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Sometimes, the best adventures come from those unplanned, spontaneous getaways. If you’re in Chennai and looking to escape the city’s hustle for a while, you’re in luck. There are numerous amazing places to visit near Chennai that offer everything from serene beaches to historical wonders. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a history buff, or just someone in need of a quick change of scenery, these hidden gems and well-known spots around the city promise to leave you refreshed. So, pack light, grab your friends, and set off on an unforgettable journey to discover these fantastic nearby locations.
10 Places To Visit Near Chennai
Looking for the best places to visit near Chennai Airport or Chennai Central? Discover hidden gems, serene beaches, and cultural wonders just a short drive away from the city’s heart.
1. Guindy National Park
Photo: Bagavath G / Wikimedia Commons
Guindy National Park is a fantastic destination for nature lovers looking for places to visit near Chennai Airport. It offers a serene escape within the city, perfect for a day trip. Guindy National Park is a lush green space where you can experience Chennai’s wildlife in its natural habitat. It is home to blackbucks, deer, and a variety of bird species, making it an excellent spot for families and nature enthusiasts. The park also features a children’s play area and a snake park for added excitement. Ideal for those seeking greenery near Chennai Central.
Distance From Chennai: 9 km
Location: Sardar Patel Road, Guindy, Chennai
Nearest Airport: Chennai International Airport (7 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Guindy Railway Station (3 km)
Special Attraction: Snake Park, Children’s Play Area
2. St. Thomas Mount
Photo: Ssriram mt / Wikimedia Commons
St. Thomas Mount is one of the most spiritual places to visit near Chennai Airport, offering a peaceful retreat with panoramic views of the city and a deep historical significance. A sacred site with a rich history, St. Thomas Mount is known for its church, which is believed to be where St. Thomas, one of the twelve apostles of Jesus, was martyred. The mount offers sweeping views of Chennai and is a great spot to enjoy a tranquil atmosphere, away from the city’s hustle. Perfect for those looking for spiritual places near Chennai Central.
Distance From Chennai: 13 km
Location: Parangi Malai, Chennai
Nearest Airport: Chennai International Airport (6 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Guindy Railway Station (4 km)
Special Attraction: The church atop the mount with city views
3. Valluvar Kottam
Photo: Surajram (talk) / Wikimedia Commons
Valluvar Kottam is a cultural gem among places to visit near Chennai Central, ideal for history buffs and anyone interested in Tamil literature and architecture. Valluvar Kottam is a magnificent monument dedicated to the Tamil poet-saint Thiruvalluvar. This intricately designed structure showcases traditional Dravidian architecture and features inscriptions of Thirukkural, Thiruvalluvar’s famous work. It is a popular spot for those who appreciate art, culture, and history. Being centrally located, it’s a must-visit for tourists exploring the heart of Chennai.
Distance From Chennai: 6 km
Location: Nungambakkam, Chennai
Nearest Airport: Chennai International Airport (14 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Kodambakkam Railway Station (3 km)
Special Attraction: Thiruvalluvar statue, Inscriptions of Thirukkural
4. Kapaleeshwarar Temple
Photo: Sailko / Wikimedia Commons
Kapaleeshwarar Temple is one of the most iconic places to visit near Chennai Central, offering an enriching cultural and spiritual experience with its ancient Dravidian architecture and rich traditions. Located in the bustling Mylapore area, Kapaleeshwarar Temple is a masterpiece of Dravidian architecture dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple’s towering gopurams and intricately carved pillars captivate visitors. The spiritual atmosphere and cultural significance make it a must-visit destination for those seeking historical and religious places near Chennai Central.
Distance From Chennai: 5 km
Location: Mylapore, Chennai
Nearest Airport: Chennai International Airport (15 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Mylapore Railway Station (1.5 km)
Special Attraction: Magnificent Dravidian architecture, Annual temple festival
5. Marina Beach
Photo: Darshan Simha / Wikimedia Commons
Marina Beach is the go-to place for relaxation and recreation near Chennai Central. Its long shoreline and vibrant atmosphere make it a must-see for anyone visiting the city. Stretching along the Bay of Bengal, Marina Beach is one of the longest urban beaches in the world. It offers scenic views, vibrant local culture, and ample opportunities for leisure activities like kite flying and evening strolls. Whether you’re near Chennai Airport or Chennai Central, a visit to Marina Beach is perfect for unwinding by the sea.
Distance From Chennai: 3 km
Location: Kamarajar Promenade, Chennai
Nearest Airport: Chennai International Airport (19 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Chennai Central Railway Station (2.5 km)
Special Attraction: Scenic coastline, Street food, Kite flying activities
6. Arignar Anna Zoological Park (Vandalur Zoo)
Photo: Rasnaboy / Wikimedia Commons
Arignar Anna Zoological Park, or Vandalur Zoo, is one of the most incredible places to visit near Chennai Airport. A perfect family destination, it showcases a wide variety of wildlife. Vandalur Zoo is a must-visit for nature and wildlife lovers. With expansive greenery and numerous species, it provides an unforgettable experience. The park is well-maintained and ideal for spending an entire day close to nature. The best part? It’s conveniently located near the Chennai Airport, making it easily accessible for travellers looking for adventure and education in one place.
Distance From Chennai: 20 km
Location: Vandalur
Nearest Airport: Chennai International Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Vandalur Railway Station
Special Attraction: Safari rides featuring lions and deer
7. Dakshinachitra Museum
Photo: Destination8infinity / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Dakshinachitra Museum offers a deep dive into South Indian culture, architecture, and traditions. It’s one of the best places to visit near Chennai Central, especially for history and culture enthusiasts. Located near Chennai, Dakshinachitra Museum beautifully preserves the essence of South India’s rich heritage. Visitors can explore traditional houses, craft demonstrations, and cultural exhibits from Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, and Karnataka. This open-air museum is not just informative but also visually stunning, making it a top choice for those looking to explore cultural places near Chennai Central.
Distance From Chennai: 35 km
Location: East Coast Road
Nearest Airport: Chennai International Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Chennai Central Railway Station
Special Attraction: Live craft demonstrations and traditional performances
8. Phoenix MarketCity Mall
Photo: Ashwin Kumar / Wikimedia Commons
Phoenix MarketCity Mall is the ultimate shopping destination near Chennai Central, featuring global brands, entertainment zones, and a wide range of dining options. It’s a must-visit for shopping enthusiasts. As one of Chennai’s largest malls, Phoenix MarketCity is a hub for shoppers, foodies, and entertainment seekers alike. Whether you’re looking for high-end brands or local favourites, the mall caters to every need. With its convenient proximity to the airport and Chennai Central, it’s a great spot to unwind after sightseeing. The gaming zones and cinema halls add to the excitement, making it more than just a shopping center.
Distance From Chennai: 14 km
Location: Velachery Main Road
Nearest Airport: Chennai International Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Guindy Railway Station
Special Attraction: IMAX theater and high-end international brands
9. Elliot’s Beach
Photo: Destination8infinity / Wikimedia Commons
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Photo: Destination8infinity / Wikimedia Commons
Elliot’s Beach, a serene coastal retreat near Chennai Central, offers a peaceful escape from city life. It’s one of the finest places to relax, enjoy the sea breeze, and watch the sunset. Located in Besant Nagar, Elliot’s Beach is a cleaner, quieter alternative to the more popular Marina Beach. It is the perfect destination for people who love the sea and wish to enjoy a tranquil atmosphere. With local eateries and cafes nearby, you can relax by the beach and indulge in some delicious South Indian snacks. Its proximity to Chennai Central makes it an ideal spot for evening relaxation.
Distance From Chennai: 12 km
Location: Besant Nagar
Nearest Airport: Chennai International Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Chennai Central Railway Station
Special Attraction: Karl Schmidt Memorial and beachside cafes
10. Fort St. George
Photo: Destination8infinity / Wikimedia Commons
Fort St. George, a historical monument near Chennai Central, is a must-visit for history lovers. This centuries-old fort offers insights into India’s colonial past and British architecture. Established in 1644, Fort St. George is a fascinating destination that reflects Chennai’s colonial history. Now housing a museum, it showcases artefacts from the British era, making it an educational and intriguing place to visit. It is conveniently located near Chennai Central, making it easily accessible for both tourists and locals who wish to explore historical landmarks.
Distance From Chennai: 3 km
Location: Rajaji Salai
Nearest Airport: Chennai International Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Chennai Central Railway Station
Special Attraction: St. Mary’s Church and Fort Museum
The diverse range of amazing places to visit near Chennai offers something for every type of traveller, from serene beaches and historical wonders to lush hill stations and wildlife sanctuaries. Ready to plan your next escape? Visit TripXL for exclusive travel deals and expert guidance to make your journey seamless and memorable. Let us help you explore the best places around Chennai with ease!
Cover Photo: Enoch Denzil Joseph / Unsplash
