Places to Visit Near Chennai

Known For : Paradise Beach, Pondicherry Aurobindo Ashram Auroville

Pondicherry, officially known as Puducherry, and commonly referred to as just Pondy, is one of the seven Union Territories of India. This former French colony is a perfect amalgamation of the traditional Indian sensibilities and French architecture, making it a dreamy escape that offers the best of both worlds. Pondicherry can be reached from Chennai by car or by bus. Taking the train is also popular among tourists.

Distance from Chennai: 152 km

Best Time: October to March

48 Pondicherry Attractions

Known For : Lalbagh Church Street

Having evolved gradually from being the Garden city to the Silicon Valley of India, Bangalore is India's third-largest city. Bangalore is loved for its pleasant weather, beautiful parks and the many lakes here. Bangalore is renowned for its eateries, street food corners, quirky cafes, coffee roasters and pubs dotting every corner of the city, serving cuisines from all over the world. One can reach Bangalore from Chennai by flights, trains, cars or by regular inter-city buses.

Distance from Chennai: 345 km

Best Time: Throughout the year

104 Bangalore Attractions

Known For : Pulicat Lake

Pulicat or Pazhaverkadu is a seashore town in Tamil Nadu, known for its colonial history. 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. Pulicat can be reached by taking a train from Chennai to the Sullurpet Railway Station, 10 Kms away from Pulicat.

Distance from Chennai: 58 km

Best Time: October to March

1 Pulicat Attractions

Bodinayakkanur is a town in Theni famous for its scenic beauty. Despite being a Tamil town, at an elevation of 1,158 ft. the weather is pleasant throughout the year. While cash crops grow here in plenty, it also boasts of spice plantations and is known as the Cardamom capital of India. Lush forests in steep-cut rocky mountains are picturesque beyond compare. Many Tamil films have also been shot here. It was once famously referred to by Former Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru as 'South Kashmir'.

Distance from Chennai: 58 km

Best Time: October to March

Known For : Sri Venkateswara Temple Akasaganga Teertham Silathoranam

Situated in the Chittoor district of Andhra Pradesh, Tirupati is known for Lord Venkateshwara Temple, one of the most visited pilgrimage centres in the country. Tirumala is one of the seven hills in Tirupati, where the main temple is located. The temple is believed to be placed where Lord Venkateshwara took the form of an idol and is hence home to the diety Govinda. Tirupati is one of the oldest cities of India and finds mention in plenty of ancient Vedas and Puranas. The best way to reach Tirupati from Chennai is to take the bus which is affordable as well.

Distance from Chennai: 137 km

Best Time: September to March

40 Tirupati Attractions

Known For : Srikalahasteeswara Temple Veyilingala Kona Waterfall Sri Subrahmanya Swamy Temple

Located in the Chittoor district of Andhra Pradesh, the holy city of Srikalahasti is a popular tourist destination due to its famous Srikalahasti temple. It is one of the most important Shiva temples of South India built during the ancient Pallava dynasty. With vibrant yesteryear, this place has showcased its potential to allure the visitors with its extravagant shrines and pristine beauty. The most convenient way to reach Srikalahasti from Chennai is to hire a private taxi.

Distance from Chennai: 120 km

Best Time: July to March

9 Srikalahasti Attractions

Known For : Someshwara Temple Kotilingeshwara Temple Kolar Gold Fields

Kolar is a city in Karnataka famous for its gold mines and milk-production industry. Kolar has been an important industrial and commercial hub of Karnataka since 350 CE. It is currently one of the largest milk producers in the world and the largest in South India. It is a historic town, once known as the sacred Avantika-Kshetra, famous for its religious temples and spots. Kolar can be reached from Chennai by train or by bus.

Distance from Chennai: 280 km

Best Time: October to March

4 Kolar Attractions

Known For : Mysore Palace Brindavan Gardens Mysore Zoo

Famously known as The City of Palaces, and now officially Mysuru, this city is one of the most important destinations in India. It is replete with the history of its dazzling royal heritage, intricate architecture, its famed silk sarees, yoga, and sandalwood. The highlight is the majestic Mysore Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which is a must-visit. Located in the foothills of the Chamundi Hills, Mysore is the third most populated city in Karnataka, and its rich heritage draws millions of tourists all year round.

Distance from Chennai: 480 km

Best Time: Throughout the year

36 Mysore Attractions

The second-largest Mangrove forest in the world, Pichavaram is an offbeat weekend getaway which one can visit from Chennai. The complex river system and canal network binds this beautiful ecosystem together and supports the rich biodiversity of the region. Boat rides can be taken around the 1100 hectare area of the forest, which goes through a narrow canal allowing visitors to witness the wildlife and vegetation of the forest. 

Timings : 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Entry Fee : Forest: No entry fee,
Paddle Boats: INR 150 per hour,
Motorboats: INR 1000 per hour.

Distance from Chennai: 213 km

Known For : Chaitanya Jyoti Museum Sathya Sai Ashram Wish Fullfilling Tree

The holy abode of the holy figure, Sathya Sai Baba, Puttaparthi is a tiny town in Andhra Pradesh. Puttaparthi is known for its many temples and museums. Cultural enthusiasts love to visit this town with some of the popular local attractions being - Chaitanya Jyoti Museum, Sri Satya Sai Hill Museum, Gopalaswami temple, Sri Sathya Sai Space Theatre among several others. Taking the train from Chennai to Puttaparthi is the best mode of transport.

Distance from Chennai: 371 km

Best Time: September to February

13 Puttaparthi Attractions

Known For : Shore Temple Mahabalipuram Beach Five Rathas

Famous for its intricately carved temples and rock-cut caves, Mamallapuram or Mahabalipuram as it is famously known, is a historically important and well-loved tourist location situated on the Coromandel Coast along the Bay of Bengal, in the state of Tamil Nadu. Once the abode of the famous demon king Mahabali, Mahabalipuram was later renamed Mamallapuram. The best way to reach Mahabalipuram from Chennai is to take a car or the local bus.

Distance from Chennai: 53 km

Best Time: November to February

23 Mahabalipuram Attractions

Endearingly known as the 'Grand Canyon of India', Gandikota is a quaint village in Kadapa district of Andhra Pradesh. Flanked by River Pennar on the right side, the village is popular for the spectacular gorges formed by the river cutting through Erramala Hills. The narrow valleys with streams running between them and the steep rocky walls are like the renowned Grand Canyon in Arizona. It required a walk of almost a kilometre from the main gate to reach the boulder from where you can observe the mesmerising view from the viewpoint near the fort. The affordable way to reach Gandikota from Chennai is to take the train. One can also reach by car or by hired taxi.

Distance from Chennai: 346 km

Best Time: November to February

Known For : Fort Dansborg The town gate The Zion Church

Tharangambadi, otherwise known as Tranquebar is known for its tranquillity and crashing waves. It is a tiny beach town in Nagapattinam district that dates back to the 14th century. Placed at a dreamy patch at the confluence of the Kaveri river and the Bay of Bengal, Tranquebar is a beautiful playpen of many cultures. Travelling by bus or by car is the best way to reach Tharangambadi from Chennai. The bus is the cheaper option.

Distance from Chennai: 267 km

Best Time: August to February

7 Tranquebar Attractions

Known For : Jungle Safari, Kabini Boating in Kabini

Once a private hunting area for the British, Kabini is a wildlife destination set on the bank of Kabini river.  Here one can find a rich variety of flora and fauna and in activities such as the Jungle Safari, boating and trekking in Nagarhole Forest. There are many premium and luxury resorts here frequented by both families and office groups. Kabini can be reached directly by taxi from Chennai or by taking a train to Mysuru from Chennai and then heading onwards by cab.

Distance from Chennai: 500 km

Best Time: Throughout the year

5 Kabini Attractions

Known For : Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple Nimishambha Temple Dariya Daulat Bagh

Srirangapatna is a small island town in the Cauvery river in Karnataka. Located 18 kms from Mysore, the town is an architectural masterpiece of Hoysala and Vijayanagar styles evident in its monuments. One of the most important Vaishnavite centres of pilgrimage - the Ranganathaswamy temple, is the major attraction of the town which draws thousands of tourists every year. To reach Srirangapatna, one can arrive at Mysuru by train or by flight and then continue onwards Srirangapatna by private taxi.

Distance from Chennai: 462 km

Best Time: July to March

16 Srirangapatna Attractions

Situated on the banks of river Kaveri, Shivanasamudra is primarily a hydropower project location but has gotten massive attention for its stunning waterfalls. Literally translating to 'Shiva's Sea', Shuvanasamudra is a picturesque town with rocky terrain and gushing waterfalls and is a popular tourist destination with Gaganachukki and Barachukki waterfalls being the ones you don't want to miss. From Chennai, one can take a train to Bengaluru and then continue onwards to Shivanasamudra by taxi.

Distance from Chennai: 441 km

Best Time: August to February

3 Shivanasamudra Attractions

Anaimalai Hills or Anamala Hills are a range of mountains that form the southern border of the Western Ghats, through Tamil Nadu and Kerala. While they are famous for the highest peak in South India, the lower slopes boast of expansive tea & coffee plantations. Rosewood, Sandalwood, Teak and Sago Palms form dense monsoon forests in this region. It is a popular trekking destination in South India - a wispy escape from tropical heat.

Distance from Chennai: 594 km

Best Time: September to June

Known For : Kamakshi Amman Temple Varadharaja Perumal Temple Devarajaswami Temple

Widely known for its beautiful 'Kanchipuram sarees' and also referred to as the 'golden city of a thousand temples', Kanchipuram in is a popular cultural and religious attraction. Kanchipuram attracts a lot of tourists who come to marvel at South Indian's religious and regal architecture. Likewise many visit the city to learn and understand Hinduism more intimately. The best way to reach Kanchipuram from Chennai is to take the train.

Distance from Chennai: 72 km

Best Time: October to May

16 Kanchipuram Attractions

Known For : Kolukkumalai Tea Estate

Kolukkumalai is a small village in the Theni District of Tamil Nadu, on the border of Idukki District, Kerala. At 7,000 ft above sea level, it is home to the highest tea plantations in the world. The sprawling fields here are breathtaking with several sunrise viewpoints overlooking the Palani hills. It is said that the aromatic breeze in this hill-station is unique and fresh, causing the tea in the Kolukkumalai Tea Estate to be special.

Distance from Chennai: 574 km

Best Time: September to March

1 Kolukkumalai Attractions

Known For : Manjarabad Fort Sakleshwara Temple Bisle Reserve Forest

Sakleshpur is a popular yet offbeat hill station in Karnataka flanked by the Western Ghats. From the dense rainforest, hiking trails, historical temples and an old fort, mountain peaks and waterfalls. Whether its the significant agricultural products or the discovery of a jyotirlinga by the Hoysalas, the quaint town of Sakleshpur earned its name rightly as it is no less verdant than Ooty. To reach Sakleshpur, one first has to reach Bengaluru by flight, rail or road and then continue onwards to Sakleshpur by taxi or bus.

Distance from Chennai: 573 km

Best Time: October to March, May-June

14 Sakleshpur Attractions

Known For : Punganur Lake Nature Park Jalagamparai Falls

A quaint little hill station located in Vellore, Yelagiri is a scenic drive from Chennai, making a perfect spot for a quick weekend getaway. Spread a little over 30 square kilometres, and at a height of over 1100 metres above sea level, Yelagiri offers its tourists some beautiful places like the Jalagamparai falls, sweeping orchards and rose garden, among others. The ideal destination for nature lovers, Yelagiri is a town that is completely off the beaten tourist trail. Yelagiri is about a 4-5 hour drive from Chennai.

Distance from Chennai: 228 km

Best Time: November to February

13 Yelagiri Attractions

Known For : Matrimandir Marc's Cafe Arka

Conceived as the 'Universal Town', Auroville is an experimental township where people from across the world of all cultures and traditions come and live together in peace. Located around 15 km from the city of Pondicherry, Auroville is located in Tamil Nadu and was founded in 1968 by Mirra Alfassa, a disciple of Aurobindo and fondly known as the 'Mother' of Sri Aurobindo Society. One can take the train to Villianur from Chennai and continue onwards to Pondicherry by taxi.

Distance from Chennai: 148 km

Best Time: November to March

21 Auroville Attractions

Known For : Emerald Lake, Yercaud Pagoda Point Botanical Garden, Yercaud

Nestled in the Shivaroy Hills of Tamil Nadu, Yercaud is a tranquil hill station in the Eastern Ghats steeped in abundant greenery. Commonly called 'Ooty of the Poor', this town has a history dating back to the time of the British. Located at an altitude of 4970 feet, Yercaud is known for its vast expanses of coffee plantations. There are several viewpoints and gardens which offer excellent views of the valley below. The lake in town is also a nice place for some light boating and evening tea and coffee. Yercaud can be reached from Chennai by car or a hired taxi.

Distance from Chennai: 371 km

Best Time: October to June

20 Yercaud Attractions

Known For : Gingee Fort Sathanur Dam Annamalaiyar Temple

Perched on top of the Malai hill, Thiruvannamalai is a holy town, most famous for its Arunachala temple among numerous other temples and ashrams dedicated to saints of olden times. Sri Ramana Ashram, Sathanur Dam, Sri Seshadri Swamigal Ashram are some of the important tourist spots as well as significant areas for followers. A colourful side of the town is seen during the days of Arunachaleswarat temple festival.

Distance from Chennai: 193 km

Best Time: October to March

9 Thiruvannamalai Attractions

Known For : Hogenakkal Falls Mettur Dam Melagiri Hills

Hogenakkal is a waterfall located in Dharmapuri district of Tamil Nadu where the Kaveri river splits into multiple streams of waterfalls. This waterfall has generous water flow throughout the year. The carbonite rocks, the coracle (basket boat) rides, freshwater fish, oil massages by locals make it a perfect one day trip or a weekend getaway from Bangalore.

Distance from Chennai: 341 km

Best Time: October to March

9 Hogenakkal Attractions

Known For : Sri Venkateshwara National Park Srikalahasti Temple Nagalapuram

Blessed with scenic beauty, cascading waterfalls and a beautiful hill station, Chittoor is a quaint little temple town. Also known as the Mango City, Chittoor is home to varieties of heavenly mangoes. Reaching Chittoor from Chennai by road is the best options. While a taxi is the fastest option, taking the bus is more affordable.

Distance from Chennai: 157 km

Best Time: September to February

11 Chittoor Attractions

Known For : Vedanthangal Bird sanctuary Karikili Bird Sanctuary

Lying close to the important district of Mahabalipuram,  Vedanthangal, best known for its bird sanctuary. The compact water tank of 30 hectares that the sanctuary is built around is home to at least 30,000 birds every year during migratory season. One can spot herons, spoonbills, storks, ibises and egrets in the season. The park also serves as a wonderful picnic spot and day trip destination.

Distance from Chennai: 87 km

Best Time: November to February

2 Vedanthangal Attractions

Situated at 1500m above sea level in the Coimbatore district of Tamil Nadu, Valparai is an offbeat yet tranquil hill station in the Anamalai Hills. The many coffee and tea estates here offer wonderful accommodation options including activities such as treks, morning safaris, coffee tasting and more. Taking the train to Valparai is recommended due to the long distance. Flights can also be taken to Coimbatore and a taxi for the forward journey.

Distance from Chennai: 583 km

Best Time: December to January

Known For : Ramalingeswara Temple Narasimhaswamy Temple Patu Ru

Nellore is a beautiful city lying on the banks of River Penna in Andhra Pradesh. Anciently known as Vikrama Simhapuri, it derived its name from "Nelluru", a combination of Tamil words "Nel" and "Ooru" where Nel stands for Paddy and Ooru means Place. Known for its rice fields and temples, the city is becoming a hub of education in India.

Distance from Chennai: 176 km

Best Time: October to February

7 Nellore Attractions

The Javadi Hills are situated between the Vellore and Tiruvannamalai districts of Tamil Nadu, dividing them. A tourist hub, the region promises diverse wildlife, flora and attractions. It has been admired for its picturesque beauty through history, especially during colonial times. The serenity promised is evidenced by the success of the Vainu Bappu Observatory - taking advantage of clear skies in this region. Driving to Javadi Hills from Chennai is highly recommended.

Distance from Chennai: 206 km

Best Time: October to March

The Velliangiri Hills or 'Sapthagiri' are located in Tamil Nadu at the border of the Coimbatore District and Palakkad District, Kerala. Part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, the Sapthagiri or Seven Hills are a scenic, sacred adventure that commemorate Lord Shiva and Vishnu amidst nature and wildlife. River Noyyal originates from here and is a major tributary of River Kaveri. At the highest point of these hills, Shiva is worshipped as Swayambhu - The Self Manifesting God.

Distance from Chennai: 547 km

Best Time: October to April

Known For : Brihadeeswara Temple Saraswathi Mahal Library Shiva Ganga Garden

Also known as Tanjore or the city of temples, Thanjavur has a lot of cultural value and is known for its famous Tanjore paintings, antiques and handicrafts, textiles and saris, its Carnatic music and musical instruments and of course the temples. Cultural buffs descend onto the city for a weekend of learning and recreation. From Chennai, taking a flight is the best option to reach Thanjavur.

Distance from Chennai: 349 km

Best Time: October to March

15 Thanjevur Attractions

Bellikkal is a small village in the south of Sigur Plateau in Tamil Nadu. This small and elusive hill station is as beautiful as those in the Himalayas. For those looking to enjoy a Bucolic Tamilian experience, completely away from any hint of civilisation, this is it. One can either drive to Bellikal or take a flight to Coimbatore first, and continue onwards to Bellikal by road.

Distance from Chennai: 570 km

Best Time: Throughout the year

Surrounded by the tributaries of the River Godavari and the magnificent Bay of Bengal itself, Konaseema is the delta-ic region in the East Godavari district of Andhra Pradesh. The area has properties matching those of the resplendent Kerala Backwaters and so it has also come to be called as ‘God’s own Creation’ after ‘God’s own Country’ that is Kerala.

Distance from Chennai: 641 km

Best Time: November to February

Situated in the district of Chittoor, Andhra Pradesh, the Kaigal falls is a popular picnic spot. Nestled amidst the Koundinya Wildlife sanctuary, the Kaigal waterfall derives its name from the village Kaigal, that surrounds it. It is locally known as Dumukurallu waterfalls ( a Telugu word used for a sound resembling the sound of falling stones from above). The Kaigal falls is a perennial waterfall. Its surroundings are untouched and unspoilt, with a variety of flora and fauna. The site of Kaigal waterfalls is absolutely stunning. The waterfall is subdivided into three cascading falls and waterfalls from a height of approximately 40 ft. There are several small pools that are formed by the water at the bottom where visitors love to swim.

Distance from Chennai: 223 km

Known For : Velankanni Church Velankanni Beach Velankanni Church Museum

Quaint and calm, Velankanni is a little hamlet tucked away in the state of Tamil Nadu, on the coast of Bay of Bengal. It is a famous Roman Catholic pilgrim centre and is visited by thousands of devotees for its shrine of 'Our Lady of Good Health' aka Mother Mary. Inspired by the Lourdes in France, Velankanni is also known as the 'Lourdes of the East'. It has become one of the vital Marian sanctuaries of the world. One can take a private car, hired taxi or the bus to Velankanni from Chennai.

Distance from Chennai: 310 km

Best Time: October to March

6 Velankanni Attractions

Nestled on the banks of River Yagachi in Hassan District of Karnataka, the town of Belur along with its twin town of Halebid located 16 km away, houses exquisite temples reflecting the exemplary artistic taste and technique of temple builders of the yore. This small town was the capital of the mighty Hoysala Empire. Some of the important shrines that are housed here include Chennakesava Temple and Kappe Chennigaray, both of which are exemplary Dravidian pieces of architecture.

Distance from Chennai: 572 km

Nestled on the banks of River Kaveri, the town of Talakadu in Karnataka is a mystic place. Steeped with a rich past and heritage, it is famous for its Vaidyanatheshwara Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The place derives its name from two local chieftains Tala and Kada and thus is called Talakadu. It is an ideal place for history buffs and for the devotees of Lord Shiva. The best way to reach Talakadu from Chennai is to take a flight to Chennai and then continue onwards by taxi or bus.

Distance from Chennai: 447 km

Located close to the bumbling town of Meppady and just 8 km south of Kalpetta, stands the highest peak of the Wayanad Hill Range- the Chembra Peak at an altitude of 2000 meters above sea level. The Chembra peak offers a panoramic view of not only the entire Wayanad district but also a large chunk of Kozhikode, Malappuram and Niligiri districts. The peak, its surrounding lush greenery and the famed heart-shaped lake make it a paradise for hikers and nature enthusiasts.

Distance from Chennai: 623 km

Perched at an altitude of 1930 m above the sea level, Mullayanagiri peak is located in the Baba Budan Giri Range of Western Ghats. It serves as the highest peak between the Nilgiris and the Himalayas offering its visitors a serene environment. Known for its peaceful ambience and natural raw beauty, this peak overlooks verdant grasslands and is adorned rugged rocks, and a good trek path. Mullayanagiri is also known for coffee plantations that are situated nearby.

Distance from Chennai: 616 km

A wildlife sanctuary spread across an area of 614sq kms in the Kurnool district of Andhra Pradesh, Rollapadu is home to a number of diverse species of flora and fauna. 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 the home to many birds and reptiles as well.

Distance from Chennai: 436 km

Yaganti, in the Kurnool district of Andhra Pradesh in India, is a popular tourist site that is famous for its temple of Sri Yagantiswamy, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Also known as Uma Maheshwara Temple, the ancient Sri Yagantiswamy temple dates back to the 5th and 6th centuries. The temple houses the idol of Shiva and Parvathi fused together, called Ardhanareeswara. The festival of Maha Shiv Ratri which falls around October or November each year is celebrated with great pomp and show at the temple.

Distance from Chennai: 401 km

Located near the southwestern border between Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka, Horsley Hills refers to a hill station that is the perfect amalgam of the charms of Andhra Pradesh and the beauty of the hills. It is thus often called, the Ooty of Andhra. This natural marvel is situated at an astonishing height of 4312 metres and is well-known for its breathtaking landscapes.

Distance from Chennai: 275 km

The Silent Valley National Park, with its lush green forests and beautiful views of the rich flora and fauna, is a popular destination for nature as well as wildlife lovers all across the globe. Spread across an area of 89 square kilometres, the Silent Valley National Park is located in the Kundali Hills of the Western Ghats in Kerala in southern India. With its long, detailed history and the unique status of a rainforest, this national park is indeed a sight to visit. The well-planned Safari and the beautiful stop-overs around the park only make a trip to this part of Kerala more worthwhile.

Distance from Chennai: 644 km

Bhavani Island is a large river island located in the Krishna river at Vijayawada. If you are one for adventure sports and water slides, this is an exhilarating place to visit! Bhavani island can be reached by boat from the banks of Krishna river. Approaching the island from the banks, you will enjoy the lush green surroundings and beauty of the Krishna river. If you are on the island especially during sunrise, you have the most spectacular view of the sunlight dancing on flowing waters of the river.

Distance from Chennai: 458 km

Also known as Pushpagiri, Kumara Parvatha is the highest peak in Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary. It is 6th highest peak of Karnataka. Spanning over two days, the Kumarparvatha trek is one of the most challenging treks in the South. In a stretch of approximately 13 kilometers you will attain an appalling height of 4000 feet.

Distance from Chennai: 611 km

Located in Karnataka, the Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary in Srirangapatna is a haven for a wide array of bird species. It is the largest bird sanctuary in the state and comprises of six small islands on the banks of the river Kaveri. The scenery of the lush vegetation and wide landscape, coupled with the colourful variety of wildlife makes it a unique learning experience for everyone. This destination offers many activities to its tourists; the most popular ones include bird watching, boating, and some good old nature photography.

Distance from Chennai: 465 km

Merely 22 Km away from the Kakinada Beach, Coringa is a Wildlife Sanctuary as well as an estuary. It is home to as many as 35 species of mangrove plants, 120 species of rare birds and innumerable species of flora. This sanctuary is also famous for being home to the critically endangered white-backed vulture and long-billed vulture. Since it is an estuary, you can also get a stunning view where the sea meets the river.

Distance from Chennai: 674 km

A place which is a testimony to the architectural and engineering genius of the region and the pride of one of the greatest empires of India - Chola Empire, Gangaikonda Cholapuram is a place worth exploring. The magnificence of the Brihadishwara temple along with few others will enchant you and thrill you with its history and engineering.

Distance from Chennai: 251 km

Meaning the ‘Mountain of Death’, Kolli Hills or Kolli Malai are a mountain range located in the Namakkal district of Tamil Nadu. It is relatively untouched by commercial tourism and therefore has retained most of its natural magnificence. The mountains are famous for their natural beauty and also have religious significance because of the Arappaleshwar Temple which is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The peak is accessible via road as well and the road leading up to it is winding with several twists and turns.

Distance from Chennai: 364 km

If you stay in Bangalore or are merely visiting the city and want to enjoy a picnic close to nature with your friends, Mekedatu should be on your bucket list. Situated in Kanakapura of Ramanagara district, Mekedatu is a site by a stretch of narrow, deep gorges through which the river Kaveri flows. The spot is steeped in folklore: with the name of the place meaning 'goat's leap' in Kannada and has an interesting mythical story attached with it. So, not only will you get the chance to spend time in nature, you'll be able to do so at a spot accorded great mythical significance.

Distance from Chennai: 397 km

Known For : Veerabhadra Temple Lepakshi Temple Nandi Bull and Paintings

Lepakshi is a small quaint village with a trail of several great kingdoms that once ruled the area. Located in the Anantpur district of Andhra Pradesh, Lepakshi is located at a distance of 120 km from Bangalore making it a great choice for one day trip. Founded in 1535 AD by Maharaja Aliya Rama Raya of the Vijayanagara empire, Lepakshi is a trove of several fascinating archaeological sites, beautiful ancient temples and rich culture.

Distance from Chennai: 375 km

Best Time: September to February

4 Lepakshi Attractions