When it comes to nature trails or adventure activities, there are quite a few stunning places you can visit in and around Chennai. If the hustle and bustle of city life has exhausted you completely and you need a break, but don’t really want to plan an extended vacation, we’ve just the list for you.
Plan a weekend getaway to 10 best trekking places in Chennai and feel re-energised. Check out our list and take your pick.
Best Trekking Places In Chennai: Under 100 kilometres away
1. Mahabalipuram or Mamallapuram Lighthouse
This is a popular tourist attraction in Mahabalipuram. The lighthouse overlooks the coast of Mahabalipuram and offers a panoramic view of the city. The climb to the lighthouse is steep. Not advisable for children or elderly. But the sight from top is worth the climb. Beware of monkeys. Make this a part of your trip to Mahabalipuram or if you’ve already been there, go to the lighthouse for the trek and the views.
- Distance from Chennai: 60 kilometres
Also Read : Weekend Getaways from Chennai
2. Nagalapuram
A two-hour drive from Chennai will land you in this moderately easy trekking spot in Andhra Pradesh. This is quite a well-known waterfall trek. It’s a pretty clear water trail trek located near Arai village. You will find beautiful pools of water on the trail and the forest flora and fauna will be a refreshing sight. The pool at the top of the trek is breathtaking. You should be able to finish the trek in a day. It’s a fairly easy trek.
- Distance from Chennai: Around 70 kilometres
3. Tada Falls
Also known as Ubbalamadugu Falls, these are located in Chittoor district in Andhra Pradesh. Trekking difficulty level is medium. The trek starts at the base of the Kambakam forest and is marked with streams, waterfalls, and rock cut trails. There may be occasional challenging and steep boulders and you might have to hop through several rocks and boulders during the trail. You can make mid base camp at the Shiva temple. The trek beyond gets slightly tougher.
- Distance from Chennai: 92 kilometres
Also Check : Places to Visit in Chennai within 200km
Best Trekking Places In Chennai: Over 100 kilometres away
1. Gingee Fort
Known as one of the most impregnable forts in India, this Gingee Fort or Senji Fort is yet another interesting place near Chennai to explore through a trek. Located in Villupuram district near Pondicherry, this fort offers historically and architecturally rich sights to explore such as Kalyana Mahal and Queen Fort. The three hillocks you can trek to are Rajagiri, Krishnagiri and Chandrayandurg. It was built by Chola Dynasty in 9th century and later modified by Vijayanagar Empire in 13th century. A great spot to trek and take interesting pictures of the fort architecture.
- Distance from Chennai: 160 kilometres
2. Talakona Waterfalls
Located near Tirupathi, about 4 to 5 hours away from Chennai, Talakona Waterfalls are specially famous for its healing powers which originates from the forests nearby with medicinal properties. This is a good one-day trip with a slightly difficult trekking trail in places. There is a canopy rope walk which is popular with trekkers. There are several routes that trekkers can choose, depending on their level of expertise. The surrounding scenery is lush and green.
- Distance from Chennai: 190 kilometres
3. Parvathamalai Mountain
Located in Kadaladi Forest in Thiruvannamalai, this is a three hour long trek that ends atop the hill which has a small Shiva temple. It is a rocky terrain with a difficult trail. The trek is recommended for avid trekkers. This is a popular spot for a night trek. Camping overnight is also allowed. The highlight of the night trek is refreshing night breeze and star-studded skies. The area has a few shops but no hotel, so pack snacks.
- Distance from Chennai: 190 kilometres
4. Yelagiri
This is a perfect spot for multiple outdoor activities like trekking, camping, and star-gazing. Not only the drive to Yelagiri be wondrous, you will also find the trek to Peerumedu Waterfalls enjoyable. The route is filled with hairpin curves named after Tamil celebs, picturesque hills, and fresh and vibrant forests. A less explored place than others, the 3 km trek to Peerumedu waterfalls will be an ideal trek with moderate difficulty level and splendid natural sights.
- Distance from Chennai: 220 kilometres.
Suggested to Read : Historical Places in Chennai
5. Krishnagiri Fort
Visit this ruins of a fort atop Syed Basha Hills in Krishnagiri. The fort dates all the way back to the rule of Tipu Sultan and the view from the top of the ancient fort is mind-blowing. Carry lots of food and water with you as there are no eateries on the way. Also be careful while climbing as the trail can be slippery.
- Distance from Chennai: 260 kilometres
6. Yercaud Hills
Yercaud is a famous hill station in the Salem district of Tamil Nadu. It is a serene and clean region with gorgeous mountains, hills, rivers and valleys. There are many small leisure trails throughout the hills, but the two most popular spots to trek to are Kiliyur Falls and Shevaroy Hills. Kiliyur Falls trek is slightly difficult and may require trekking on steep rocks and muddy trails. But the views are breathtaking. Another famous spot is Lady’s Seat, a rock formed like a seat. There is also a watch-tower close by,
- Distance from Chennai: 360 kilometres.
Please Read : Camping Places in Chennai
7. Venkateswara Hills
Located in Sri Venkateswara National Park (Eastern Ghats), this trek will be all the more unique as you will be able to spot wildlife and explore the unexplored areas of the park. However do visit in the winter as the trek is long and takes three days to complete. You may need a guide since the trails are not that easy and proper tenting and camping gear.
- Distance from Chennai: 360 kilometres
These are the best places in and around Chennai that you can explore for trekking excursions. They can be great options for a day-long trip or a weekend getaway. Pick your favourite and get going. If you have any comments or questions, use the comment box below.
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