Chennai’s charm doesn’t end at its city limits. Just a few hours away, you’ll find ancient rock-cut temples, serene backwaters, breezy beaches, and sleepy towns where time slows down. These day trips give you a taste of Tamil Nadu’s rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning nature — all without an overnight stay. Whether you’re chasing sunsets, stories, or steaming plates of seafood, these escapes will keep you coming back for more.
Mahabalipuram – Stone Stories by the Sea
📍 Distance: 60 km south of Chennai
🚌 Best Way: Private cab or ECR bus
💳 Card Friendly: Entry tickets accept UPI; handicraft stalls take Mony
💰 Price Range: ₹40 (Indians), ₹600 (foreigners) + shopping costs
🍛 Must-Try Snack: Fresh seafood at Moonrakers
📸 Photo Tip: Sunrise over Shore Temple with fishing boats in the frame
Pulicat Lake – Flamingos & Fishing Villages
📍 Distance: 55 km north of Chennai
🚌 Best Way: Cab or local bus via Ennore
💳 Card Friendly: Boat rides accept UPI, small shops prefer Mony
💰 Price Range: ₹50–₹500 for boat rides
🍛 Must-Try Snack: Crab fry at a local dhaba
📸 Photo Tip: Long lens shots of flamingos in flight
Kanchipuram – Silk, Spires & Sacred Tanks
📍 Distance: 75 km west of Chennai
🚌 Best Way: Train or cab
💳 Card Friendly: Silk shops and temples accept UPI
💰 Price Range: ₹0–₹10,000+ if you’re buying silk sarees
🍛 Must-Try Snack: Kanchipuram idli with chutney
📸 Photo Tip: Temple corridors with oil lamps glowing in the shadows
Crocodile Bank – Scales, Teeth & Conservation Tales
📍 Distance: 40 km south on ECR
🚌 Best Way: Cab or ECR bus
💳 Card Friendly: Ticket counter accepts UPI, stalls use Mony
💰 Price Range: ₹50–₹100 for entry
🍛 Must-Try Snack: Tender coconut water by the roadside
📸 Photo Tip: Close-ups of baby turtles or crocs during feeding time
Covelong (Kovalam) Beach – Surf & Serenity
📍 Distance: 40 km south of Chennai
🚌 Best Way: Cab or ECR bus
💳 Card Friendly: Surf schools and cafés accept UPI
💰 Price Range: ₹200–₹1000 for surfing lessons
🍛 Must-Try Snack: Grilled fish at a beachfront shack
📸 Photo Tip: Golden-hour shots of surfers against the waves
From ancient stone carvings to pink-feathered flocks, these day trips prove that Chennai is just the starting point of your Tamil Nadu adventure. Keep Mony handy, and you’ll be set for everything from temple tickets to tender coconuts.