TripAdvisor recommends 5 destinations to ‘Getaway’ from Chennai this August

The rain gods may be playing spoilsport this monsoon, but that’s no reason to skip a trip this season. This August, Independence Day and Eid holidays present the perfect opportunity for travellers to plan a long weekend break  or a short vacation TripAdvisor^® - the world’s largest travel site, shares some escapes recommended by its community of destination experts and millions of travellers from around the world.

The destinations are all easily accessible during the monsoons and within 500 kms driving distance from Chennai. In these places, travellers can bask in the serenity of hills or the beauty of forests or even experience wildlife spotting; and if that’s not enough TripAdvisor suggests some popular things to do during your visit.

Weekend Getaways Near Chennai Slideshow: TripAdvisor’s trip from Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India to 2 cities Pondicherry and Kodaikanal was created by TripAdvisor. See another India slideshow. Take your travel photos and make a slideshow for free.

Pondicherry– A mere two hour drive from Chennai, Pondicherry captures you with its natural beauty and transports you to another time in history. A French colony for over 250 years, the city retains large pockets of French influence mainly evident in its architecture and food. The lovely beaches and backwaters stretch across town and are ideal for scuba diving and boating. The two attractions Pondicherry is most famous for are the Sri Aurobindo Ashram and the township of Auroville( 8 kms from the main city). 

Things to do:   Enjoy cycling in friendly Pondy streets, visit some neat cafes and try the fine wine available in the city. Do take a day out to visit Auroville, though you will need to make an appointment with the management to enter the settlement. Go to the Arulmigu Manakula Vinayagar temple.

Eco Escape, Kodaikanal – True to its name, the Eco Escape is described by a TripAdvisor traveller as “Rejuvenating in Every Way” Ranked as the  number 1  of all specialty lodging in Kodaikanal, the Eco escape has tranquility to offer for the relaxed traveller and a number of activities available for the restless tourist, from forest treks/hikes and fishing to canoeing. Go culture exploring to a local tribal village or wildlife spotting in the forest nearby.

Do & See: Hike in the forest and explore wildlife, horse rides, canoeing in the lake, Boating in Kodaikanal Lake, Berijam Lake

Yelagiri – Flanked by hills from all sides, Yelagiri is a popular hill station within 3-4 hours from Chennai. Though it is a very small town, it has several scenic attractions which includes a lovely manmade lake, Punganoor. The Swami Malai hills, standing tall at over 4ooo ft is a famous trekking destination but a tough climb.  

Do & See: One can enjoy boating on Punganoor Lake, visit Jalagamparai waterfalls and enjoy the local cultural dance of "karagattam".

Meghamalai – As a TripAdvisor traveller puts it, “Meghamalai- the heaven on earth.” The unspoiled misty Meghamalai is rich in tea estates, forests and wildlife. If you want to explore an exclusive destination with nature and plantation then this should be your choice. It offers scenic treks through thick forests and tea estates, inviting dams and waterfalls. To add to the charm of this place the weather is perfect throughout the year!

Do & See: Next to Meghamalai is Periyar Tiger Reserve, which opened to the public just three years ago  or head to the Meghamalai wildlife sanctuary

Mahabalipuram – Only 60 kms from Chennai facing the Bay of Bengal, Mahabalipuram boasts of huge historical significance apart from its heritage temples and beaches. The group of monuments at Mahabalipuram are a World Heritage site and include famous structures like Descent of the Ganges, Pancha Rathas and the Shore Temple. And if you haven’t had your fill at the heritage site, Mahabalipuram is home to several more architectural marvels. It is a destination of delight for those interested in ancient Indian history and culture. Famous for its stone and wooden sculptures, you can find beautiful pieces here which will deserve pride of place in your home.  Travellers can chose from a range of hotels, however we suggest Taj Fisherman’s Cove.

Must See:  Group of monuments at the World Heritage Site