55 Places To Visit Near Chennai For A Memorable Trip

Travel to the southern part of India is not only limited to palm trees and beaches. It’s a beautiful combination of diverse people, cuisines, and languages. The southern part consists of states like Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Andhra Pradesh. It even comprises of union territories like Andaman and Nicobar, Lakshadweep, and Pondicherry.

The region has a great number of serene as well. Somewhere everyone is stressed and traveling can be the best stress buster to enjoy some moments of quietude. There are various places to visit near Chennai as it is brimmed with pristine natural beauty and terrifically eye-catching tourist sites.

South India can be given the title of hypnotic beauty and various places near Chennai have treasured things to do. The unspoiled splendor of the south makes the travelers fall in love with the journey. From valleys, hills, and mountains everywhere are filled with picturesque spots.

The ideal time to visit the places near Chennai is somewhere between June to November as the climate is a combination of mist and rainfall. Traveling to South India definitely proves to be a mesmerizing journey.

So here I share the following list of the best places to visit near Chennai.

1. Pondicherry-

The first one on our list of the best places to visit near Chennai is a French colonial settlement in India, Pondicherry.

Pondicherry is situated 151 km away from Chennai. If traveling via road then its approximately takes 3 hours 20 mins to reach the destination. There are various places that can be visited in Pondicherry.

For the sunset lovers, they can purely enjoy the Sunset at ousteri lake. It is a man-made freshwater lake and is also considered significant wetlands in Asia. The picturesque French Quarter is considered heritage and it is explored at the Puducherry Museum. It's considered to be the biggest benchmark left behind by the French in Pondicherry.

Even the churches and various other temples are worth taking a look at. Trying the delicious food and exploring the Auroville is also a fun task.

2. Gandikota (Andhra Pradesh) -

Next on our list of the best places to visit near Chennai os Gandikota.

The distance between Gandikota and Chennai is about 354.7 km. It would take around 7 hours and 36 minutes via NH16. Gandikota is unique in itself. No travel story ever ends without the amazing views of orange color spilling itself all over the sky.

Sunrise and sunset are some of the top things you should look out for during your trip to Gandikota. Sunset Hues- Gandikota Fort is also a mind-blowing travel.

3. Kabini –

The distance from Chennai to Kabini is 531.7 km and it takes around 10 hours and 50 minutes via NH48. Situated on the banks of River Kabini, Kapila, also called as Kabini, is an ideal recluse for nature lovers and travelers alike.

Filled with a rich variety of flora and fauna, exquisite waterfalls and an abundance of wildlife ranging from carnivores to mammals to birds, Kabini has everything that a wildlife enthusiast aspire for.

There is no dearth of places to visit in Kabini, promising you a fulfilling vacation that will leave your soul rejuvenated.

4. Srirangapatna (Karnataka)-

This place is around 464.3 km away from Chennai and it takes about 9 hours and 20 minutes to complete the travel.

Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple is a beautifully carved temple complex, is located in Srirangapatna in the south-western state of Karnataka, India. The temple is dedicated to Lord Ranganatha who is considered as an avatar of Lord Vishnu in the Hindu religion.

5. Tharangambadi (Tamil Nadu) -

The distance shared between Tharangambadi and Chennai is about 269.7 km. It approximately takes 5 hours 19 minutes to travel via NH32.

Fort Dansborg which is located in the southern part of Tharagambadi is really famous for its Danish style, characterized by large halls, columned structures, high ceilings and projecting drapery.

6. Vedanthangal (Tamil Nadu)-

Vedanthangal is situated 86.3 km away from Chennai and it takes around 1hour and 35 minutes to reach the destination. The best time to visit Vedanthangal is between October and March when a large number of migratory birds visit as Vedanthangal has one of the oldest lake bird sanctuaries in India. The efforts of the Forest department and the villagers has been really fruitful as it houses native as well as migratory birds.

7. Chittoor (Andhra Pradesh)-

The next one on our list of the best places to visit near Chennai is a historical place.

Located at a distance of 159 km, it takes around 3 hours and 42 minutes to reach Chittoor by road. Chittoor not only has a historic association but also offers some of the most picturesque landscapes in Andhra Pradesh.

Horsley Hills, Nagari Hills, Kaundinya Sanctuary, Gurramkonda Fort, etc contribute to the natural beauty of the place. Moreover, the richest temple in the world, Sri Venkateshwara Temple is also located here.

8. Shivanasamudra (Karnataka) -

Shivanasmudra is apparently 450.4 km away from Chennai. It takes around 8 hours 52 minutes to reach the destination. July to January is the best time to visit the Shivanasamudra falls while August to October is the peak season.

It is said that it is India's first hydroelectric power station is located at the waterfall and is still functional. The falls can be the best place for some fresh air and relaxation.

9. Nellore (Andhra Pradesh)-

Want to connect with ancient times, then you must consider this place to visit near Chennai.

Located at the banks of river Penna, Nellore is apparently at a distance of 152.3 km from Chennai and takes 2 hours 55 minutes for us to reach there. Nellore has a rich history and is believed that city subsisted from the times of the Chola Dynasty.

The top attractions of Nellore include Penchalakona Temple, Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple and the Sri Raja Rajeswari Temple. These temples mark the historical significance of the city and serves the purpose of major tourist attraction.

10. Valparai (Tamil Nadu)-

Valparai is located 591.1 km away from Chennai and takes approximately 11 hours for us to reach via road. Valparai offers a lot of different sights and experiences.

It consists of many attractions namely Elephant Mountains, India Gandhi wildlife, and Monkey Falls. Also, we can enjoy a peaceful time at Velaparai as it's really less crowded even during high seasons.

Velaparai has a cozy cool climate year-round making a refreshing atmosphere and clean air will rejuvenate the body and soul.

11. Javadi Hills (Tamil Nadu)-

Javadi Hills is situated 213.5 km away from the city of Chennai. Travel time to the place is 4 hours 26 mins via road. The expanse of Javadi Hills is blessed with the beauty of waterfalls and trekking trails.

Hence, it wouldn't be wrong to say that it makes idyllic weekend destination for trekkers and waterfall lovers. Moreover, Javadi Hills has dense forests where we can spot hundreds of rare and endangered species of plants, animals, birds, and butterflies. Javadi Hills also hosts the Vaini Bappu observatory.

This beautiful observatory with a 40-inch telescope offers its tourists an insight into the world of stars and planets. It is the place where rings around Saturn and Uranus were discovered. Javadi Hills is one of the main attractions on our list of the best places to visit near Chennai.

12. Sri Kalahasti -

Sri Kalahasti is 113.0 km away from Chennai. If traveling via NH16 or Tada Kalahasti Road then it will approximately take 3 hours to reach. If you intend to visit Kalahasti then visiting Sri Kalahasti Temple is a must.

It is on the top of list of attractions in the genre of temples. Talakona Waterfalls is also a travel point as it is the highest waterfall in Andhra Pradesh. Nature lovers will be fascinated by stunning landscapes and dense forests with a wide range of animals and trees.

13. Kolar (Karnataka) -

Kolar, a place to connect you with history, is next on our list of places to visit near Chennai.

Kola is 271.3 km away from Chennai and approximately takes 6 hours 22 minutes via NH716A route. Kolar. From ancient temples to lush greens, Kolar has it all. Someshwara temple is known for its tall superstructure known as 'Gopuram'.

The devotees of lord shiva will definitely get attracted to such a beautifully made temple and visiting on the auspicious occasion like Mahashivratri add colours to the travel. The timings of the temple is 7-11 am and 5 -8 pm.

The Kotilingeshwara Temple has been recognized worldwide as it is considered to be the home to the largest shivling in the world.

14. Mysuru (Karnataka)-

The distance between Chennai and Mysuru is 474.1 km and it takes around 10 hr 9 min to reach the destination via NH 48.

Mysore Palace (Amba Vilas): It Is one of the very few places open for public viewing. It’s a combination of splendid architecture and expanse.

Mysore zoo -Mysore Zoo is one of the best zoos of the southern part of India. It has a wide variety of species and is also one of the attractions of South India. Beautiful flora and fauna are present there.

15. Kabini -

The next place to visit near Chennai is a complete package of flora and fauna.

There is no dearth of places to visit in Kabini, promising you a fulfilling vacation that will leave your soul rejuvenated.

16. Sakleshpur-Bellikkal (Tamil Nadu)

Bellikkal is located 455 km away from Chennai and takes approximately 9 hr 30 minutes to reach via NH 48.

Bellikkal is its lake, which is the prime source of drinking water. The lake remains surrounded by lush greenery. It is not uncommon to find elephants frequenting the lake. The lake and its shores are ideal for long walks. Bellikkal’s scenic locales and solitude make it one of the best places to visit for a short trip. Located in Nilgiri Mountain Range in Tamil Nadu.

Sakleshpur is 574.3 km from Chennai. It takes approximately 10 hours and 34 minutes to reach the destination via NH 48 and NH75. Sakleshpur is one of the most popular places to visit which includes a trove of majestic temples, monumental forts, enchanting waterfalls, spectacular mountain hikes, and biodiversity hotspots.

17. Shivanasamudra (Karnataka) -

It is said that it is India's first hydro-electric power station is located at the waterfall and is still functional. The falls can be the best place for some fresh air and relaxation.

18. Yelagiri-

The next place on our list of the best places to visit near Chennai is for hill lovers.

Yelagiri is 226.1 km from Chennai. It takes approximately 5 hours and 13 minutes to reach the destination via NH 48.

The famous Attaru River meanders through mighty Yelagiri Hills. Yelagiri has many beautiful waterfalls which is a popular tourist attraction.

19. Aniamalai (Tamil Nadu)-

596.3 km is the distance between the Aniamalia hills and Chennai. It requires 11hrs and 35 mins travel. Aniamalai is famous for being the highest peak in the south. The ranges of these hills form the Western Ghats.

Many trekkers from over all the world come to places near Chennai to explore to the fullest and Aniamalai is a popular destination to escape from the tropical heat.

20. Auroville-

Auroville is 152.2 km from Chennai. Its takes approximately 3 hr 5 minutes to reach the destination via East Coast Road. There are many places to visit in Auroville but Matrimandir and Auroville beach are where most of the tourists visit.

21. Yercaud (Tamil Nadu)-

Yercaud is 362.8 km from Chennai. It takes approximately 6 hr 52 minutes to reach the destination via Theni Hwy/Chennai - Villupuram - Trichy - Kanyakumari Rd and NH79. Yercaud is a hill station in Tamil Nadu and it’s a perfect nature retreat.

Yercaud has attractive lakes and forests and pleasant weather. For those who wish to take a silent break, Yercaud is the destination for them.

22. Thiruvannamalai (Tamil Nadu)-

Thiruvannamalai is 194 km from Chennai. It takes approximately 3 hr 55 minutes to reach the destination via NH32 and NH77. Thiruvannamalai has many beautiful places such as holy Shiva Temple, and Arunachaleshwar Temple.

23. Hogenakkal (Tamil Nadu)-

Hogenakkal is 342.7 km from Chennai. It takes approximately 6 hr 23 minutes to reach the destination via NH32 and NH77.

Hogenakkal has Athirapally Waterfalls and Chitrakoot Waterfalls. It is also famous for its eccentric rock formation and cascading white waters from the river Kaveri.

24. Lepakshi (Andhra Pradesh)-

Lepakshi is located 390.5 km away from Chennai and takes approximately 7 hr 46 minutes to reach via NH 69 and NH 44.

Lepakshi is a village where there are several dedications in the form of temples to Lord Shiva, Vishnu, and Veerbhadra. Lepakshi is a small quaint village with a trail of several great kingdoms that once ruled the area.

25. Mekedatu (Karnataka)-

Mekedatu is located 399.2 km away from Chennai and takes approximately 7 hr 50 minutes to reach via NH 48 and NH 69. Mekedatu means “Goat's Leap, Mekedatu is a very perfect place for bikers and trekkers.

It's a picnic spot where many tourists visit and camp over there. There is a slender stretch of land with bottomless gorges is observed named Mekedatu. This place to visit near Chennai is a perfect one-day trip from Bangalore destinations.

26. Koli Hills (Tamil Nadu)-

Koli Hills is located 362.7 km away from Chennai and takes approximately 7 hours and 19 minutes to reach via Chennai - Theni Hwy/Chennai - Villupuram - Trichy - Kanyakumari Rd. k Koli Hills is famous for its natural beauty.

The following are the most popular attractions in Koli Hills- Agaya Gangai Waterfalls, Arappaleeswar Temple, Boat House, Botanical Garden, View Points, Siddhar Caves, Selur Nadu, Tampcol Medicinal Farm, Mini Falls. In all the other months Kolli Hills weather is quite pleasant. Hence, the most effective time to go to Kollimalai is from February to December. It is no doubt a great place to visit near Chennai.

27. Gangaikonda Cholapuram (Tamil Nadu)-

Gangaikonda Cholapuram is located 273.2 km away from Chennai and takes approximately 5 hr 15 minutes to reach via Chennai - Theni Hwy/Chennai - Villupuram - Trichy - Kanyakumari Rd. Gangaikonda cholapuram has a very beautiful shiv temple.

This majestic Shiva temple is the main attraction of Gangaikonda Cholapuram. The magnificent temple was constructed by the Chola King Rajendra Chola I in the year 1025 CE. The temple has been accorded the status of World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

28. Ranganathittu bird sanctuary -

Ranganathittu bird sanctuary is located 467.2 km away from Chennai and takes approximately 9 hr 8 minutes to reach via NH 48. It offers you not just with a breath-taking scenic beauty but also with glimpses of a wide variety of beautiful birds as well.

Visitors can enjoy guided boat rides and catch glimpses of crocodiles, bats, and otters along with birds. Karnataka Tourism Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary is open to visitors between 9 AM and 6 PM on all days.

29. Bhavani Island (Andhra Pradesh)-

The next on our list of the best places to visit near Chennai is the peaceful Bhavani Islands.

Bhavani Island is located 455.4 km away from Chennai and takes approximately 7 hr 25 minutes to reach via NH16. Bhavani Island is the ideal getaway for tourists visiting the city of Vijayawada.

One can enjoy walks, boating, swimming, and fishing in this well-maintained tourist hotspot. A trip to Bhavani Island should not be missed by anyone visiting the Land of Victory.

30. Silent Valley National Park -

Silent Valley National Park is located 472 km away from Chennai and takes approximately 8 hr 10 min to reach via NH 16.

Silent Valley National Park is some of the most exotic, rare, and endangered wildlife species, Silent Valley National Park has an extended population of lion-tailed macaques. Endemic to the mighty Western Ghats, this Old-World Monkey species is considered as an endangered species.

31. Horsley Hills (Andhra Pradesh)-

Horsley Hills is located 275.7 km away from Chennai and takes approximately 6 hr 13 minutes to reach via NH 716A and NH71.

There are plenty of Horsley Hills tourist places. From the Horsley Hills state zoo to a number of waterfalls, from Mallamma temple to Kaundinya Wildlife Sanctuary - the majestic place has a lot to offer to its visitors. For the adventure lovers out there, Horsley Hills has something very special for tourists.

32. Yaganti (Andhra Pradesh)

Yaganti is located 402.7 km away from Chennai and takes approximately 8 hr 14 minutes to reach via NH16. Yaganti is located in Yerramala hills that offer immense natural beauty and a unique setting to the locality.

There are several natural caves in the hills around the temple which were home to several saints throughout the ages, including that of Great Telugu saint and astrologer Potuluri Veera Brahmam Garu.

33. Rollapadu wildlife sanctuary (Andhra Pradesh)

Next on our list of the best places to visit near Chennai is a wildlife sanctuary.

Rollapadu wildlife sanctuary is located 434.2 km away from Chennai and takes approximately 8 hr 25 minutes to reach via NH716 and NH40.

Rollapadu Wildlife Sanctuary, Kurnool it was established in 1988, Rollapadu is especially known for being the home to the endangered species of The Great Indian Bustard and Lesser Florican. The wildlife sanctuary, spread across the huge area is home to many birds and reptiles.

34.Mullayanagiri (Karnataka)-

Mullayanagiri is a very beautiful place with its calming ambiance formed by lush greenery, misty weather, and rugged rocks, Mullayanagiri is a heavenly place to relish your vacation.

Mullayanagiri Peak is a heaven for adventure junkies who wish to partake in a number of thrilling activities like road biking, trekking, and mountain biking.

35. Chembra Peak (Karnataka)-

Chembra Peak is located 662.7 km away from Chennai and takes approximately 13 hr 25 minutes to reach via Chennai - Theni Hwy/Chennai - Villupuram - Trichy - Kanyakumari Rd. Chembra Peak is a picturesque location from where you can get breathtaking views of the exotic flora and fauna of the region.

The forest department organizes the Chembra Peak trek, which takes you through evergreen forests, waterfalls and lush greenery to a heart-shaped lake.

36. Talakadu (Karnataka) -

Talakadu, a cultural and religious place, is the next one on our list of the best places to visit near Chennai.

Talakadu is located 448.4 km away from Chennai and takes approximately 8 hr 28 minutes to reach via NH 48 and NH 44/NH 48.

Talakadu is also known as Talakad it’s a town on Cauveri accessible via a boat ride offering guests a nature centric experience Talakadu is a very historic place, once it had over 30 temples that today are buried in the sand.

There are many temples to visit in Talakadu like Somanathapura, Panchalinga Darshana, Mallikarjuna temple, Keerthi Narayan temple, Pathaleshwara temple, and Tirmakudal Narsipur.

37.Belur (Karnataka)-

Belur is located 572.5 km away from Chennai and takes approximately 9 hr 42 minutes to reach via NH 48.

Belur, the erstwhile capital of the Hoysala Kingdom is home to several monuments, temples and holy shrines, making it one of the most significant pilgrimage spots for the people of the Hindu community. Besides, Belur is also a popular destination attracting huge crowds every year from different corners of the world.

This temple town was once the capital of the mighty Hoysala Empire and was formerly called as Velapura or Velur. Tourist will be amazed with a wide range of tourist places in Belur, that are not just breathtaking but justifies the true meaning of “Incredible India”.

38. Velankanni (Tamil Nadu)-

Velankanni is located 312.9 km away from Chennai and takes approximately 6 hr 12 minutes to reach via NH32. Velankanni is a popular pilgrim center, especially renowned for the Church of Mother Mary.

Velankanni is very famous for its delicate handlooms and silk. Velankanni has many gorgeous beaches, pristine churches, and euphoric markets have a wide zone where mostly tourists give a visit.

39. Kaigal hills (Andhra Pradesh)-

Next on our list of best places to visit near Chennai is Kaigal Hills.

Kaigal Hills is located 229.2 km away from Chennai and takes 4 hr 12 min to reach via NH 48 and NH40. Kaigal Hills are mainly formed by the Kaigal Stream, one of the top flowing streams running through the Koundinya Wildlife Sanctuary.

Kaigal Hills has many beautiful waterfalls which increase with the presence of the colorful birds, shrubs, wildlife Sanctuary, and plenty full of trees spread all across. Kaigal Hills is on top Which is at a height of 40 feet in every season. The flow of the waterfall increases, during the monsoon season. There are numerous natural ponds that are observed at the base of the waterfall.

40. Konaseema (Tamil Nadu)-

Konaseema is located 19.2 km away from Chennai and takes approximately 25 minutes to reach via Chennai - Trichy Hwy.

Konaseema is an oasis of enchanting beauty, peace and tranquillity that is a dream tour destination for all tourist. It is the delta zone in East Godai District of Coastal Andhra Pradesh, India.

41. Bellikkal (Tamil Nadu)-

Bellikkal is located 455 km away from Chennai and takes approximately 9 hr 30 minutes to reach via NH 48. Bellikkal is its lake, which is the prime source of drinking water.

The lake remains surrounded by lush greenery. It is not uncommon to find elephants frequenting the lake. The lake and its shores are ideal for long walks.

42. Banglore -

The journey from Chennai to Bangalore takes about 8 hours and 13 mins as the distance is 413.6 km. Though old-timers will reminisce about the good old Garden City days, Bengaluru still has an impressive green expanse.

Choose from the city’s central breathing space Cubbon Park or the shaded Lalbagh, where an annual flower show is something to look forward to Visit Nrityagram Dance

Village for a never seen before experience. Set up by Protima Bedi, this place is a different world of its own. The residential school offers training in Indian classical dance forms – including Odissi, Mohiniattam, Kathak, Bharatnatyam, Kuchipudi, Kathakali, and Manipuri.

43. Coorg -

Well, driving from Chennai all the way to Coorg is a tedious journey and can take about 12 hours. The distance from Chennai to Coorg by road is a stretch of about 580 km but the pain is worth it. Coorg is one of those places to visit near Chennai that has beautiful architecture.

Some of the must-visit tourist attractions of Coorg include Nagarhole National Park, Abbi Falls, Iruppu Falls, The Raja's Seat, Madikeri Fort and Tibetan Buddhist Golden Temple. Visiting Coorg between March to June is the best slot for upmost enjoyment.

44. Kodaikanal-

The journey from Kodaikanal to Chennai is about 527.6 km which is 9 hours and 24 mins. Kodaikanal Lake, Coaker’s Walk, Pine Forest, Bear Shola Falls, and Silver Cascade Falls are allotted as the best visiting places for a perfect journey.

Kodaikanal is also known for its rich flora. Of the big trees, cypress, eucalyptus, and acacia are the dominant varieties. Pear trees are numerous and the fruits are of high quality.

45.Ooty -

Ooty is situated 555.6 km away from Chennai. The approximate time for arrival is considered to be 10 hours and 20 minutes. The establishment of several numbers of tea estates made Ooty famous.

Most of the hotels, resorts, and cottages are all located near tea estates because it gives a wonderful view to the tourist. So if you are a nature lover you can inflict tea estate which gives you a peaceful and blissful trip. Ooty is no doubt one of the most beautiful place to visit near Chennai.

46. Tirupati -

The next one on our list of places to visit near Chennai is a place full of traditional culture.

Tirupati is situated 133.9 km away from Chennai. If travelling via NH 716 A it nearly takes about 3 hours and 33 minutes. Tirupati is most commonly popular for the Shri Venkateshwara temple as it is one of the prestigious temples for the Hindus.

Akasaganga Teertham is also a very calm and peaceful place to visit. It is given religious importance and worshipped by Indians. Travelers can also take a look at Silathoranam. It is considered to be one of the fascinating historical places and one of the natural marvels.

47. Pulicat-

The journey to Pulicat town from Chennai city will take about a couple of hours and is located at a distance of 60 km. It is famous for the diversity in aquatic birds. The best time to visit this place is between the month of October and March.

The main attractions here are the Pulicat Lake, being the second biggest brackish water body in India and the Pulicat Bird Sanctuary. The small town still showcases the Dutch aesthetic in its churches, old buildings and tombs.

An important seaport and commercial hub, Pulicat has contributed to the economy of Tamil Nadu immensely over the centuries.

48. Bodinayakannur-

Bodinayakannur is 523 km away from Chennai and it approximately takes 9 hours via road to reach the destination. It is considered a popular town in Theni.

It is said to be situated in the foothills of Western Ghats. The area is very close to nature and seems to be quite hilly. It has an abundance of tranquil spots.

49. Pichavaram Mangrove Forest-

The Pichavaram mangrove forest is 215.5 km from Chennai. It approximately takes 5 hours 15 minutes to reach the destination via East Coast Road.

The forest is considered to be a haven for migratory birds such as snipes, egrets, storks, and herons. The time between November to Feb is set as the best time for visiting the beauty. It is one of the most beautiful place to visit near Chennai.

50.Puttaparthi mangrove forest-

Puttaparthi mangrove forest is 356.5 km from Chennai. it takes approximately 8 hr 50 minutes to reach the destination via NH 716A.

Puttaparthi is also famous because Saint Sai Baba visited his devotees. Puttaparthi includes Chaitanya Jyoti Museum, Sanathana Samskruti Museum, Shivalayam, Lord Dattatreya Temple, Gopalaswamy Temple to visit.

51.Mahabalipuram-

Mahabalipuram and chennai share a distance of 56.7 km. It will approximately take 1 hour 48 minutes to reach the destination.

Mahabalipuram has one of the largest temple complex in the world. It consists of rich heritage. Some places like the lighthouse and crocodile farm is also worth visiting.

52. Anaimalai-

The next one on our list of places to visit near Chennai is a hill.

The distance between Anaimalai and Chennai is around 609.5 km. It takes around 11 hours to reach Anaimalai. The best time to visit Anaimalai Hills is September - June. November offers a wispy winter experience, right after the heavy monsoons.

While the weather is great here throughout the year, it makes for a great summer get away. Insects and humidity may disturb travellers during the monsoons, but the views are scenic. The Anamala/Anaimalai Hills are known for their abundant wildlife.

Eravikulam National Park, Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary, Idamalayar Reserve Forest, Mankulam Forest division Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary, and Anamalai Tiger Reserve located among these hills are well known for elephants.

53. Kanchipuram-

The distance between Kanchipuram and Chennai is about 83.4 km. It takes around 1 hour 42 minutes to reach the destination.

Known as the City of Thousand Temples, Kanchipuram is known for its temple architecture, 1000-pillared halls, huge temple towers, and silk sarees. Kanchipuram serves as one of the most important tourist destinations in India. Kanchipuram has become a center of attraction to foreign tourists as well.

54. Kolukkumalai -

570.1 km is the distance between Kolukkumalai and Chennai. It takes around 10 hours 48 minutes to reach the destination. Just before the winter season and after that season especially October - November and February - march is the best time to visit the place. To visit Kolukkumalai, you have to reach Suryanelli first.

The entrance to Kolukkumalai tea estate is just half a kilometer from Suryanelli town. It is not at all difficult to find the entrance. You will get public transport from Munnar to Suryanelli. There are a couple of buses which start from Munnar in the morning.

The number of buses is limited but you will get a shared taxi ride from Munnar to Suryanelli all the time. That is the most economical way to travel there. So before taking any private taxi or auto, just inquire about the availability of public transport.

55. Velliangiri hills -

The last one on our list of places to visit near Chennai is a beautiful hill with an approximate reaching time of 9 hours 30 minutes. The distance shared between Velliangiri hills and Chennai is 544.9 km. The best time to visit Velliangiri Hills is in October - April, giving you a taste of pleasant winter. While the weather is great here throughout the year, summers here are not as scenic as October - April. It still makes for a great summer getaway but should be avoided during the monsoons.

The Shiva Temple is known as Rajathagiri, Velliangiri, Dakshin Kailash, or Bhoolok Kailash, this sacred spot, according to legend, is where Shiva performed his cosmic dance at the request of his consort Umadevi.

The above-listed are the best places to visit near Chennai. Every place has different colors to explore. Every place is enriched in culture and tourism thereby increasing the reason to visit.

So if you have already visited these places near Chennai, do share your experiences with us in the comment box below. And if not, then pack your bag, call your travel bud, and plan a trip soon.