7 Exciting Weekend Getaways from Chennai for the Adventure Enthusiast

One of the major metropolitan cities of India, Chennai has emerged as a commercial giant in the country. Many young working professionals choose to call it home, thanks to its booming economy and infrastructural advances over the suburban towns and villages strewn around.

But sometimes, the need for escape becomes overpowering, doesn’t it?

What you need is an adventure – a tryst with that most precious of experiences: adrenaline. We have got you covered there. Here, we discuss some of the best adventure getaways from Chennai. Take your time, read our list, and make your weekend an explosive adventure that will remain a memorable affair for years to come.

1. Mahabalipuram

A declared World Heritage Site by UNESCO – Mahabalipuram has tons of reasons to keep you occupied during your stay. From fascinating temple ruins to Krishna’s Butterball – a large natural boulder that seemingly defies all gravity – Mahabalipuram is filled with sights to see and things to do. Take bicycling tours to the nearby villages or go indulge in water sports. If you time your trip well, you might be there in time to visit the spectacular Mamallapuram Dance Festival.

How to Get There: Take the East Coast Road from Chennai to reach Mahabalipuram in an hour and a half.

Where to Stay: Hotel Sea Breeze (Rs. 2700 per night), Hotel Mamalla Inn (Rs. 1750 per night), Indeco Mahabalipuram (Rs. 2985 per night)

2. Pulicat

The quaint seaside town of Pulicat is known for its exquisite flamingoes that can be commonly spotted along the swamps in the region. Other major attractions are the Dutch Cemetery, the Fort, and a bird sanctuary which houses avian species of a dazzling range. The beaches of Pulicat provide plenty of opportunities to indulge in your favourite water sports – whether it is jet skiing or surfing.

How to Get There: Take the SH104 to get to Pulicat from Chennai in an hour and a half.

Where to Stay: Accommodations in Pulicat are available at a typical price range of Rs. 2300 per night.

3. Pondicherry

Also called ‘Pondy’, this scenic city is known for its distinctive French influences. Once the seat of French power in India, Pondicherry retains the culture in its unique French Quarter, replete with mustard-white colonial buildings, gardens and cobbled streets. There’s also Auroville, an experimental alternate society which exists beyond the laws of India and practices the tenets of Aurobindo Ghosh. Being a seaside destination, it comes as no surprise that the tranquility of the mainland is matched by the thrill and adventure offered in the water sports activities by the beaches.

How to Get There: Take the East Coast Road from Chennai to reach Pondicherry in a little over three hours.

Where to Stay: Anandha Inn (Rs. 3825 per night), Hotel Annamalai International (Rs. 2800 per night), Sunway Manor (Rs. 4000 per night)

4. Yelagiri

Nestled up in the Vellore district of Tamil Nadu, the hillocks of Yelagiri offer a much-needed respite from the city trappings of Chennai. One of the most popular weekend retreats for young Chennai residents, Yelagiri is the destination of many a bike tour. Once you reach the hill station, you can indulge in boating at the artificial lake Punganoor, or partake in adventure activities at the Yelagiri Adventure Sports Association (YASA).

How to Get There: Take the NH48 to reach Yelagiri from Chennai in a journey that should last 4 hours and 15 minutes if you go by car.

Where to Stay: Hotel Landmark (Rs. 2520 per night), Touchstone Resort (Rs. 2700 per night), Yelagiri Residency (Rs. 1000 per night)

5. Yercaud

The hills and lake of Yercaud have an almost mythical status for citizens wishing to escape the stifles of Chennai. Between the months of June and October, many take the trip to Yercaud in order to get lost in the scenic vistas offered at vantage points such as Pagoda Point, or take a dip in Yercaud Lake. Camping and trekking amidst the woods surrounding the lake are some of the more popular activities here.

How to Get There: Take NH32 and NH79 from Chennai to reach Yercaud. The driving distance is six hours and twenty minutes.

Where to Stay: Clifton Resort (Rs. 3750 per night), Summer House Resort (Rs. 4500 per night), Shri Durga Residency (Rs. 1999 per night)

6. Nandi Hills

Perhaps one of the most popular destinations for both the residents of Bengaluru and Chennai, the winding roads of Nandi Hills are simply perfect for a road trip. Known for being the spot where the great Tipu Sultan is said to have spent leisure time, Nandi Hills beckons one and all for its beautiful landscape and cool, pleasant environs. Cycling and trekking are amongst the most popular activities here.

How to Get There: Take the NH48 to reach Nandi Hills from Chennai in a journey that should take you almost seven hours if you went by car.

Where to Stay: The average price range for hotels in Nandi Hills is about Rs. 1400 per night.

7. Kodaikanal

Rightly called the ‘Princess of Hill Stations’, Kodaikanal may be a honeymooners’ delight, but its appeal as an adventure destination is also worthy of merit. The phenomenal waterfalls, trekking trails and rowing and rafting activities offered at the Berijam Lake make Kodaikanal a diverse treat for adventure-seekers from Chennai.

How to Get There: Take NH38 to reach Kodaikanal from Chennai. The car driving distance is about 8 hours and 35 minutes.

Where to Stay: Hill Country Kodaikanal (Rs. 3400 per night), Hotel Dreamland (Rs. 2255 per night), United 21 Resort (Rs. 2100 per night)
 

The appeal for adventure is present in most of us. Why keep it wanting? Let not the restrictions of city life in Chennai hold you back from exploring what lies beyond its borders. For adventure is plentiful all around.