Two amazing getaways from Chennai

Almost every traveler visiting any part of south India has to reach Chennai first and subsequently head to his/her specific destination. It is for this fact that the city is also just often referred as the "Gateway to South India". It is a colorful city that has lately turned into a melting pot of people as well as culture because walking down the roads, you will come across people with different faces that have come from different backgrounds. Although, the hot and humid weather may overwhelm you in the beginning, but if you give the city some time it will take you in as if you were one of its own. That being said, for a tourist the city is indeed a large pool of some interesting and unique tourist attractions. Whether, be it the classical Carnatic music and the very famous Bharatanatyam or the iconic British Raj era buildings, whether be it the sumptuous South Indian delicacies with that taste of coconut and lime in almost every dish or the bustling and swanky markets, every single aspect of the city is inviting and exciting. You can easily spend an entire week walking down its famous roads and relishing all the attractions and allures. However, individuals who crave for more, there are some amazing destinations to visit in proximity to the city, some of which include:

Mahabalipuram

A magnificent city that is significant historically as well as spiritually, Mahabalipuram is simply a must-visit if you are in Chennai. There is a small distance of about 60 k.m., which you can easily cover in a Chennai to Mahabalipuram cab. Make sure that you make a visit to the sites of the ancient stone carving and stone temples that were built between 7th and 9th centuries and have been declared as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Also, if you are a seafood lover, you are certain to have a great time here as nothing compares to the authentic seafood that are served in the restaurants here.

Pulicat

This one is an old colonial town situated on the Sriharikota island in the Thiruvallur district in Tamil Nadu. An escapade that certainly provides a break from the mundane city life, the place is full of some stunning sights to bewitch the backpackers. Remnants of the bygone era that include a grandiose fort, Dutch cemetery, quite old buildings and a church, still retain the essence of the time that is long gone. Being here means an opportunity to relish the best of nature, history, and the famous culture of Tamil Nadu. If you are a bird lover, make sure that you visit the excellent bird sanctuary situated just a few miles off the sea-shore.

There is also a rise in the count of backpackers who are now travelling more than the radius of 50 k.m. in search of an ideal escapade. Tirumala, a beautiful hill town, most popular for housing the Tirumala Venkateswara Temple, is a popular getaway. Hire a Chennai to Tirumala taxi and get going to quaint hill town.

Pratima is a travel writer and loves to visit different places India. She is an avid traveler herself, and whenever she has the opportunity she flews to the destinations that she has listed in her travel log.