Formerly named Madras, Chennai is the capital city of the southern state of Tamil Nadu, India. The coastal location, in the southeast of Indian Peninsula, allows the city to have a parade of beach resorts for travellers to enjoy. One of the landmarks of Chennai, Fort St. George is still a tourist attraction along with Marina Beach, several temples, and Santhome Cathedral Basilica. Should you want your trip to revolve around Chennai’s culture, opt to stay in one of the heritage hotels. When in Chennai, you can take advantage of its good connectivity and go on day trips. Going on day tours to Kanchipuram, Pondicherry, and Agra allows you to experience the best of various cultures and visit India’s monuments including the Taj Mahal. Keep reading for the best day trips from Chennai, Tamil Nadu.
1. Kanchipuram (from USD 87.0)
Sarees and temples compete for your attention in the town of Kanchipuram, which has several of both. The town is about an hour and 45 minutes’ drive from Chennai and is located about 75 km (47 mi) from the city. The major temples in the town showcase how the town situated along the Vegavathi River is an important place of pilgrimage for those in the Vaishnavism sect in Hinduism. After you have toured the historic part of the town you can head to the stores. Here you can explore the many varieties of a Kanchipuram silk sarees which are created from mulberry silk and then decorated with gold and silver thread.
Kanchipuram Day Tour from Chennai
Duration: 1 to 12 hours
2. Pulicat Lake
Pulicat Lake is an easy day trip from Chennai by car as it is only about 60 km (38 mi) away. It is huge and covers several hundred square kilometres. It is actually made up of brackish water and is the second-largest lagoon in India.
The area contains wetlands and attracts birds such as Greater Flamingos along with kingfishers and pelicans. It is, therefore, a bird-watcher’s paradise when the migratory birds are around. In addition to taking a dip in the water, you can jet ski or go boating and then visit the temples, churches, and mosques in the vicinity.
3. Mahabalipuram (from USD 6.0)
About an hour and a half away from Chennai and about 56.3 km (34 mi) along East Coast Road, Mahabalipuram has transformed over the decades from a hamlet into a town that caters to tourists. This destination will easily elevate any travel itinerary and tour near Chennai. It is famous for its rock-cut temples, some of which are right next to the sea, and were constructed in the 6th century. The intricate carvings on the many temples and their cultural significance resulted in Mahabalipuram being classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
On the way to Mahabalipuram, you can stop off at Crocodile Bank that, as its name denotes, hosts hundreds of crocodiles.
Tip from Trip101 local expert
Being a coastal town, Mahabalipuram is full of eateries serving fresh seafood. Some of them sit on the beach itself so that you can enjoy freshly caught and roasted prawns and squid while gazing at the never-ending waves. My favorite is a shack called Fisherman Restaurant. True to the name, this place is owned by a fisherman's family. After hours of swimming in the salty seawater, the sweet and cool lime soda they serve is just perfect for hydration. Then, dig into their seafood platter or prawn gravy with a plate of steaming hot rice - you cannot go wrong with any of the dishes here.
Mahabalipuram Self-Guided Audio Tour
Duration: 1 to 6 hours
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4. Tiruvannamalai
The town of Tiruvannamalai is an important place of pilgrimage for Hindus and has a Neminatha statue that is revered by Jains. The town is historically significant and has been mentioned on various occasions in religious texts written in Tamil. It is located about 194 km (120 mi) from Chennai and can be reached in about three and a half hours when traveling by road. Among the major attractions in the town is the Thiruvannamalai Annamalaiyar Temple which has several striking Gopurams. The temple features the lovely Annamalai hills in the background.
5. Ubbalamadugu Falls, Andhra Pradesh
Scenic spots abound around the city of Chennai and once such is Ubbalamadugu Falls, which are located in the neighboring state of Andhra Pradesh. Popularly known as Tada Falls the waterfall is about 91.2 km (56 mi.) away by road and can be reached within two and a half hours. The area is a popular spot for trekking and you can pass along pools of water and rest while taking in the scenery. In the area, you can choose to walk the beginner’s trail or opt for one that is longer and extends over challenging terrain.
6. Nagalapuram, Andhra Pradesh
One of the most popular day trips from Chennai is a visit to Nagalapuram located in Andhra Pradesh. About 70.4 km (43 mi) by road, it can be reached in about 1 hour and 45 minutes and is a place that is famous for its natural beauty and waterfalls. Visitors to Nagalapuram can go trekking on the various trails in the locality and spend time in the pools that are around the waterfall. The area has lush greenery and the forests teem with birds and animals such as monkeys and deer.
7. Sripuram Golden Temple, Vellore (from USD 9.0)
Traveling by road from Chennai, you can reach the Sripuram Golden Temple that is located 151.2 km (93 mi) away in the town of Vellore within 2 hours and 50 minutes. The temple was built recently and consecrated in 2007 when it was dedicated to the Hindu goddess of wealth Maha Lakshmi. The temple, which is built as a five-pointed star, has a golden hue thanks to the 1,500 kg (3,307 lbs) of pure gold that artisans have used to gild its exterior and various surfaces.
Prague Self-Guided Audio Tour
Duration: 1 to 3 hours
8. Gingee Fort
Situated about 160 km (99 mi) from Chennai is the Gingee Fort which was constructed around 1190 AD. It’s quite far in terms of distance but it sure is a worthwhile destination for one day trip from Chennai. The fort was nicknamed “Troy of the East” by the British and was considered impregnable for several centuries. The three hillocks which form part of the fort complex each have their citadel and there are walls that envelope the area.
Within the fort is a pond and there is a several-story-high Kalyana Mahal. Visitors to the fort which is positioned alongside the road to Tiruvannamalai can check the granaries, prison cells, and other places of interest. They can also see how water, which was essential to the fort’s existence, was managed with the aid of tanks that collected rainwater.
9. Kovalam
With its pristine beaches, tranquil backwaters, and rejuvenating wellness offerings, Kovalam is a destination that promises a blissful retreat for travelers. Sink your toes into the golden sands of Kovalam’s breathtaking beaches, where the waves gently lap against the shore. Whether you’re looking to relax under a palm tree, dip in the azure waters, or try your hand at water sports, Kovalam’s beaches have it all.
Embark on a serene journey through the backwaters of Kovalam, where lush greenery, tranquil canals, and traditional houseboats create an enchanting atmosphere. Cruise along the palm-fringed waterways and witness the captivating beauty of Kerala’s backwaters. Rejuvenate your senses with Ayurvedic treatments and wellness therapies offered in Kovalam’s renowned spas and wellness centers.
As the sun sets, treat your taste buds to a culinary adventure. Kovalam’s restaurants offer a delectable range of seafood dishes, traditional South Indian cuisine, and international delights to satisfy every palate.
10. Srikalahasti
The spiritual town of Srikalahasti is nestled on the banks of the holy Swarnamukhi River in Andhra Pradesh, India. With its rich religious heritage, magnificent temples, and sacred atmosphere, Srikalahasti is a destination that will captivate your soul.
Pay homage to the awe-inspiring Srikalahasti Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, the Vayulinga Kshetra. Marvel at the intricate architecture, ornate carvings, and towering gopuram that adorns the temple entrance. Experience the spiritual energy as you witness devotees offering prayers and performing rituals. Explore the nearby Sahasra Linga Temple, where you can encounter a thousand lingams carved on a single rock.
11. Pondicherry (from USD 126.0)
You can reach Pondicherry from Chennai within three hours, as the town is about 165 km (102 mi) away by road. The town had close ties to France as it was once a French colony and is now a Union Territory. It is famous for its many spiritual retreats including Sri Aurobindo Ashram and Auroville and is a favorite destination for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of Chennai. The town has a popular seaside promenade and monuments that are remnants of the French influence.
Private Tour: Pondicherry Day Trip from Chennai
Duration: 7 to 8 hours
Visit Chennai and beyond
Boosting tourism in Tamil Nadu, Chennai has a relaxed vibe and modern amenities that make it attractive for tourists who want to experience the best of India. With the aid of day trips from Chennai, you can easily reach the many attractions that India is famous for and easily return to the city.
Frequently asked questions about the day trips from Chennai, Tamil Nadu
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