If you are an adventure enthusiast, there are several places in and around Chennai that are hotspots for outdoor activity. Whether you are fond of adventure sports, sightseeing, cycling or even camping, you will love what the city (and the area around) has to offer.
For the best experience, follow our guide to the best camping places in and around Chennai. We’ve got all the best places listed down for you, distance wise. So, here goes:
Camping Places Near Chennai (Within 100 kilometres)
1. Chembarambakkam Lake
Located close to Chennai, the Chembarambakkam Lake is ideal for a one-day outdoor camp.The banks of the river are home to numerous camping sites that are well equipped with comfortable facilities. At the lake you can stay at a campsite, enjoy the lovely sunset and a few outdoor games. Alternatively, you can go paddling on the lake. There are a few good options for food available near the Chembarambakkam Lake.
- Location: Kanchipuram District
- Distance from Chennai: 25 kilometres
Also Read : Lakes in Chennai
2. Pulicat Lake
Situated on the outskirts of Chennai, this lake is a hotspot for camping and adventure sports. The location is beautiful and the surroundings clean. You can either set up your own tent at the lake or book one at the camp site that is close to the banks of the river. During the peak tourist season, it is better to book a tent in advance.
- Location: Chittor
- Distance from Chennai: 53 kilometres
3. Mahabalipuram
Generally, tourists consider Mahabalipuram to be associated with ancient religious structures. However, the town is also a decent camping destination. You have the option of staying at beach side tents or cottages, depending on your comfort level.
At these camping sites, you also have the opportunity to engage in fun games with your friends or family. Watch the sun set in the evening and then enjoy a lovely BBQ dinner or light a bonfire, sing songs and have fun outdoors before you call it a night.
- Location: Kanchipuram District
- Distance from Chennai: 61 kilometres
Also Check : Places to Visit in Chennai within 200km
4. Nagalapuram
Nagalapuram is great for treks, the mountains and waterfalls are the perfect setting for a challenging climb. While most of the people who visit Nagalapuram come to hike, there are a small lot that lay tents and enjoy nature at its best.
The ideal place to set up a tent at Nagalapuram is near the waterfall. The terrain is perfect and the spot is the perfect vantage point to enjoy the best of what Nagalapuram has to offer.
- Location: Nagalapuram
- Distance from Chennai: 70 kilometres
5. Mamandur
Have you thought about camping in forest? Well, at Mamandur, you can. The forest area in Tamil Nadu has camping facilities that are comfortable and cosy for an outdoor stay. Completely safe, the campsites have facilities such as watchtowers, a wide area for outdoor games, guided tours of the jungle and there are bungalows too, in case you are not comfortable staying outdoors.
- Location: Chennai – Kadapa Highway
- Distance from Chennai: 70 kilometres
6. Ubbalamudugu (Tada Falls)
Located in Andhra Pradesh, the Ubbalamudugu or Tada Falls is a popular place for hiking. Since it is situated close to Chennai, most locals use the weekends to head out to the Tada Falls to enjoy camping and trekking.
The best way to enjoy a day of adventure at Ubbalamudugu is by first going on a trek and then setting up a camp on the plains of the Tada Falls. If you don’t want to go on your own, you could book a camp. There are many camps held at Ubbalamudugu regularly.
- Location: Chittoor
- Distance from Chennai: 92 kilometres
Camping Places Near Chennai (Over 100 kilometres)
1. Alamparai Fort
Sightseeing is not the only activity to enjoy at the Alamparai Fort.
The area on the beach close to the Alamparai Fort is an ideal for camping. In fact, there are a few campsites situated on the beach. The place is great for those who want to lay back and enjoy a relaxed holiday and even for those folks who love water sports.
At the beach, there are boating rides to enjoy. In the evenings, campfires and BBQs are held on the seashore.
- Location: Edaikazhinadu
- Distance from Chennai: 111 kilometres
Suggested to Read : Places to Visit in Chennai
2. Gingee Fort
The Gingee Fort is an old fort that is now partially in ruin. A big hit with explorers, at this fort many heritage camps are held. The camps are set up close to the fort and include activities such as a tour to the fort and trekking. Great for adventure sport lovers, trekking up to the fort is a challenge worth accepting.
- Location: Gingee
- Distance from Chennai: 157 kilometres
3. Pondicherry
Pondicherry is the perfect getaway from Chennai. Calming and charming, this island has all the right ingredients for a comfortable and relaxed stay. Besides staying at plush hotels, a good way to enjoy your stay in Pondicherry by camping at Auroville.
There’s plenty of space available near the beach where tents can be setup. You can also have a campfire and enjoy an evening outdoors. There are some tour operators that have prior permission in place to host camps in Auroville.
- Location: Auroville
- Distance from Chennai: 169 kilometres
4. Nellore
Although Nellore is famous for being a spiritual town, the beach is the perfect setting for camping. There are a few spaces on the beach where camps can be held. Best suited for a relaxed holiday, the camp sites at Nellore feature comfortable tents and campfire facilities.
- Location: Nellore
- Distance from Chennai: 176 kilometres
Please Read : Trekking in Chennai
5. Peermade Waterfalls
The Perumedu Waterfalls is a lesser known tourist attraction in Kerala. This is what makes it a great getaway for couples and outdoor enthusiasts who do not like crowds. The vast open spaces near the waterfalls mean that one can enjoy camping in peace.
So, if you are one of those that likes a quiet, relaxed time outdoors, we are sure that you will love camping at the Peermade Waterfalls.
- Distance from Chennai: 176 kilometres
6. Yelagiri
Camping at Yelagiri gives you the perfect opportunity to enjoy a variety of adventure sports at one-go. The camp sites here not only offer you the chance to enjoy a quite time outdoor, it also has opportunities for outdoor sports, bike rides and much more. Great for adventure sports lovers, you can have a lot of fun at the camps here with friends or family.
- Location: Yelagiri
- Distance from Chennai: 228 kilometres
So, the next time you are in Chennai and are looking to do something different apart from the regular sightseeing, a good idea is to go camping.
You could use a few days to explore any of the above-mentioned places on this list and you will be sure to have a good time. If you are looking for some other cool things to do in the city, we will gladly help you with suggestions. All you need to do is send us your questions in the comments below and we will get back to you.
Book Treebo hotels in Chennai and get 100% guaranteed quality stay.
Checkout the treebo hotels in ,Service Apartments near Chennai Central Railway Station,3 Star Hotels near Arumbakkam Metro Station Chennai,Hotels near Republic Of Indonesia Chennai,3 Star Hotels near Green Park Chennai,3 Star Hotels near Anna Nagar West Chennai,Hotels near Madras Medical College,Service Apartments near Ota Chennai,3 Star Hotels near Royal Thai Consulate Chennai,Service Apartments near Sims Hospital Chennai,Guest House near Miot Hospital Chennai,Service Apartments in Alwarpet Chennai.
