20 Best Places to Visit for One Day Trips From Chennai

Chennai is a gorgeous city in south India with a lot to offer to its visitors. The place has different attractions that tourists can explore on their vacations. However, if you go beyond the hustles of city traffic, you can discover many lovely places. These places are perfect for short-day trips and to get revitalised.

Here is all you need to know about the best places to visit for one day trips from Chennai.

1. Srinivasa Perumal Temple | 29.1 km from Chennai

Srinivasa Perumal Temple is a shrine dedicated to the Hindu god of preservation, Lord Vishnu. The temple is notable for its magnificent 20-metre-high entrance tower or Gopuram. This one of the oldest temples near Chennai is a masterpiece of Dravidian style. Thus, tourists will explore history, culture and mythology and indulge in spiritual activities.

• Best Time to Visit: November to January.
• Entry Fee: No Entry Fee.
• Timings: 7 AM to 11 PM and 4 PM to 8 PM.
• How to Reach: Bus or car via Rajiv Gandhi IT Expressway.
• Things to do: Exploring history and architecture, religious activities, photography.
• Nearby Places to Visit: Marina Beach, VGP Universal Kingdom, ISKCON Temple, Snow Kingdom.

2. Dakshina Chitra Heritage Museum | 34.4 km from Chennai

If you spend a day exploring history, Dakshina Chitra Heritage Museum is a great option near Chennai. Here one can see the art, crafts and architecture of South India. Besides, the museum also plays a significant part in spreading the culture by presenting everything engagingly. After visiting this place, you can also go to the nearby places and explore them.

• Best Time to Visit: November to March.
• Entry Fee: Adults- ₹ 100- ₹ 120(Indians), ₹ 250 (Foreigners).
• Timings: 10 AM to 6 PM.
• How to Reach: Bus or car via Rajiv Gandhi IT Expressway.
• Things to do: exploring history, art and architecture, enjoying traditional games, glass blowing etc.
• Nearby Places to Visit: Gotakeholiday, Dive Chennai, Live Art Museum, Archaic Craft Collections, Thiruporur Murugan Temple.

3. Shore Temple, Mahabalipuram | 59.1 km from Chennai

The Shore Temple of Mahabalipuram is one of the most beautiful temples near Chennai and is famous for its subtle, intricate design. This 7th-century architectural magnificence is an excellent example of Dravidian style. Tourists can explore the history of the Pallava dynasty and also indulge in spiritual activities.

• Best Time to Visit: Between October to February.
• Entry Fee: Adults- ₹ 10 (Indians), ₹ 340 (Foreigners).
• *Additional charges will be required for camera and videography.
• Timings: 6 AM to 6 PM.
• How to Reach: Bus or car via East Coast Road.
• Things to do: Spending relaxing hours, enjoying art and architecture, spiritual activities, enjoying annual festivals.
• Nearby Places to Visit: Arjuna's Penance, Ganesha Ratha, Trimurti Cave, Karukathamman Temple, Sculpture Museum.

4. Sri Pallikondeswara Swamy Temple | 60.1 km from Chennai

Sri Pallikondeswara Swamy Temple is another famous attraction situated in Surutapalli, a small village near Chennai. This mediaeval temple is dedicated to lord Shiva and receives a high volume of pilgrims every year. Besides, there is an enchanting waterfall nearby, so tourists can have a nice time there.

• Best Time to Visit: September to January.
• Entry Fee: No Entry Fee.
• Timings: 6 AM to 8:30 PM.
• How to Reach: Bus or car via Grand Northern Trunk Rd/ Guntur-Chennai Highway and NH 716A.
• Things to do: Spiritual activities, exploring architecture, enjoying festivals.
• Nearby Places to Visit: Talakona Waterfall, Sri Vedanarayana Swamy Temple.

5. Sri Kanchi Kamakshi Temple | 71.7 km from Chennai

Sri Kanchi Kamakshi Temple, considered as the soul of Kanchipuram, is one of the best places to visit in Chennai in one day. The temple is one of the 51 Shakti Peethas in India. The temple is notable for its breathtaking architecture. Tourists come to explore this place for its high religious values and mythological significance.

• Best Time to Visit: October to March
• Entry Fee: No Entry Fee.
• Timings: 5:30 AM to 12 PM and 3:30 AM to 8:30 PM.
• How to Reach: Bus or car via NH 48.
• Things to do: enjoying different festivals, spiritual activities, exploring architecture.
• Nearby Places to Visit: Sri Ulagalandar Temple, Ekambareswarar Temple, Sri Kanchi Kamakoti Peetham, Mukteswara Temple.

6. Pulicat Lake| 104 km from Chennai

Nothing is more relaxing than spending a day beside the serene atmosphere of a lakeside. Pulicat Lake near Chennai can give you this perfect vibe of calm nature. Besides, the place is also home to different bird species. However, this lake is situated beside a rocket launching centre.

• Best Time to Visit: November to May.
• Entry Fee: No Entry Fee.
• Timings:  6 AM to 6 PM.
• How to Reach: Bus or car via Nellore to Chennai Road.
• Things to do: Nature watching, boating, bird watching, trekking, water sports, photography, enjoying coastal food.
• Nearby Places to Visit: Dutch Fort, Buckingham Canal, Old Dutch Cemetry, Nelapattu Bird Sanctuary, Satish Dhawan Space Centre.

7. Vellore Fort | 138 km from Chennai

This 16th-century fort in Vellore is another great place for a one day trip near Chennai. Here one can explore the ancient Indian military architecture. In addition, there are other attractions nearby, such as Sripuram Golden Temple, Periyar Park, etc., that tourists can explore after visiting this fort.

• Best Time to Visit: November to February.
• Entry Fee: Adults- ₹ 5 per person.
• Timings: 8 AM to 6 PM.
• How to Reach: Bus or car via NH 48.
• Things to do: Exploring fort architecture, exploring history.
• Nearby Places to Visit: Periyar Park, Sripuram Golden Temple, District Science Centre, Archaeological Survey of India Museum.

8. Chandragiri Fort | 147 km from Chennai

Situated amidst the lush greenery and picturesque landscape, Chandragiri Fort is a nearby attraction of Tirupati Temple. This place is perfect for spending a whole day relaxing in a serene atmosphere. Further, there are some other temples in the surrounding area which also are very popular among visitors.

• Best Time to Visit: December to March.
• Entry Fee: Adults- ₹ 15 (Indians), ₹ 100 (Foreigners).
• Timings: 10 AM to 8:45 PM.
• How to Reach: Bus or car via NH 716A.
• Things to do: Exploring fort architecture, history and heritage, fort trekking.
• Nearby Places to Visit: ISKCON Temple Tirupati, Srivari Mettu, Sri Varaha Swamy Temple, Srivari Paadaalu.

9. Immaculate Conception Cathedral | 151 km from Chennai

Immaculate Conception Cathedral is a 300 years old church in Pondicherry and a top-rated tourist attraction near Chennai. The main aspect of this church is its beautiful colour combination and eclectic architecture of French, Herrian and Portuguese styles.

• Best Time to Visit: October to March.
• Entry Fee: No Entry Fee.
• Timings: 7 AM to 12 PM and 3 PM to 8:30 PM.
• How to Reach: Bus or car via East Coast Rd and NH332A.
• Things to do: Exploring Church architecture and interior, indulging in spiritual activities.
• Nearby Places to Visit: Reis Magos Fort, Divar Island, Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, Miramar Beach.

10. Arulmigu Manakula Vinayagar Temple | 151 km from Chennai

Arulmigu Manakula Vinayagar Temple is an ancient architectural excellence dedicated to Lord Ganesha. The temple is a famous spot among devotees, especially during festivals. Apart from this, the temple is a great place to explore intricate architecture, and one can also visit nearby attractions.

• Best Time to Visit: October to March.
• Entry Fee: No Entry Fee.
• Timings: 5:45 AM to 12:30 PM and 4 PM to 9:30 PM.
• How to Reach: Bus or car via East Coast Rd and NH332A.
• Things to do: Exploring temple architecture, giant elephant blessing, religious activities.
• Nearby Places to Visit: Sri Aurobindo Ashram, French Institute, Bharathi Government Park, Seaside Promenade.

11. Sri Aurobindo Ashram | 151 km from Chennai

Sri Aurobindo Ashram is a great place for relaxing near Chennai. This place is perfect for exploring the history and knowledge about Sri Aurobindo. The library of the Ashram is another attraction for tourists. After visiting this place, you can also take a stroll to the nearby beaches.

• Best Time to Visit: October to March.
• Entry Fee: No Entry Fee.
• Timings: 8 AM to 12 PM and 2 PM to 6 PM.
• How to Reach: Bus or car via East Coast Road and NH 332A.
• Things to do: Relaxing, watching a short movie on the Ashram's history, visiting the library, buying books.
• Nearby Places to Visit: Paradise Beach, Seaside Promenade, Serenity Beach, Chunnambar Boat House, Arulmigu Manakula Vianyagar Temple.

12. Bharathi Government Park | 151 km from Chennai

Located in Pondicherry, Bharathi Government Park is a must-include in one day tour package from Chennai. Amidst this well-maintained natural abundance of this park, there are several important government buildings, a children's park, eateries and Pondicherry Private Club.

• Best Time to Visit: October to March.
• Entry Fee: No Entry Fee.
• Timings: 6 AM to 8 AM and 5 PM to 7 PM.
• How to Reach: Bus or car via East Coast Road and NH 332A.
• Things to do: Enjoying nature, exploring architecture and stone statues.
• Nearby Places to Visit: Sri Aurobindo Ashram, Promenade Beach, Fench War Memorial, Rock Beach.

13. Temple Adventure | 152 km from Chennai

Temple Adventure is a marvellous tourist attraction in Pondicherry, where you can unleash your spirit with lively water sports. The place is famous for exploring different water animals. Further, the lip-smacking coastal food of this region is another attraction of this place. Further, there are some visiting spots nearby where you can spend relaxing hours.

• Best Time to Visit: February to April.
• Entry Fee: Depends on the package.
• Timings: 6 AM to 8:30 PM.
• How to Reach: Bus or car via East Coast Road and NH332A.
• Things to do: Staying in the boat house, enjoying nature, enjoying beach sports, enjoying coastal food.
• Nearby Places to Visit: Rock Beach, Matrimandir, Puducherry Museum, Sadhana Forest, Sri Aurobindo Ashram.

14. Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus | 152 km from Chennai

The Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus is one of the most sacred places near Chennai and is extremely popular among tourists. This church is the perfect representation of Gothic art and architecture. During the Christian festivals, the place becomes heavenly.

• Best Time to Visit: October to March.
• Entry Fee: No Entry Fee.
• Timings: 5:30 AM to 8 PM.
• How to Reach: Bus or car via East Coast Road and NH 332A.
• Things to do: Exploring history and architecture, doing prayers.
• Nearby Places to Visit: Rock Beach, Mahatma Gandhi Statue, Sri Aurobindo Ashram, Bharathi Park.

15. Gingee Fort | 157 km from Chennai

Gingee Fort is one of the most formidable ancient forts in Tamil Nadu. Due to the amazing natural setting of this place, this is also called the "Troy of the East." Besides, this site is also a haven for photography lovers. There are some other forts in the surrounding area that tourists can also add to their itinerary.

• Best Time to Visit: December to March.
• Entry Fee: Adults- ₹ 5 (Indians), ₹ 100 (Foreigners).
• Timings: 9 AM to 4:30 PM.
• How to Reach: Bus or car via NH 32.
• Things to do: Exploring fort architecture, history and heritage, fort trekking, visiting exquisite interiors, photography.
• Nearby Places to Visit: Senji Fort, Rajagiri Fort, Queen's Fort, Arignar Anna Zoological Park.

16. Tirumal Tirupati Balaji Temple | 158 km from Chennai

Located in the Chittoor district of Andhra Pradesh, Tirupati Balaji Temple is a highly popular religious place among pilgrims all over the country. The continuous chanting of 'Om Namo Venkatesaya' and high spiritual activities are the main features of this temple.

• Best Time to Visit: September to February.
• Entry Fee: No Entry Fee.
• Timings: 2:30 AM to 12:30 AM (General pilgrim darshan starts from 8 AM and closing time may extend to 1:30 AM).
• How to Reach: Bus or car via NH716A.
• Things to do: Spiritual activities, exploring architecture.
• Nearby Places to Visit: Akasa Ganga, Sri Venkateswara Museum of Temple Art, Srivari Mettu, Rock Garden, Silathoranam.

17. Chunnambar Boat House | 158 km from Chennai

Spending a day in a boat house amidst the serene nature is something that tourists want to rejuvenate them. For them, Chunnambar Boat House near Chennai is a perfect option. The place is on Paradise Beach near Chennai, where you can indulge in exciting beach activities and water sports and spend a day cheerfully.

• Best Time to Visit: October to March.
• Entry Fee: Adults- ₹ 10. Children- ₹ 5.
• Timings: 9 AM to 6 PM.
• How to Reach: Bus or car via NH32.
• Things to do: Staying in the boat house, enjoying nature, enjoying beach sports, enjoying coastal food.
• Nearby Places to Visit: Rock Beach, Puducherry Museum, Paradise Island, Sadhana Forest, Sita Cultural Centre.

18. Varasiddhi Vinayaka Temple | 159 km from Chennai

Varasiddhi Vinayaka Temple is a famous temple near Chennai to visit on a one day trip. This 11th-century temple is an excellent example of rich Indian history and culture. It has been said that the idol of Lord Vinayaka grows every year, which is a mystery and attracts tourists.

• Best Time to Visit: September to February.
• Entry Fee: No Entry Fee.
• Timings: 4 AM to 9:30 PM.
• How to Reach: Bus or car via SH50B.
• Things to do: Exploring architecture, spiritual and religious activities.
• Nearby Places to Visit: Pandava Theertham, Indastroguru, Swami Pushkarini Lake, Sanaka Sanadana Theertham, Kaundinya Wildlife Sanctuary.

19. Yelagiri Nature Park | 226 km from Chennai

Yelagiri Nature Park is an excellent artificial nature spot near Chennai. This place is notable for its clean arrangement of lush greenery, fountains and many more. Here tourists can spend a nice relaxing time and also explore diverse flora, musical fountains, artificial waterfalls and children's playing areas.

• Best Time to Visit: November to February.
• Entry Fee:Adults- ₹ 15. Children- ₹ 5.
• Timings: 7 AM to 8 PM.
• How to Reach: Bus or car via NH48.
• Things to do: Watching flower displays, enjoying natural beauty and musical fountain, photography.
• Nearby Places to Visit: Velavan Temple, Swamimalai Hill, Jalagamparai Falls, Punganoor Lake.

20. Gangai Konda Cholpuram | 252 km from Chennai

Gangai Konda Cholpuram is one of the excellent historical places near Chennai for one day trip. The place is notable for its enthralling architectural beauty and ancient engineering of the Chola Period. Thus, tourists can explore history and architecture here and also go to the surrounding villages to know about the local lifestyle.

• Best Time to Visit: November to January.
• Entry Fee: No Entry Fee.
• Timings: 6 AM to 12 PM and 4 PM to 8 PM.
• How to Reach: Bus or car via NH332A.
• Things to do: Exploring history, architecture and sculptures, religious activities, photography.
• Nearby Places to Visit: Pillayar Kovil, Vinayagar Temple, Angala Parameswari Temple, Veera Narayana Perumal Temple, Sri Periyanayaki Amman Temple.