Come Friday morning and you will already be surfing the Internet to find out places you can travel to over the upcoming long weekend. Puducherry, Mahabs and Kodai are tried and tested. They will be unusually crowded as well. But there are numerous places around Chennai that remain unexplored. Take time out this long weekend and travel to these destinations to enjoy some quiet time with your family or friends.
Coonoor
Located about 540 kms from Chennai, Coonoor enjoys beautiful weather and cool breeze almost through the year. Get completely mesmerised by the beauty of Nilgiri hills, numerous trees that adorn the place and the vast tea plantations. The place also sees a lot many migratory birds and is an ideal option for birdwatchers.
Nandi hills
This is another place to enjoy the beauty of the hills. The place also has historical significance as it was the abode of Tipu Sultan during his retirement. Nandi Hills have a great list of tourist attractions such as the Bhoganandeeswara Temple, Tipu’s Drop and Hosokta Lake to get started with! Enjoy a perfect sunrise or sunset at the hills, located only 360 km from Chennai.
Kolli Hills
This place is an approximate drive or ride of about 300 kilometres from Chennai and includes 70 hair pin bends along the way. It will land you to this silent and serene locale. Once there you can simply breathe deep and reek in the absolute calmness it offers while rejuvenating at the cottages on offer.
Kabini
If the hills are not your ideal holiday spot, then how about going in for some wilderness. For nature lovers and those who just cannot get enough of the wilderness, Kabini will be appealing. The Kabini Wildlife Sanctuary is banked beside the river that shares its name with a quaint lake that is decorated by some majestic landscapes. Due to its verdant environs, it makes an ideal place to pitch your camps or go trekking. The backwaters are a perfect camping site that allows you to unwind and enjoy the pristine surroundings.
Pulicat
Imagine being in the lap of nature just 55 kilometres away from the city. Pulicat, a small town by the seashore mesmerises everyone with its scenic views. Flamingos flock to this town in hordes during the December to January time and they are an absolute treat to watch. The lake in Pulicat definitely pulls crowds in large numbers where everyone can relax and rejoice!
So what are you waiting for? Just pack your bag and head to one of these destinations and enjoy the spirit of freedom this long weekend.
