Let's take a glance at the Capital of the South
Chennai is the most beautiful capital city in Tamil Nadu. It is a stunning traditional marvel. The city is renowned as the "Capital of the South" and is one of India's top four metropolises. Its rich and dynamic cultural past harmoniously integrates its metropolitan flair and wonder.
There are many things to explore not just in Chennai but also in the surrounding towns and cities. If you plan to be in Chennai for an extended period, you should check out these 55 Places To Visit Near Chennai to make your vacation a memory to cherish forever.
1. Pondicherry
Pondicherry is a city on India's east coast. It is located 135 kilometers south of Chennai. The several water sports facilities are the area's main attraction. Pondicherry offers scuba diving, scuba jumping, and surfing programs, drawing many tourists.
2. Bangalore, Karnataka
Bangalore, Karnataka, is at the forefront of India's road and rail networks in the south. It is located on central India's main north-south national route linked to Mumbai and Chennai via significant roadways. The city has a good transportation system, and cabs and rickshaws are readily available.
3. Pulicat
Pulicat is roughly 60 kilometers from the metropolis of Chennai and is easily accessible by road. The town can be visited at any time of year, except for the months of harsh summers and heavy monsoons. Pulicat is a popular choice for tourists and history buffs alike.
4. Bodinayakkanur
Bodinayakkanur is located in the foothills of the magnificent Western Ghats. Due to its cardamom, mango, tea, coffee, silk, and cotton vendors, Bodinayakkanur is also a shopper's paradise.
5. Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh
It is located in Tamil Nadu's Palkonda Hills, about 67 miles northwest of Chennai. The sacred hill of Tirumala is located in Sri Venkateshwara Sanctuary and National Park, about 6 miles northwest of Tirupati.
6. Srikalahasti
It is a renowned tourist attraction because of its famed Srikalahasti temple. This location has demonstrated its ability to entice tourists with its lavish shrines and pure beauty with a thrilling history.
7. Kolar
Kolar is a charming city in Karnataka's district that welcomes keen travelers and environment enthusiasts. It is famous for its gold mining and spectacular temples. This magnificent city will undoubtedly enchant you with its lush nature and breathtaking attractions.
8. Mysuru, Karnataka
Mysuru is Karnataka's third most populous city, with a rich history that attracts millions of visitors year-round. It was one of the three central princely states in the old British Empire of India. The Mysuru Palace is still regarded as one of India's most magnificent palaces.
9. Pichavaram Mangrove Forest
It allows you to witness the incredible life forms of the Mangrove trees while admiring the forest's birdlife. The sea is only 6 kilometers from the woods, and during the boat voyage, one can view the sandbank that separates the forest from the Bay of Bengal.
10. Puttaparthi, Andhra Pradesh
Puttaparthi is a little town in Andhra Pradesh. It has become renowned globally as a core of religious excellence. It is a town that offers current spiritual approaches, settlements, and even urbanization, being a one-of-a-kind hamlet with urban conveniences.
11. Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu
The peacefulness, captivating sensation, and stunning environment, including several gorgeous white sand beaches lined with casuarina trees, are all reasons to visit this beautiful town.
12. Gandikota
Due to its steep valleys and large granite boulders, and the beautiful gorge produced by the Pennar River, it is also known as the Great Canyon of India and India's Arizona.
13. Tharangambadi tamil nadu
Tharangambadi is a small seaside town in Nagapattinam district. It is situated on a stunning steep hillside, the Kaveri River and Bengal Bay. Tharangambadi is a fascinating melting pot of different cultures.
14. Kabini, Karnataka
Kabini, around 245 kilometers from Bangalore, is well known for the luxury resorts surrounding the Kabini River and the nearby Nagarhole National Park. The Kabini Forest is known for its birdlife and biodiversity.
15. Srirangapatna, Karnataka
Srirangapatna is a small island resort on the Cauvery River in Karnataka. It is 18 kilometers from Mysore. The town's monuments are architectural masterpieces in the Hoysala and Vijayanagar styles.
16. Shivanasamudra Falls, Karnataka
Shivanasamudra is a well-known waterfall in the Karnataka State's Mandya district. This is one of Karnataka's best waterfalls and one of the most popular sites to visit near Chennai. This area gives impressive scenery in the peak monsoons.
17. Anaimalai Hills
Anaimalai Hills constitute the southern border of the Western Ghats, between Tamil Nadu and Kerala. While they are most known for having South India's tallest peak, the lower slopes are host to massive tea and coffee plantations.
18. Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu
Kanchipuram in Tamil Nadu is a prominent tourist attraction noted for its gorgeous 'Kanchipuram sarees'. It is also known as the 'golden city of a thousand temples. Kanchipuram, popularly known as Kanchi, draws visitors from all over the world.
19. Kolukkumalai
Kolukkumalai is a tiny village in Tamil Nadu's Theni District. This location's natural beauty is enticing, promising a stunning sunrise over the Palani hills. This hill station's fragrant atmosphere is refreshing and makes people feel special.
20. Sakleshpur
Sakleshpur is a popular hill station flanked by the Western Ghats. There is something for everyone from the lush jungle to hiking paths, historical temples and an old fort, mountain peaks, and waterfalls.
21. Yelagiri, Tamil Nadu
Yelagiri is roughly three hours from Bangalore and makes for a great weekend getaway. The Jalagamparai Falls, sweeping orchards, and rose garden are just a few of Yelagiri's outstanding attractions.
22. Auroville, Pondicherry
Auroville was created in 1968 by Mirra Alfassa, an Aurobindo disciple who is affectionately known as the "Mother" of the Sri Aurobindo Society. This location exemplifies tranquility and serves as an ideal retreat for anyone seeking serenity.
23. Yercaud, Tamil Nadu
Yercaud is a lushly vegetated hill station in the Eastern Ghats. Yercaud is known for its expensive coffee plantations and its friendly environment.
24. Thiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu
Thiruvannamalai is a beautiful town where Hindu mythology meets exquisite architecture. Thiruvannamalai is perched atop the Malai hill. It is known for its Arunachala temple and countless other temples and ashrams devoted to ancient saints.
25. Hogenakkal, Tamil Nadu
Hogenakkal is a waterfall in the Dharmapuri region of Tamil Nadu, where the Kaveri River splits into multiple streams. Water is available all year in Hogenakkal.
26. Chittoor, Andhra Pradesh
Chittoor is a spiritual, architectural, and religious site that everyone should see at least once in their lives. There's also stunning scenery, flowing waterfalls, and a charming hill station.
27. Vedanthangal, Tamil Nadu
Vedanthangal's most beloved feature is its bird sanctuary. Locals in the area have been protecting the Vedanthangal sanctuary for generations, ever since they realized that the bird droppings that fall into the tank are harmful to the environment.
28. Valparai
Valparai is in the Tamil Nadu district of Coimbatore, at 1500 meters above sea level. It is a paradise for tourists who want to visit Ooty, Kodaikanal, and Coorg, among other hill stations.
29. Nellore, Andhra Pradesh
Nellore is a charming city. It is a municipal corporation in the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh. Despite the fact that a big portion of its population is rural and reliant on agriculture, it is seeing an increase in the number of educational institutions and businesses.
30. Javadi Hills
It has always been appreciated for its stunning appearance, particularly during colonial times. The success of the Vainu Bappu Observatory, which makes use of the region's bright skies, demonstrates the serenity promised.
31. Velliangiri Hills
The Velliangiri Hills are situated on the border of Tamil Nadu's Coimbatore District and Kerala's Palakkad District. They are picturesque, the religious adventure that honors Lord Shiva and Vishnu in the midst of ecosystems and biodiversity.
32. Thanjavur
Thanjavur has a long history, and it was vital in the creation of both ancient and modern south Indian civilizations. For all pilgrims, this religiously significant landmark is a must-see.
33. Bellikkal, Tamil Nadu
Bellikkal is a spot where you can enjoy yourself without worrying about anything while still surrounded by mountains that take your breath away. It will take you by its beauty, calmness, and solitude rather than having a hundred places to offer.
34. Konaseema
Konaseema is a deltaic spot in Andhra Pradesh's East Godavari district. The area contains features similar to those of the beautiful Kerala Backwaters, and as a result, it has been dubbed 'God's Own Creation.'
35. Kaigal Falls
Kaigal Falls is located in the Chittoor district of Andhra Pradesh. The Kaigal waterfall takes its name from the nearby town of Kaigal. Kaigal falls, also known as Dumukurallu waterfalls, are eternal.
36. Velankanni, Tamil Nadu
Velankanni is a small town on the Bay of Bengal's coast in the Tamil Nadu state. It is a well-known Roman Catholic pilgrimage site that draws thousands of visitors each year.
37. Belur
The Ramakrishna Math and Mission has its headquarters in Belur. It is visited by people from all over the world, regardless of their religious beliefs. It spans forty acres of land on the west bank of the Hooghly River.
38. Talakadu
Talakadu is a mysterious spot deeply embedded in history and culture. It is known for the Lord Shiva-dedicated Vaidyanatheshwara Temple. The town has seen the rise and fall of various powerful kingdoms.
39. Chembra Peak
Chambra Point is 2000 meters above sea level. It is located near Meppady, approximately 8 kilometers south of Kalpetta, and is the highest peak of the Wayanad Hill Range.
40. Mullayanagiri
Mullayanagiri is located in the Western Ghats. With temperatures ranging from 20 to 25 degrees Celsius, it is the most prominent hill between the Nilgiris and the Himalayas, providing a peaceful retreat for visitors.
41. Rollapadu Wildlife Sanctuary
A variety of rare species can be found here. A day at Rollapadu would be worthwhile if you're a nature admirer who enjoys being close to and learning about biodiversity.
42. Yaganti
Yaganti is located in the Andhra Pradesh district of Kurnool. It is a major tourist destination known for its Sri Yagantiswamy temple, devoted to Lord Shiva, and is the ideal place to experience Andhra Pradesh tourism.
43. Horsley Hills
Horsley Hills is a hill resort in Andhra Pradesh that is a beautiful blend of the state's charms and the natural beauty of the hills. It is known as the Ooty of Andhra Pradesh.
44. Silent Valley National Park
With its lush green forests and stunning views of the rich flora and fauna, the Silent Valley National Park is a favorite destination for the environment and animal lovers worldwide.
45. Bhavani Island
Bhavani Island, located across the Krishna River in Vijayawada, is one of the largest islands on a river. Waterskiing, kayaking, and parasailing are a few of the sports available on the island.
46. Kumara Parvatha Trek
Kumara Parvatha is the tallest peak in the Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary. Hikers are drawn to Kumara Parvatha because of its challenging pathways and the panoramic vistas of the Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary.
47. Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary
Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary is a birdwatcher's dream. A wide variety of bird species can be found here. It consists of six small islands on the banks of the Kaveri River and is the state's largest bird sanctuary.
48. Coringa Wildlife Sanctuary
Coringa is both a wildlife refuge and an estuary. There are 35 types of mangrove plants, 120 species of unique birds, and countless species of flora in this area.
49. Gangaikonda Cholapuram
Gangaikonda Cholapuram is a fascinating destination to visit. For over two centuries, it served as the Chola Empire's capital. The vast historical metropolis is now nothing more than a small village, with the Lord Siva temple serving as a monument of its proud path.
50. Koli Hills
The Kolli Hills are a mountain range in Tamil Nadu's Namakkal district. Because it has remained relatively unaffected by commercial tourism, much of its natural beauty has been preserved.
51. Mekedatu
Mekedatu is a trekker's dream because there are many gorgeous spots to visit. Biking is especially popular here because the roads are almost deserted, allowing long bike rides.
52. Lepakshi, Andhra Pradesh
Lepakshi is a small, lovely village with a long history dating back to many significant dynasties that previously ruled the region. The Lepakshi Temple is the village's most prominent feature, with its outstanding Vijaynagar style architecture and hanging pillars.
53. Kanipakam
Kanipakkam Vinayaka is a temple located in Chitoor. The myths and traditions associated with the Kanipakam temple set it apart. In Chittoor district's Irala Mandal, this medieval temple is also known as Shrine of Water and worships Ganesha as its main god.
54. Talakona Waterfalls
Talakona Waterfall is the region's highest waterfall and a popular picnic destination. The water, which comes from an undiscovered underground stream, has medicinal powers.
55. V.G.P. Golden Beach
V.G.P. Golden Beach is one of the most famous destinations for families and friends in the neighborhood. This beach is located on the East Coast Road and is part of the V.G.P. Universal Kingdom, a well-known entertainment park.
Wrap up
This results in a seemingly unending number of amazing things to see and do throughout Chennai. The city, which is India's sixth most populated, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country. It is also regarded as India's best place to live in terms of being safe, and as "India's health capital," it attracts a considerable number of health tourists. I hope you have a great time while you visit Chennai.