Chennai is practically a treasure trove of the most visit-worthy destinations, not just within its city limits but also when it comes to getaways. Nature trails, historical sites, beaches, or pilgrimage, whichever travel itch you have, there are multiple spots within 300 kilometres of Chennai you can visit to take a break and feel rejuvenated. Check out the 15 best places to visit near Chennai within 300 kilometres.
Tourist Places Near Chennai within 300 kilometres
1. Arignar Anna Zoological Park
A great nature park in Vandalur to observe a variety of species of birds and animals. Spot zebra, giraffe, leopards, bears, hippos and otters. The best way to explore the zoo is through a buggy trip with a guide. This spot is ideal for nature and animal enthusiasts and a great place to explore in Chennai within 300kms.
- Distance from Chennai: 40 kilometres
- Timings: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Best time to visit the zoo: winter months from December to February
Suggested Read: 30 Amazing Tourist Places to Visit in Chennai Within 200 KM
2. Pulicat
Dive deep into the natural wonders of Pulicat near Chennai. It has a beautiful lake called Pulicat Lake where you can go boating and watch flamingos in their natural habitat here.
There are a variety of other species of birds here too. Other places of interest are Dutch cemetery and fort, and two villages nearby Veduru Pattu and Nelapattu.
- Distance from Chennai: 55 kilometres
- Best time to visit Pulicat: October to March
Suggested Read: 11 Lakes in Chennai That Are a Boon To This Place
3. Mahabalipuram
Also known as Mahabs, this world-famous heritage site in India is known for its 7th-century ancient shore temples and is also one of the best places to visit around Chennai. Mahabalipuram has etched its name in history for its marvellous Chariot shaped temples the Five Rathas, Arjuna’s Penance, Krishna’s Butter Ball, man-made caves and Mamallapuram lighthouse.
Apart from marvelling at these ancient structures, you can enjoy touring around the village of Mahabalipuram, and indulge in water sports at its beach.
- Distance from Chennai: 60 kilometres
- Best time to visit Mahabalipuram: October to March
Suggested Read: 20 Excellent Destinations For a Short Trip From Chennai
4. Kanchipuram
If you wish to visit some famous temple around Chennai, Kanchipuram is the best place to go. The temples of Kanchipuram are popular for their architecture and design. Visit Ekambareshwar Temple, Kailasanatha Temple, Kamakshi Amman Temple, and Varadharaja Perumal Temple.
You can also shop for Kanchipuram silk sarees that are famous for their traditional and exquisite craftsmanship. You can also go bird watching at Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary.
- Distance from Chennai: 72 kilometres
- Best time to visit Kanchipuram: October to March
Suggested Read: 29 Important Temples in & Around Chennai
5. Nagalapuram
A lush and green village, Nagalapuram is famous for its magnificent waterfalls. One can go trekking through its scenic trails and enjoy chilling in its many pools and streams. Nagalapuram is one of the best places to visit around Chennai for an ideal adventure trip and clicking beautiful pictures.
- Distance from Chennai: 92 kilometres
- Best time to visit Nagalpuram: October to March
Suggested Read: 17 Hippiest Places to Visit in Chennai With Friends
6. Tirupati
Tirupati is one of the many divya desam temples around Chennai and is the nation’s most visited pilgrimage city. It is an ancient temple every pilgrim wishes to visit once in their life to seek the blessing of Lord Balaji, as the deity of this temple is known across the world.
Other interesting temples to visit in Tirupati are Sri Varahaswami Temple, Sri Padmavathi Ammavari Temple and ISKCON Tirupati.
- Distance from Chennai: 135 kilometres
- Best time to visit a Tirupati: November to February
Book hotels in Tirupati with Treebo Hotels for a quality and safe stay.
Suggested Read: The 8 Evergreen Temples in Chennai to Attain Peace
7. Pondicherry
Pondicherry is one of the best places to visit near Chennai. Visit this laidback, French colonial city of many delights. Walk on the cobblestone street of the French quarter, pay a visit to the town of Auroville and Sri Aurobindo Ashram, explore the beautiful churches of Pondicherry, or just bask in the hippie culture of the town.
- Distance from Chennai: 162 kilometres
- Best time to visit Pondicherry: October to March
You can book hotels in Pondicherry for a relaxed stay.
Suggested Read: 22 Fabulous Places to Visit in South India in December
8. Vellore
An important centre of historical wars, Vellore is famous for Vellore Fort, a fine specimen of the state’s military resilience. It is fully made of granite stone and has a temple inside called Jalakanteshwara, an interesting example of Vijayanagar architectural style. If you wish to visit a few temples in and around Chennai, you can include this in your itinerary.
Other attractions of Vellore are Clock Tower and Srilakshmi Golden Temple.
- Distance from Chennai: 140 kilometres
- Best time to visit Vellore: October to March
Suggested Read: 15 Most Amazing Road Trips to Take from Chennai
9. Nellore
Nellore is an ancient town filled with surprisingly good tourist spots. Pay a visit to Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple in Nellore, Udaygiri Fort, Somasila Dam and relax at Mypadu Beach near Nellore.
- Distance from Chennai: 177 kilometres
- Best time to visit Nellore: July to September (monsoons); October to March
Suggested Read: 37 Beaches in South India That You Should Know About!
10. Cuddalore
Located near Pondicherry, Cuddalore has many gems to explore. Visit Pichavaram Forest to explore its clean, shallow waters and luscious mangroves, pay a visit to Devanathaswamy Temple, and stroll on the sands of Silver Beach. If you wish to spend some quiet time alone, Cuddalore is one of the places to visit near Chennai within 200 kilometres.
- Distance from Chennai: 180 kilometres
- Best time to visit Cuddalore: October to March
Suggested Read: 23 Things Chennai Is Famous For
11. Tiruvannamalai
If you want to visit some famous temples around Chennai within 300 kilometres, Tiruvannamalai is the best place to start with. A traditional, small holy town, Tiruvannamalai is famous for Sri Ramana Ashram, a famous spiritual centre after a great Indian saint and Arunachaleshwara Temple – dedicated to Lord Shiva. Hike to Virupaksha Caves, a calm and peaceful place where Sri Ramana meditated.
- Distance from Chennai: 200 kilometres
- Best time to visit Tiruvannamalai: October to March
Suggested Read: 15 Weekend Getaways From Chennai For A Perfect Holiday
12. Yelagiri
Yelagiri is a hill station and one of the best places to visit around Chennai within 300 km. This is a quiet little town tucked away in peaceful hills. The most exciting spots to visit in Yelagiri are Yelagiri Hills and Swamimalai Hills, ideal for trekking and camping. You can also go boating in Nilavoor Lake. Adventure enthusiasts can go ziplining in Thrill Valley. Also, visit Punganoor artificial lake for some quiet time in nature.
- Distance from Chennai: 230 kilometres
- Best time to visit Yelagiri: November to February
Book budget hotels in Yelagiri for a comfortable stay.
Suggested Read: 14 Hill Stations Near Chennai You’ll Want To Visit More Than Once
13. Horsley Hills
A less-explored area, Horsley Hills is an ideal place to go on a road trip, hiking, trekking and adventure activities. The pleasant climate of the region is ideal for a lazy weekend.
- Distance from Chennai: 280 kilometres
- Best time to visit Horsley Hills: December to March
Suggested Read: 15 Best Places to Visit in India in May to Take a Break and Unwind
14. Tranquebar
Known as the ‘village of dancing waves’ this charming little town has wondrous sights to offer and is one of the most interesting places to visit in and around Chennai. Take a trip to the spectacular Danish Fort, followed by Dansborg Fort and the Danish Governor’s Bungalow. Check out the restored temple that was destroyed by the Tsunami, the Masilamani Nathar Temple. Take a tour of the Danish Museum inside Fort Dansborg.
- Distance from Chennai: 280 kilometres
Suggested Read: 10 Best Trekking Spots in and Around Chennai
15. Kumbakonam
Visit some of the most exquisite temples around Chennai by taking a trip to the temple town off Kumbakonam. Another historically rich town also known for its thick coffee, Kumbakonam is a good trip to take on any day. Its most famous attraction is the Airavatesvara Temple, known for its exquisite carvings of the Chola period. Also visit the Sarangapani Temple, the Uppiliappan Temple, Suriyanar Koil Temple, Patteeswaram Temple.
- Distance from Chennai: 297 kilometres
- Best time to visit Kumbakonam: December to February
Suggested Read: 17 Amazing Picnic Spots in Chennai
Enjoy visiting all these quaint, beautiful, historical and picturesque cities and spots around Chennai. They make for a great weekend getaway and day-long trips. If you have any questions or comments, please use the comment box below.
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