Sometimes, the best way to take a break from the city’s fast pace is to step away, even if just for only a day. Chennai, with its busy streets and warm coastline, is surrounded by places that offer peace, adventure, and a bit of magic. From calm beaches and ancient temples in Chennai to hill stations covered in mist, there are many places to visit near Chennai that make for perfect short trips.
There are tourist spots in Chennai that provide something for everyone, whether you want to get away for a quiet weekend, enjoy a picnic with your family, or go on an adventure with friends. You can drive to these places in a day, but they're far enough for you to feel like you've really traveled. So, if you're not sure where to go next, here are some lovely and interesting spots around Chennai that you should see.
Top 20 Places to Visit Near Chennai in 2025
It helps to know what's just outside the city before you start arranging your next trip. There are a lot of places to travel near Chennai that offer a relaxing break, such as, old temple towns, quiet beaches, green hills, and serene lakes. Every place has its unique attraction. Some are great for a relaxing weekend, while others are full of adventure and local flavors.
1. Mamallapuram (Mahabalipuram)
Mahabalipuram is recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its ancient rock-cut temples and sculptures take you back to stories from Hindu mythology. The beach here is great for relaxing in the evening, and the stone sculptures show how great the city was as a cultural center during the Pallava period. It's a popular place for tourists near Chennai, both for history buffs and people who just want a weekend getaway.
Location: Tamil Nadu coast, about 58 km from Chennai
Distance from Chennai: 1.5 hours by road
Best Time to Visit: November to February
Famous Attractions: Shore Temple, Five Rathas, Arjuna’s Penance, and Mahabalipuram Beach
2. Puducherry (Pondicherry)
Pondicherry is a lovely mix of Indian culture and French style. It is one of the most popular places to visit near Chennai because it has quiet beaches, colorful colonial buildings, and cozy cafes. You can walk through the colorful streets of White Town, eat French pastries, or spend some time alone at the Aurobindo Ashram.
Location: Union Territory on the southeastern coast of India
Distance from Chennai: 160 km (3.5-4 hours by road)
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Famous Attractions: Promenade Beach, Auroville, French Quarter, Paradise Beach
3. Kanchipuram
Kanchipuram is one of the most holy and old cities in South India. People often call it the "City of Thousand Temples." This village is full of stories of dedication, tradition, and amazing Dravidian architecture. The great temples here were erected hundreds of years ago, and the sounds of people praying and the fragrance of incense still fill the air. Kanchipuram is not just a spiritual place, but it is also known for its beautiful handmade silk sarees, which display the city's ageless art. Walking through the little narrow streets with weaving shops and temple towers will make you feel calm and nostalgic. A day spent here links you to both culture and peace.
Location: Riverbank of Vegavathy, Tamil Nadu
Distance from Chennai: 75 km
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Famous Attractions: Kailasanathar Temple, Ekambareswarar Temple, Kamakshi Amman Temple
4. Lake Pulicat
Pulicat Lake is a birdwatcher's and environmental lover's dream. It is located on the boundary of Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh. The serene blue waters go on endlessly, and throughout the winter, thousands of migrating birds come to live there. It looks like a picture when pink flamingos and pelicans dive through the water. The calm surroundings make it a great place to go for a day trip away from the buzz of the city. You may go for a boat ride on the lake, see the Dutch cemetery nearby, or have a picnic by the water. Pulicat is a rare place where you may find peace and natural beauty that stay with you long after you leave.
Location: Right at the border of Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh
Distance from Chennai: 55 km
Best Time to Visit: November to February
Famous Attractions: Pulicat Bird Sanctuary, Dutch Cemetery, Beach and Lighthouse
5. The Yelagiri Hills
Yelagiri Hills is one of Tamil Nadu's best-kept secrets, hidden away in the woods. There are green valleys, orchards, and rose gardens all around it, so it's a nice break from the busy life in Chennai. The roads that curve up to the top are just as beautiful as the top itself. The weather here is nice, which makes it great for outdoor activities like hiking, boating, and paragliding. The lakes and views from the top of the hill are great places to get away from it all and just take a deep breath.
Location: Tirupathur district, Tamil Nadu
Distance from Chennai: 230 km
Best Time to Visit: November to February
Famous Attractions: Punganoor Lake, Jalagamparai Waterfalls, Nature Park
6. Tirupati
Tirupati is one of the most popular pilgrimage sites in India because of the holy Venkateswara Temple. This temple town is located at the base of the Eastern Ghats and draws millions of pilgrims each year who come to ask for blessings. Tirupati's hills and jungle are also great places to visit since they are serene. The waterfalls and parks nearby make the wonderful landscape even more beautiful. The whole trip, from the chanting of the devotees to the beautiful sights of the hills, makes the heart feel peaceful and devoted.
Location: South east part of Andhra Pradesh
Distance from Chennai: 135 km
Best Time to Visit: September to February
Famous Attractions: Venkateswara Temple, Kapila Theertham, Talakona Waterfalls
7. The Mangrove Forest of Pichavaram
Just before Chidambaram, Pichavaram is a wonderful location where lush mangroves meet soothing blue waves. There are a lot of canals and islands made by mangrove trees, and people may glide over them in boats and see birds, fish, and ducks all around. In the early morning, when the mist is still over the river and the only noises are birds tweeting and water lapping, the environment feels extremely serene. The dirt roads, wooden boats, and thick vegetation make you feel more connected to nature, when you come to this destination.
Location: Pichavaram, Cuddalore District, Tamil Nadu
Distance from Chennai: approximately 230 km
Best Time to Visit: November to February (pleasant weather & good bird activity)
Famous Attractions: Mangrove backwater boat rides, bird watching, exploring narrow canals
8. Kolli Hills
Kolli Hills is a quiet hill station that is far away from the noise. There are narrow roads, clean air, and hills with forests and small waterfalls. The ghat roads have a lot of turns and twists, but they also have beautiful valleys, mist, and nature. You can visit nearby towns, spice farms, and fruit orchards, which give the hill station a more authentic feel. After exploring various things to do in Chennai, you can come here to get away from the noise of the city. You can go to viewpoints, see waterfalls nearby, and stay at quiet resorts or guest homes.
Location: Namakkal District, Tamil Nadu
Distance from Chennai: approximately 350 km
Best Time to Visit: Post-monsoon (October to December) for best views and greener surroundings
Famous Attractions: Waterfalls (like Agaya Gangai), viewpoints, nature walks, local shops and farms
9. Kovalam Beach (Covelong)
About 40 miles from Chennai, on the East Coast Road, lies Covelong Beach, a fishing community that has become a beach getaway. The waves crash softly, and you might see fishermen, boats, or even people learning to surf. Because it's smaller and less crowded than big beaches, you can relax, build sandcastles, or walk along the beach at sunrise or sunset. There are also surf schools for people who want to learn how to ride the waves and cafes where you can eat and drink while looking out at the sea. People who live there and people who visit love this place because the mornings are quiet and the evenings are full of life.
Location: Covelong, on ECR (East Coast Road), Tamil Nadu
Distance from Chennai: near about 40 km
Best Time to Visit: October to February (cool weather, calmer sea)
Famous Attractions: Surfing, beach walks, village charm, cafe stops
10. Vellore Fort
For people who appreciate history, Vellore Fort is one of the best destinations to visit near Chennai. This granite fort was built in the 16th century and is encircled by a large moat that used to be home to crocodiles. It is both sturdy and magnificent. There is a church, a mosque, and the Jalakandeswarar Temple inside, and they all get along well. The fort walls, antique sculptures, and the stories they tell give us a look into Tamil Nadu's regal history. Families, students, and travelers come to admire the buildings, take photographs, or just enjoy a leisurely stroll through history.
Location: Vellore, Tamil Nadu
Distance from Chennai:140 km
Best Time to Visit: November to February (cool and dry weather)
Famous Attractions: Jalakandeswarar Temple, moat and ramparts, government museum
11. The Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary
Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary is one of the greatest locations to go near Chennai if you enjoy nature and tranquil areas. In the winter, thousands of migrating birds from all over the world arrive at the lake. Some of these birds include pelicans, storks, and herons. Photographers and families will love this place because of the chirping and calling of the birds. The walking routes and watchtowers have great views of the trees and river, which are full with nests. Going in the early morning or late evening makes the experience much better.
Location: Kancheepuram District, Tamil Nadu
Distance from Chennai: 85 km
Best Time to Visit: November to March (peak bird season)
Famous Attractions: Bird watching, lake walk, nature photography
12. Lake Pulicat
Pulicat Lake, which is India's second-largest brackish water lagoon, is one of the most beautiful and peaceful places near Chennai. The lake is in both Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh, and its calm waters attract flamingos and other birds that are migrating every year. It looks like you're floating into a picture when you take a boat trip across the lake. You'll see waves that calm you down, small islands, and boats of all colors passing by. You can also visit the town of Pulicat to see the Dutch-era buildings and the lighthouse. The place is great for day trips and taking pictures because it is so beautiful.
Location: Pulicat, Thiruvallur District, Tamil Nadu
Distance from Chennai: about 60 km
Best Time to Visit: October to March (birdwatching season)
Famous Attractions: Flamingo Festival, boating, lighthouse, historic Pulicat town
13. Gingee fort
If you like history, you should visit Gingee Fort, which is sometimes called the "Troy of the East." This old fort, which is built on three hills, has stone walls, watchtowers, and granaries that still tell stories of wars and powerful kings. You can see all of Tamil Nadu's rich history from the top of the fort. It's a great place for people who want to hike for a short time and see interesting historical sites.
Location: Gingee, Villupuram District, Tamil Nadu
Distance from Chennai: 160 km
Best Time to Visit: November to February (cool and dry)
Famous Attractions: Kalyana Mahal, Raja Fort, Krishnagiri Fort, panoramic hill views
14. Kanchipuram
Because of its spiritual and cultural appeal, Kanchipuram, which means "City of Thousand Temples," is one of the most popular places for tourists to visit near Chennai. The pathways are full of silk weavers making the city's famous sarees, and each shrine tells a story from an old text. It's a place where time seems to move more slowly, traditions are still strong, and faith is in the air. Kanchipuram gives you a peaceful feeling, whether you go to see its temples or its crafts.
Location: Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu
Distance from Chennai: 75 km
Best Time to Visit: October to March (pleasant weather)
Famous Attractions: Ekambareswarar Temple, Kailasanathar Temple, silk weaving centres
15. Tranquebar (Tharangambadi)
People who like history and the sea should visit Tranquebar, which is also known as Tharangambadi. It's one of the most beautiful places to visit near Chennai. This small town used to be a Danish trade center, and its colonial-style buildings and quiet, breezy beaches still give it a European feel. As you walk along the old fort walls or watch the sun set from the shore, it feels like time has stopped. Tranquebar is very special because of its history, architecture, and views of the sea.
Location: Tharangambadi, Nagapattinam District, Tamil Nadu
Distance from Chennai: 270 km
Best Time to Visit: November to February
Famous Attractions: Fort Dansborg, Ziegenbalg Museum, Tranquebar Beach, heritage walks
16. Thiruvannamalai
Thiruvannamalai is a renowned site for those looking for tranquility and is one of the most spiritual places to visit near Chennai. The Arunachaleswarar Temple, which is devoted to Lord Shiva, and the Annamalai Hill, which is considered holy, are both well-known in the town. Many people trek around the hill as part of a religious ritual. During the Karthigai Deepam festival, when hundreds of lamps light up the whole town, the temple looks amazing. Thiruvannamalai is a beautiful place with tranquil hills and heavenly energy that can help you find peace inside yourself.
Location: Thiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu
Distance from Chennai: 200 km
Best Time to Visit: November to February (cool weather)
Famous Attractions: Arunachaleswarar Temple, Girivalam Path, Virupaksha Cave
17. Nagalapuram
Nagalapuram is one of the most thrilling places to visit near Chennai for people who are looking forward to enjoying both nature and adventure. This place is noted for its beautiful waterfalls, hiking trails, and thick woods. It's hidden in the Eastern Ghats. Besides, even young travelers who are fond of hiking or like bathing in natural pools love the Nagalapuram Waterfalls excursion. The trip itself, through verdant valleys and calm streams, feels new and full of life. Anyone who enjoys being outside will adore this weekend getaway.
Location: Chittoor District, Andhra Pradesh
Distance from Chennai: 70 km
Best Time to Visit: November to March (ideal for trekking)
Famous Attractions: Nagalapuram Waterfalls, trekking trails, camping spots
18. Pichavaram Mangrove Forest
Pichavaram is one of the most unusual tourist places to visit near Chennai. It has beautiful mangrove forests and tiny rivers. When you take a boat trip through these natural tunnels, it seems like you're entering a wonderful world of green. The dense trees let in some sunshine, and you may often see different sorts of birds sitting on the branches.
Location: Near Chidambaram, Cuddalore District, Tamil Nadu
Distance from Chennai: 235 km
Best Time to Visit: November to February (pleasant for boating)
Famous Attractions: Mangrove boat rides, birdwatching, nearby Chidambaram Temple
19. Kodaikanal
Kodaikanal is one of the most refreshing places to visit near Chennai for people who like to experience misty hills, waterfalls, and beautiful hikes. It is also known as the "Princess of Hill Stations." It is surrounded by beautiful forests, peaceful lakes, and places where you can see the sunrise and sunset very clearly. Many travelers think it's worth the journey, even if it's a little farther away from the city of Chennai.
Location: Dindigul District, Tamil Nadu
Distance from Chennai: 530 km
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Famous Attractions: Kodaikanal Lake, Coaker’s Walk, Pillar Rocks, Bryant Park
20. Poombuhar (Puhar)
Poombuhar, often called Puhar, is an old port city with a long history and culture in Tamil. It used to be a busy Chola port, but now it draws tourists with its beautiful beach, museums, and connection to the Silappathikaram epic. It is a great place for history enthusiasts to get away from it all and learn about Tamil Nadu's marine heritage. It can be considered as one of the most unique places to visit near Chennai.
Location: Nagapattinam District, Tamil Nadu
Distance from Chennai: 290 km
Best Time to Visit: December to March
Famous Attractions: Silappathikara Art Gallery, Poombuhar Beach, Masilamani Nathar Temple
Conclusion
There are many interesting places to visit near Chennai, from old temples and quiet beaches to green hills and calm lakes. There are a lot of surprises in the area, whether you want to get away for a quiet weekend, go on a fun trip with friends, or go on a spiritual journey. You can easily get to the beautiful, peaceful Yelagiri Hills, the heavenly Tirupati, or the sandy beaches of Mahabalipuram. While exploring, don’t miss checking out the shopping places in Chennai for souvenirs and local handicrafts, before heading off on your next short trip.
These tourist places near Chennai aren't just quick trips; they're also great places to relax, eat, and reconnect with nature and culture. So, pack your bags and take a short break from the busy city. Only a few hours away are adventure, peace, and new things to see.
