tourist places near chennai within 100 kms

1. Chennai, the city of distinctive culture has preserved the heritage and tradition among all other states. The gateway to South India, the city of culture and age-old tradition will definitely relax your soul with its beautiful dance forms, art, music and intricate architecture. Located on the shore of Bay of Bengal, today’s Chennai has been attracting a number of tourists. Relax on the golden sands of beaches, eat in exquisite restaurants, stay in beautiful resorts and explore some of the awesome places of Chennai. The city has lots to offer you and here are some within 100 km of Chennai……... Mahabalipuram- 58 km Reflecting the age-old South Indian architecture, this place has gradually risen to become the most famous tourist place of Chennai. Carved out of Granite stone there are various rock-cut sculptures. To add to its beauty, the golden sandy beach embraces you where you can laze out. Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and freshen up yourself by visiting this place. Kanchipuram- 75 km

2. Famous for its vibrant temples with intricate architecture and high-quality handloom silk sarees, Kanchipuram is the second holiest city after Varanasi. Once the capital city of Pallavas, Cholas and Vijayanagar rulers, Kanchipuram is now the hub of silk sarees. There are remains of Buddhist stupas and this depicts that Buddhism was practiced here before. Festivals like Brahmothsavam, Garudothsavam etc. goes on here on the month of January, April. There are some awesome architectures in Kanchipuram and here are some: - i) Ekambaranathar temple- With a height of 58.5 m, this is one of the tallest temple towers in South India. ii) Vaikunta Perumal temple- Built by Nandivarma Pallava, this is another art piece and the battle scenes are carved on the walls of the temple. iii) Varadaraja temple- Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, this temple has a 100-pillared hall. iv) Kailasanatha temple- This temple has an architecture which resembles shore temple of Mahabalipuram v) Kamakshi Amman temple- This temple is dedicated to Lord Parvati.

3. Tada falls-92 km Get a refreshing escape from the scorching heat of Chennai to the Tada falls. Located in the Siddulaiah Kona forest the view of the lush green surrounding is a sheer delight and the best place for nature and bird lovers. With numerous picnic spots, this place is perfect for family holidays and for trekking enthusiasts who can trek down to the falls. Vandalur Zoo-38 km Popularly known as Arignar Anna Zoological park, this zoo is spread over an area of 602 hectares. The main objective of the park is the conservation of wildlife especially critically endangered species and houses 2553 species of flora and fauna. It spreads ecological awareness. The zoo was once visited by Jawaharlal Nehru and praised it for its efforts to maintain everything with great care. One can have the whole tour of the zoo with the vehicles available. It attracts 20 lakh tourists from all over the world.

4. Pulicate Lake: - Located on the border of Tamilnadu and Andhra Pradesh, Pulicat lake is the perfect place for a relaxed holiday. There are small islands scattered around the lake which can be used as picnic spots. Though boating is banned, some fishermen will give a ride to the islands which is absolutely thrilling. 100 metres from the lake, there is a pine forest. Visit the place during the months of October to March to witness a huge number of migratory birds. Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary: -

5. One of the oldest bird sanctuary, a variety of birds migrates to this place at the top of the season. Around 30,000 birds including egrets, herons, storks and spoonbills visit this area. Along with birds, mammals like jackals, jungle cats, wild boars can also be seen here. The birds migrate here from Australia, Pakistan and you can see plentiful trees with some beautiful birds. Spread around an area of 74 acres, this place is best to be visited around the months of November to February. Dakshin Chitra Restoring the culture of South India, this museum has the collection of various arts, crafts and antiquities. Showcasing different artefacts, this place has redefined the South Indian cultural heritage. Visit this beautiful place to feel the age-old tradition of various south Indian states.

6. Muttukadu Experience the backwaters of Kerala in Chennai by visiting this place on the outskirts of Chennai. An awesome place for experiencing boating and nature with your loved ones which are absolutely thrilling and adventurous. One of the best places in Chennai to spend some peaceful time which will relax you throughout. Kailasakona Waterfalls (91.5 km from Chennai): - With a height of 40 feet, kailasakona waterfall is situated on the Uttukottai- Puttur-Tirupathi road. The water on the falls is pleasant, clear and said to have medicinal properties. The water is available throughout the year i.e. perennial. There are 3 falls apart from the main falls. The two smaller falls are 4 to 6 feet high which falls on the main pond. A sacred temple of Lord Shiva and Parvati can be seen here.

7. Covelong Beach (40 km South of Chennai): - Treat yourself with deep shallows and natural rocks and calm yourself in the pleasant environment with clean blue water and white sand in the beautiful beach of Covelong. Located in Covelong (Kovalam), which is basically a fishing village, it has become a famous tourist spot with rows of palm trees and some exquisite resorts. Covelong is known for its water sports where experts teach you about fine details. Turning around from the sea, the ruins of old Catholic church adds to the scenic beauty. VGP Golden Beach: -

8. Located near Injambakkam, on the sandy shores of the beach, sort your weekend in the famous amusement park of Chennai. The park has three sections-Universal kingdom, aqua kingdom and snow kingdom. There are a variety of rides, which are absolutely thrilling and adventurous for both adults and children. The beach attached to VGP is highly preferred for its pristine beauty with silver sands and mesmerizing sea view.