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Chennai is known for its busy streets, sandy beaches, and lively culture. But if you want a quick break, there are many places to visit near Chennai for 2 days. You do not have to spend a lot of time planning or travelling. There are beaches, historic towns, temples, and nature spots close to the city. Moreover, you can go with family, friends, or even alone. The best part is that these places are within 150 km of Chennai. These weekend spots are perfect for short drives, and they will give you new memories without tiring you out.
11 Best Places To Visit Near Chennai For 2 Days
Here are the best places to visit near chennai for 2 days, from the cultural delight of Mahabalipuram to the Nagalapuram Waterfalls, experience these destinations.
1. Mahabalipuram
Photo: Vyacheslav Argenberg / Wikimedia Commons
Mahabalipuram, also called Mamallapuram, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site popular for its rock-cut temples and stone carvings. This old port town has ancient buildings from the Pallava dynasty. The Shore Temple is right by the sea, and the Five Rathas are made from one stone. Arjuna’s Penance is another thing you can see. It’s a huge stone carving that tells stories from the past. Carry water and wear light clothes because the weather can get hot. Mahabalipuram is not just about history. It also gives peaceful sea views. This mix of culture and nature makes it one of the most popular places to visit near Chennai for a 2 days escape.
Distance From Chennai: 60 km on East Coast Road
2. Kanchipuram
Photo: Jmadhu / Wikimedia Commons
The city of a thousand temples is the nickname given to Kanchipuram. It is popular for its silk sarees and is one of India’s seven holy cities. These temples are generally large and have sculptures and carvings that date back hundreds of years. Constructed in the eighth century, the oldest temple is Kailasanathar, while the Ekambareswarar Temple boasts a hall with 1,000 pillars. In addition, a mango tree thought to be more than 3,000 years old can be found in its courtyard. Kanchipuram is also a good place to shop for pure silk sarees directly from weavers. The streets are narrow but full of small food stalls serving hot idlis and filter coffee.
Distance From Chennai: Around 75 km
3. Pulicat Lake
Photo: Ganesh Mohan T / Wikimedia Commons
Pulicat Lake is India’s second-largest brackish water lake and a bird watcher’s heaven. Hundreds of flamingos, pelicans, and other migratory birds visit it during winter. The Pulicat Bird Sanctuary is the highlight, and boat rides will take you close to them. Additionally, the lake is peaceful and ideal for nature photography. The surrounding villages are earthy and give you a glimpse of the fishing culture. Pulicat also boasts a historic Dutch cemetery and old colonial forts. The best time to go is early morning, as the light is soft and the birds are active then.
Distance From Chennai: 55 km
4. Kovalam Beach
Photo: Kamal Preet Kaur / Unsplash
Covelong Beach is a clean and peaceful stretch of sand on the East Coast Road. Water sports like windsurfing, kayaking, and surfing are very popular there. Both novices and experts are drawn to the Covelong Surf School. In addition, the beach’s water is clearer than that of city beaches, and shallow sections are safe for swimming. It is quiet in the mornings and busier in the evenings. Snacks and fresh seafood are served at small cafes along the road. A 17th-century Dutch fort and a noteworthy Catholic church can be found in the nearby village.
Distance From Chennai: 40 km
5. Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary
Photo: KARTY JazZ / Wikimedia Commons
Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary is one of the earliest sanctuaries in India and shelters thousands of birds during the migratory season. You can see storks, herons, egrets, and even the pintail duck, which is a rare bird. A lake promenade lets you see birds up close without disturbing them. Local guides can also help you educate about different species. The sanctuary is surrounded by small villages and fields, so it gets a more rural feel. Binoculars are useful here, but the view can also be enjoyed with the naked eye. This makes it one of the best places to visit near Chennai for 2 days for nature lovers.
Distance From Chennai: 75 km
6. Muttukadu Backwaters
Photo: Timothy A. Gonsalves / Wikimedia Commons
Muttukadu is a scenic location along the East Coast Road, famous for boating and backwaters. Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation maintains a boathouse there, from which row, pedal boats, and speedboats are on hire. Moreover, the area is also fringed by green mangrove forests, and hence it is a perfect destination for weekend getaways. The calm waters reflect the sky that gives scenic views during sunrise and sunset. Couples and families enjoy the serene atmosphere, while water sports like windsurfing are in demand by adventure seekers.
Distance From Chennai: 36 km
7. DakshinaChitra Museum
Photo: Destination8infinity / Wikimedia Commons
DakshinaChitra is a museum that showcases the culture of South India. It has traditional houses from Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh, each filled with original furniture and tools. Walking through feels like stepping into the past. Moreover, the museum hosts craft workshops, folk dances, and art exhibitions. Additionally, you can observe craftspeople painting, weaving, or creating pottery. It’s a peaceful spot to spend a few hours because of the open areas, gardens, and peaceful walkways. Additionally, there is a café and a store that sells handcrafted goods.
Distance From Chennai: 25 km from Chennai
8. Sadras Fort
Photo: Balaji Kundalam / Wikimedia Commons
Sadras is a small coastal town with a Dutch fort from the 17th century. The fort has high walls, watchtowers, and a cemetery with old tombstones. It was once an important Dutch trading post for pearls and cloth. Today, it is quiet and partly in ruins, but it gives a glimpse of colonial history. Moreover, Sadras Beach nearby is clean and less crowded, perfect for a short walk. The area is peaceful and has almost no commercial activity, so carry your own snacks and water. Photography lovers will enjoy capturing the mix of sea and stone.
Distance From Chennai: 70 km from Chennai
9. Thiruvallur Veera Raghavar Temple
Photo: N. Vivekananthamoorthy / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Thiruvallur is a temple town known for the Veera Raghavar Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The temple is a Divya Desam and is built in the Dravidian style. There are a total of 108 Divya Desams. Its tall gopuram, spacious halls, and sacred tank make it a spiritual retreat. Moreover, the temple is linked to legends about compassion and healing. Devotees believe that taking a dip in the temple tank can cure illnesses. Thiruvallur is one of the best places to visit near Chennai for 2 days for religious travellers. The markets outside sell flowers, coconuts, and small souvenirs.
Distance From Chennai: 45 km from Chennai
10. Nagalapuram Waterfalls
Photo: Shanmugamp7 / Wikimedia Commons
Nagalapuram is a trekking destination in Andhra Pradesh, a few hours’ drive from Chennai. The principal attraction is a series of waterfalls amidst hills and forests. The trek is moderately tough, bringing you through streams, boulder trails, and shaded routes. Further, the water is crystal clear and creates natural pools where one can swim. The first pool at the bottom of the fall is easy to reach, whereas the higher pools require moderate trekking. It is ideal to visit here with a group and bring appropriate shoes, food, and water.
Distance From Chennai: 90 km from Chennai
11. Alamparai Fort
Photo: Djoemanoj / Wikimedia Commons
Alamparai Fort is a hidden coastal ruin located along the East Coast Road. Built in the 17th century, it was once a busy port for trade in salt, ghee, and cloth. Today, much of it lies in ruins, but the tall walls and watchtowers still stand. Moreover, the fort opens directly to the sea, giving wide views of the water. The calm beach nearby is perfect for a quiet walk. Early mornings and evenings are the best times to visit because the light is softer and the weather is cooler.
Distance From Chennai: 110 km from Chennai
Chennai is not just about beaches and city life. In a short drive, you will have history, culture, nature, and adventure. The advantage is that you can have all of this in a day without an overnight stay. Whether you wish to visit ancient temples, unwind by the sea, or observe rare birds, these places to visit near Chennai for 2 days will be perfect for you. Moreover, many of these destinations are budget-friendly and easy to access. So travel light, depart early, and let the road lead you somewhere new. Plan your escape near Chennai with TripXL today.
Cover Photo: Ahamed Sameel / Unsplash
