The Varaha Temple in Mahabalipuram has exquisite rock carvings
With pilgrimages, heritage towns, beaches and temple towns located within a 500-km radius, Chennai offers several spots to unwind over the weekend.
We list five of the most important ones.
About 54 km south of Chennai, Mahabalipuram is known for its stone temples and stone carvings. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the ancient port town was built largely between the 7th and 9th centuries. Must visit places in the town are the Shore Temple, Pancha Pandav Rathas (Five Chariots) and Thirukadalmallai.
During January-February, Mahabalipuram is the venue for the dance festival. You can catch stellar performances of Bharat Natyam, Kuchipudi, Kathak, Kathakali and other forms of Indian dance.
Yercaud is known for it's scenic vistas and it is a good place to relax
About 360 km southwest of Chennai, the hill station is also known as the poor man’s Ooty.
It is located at an elevation of 4,920 ft above mean sea level. Lesser known than Kodaikanal and Ooty, Yercaud is ideal for enjoying a peaceful holiday. Yercaud is less commercialized and a good place to relax. A visit to the Yercaud lake, Botanical Garden and Bear’s Cave are a must.
The Seawall at the Promenade in Pondicherry is a good place to enjoy the sea breeze in the evenings
About 162 km south of Chennai, the French Riviera of the East with its tree-lined avenues and Mediterranean style houses gives the impression that you are in another country. Auroville is the most popular attraction of Pondicherry. The unique Indo-French blend of food, the arts, crafts and music of the former French colony are added attractions. Humidity is a concern but it is hardly deters you from enjoying the beaches.
The Lalbagh Botanical Gardens in Bengaluru is right in the middle of the city and provides hours of solitude
About 346 km west of Chennai, Bengaluru has always been popular for its enviably pleasant weather with random light showers. The Garden City’s famous Lalbagh Botanical Garden can keep you engaged for hours. Hire a caddy and go on a guided tour of the garden or just take a stroll by yourself.
Bengaluru Palace, Tipu’s Palace, Vidhan Souda and Attari Kacheri are also worth a visit. Bengaluru is blessed with several gardens, parks, natural lakes, architectural landmarks, shopping malls, restaurants and pubs which you will find on or near M G Road.
A visit to the Venkateswara Temple in Tirupati is considered a must for every Hindu
About 138 km northwest of Chennai, Tirupati is considered to be one of the most sacred sites for Hindus and it has become synonymous with the Venkateswara Swamy temple dedicated to Lord Venkateswara. In Tirumala, the Balaji temple is the centre of the town. Everyone’s life and routine revolves around the temple. The experience of visiting the temple itself is like none other. At least one visit to Tirupati is considered mandatory for every Hindu.
