A short drive away from the town of Chennai will take you from calm coastlines to packed markets and historic sites, whether or not you're visiting to see your relatives, understanding your ancestry, or simply exploring for the very first time. These carefully selected day trips are sure to make your trip cherished if you're planning to fly in soon, especially if you opt for an inexpensive option like Dubai to Chennai flights.
Mahabalipuram
Mahabalipuram
Only sixty kilometres south of Chennai is Mahabalipuram (also known as Mamallapuram), a UNESCO World Heritage Site where golden sand beaches and ancient temples converge. Known for its rock-cut caverns, shore temple, and the famous "Descent of the Ganges" sculpture, this city carefully blends history and scenery.
Before strolling through the memorials, you may start your day with a hearty breakfast by the sea. Spend your time observing the Five Rathas and the huge rock known as Krishna's Butter Ball, which refuses gravity!
Success Tip: Local coffee shops provide seafood in the South Indian style. You will love this restaurant if you like exotic food.
Kanchipuram
If you appreciate textiles and customs, you should visit Kanchipuram. This holy town, which is about 75 miles from Chennai, is well-known throughout the world for its expensive silk saris. You can purchase directly from nearby looms, witness experienced artisans at their work, or take part in lessons on antique weaving.
Along with the vibrant silk, Kanchipuram is home to stunning shrines with some of the best Dravidian architecture, such as the Kailasanathar.
Recommendation: Plan your trip for the weekday to prevent weekend traffic. Going around exploring the places of worship, as well as silk shops, makes sense.
Pulicat Lake
Pulicat Lake
For people who prefer to participate in activities outdoors, a visit to Pulicat Lake offers a peaceful distraction. About 60 miles away from Chennai, India's second-biggest brackish water lagoon provides a refuge for migratory birds like flamingos, pelicans, and storks, particularly between October and March.
Take a boat ride across the lake, visit Pulicat, a charming Dutch-era city, or eat seafood from the area at market stalls. The coastline is amazing in the early morning; therefore, do not forget to bring along a camera and binoculars.
Dakshina Chitra
Would you like to learn about the customs of Tamil, Kerala, Andhra, and Karnataka in just one location? DakshinaChitra, a former museum village, is just 25 kilometers south of Chennai. A fascinating environment, it includes conventional South Indian dwellings, artwork, shows, and fables.
You may take part in old-fashioned dance classes, observe ceramics being created by artisans, or visit wonderfully restored residences from different parts of the world.
Advice for Achievement: This might be an excellent half-day excursion if you have an interest in the conventional way of life or if you're going on holiday with young kids.
Kovalam
Kovalam
About 40 kilometers from Chennai, Covelong is a sleepy fishing village that is currently being transformed into a surfing haven. It's the perfect location for a leisurely beach day during a storm. For those who know a little bit about surfing, the Covelong Surf School offers lessons. If diving isn't your thing, you can kayak, paddleboard, or just sit by the sea and eat a piece of coconut.
The shoreline is perfect, the mood is welcoming and relaxed, while there are plenty of coffee houses along the coastline where visitors can unwind with freshly caught seafood and coastal cuisine.
Chennai delivers a lot more than just a gateway; it is the entry point to the very core of Tamil Nadu. Each day of your trip acts as an amazing reminder of southern India, whether you are photographing the initial wave in Covelong, weaving tales into silk at Kanchipuram, or viewing the sunrise at Mahabalipuram.
Always remember to allow some time for an adventure beyond the city before scheduling your flynas booking. You may be able to find a different, deeper, and also a standard side of Tamil Nadu with little planning and possibly even a flynas reservation.
