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Excursions from Chennai can be an experience of a lifetime for you by its sheer
range of attractions bringing you the maximum a holiday can get for you. Besides
the regular tourist attractions in Chennai city, there are many other places of
attraction in the neighboring areas. These excursion points range from wildlife
sanctuaries, artist village, bird sanctuaries and temples. Take a look at some
of the very popular and important excursion points around Chennai city.
Mahabalipuram
Mahabalipuram, also called Mamallapuram, is located to 60 km. south of Chennai.
It was the capital of the Pallava Kings around the 7th and 8th c. The town boasts
of some of the finest rock-hewn caves and sculptures in the world. The Shore
temples of Mahabalipuram are an architectural wonder.
Crocodile Bank
The Crocodile Park of Chennai is home to several species of Indian and African
crocodiles and alligators. Started in 1976 by herpetologist Romulus Whitaker,
the Crocodile Park is spread over an area of 3.2 hectares of lush green. It
is the largest crocodile-breeding site in the country
Cholamandal Artist Village
The Cholamandal artist village is about 18km south of Chennai. There is a large
number of painters and sculptors whom you can watch pursuing their crafts. There
is a gallery displaying paintings and sculptures. There are even shops selling
products made by the artists themselves.
Vedantangal Bird Sanctuary
Vedantangal is located 85 km. southwest of Chennai and it is one of the best
bird breeding sanctuaries in India. Watch the colorful avian species including
egrets, herons, pelicans, black cormorants, storks, spoonbills, grebes and many
other types.
Madurantakam
Madurantakam is located 90 km. south of Chennai between Chingleput and Villupuram.
Legend has it that Lord Rama visited the place during his 14 years exile. When
he was leaving, the sage Vibhandaka requested him to visit this place on his
way back to Ayodhya. There is a beautiful Sita-Rama Temple here. Ramanuja met
one of his gurus, Maha Purna in Madurantakam and was initiated here at
the Rama temple.
Thanjavur
Thanjavur was the ancient capital of the Chola dynasty. It reached the pinnacle
of glory under the later Cholas during the 10th to 14th c AD. Several great
temples were built and the art of developing bronze figures also emerged during
this time. It is also called the culture capital of the region.
Pulicat
Pulicat Island is located 60 km. north of Chennai and is surrounded by ocean
and salt-water rivers. It has a population of around 30,000 which is comprised
mainly of fishermen who belong to the traditional marine fishing caste called
Pattanavan.
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