Excursions from Chennai – More Fun in Vicinity
By Carlton Leisure -
11/10/2014
Are you someone who keeps flying to Chennai often and know every in and out of the city? Do you have explored the city so much that its tourist attractions don’t excites you? If you are one, then you should take an excursion from the city to find that there is much to see and explore at a short drive from downtown. Marina Beach may boast of a large coastline, Chennai Central may looks stunning with its grand building and Fort St. George might have a great history behind it but there is enough to see and do on the outskirts of the city. So if you are flying to Chennai also plan an excursion from the city. Here we give spotlight on top tourists attractions situated around the city.
Mahabalipuram
Mahabalipuram also called Mamallapuran is one of the highly sought after destinations for the travellers visiting Chennai. A large number of devotees and travellers flock to the city to see rock-cut sculptures of this temple. The town is situated at a distance from 60km from Chennai. The rock cut structures are finest example of Dravidian architecture.
Pondicherry
Pondicherry rechristened as Puducherry is another destination you should plan a trip. Although small in size the city was largest French colony in India. On your visit you can experience a strong French influence particularly during your visit to old quarters. Beaches and Maitri Mandir in Auroville are popular draw cards.
Covelong
Situated 40km south of Chennai en route to Mahabalipuram, this small coastal town has seen various up and downs. Its port was developed by Nawab of Carnatic before it was taken over by the French in 1746. Later British destroyed the port. The villages around the beaches are famous for fishing and thus drawing a large number of vacationers. Covelong is also an ideal place for wind surfing.
Vellore
Situated at a distance of 140km from Chennai the city is home to several tourist attractions. The travellers should plan a trip to the city to see Sripuram Golden Temple and you will be amazed to see its gold coated exterior and interior. Seeing this city during evening is an experience in itself. Jalagandeswarar Temple, Kavaloor Observatory, Jallagamparai Waterfalls, Thippusulthan Mahal and Delhi Gate are other major attractions in the city.
Kanchipuram
One of the oldest cities in Tamil Nadu, Kanchipuram is widely acclaimed for its temples and silk. Also referred as Kanchi the city is a religious and spiritual hub. The city is replete with several temples and magnificent buildings. This former capital of Pallav kingdom has served as the great center for religious studies in South India. Apart from Hindu temples remains of Jain temples can also be found in the city.
Vedanthangal
This destination is for someone with love for bird watching. So if you have a liking for flying little creatures then plan a trip to Vedanthangal situated at a distance of around 80 km from Chennai. The place is a birdwatchers paradise and Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary is one of the oldest bird sanctuaries in country.