Top 9 off-beat destinations in and around Chennai

August 17, 2016

All the chennaites are probably bored of going to malls, clubs, theatres, etc., When I was looking out for some off beat places to go during my next visit to Chennai, I did stumble upon some of the best places in and around Chennai. Here are some of my findings for your weekend get-together.

Sadras Dutch Fort, Kalpakkam:

This is a Dutch fort from the 17th century which is located in a village named Sadras. Sadiravasagan Pattinam was its original name, which the British couldn’t pronounce, hence renamed to short and sweet Sadras, similar to Madras.
Ubbalamudugu Falls:

Ubbalamudugu Falls is also known as Tada falls. It is located at the near Chitoor district. It is famous for trekking and many people travel a long distance to reach here. It is almost 10km stretch with rocky path, and is ideal for hiking, trekking.

P.S: Be careful while walking on the humongous rocks, as it maybe slippery due to constant flow of water.
Wild Tribe Ranch:

If you're in the mood of adventure and would like to try out a nice adventurous and fun activity park, then this is the place for you. It will be very enjoyable to visit this place along with your friends, family or collegeaus. It has various games starting from paint ball, ATV, swimming, and many more. It is located around 20kms from Chennai.
St.Thomas Mount:

Well, if you are looking for a peaceful place at the center of the city and would like to spend an evening with a novel or to calm your mind, then this is the place for you. Many people in Chennai, would have heard of the name, but I doubt many wouldn't have had a chance to go up the hill and look at the beautiful scenic view from there. There is a shrine at the top of the hill, which is built in 1500s and still it is standing tall.
Offroad sports:

This is a place for all the fun and adventurous people out there. It is a All-terrain vehicle(ATV) club for all the people above the age of 6. They have ATVs ranging from 50cc to 1000cc with all the fun filled and thrilling race tracks. It is located at the ECR near dolphin city.
ISKON Temple:

If you want to find the spiritual side of you and would like to visit some off-beat temple, then ISKON is for you. It is located near Shollinganallur. dedicated to Lord Krishna.
Pichavaram Mangrove Forests:

This might not be so-near to Chennai, but definitely a worth-visiting place. It is located near Chidambaram, around 22okms from Chennai. It is maintained by the Tamilnadu tourism board and the boat-ride inside this, will be one of the most beautiful memories to cherish.
CATAMARAN RIDE:

We have saved some beautiful destinations for the last. One of them is the Catamaran ride. They will take you in groups to the ocean in the CATAMARAN (made out of logs), sometimes as far as one kilometer into the ocean and you are supposed to jump off the boat (Of course, with life jackets and other safety measurements). This will be once in a life-time experience and we suggest you to try it out.
Vandalur zoo:

Vandalur zoo is also known as Arignar Anna Zoological Park, is located about 25kms from Chennai. If you want to spend a day for your family or kids, then this is the place. You can get to know the nature and spend a day peacefully.