The jewel of South India, the metro city of Chennai is as vibrant as it can get. The state capital boasts a culture which is a hearty mix of the classic and contemporary, tradition and technology. While the city is partly a representative of Tamil Nadu’s landscape, history, and heritage, it is still a world in itself. If you want to experience this southern state and its neighbors too, then explore beyond the city limits of Chennai, where at every few hundred miles you will find yourself in a new world.

Here are some of the best destinations around Chennai for a quick weekend getaway.

Mahabalipuram

A fine mix of cultural and religious history, Mahabalipuram is an exotic destination near the city. A drive of two hours on the East Coast Road, the drive from Chennai to Mahabalipuram is also a scenic one with the stunning views of the Bay of Bengal on one side and the Great Salt Lake on the other. Boasting ruins of temples and monuments from the 7th and 8th century, the town is now a UNESCO World Heritage site. Take a driving or walking heritage tour and you are sure to be in awe of the classic Indian rock-cut architecture and fine sculptures on stones when you visit the temples. The ancient relics, the pristine beaches, and colorful culture make for a visual treat. Here are a few must-visit places in Mahabalipuram:

• Krishna Butter Ball
• Shore Temple
• Mahabalipuram Beach
• Five Chariots / Pancha Ratha
• Arjuna’s Penance
• Tiger’s Caves
• Alamparai Fort

Pondicherry

Every southern state’s beach holiday destination (on the East Coast) Pondicherry is a treasure trove of adventures, food, culture, and natural beauty. To escape the daily grind or to relax on a long weekend, there is no place better than this quaint, ancient French town. You can rent a licensed car in Chennai with a driver and plan a two-day trip for a comprehensive tour of Pondicherry. Contrasting its colonial flair with modern quirks, this makes for a charming enclave. Go bicycling all around the town and explore its heritage in your own personal way or drive through the delicious food trail offering the most unique culinary affair you can find. You can also try your hands at surfing and SCUBA, for which the town is famous for. And lastly, don’t forget to make a trip to Auroville- a world away from the world that we know.

Tada Falls

If you are craving for some adventurous time over the weekend, head for a trek to the Tada Falls. Only a few miles away from the Chennai metropolis, this magnificent waterfall lies in the Chittoor district of Andhra Pradesh. You can do a day trek by starting at the Kambakam Hills and walk all the way up to the where the waterfall is. Another two-hour drive from Tada Falls, you will land at the forests of Siddulaiah Kona, known for its greenery, caves, and ancient temples.

Nagalapuram

Take the weekend thrill quotient a notch above with a night trek and camping to Nagalapuram. Blazing the narrow, rugged trails in the glow of the moon (provided it’s a moonlight night) is one of the most unique experiences to have. After you have walked enough and reached a clear area in the hills, pitch your tent, light a bonfire, and spend the rest of the night gazing at the stars and enjoying the silence of nature.

Tirupati

Seeking a divine intervention? Then there’s a place that beckons you. Perched on the Venkatachala Hills, in the Chittoor district of Andhra Pradesh, the Tirupati temple is considered to be one of the most famous and hallowed religious sites not only in India but around the world. Besides its religious significance, the temple architecture is also a wonder in itself. The typical Dravidian style stone carvings on facades, interiors and the colorful gopurams can leave anyone in awe. There are many resting places on the temple premise and in the adjoining areas. Don’t leave without tasting their hearty spread of simply cooked but delicious prasadam which are offered to the gods first and served to devotees.

Horsley Hills

Yet another wonder in the neighboring state of Andhra Pradesh, this little hilly town can make you forget Ooty. It blends the rugged and raw landscape of the Deccan Plateau with the freshness of the Nilgiri Hills. The town is known for housing the world’s oldest and largest Banyan Tree and some of the oldest eucalyptus trees. For those who seek respite in the lap of nature, the Horsley Hills with this rich flora and fauna is just the recipe for a peaceful, idyllic weekend holiday. Enjoy mountain biking, rock climbing, trekking, or trail walking, and you will never be bored with its landscape.

So book a comfortable Chennai airport taxi service and make the best of your upcoming weekend!