend trip near Chennai is a perfect recipe to rejuvenate our soul. A list of places to visit near Chennai is Pondicherry, Pulicat, Yercaud, Coorg, Mahabalipuram, Nagalapuram, Vellore, Chidambaram, Chandragiri etc.
Pondicherry also called Pondy is 2 hours 49 minutes away from Chennai by road. The city has two distinct parts the French quarters and the Tamil quarters. Pondicherry is a perfect weekend getaway near Chennai with the perfect amalgamation of two cultures. The city is famous for the Sri Aurobindo and Mother’s Ashram.
Pulicat is a small seaside town 2 hours away from Chennai. The town has the second largest saltwater lagoon in the country. Tourists can enjoy the local wildlife sanctuary.
Yercaud is a popular hill station on the Easter ghat. The hill station is 6.30 hours away from Chennai. Tourists can enjoy boat rides at the Yercaud Lake. Other places of interest are Killiyur falls and visits the Lady’s seat one of many viewpoints in the hill station.
Coorg is another hill station near Chennai. It is one of the most popular hill stations in the country. Coorg has excellent road connectivity. Enjoy sipping coffee in the tranquil surroundings. Omkareshwar Temple, Madikeri Fort, Raja Tomb are just some of the things to do in Coorg.
Mahabalipuram is roughly 60 km from Chennai is an ancient town. The town was home to the Pallava Dynasty in the 7th century. The town is like a museum with ancient temples, monolithic statues, and artifacts. Shore temple, Varaha, Mahishasurmardini, and Krishna Cave temples are just some of the places of interest in Mahabalipuram.
Nagalapuram is one of the best places to go for a trek near Chennai. 70 km from Chennai, Nagalapuram has many waterfalls and pools. Tourists can enjoy overnight camping in the hills.
Rameshwaram is one of the holiest cities in India. It is considered one of the cities in the Char Dham Pilgrimage. Rameshwaram is 9.30 hours from Chennai on National Highway 38. The city is known for the Rameshwaram temple. Rameshwaram temple has the largest temple corridor in India. The majestic Pamban bridge connects the temple city to mainland India. Several trains run daily between Chennai and Rameshwaram. Other places of interest are Gandhamathana Parvatham and Dhanushokodi.
Vellore is an ancient city in South India. The city has an interesting history and is reflected in the cuisine and architecture of the city.139 km from Chennai Vellore is one of the best places to visit near Chennai. Palar River, Vellore Fort, Jalakanteshwar Temple are just some of the things to see in the city.
Chidambaram is an interesting amalgamation of different cultures. The town is best known for the Chidambaram temple. The grand temple perfectly captures the color and vivaciousness of South India. There are daily express trains that run between Chidambaram and Chennai.
Chandragiri is a four-hour drive from Chennai. Chandragiri is a tourist delight and has a lot to offer. The Chandragiri fort and lake, Raja Mahal Palace and Museum, and Rani Mahal are just some places of interest.
