Sometimes, we just need a quick getaway to refresh our minds and bodies — and if you are located in or around Chennai, you are in luck. As you will see in a few hours, you can get the taste of French-style idyllic Pondicherry, explore the rich history at Mahabalipuram, and appreciate the spirituality of Kanchipuram.
Regardless if you love the beach, history, or culture, these areas all have a nice combination of relaxation and discovery of your surroundings and hopefully offer the ideal experience for your weekend getaway.
Let’s take a quick look at some of the unique elements of each area such as:
1. Pondicherry – The Taste of France along India’s Coastline 🇫🇷
Distance from Chennai: ~160 km | Drive Time: 3.5 to 4 Hours
Pondicherry, or lovingly called Puducherry, has French elegance mixed in with Indian soul. Take a meandering stroll through the colorful colonial-styled streets in White Town, take in a café seaside breakfast at Le Café, or meditate and enjoy the grounds of Auroville’s Matrimandir. The tranquil beaches in the surrounding area, such as Paradise Beach or Serenity Beach, are perfect for an early morning walk or surf. And of course, don’t forget to visit the local cafés, especially the crepes, croissants, and filter coffee – its the mix of cultures that truly makes Pondy special!
Must do’s in the area:
Take a wander and explore the pastel buildings in the French Colonial Quarter
- Visit Aurobindo Ashram and Auroville
- Try beachside dining and water sports
2. Mahabalipuram – An Exquisite UNESCO World Heritage Site
Distance from Chennai: ~60 km | Travel Time: ~1.5 hrs
For history buffs, Mahabalipuram is a dream. It is a town of 7th-century rock-cut temples and sculptures that transport you back 1,300 years into the past. The Shore Temple, the iconic monument by the sea, has a surreal beauty, and watching the sun rise from it is nothing short of magical. You have the opportunity to see Pancha Rathas, Arjuna’s Penance, and Mahishasura Mardini cave – the rock-cut artisanship showcases India’s artistic craftsmanship and ancient sensibilities.
At the end of the day, have some fresh seafood at a beach promenade shack while the local fishermen are pulling their boats with the ocean’s bounty, and enjoy Mahabalipuram’s signature sandy beaches to round out your experience!
Top Experiences
- Visit Shore Temple & Arjuna’s Penance
- Try local catches and coastal-style dining
- Shop for hand-made souvenirs and unique stone carvings
3. Kanchipuram – The City of Thousand Temples
Distance from Chennai: ~75 km | Travel Time: ~2 hours
Kanchipuram is among the seven sacred cities of India, known for its old temples and the fine silk sarees. Go to Kailasanathar Temple, Ekambareswarar Temple, and Kamakshi Amman Temple, which are all examples of beautiful Dravidian architecture. The sanctum of sight is matched only by the handiwork – Kanchipuram silk sarees are world-famous, handcrafted, with embellished, rich gold borders and traditional motifs you won’t find anywhere else.
Top Experiences:
- Taking temple tours and walking through heritage sites
- Shopping for genuine Kanchipuram silk sarees
- Eating South Indian meals served on banana leaves
Concluding Thoughts: Three Unique Tastes of Tamil Nadu
If you want to slow down and escape the frustrations of the city, you can take a weekend getaway to one of the three comfortable and charming destinations – Pondicherry for the slow pace and cafés, Mahabalipuram for its history and shared walks along the beach, and Kanchipuram for the temples and traditions, all of which are in Tamil Nadu.
Get busy packing, finding a car, and getting ready for a wonderful experience of Tamil Nadu’s culture, coast, and charm, all within a few hours’ drive from Chennai.
